Foldable display device

Abstract

A foldable display device is provided. The foldable display device according to one embodiment includes: a first supporting member and a second supporting member, each including a short side and a long side, and being separated from each other; a display module, arranged on the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a hinge, coupled to one side of the first supporting member and one side of the second supporting member; at least one first track, arranged between the first supporting member and the display module, and arranged along the long side of the first supporting member; and at least one second track, arranged between the second supporting member and the display module, and arranged along the long side of the second supporting member. The first track and the second track can slide and move in a first moving direction and a second moving direction which is a direction opposite to the first moving direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a foldable display device. Background Art

[0002] A display device is a device that displays images, and includes a display panel such as an organic light emitting display panel including an organic light emitting diode (OLED) element or a quantum dot electroluminescence device (QD-EL) element, or a liquid crystal display panel.

[0003] On the other hand, mobile electronic devices include display devices in order to provide images to users. The proportion of mobile electronic devices having a larger display screen while having the same or smaller volume or thickness as compared to the prior art is increasing, and in order to provide a larger screen only when in use, a foldable display device or a bendable display device having a foldable or unfoldable structure is being developed.

[0004] Although foldable display devices have the advantage of a large screen, they have the following disadvantages, namely, they are at high risk of damage and deformation due to external impact. In particular, when an external impact is applied to a corner of a foldable display device, the impact may be transmitted to the folding area of ​​the foldable display device in addition to the area where the impact is applied, and there is a possibility that the folding area of ​​the foldable display device may also be damaged. Methods for preventing this are currently being studied. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a foldable display device that prevents a display panel from being damaged by an external impact by arranging a rail between the display panel and a supporting member.

[0006] The subject of the present invention is not limited to the subject mentioned above, and those skilled in the art should be able to clearly understand other technical subjects not mentioned through the following description.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problem relates to a foldable display device, comprising: a first supporting member and a second supporting member, each including a short side and a long side, and being separated from each other; a display module, arranged on the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a hinge, coupled to one side of the first supporting member and one side of the second supporting member; at least one first track, arranged between the first supporting member and the display module, and arranged along the long side of the first supporting member; and at least one second track, arranged between the second supporting member and the display module, and arranged along the long side of the second supporting member. The first track and the second track can slide and move in a first moving direction and a second moving direction which is a direction opposite to the first moving direction.

[0008] It may be that the first track and the second track include: a first track component attached to one side of the first supporting component and including a first guide; and a second track component attached to a side of the display module opposite to the first supporting component and slidably coupled to the first track component.

[0009] It may be that the first rail component includes: a first supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a second supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction, and the second rail component includes: a third supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a fourth supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction.

[0010] It may be that the third supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the first moving direction by the first supporting protrusion, and the fourth supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the second moving direction by the second supporting protrusion.

[0011] The first rail and the second rail may further include an elastic member disposed between the first supporting protrusion and the third supporting protrusion and between the second supporting protrusion and the fourth supporting protrusion.

[0012] The elastic member may be any one of an elastic band and a coil spring.

[0013] The elastic member may have an elastic force that prevents the first rail member and the second rail member from sliding when no impact is applied to the first supporting member and / or the second supporting member from the outside.

[0014] The first rail and the second rail may further include a third rail member disposed between the first rail member and the second rail member and including a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion that are movably inserted into the first guide piece.

[0015] The third rail member may include: a plurality of balls; and a third rail member body rotatably supporting the plurality of balls.

[0016] A foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problem includes: a first supporting member and a second supporting member, each including a short side and a long side, and being separated from each other; a metal plate disposed on the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a display module disposed on the metal plate; a hinge coupled to one side of the first supporting member and one side of the second supporting member; at least one first track disposed between the first supporting member and the metal plate and disposed along the long side of the first supporting member; and at least one second track disposed between the second supporting member and the metal plate and disposed along the long side of the second supporting member. The first track and the second track can slide and move in a first moving direction and a second moving direction which is a direction opposite to the first moving direction.

[0017] A foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problem includes: a first supporting member and a second supporting member, each including a short side and a long side, and being separated from each other; a display module, arranged on the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a hinge, coupled to one side of the first supporting member and one side of the second supporting member; a plurality of first rails, arranged between the first supporting member and the display module, and arranged in a region near the intersection of the short side and the long side of the first supporting member; and a plurality of second rails, arranged between the second supporting member and the display module, and arranged in a region near the intersection of the short side and the long side of the second supporting member. The first rail and the second rail can slide and move in a first moving direction and a second moving direction which is a direction opposite to the first moving direction.

[0018] (Effects of the Invention)

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a foldable display device can be provided in which a rail is arranged between a display panel and a supporting member to prevent the display panel from being damaged due to an external impact.

[0020] The effects involved in the present invention are not limited to the above-exemplified contents, and more effects are included in this specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a foldable display device in an inner folding state.

[0023] Figure 3 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a foldable display device.

[0024] Figure 4 An embodiment involves Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the foldable display device shown.

[0025] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a hinge connection state of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a rotation state of a hinge of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 8A as well as Figure 8B This is a diagram showing an example of a configuration associated with the center of a bracket of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Fig.9A as well as Fig. 9B FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the operating state of the bracket center and the gear inside the bracket of the foldable display device according to one embodiment.

[0030] Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration state of a foldable display device based on a configuration form of a hinge according to an embodiment.

[0031] Fig.11 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a magnet member arrangement structure of a hinge of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Fig.12 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a connection between a hinge and a hinge housing of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0033] Fig.13 Yes means Figure 4 A perspective view of the track is shown.

[0034] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 Exploded perspective view of the track shown.

[0035] Fig.15 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where no external impact is applied to the foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0036] Fig.16 FIG. 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where an external impact is applied to a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0037] Fig.17 An embodiment involves Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the foldable display device shown.

[0038] Fig.18 It is a perspective view showing a state where rails according to an embodiment are connected.

[0039] Fig.19 Yes means Fig.18 Exploded perspective view of the track shown.

[0040] Fig. 20 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where no external impact is applied to the foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0041] Fig.21 FIG. 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where an external impact is applied to a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0042] (Explanation of symbols)

[0043] 1: foldable display device; 100: display module; 210: first supporting member; 220: second supporting member; 300: hinge; 400: track; 510: first rear surface cover; 520: second rear surface cover; 410: first track member; 420: second track member; FA: folding area; NFA1: first non-folding area; NFA2: second non-folding area; RX1: first rotation axis; RX2: second rotation axis. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] References and Attachments Figure 1 The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving these advantages and features will become clear from the detailed description of the embodiments below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and can also be implemented in other ways. That is, the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0045] The case where an element or layer is "on" or "over" another element or layer includes not only the case where it is directly on the other element or layer, but also the case where there are other layers or other elements therebetween. On the contrary, an element "directly on or over" means that there are no other elements or layers therebetween.

[0046] Throughout the specification, the same symbols are used for the same or similar parts.

[0047] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a foldable display device in an inner folding state.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 The foldable display device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention may be a rectangular shape having long sides in a first direction DR1 and short sides in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the foldable display device 1 is not limited thereto, and may have various shapes. The foldable display device 1 may be a bendable and foldable display device 1, and may be a foldable display device 1 that is folded or unfolded based on a folding axis FX extending in the second direction DR2.

[0050] The foldable display device 1 can be divided into a plurality of regions as it is folded. For example, the foldable display device 1 can be divided into a folding region FA where the foldable display device 1 is folded and two non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 in a flat state. The non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 are arranged in a first direction DR1, and the folding region FA is arranged between the two non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2. In this embodiment, a folding region FA is defined in the foldable display device 1, but it is not limited thereto, and a plurality of folding regions can be defined in the foldable display device 1.

[0051] The folding axis FX includes: a first rotation axis RX1 and a second rotation axis RX2, which extend in the second direction DR2 to provide two rotation axes for the foldable display device 1 and are arranged adjacent to each other. The folding area FA overlaps with the first rotation axis RX1 and the second rotation axis RX2, and the foldable display device 1 can be folded based on the first rotation axis RX1 and the second rotation axis RX2.

[0052] The foldable display device 1 includes: a display module 100; and a folding member FM, which is disposed at the bottom of the display module 100. The upper surface of the display module 100 can be defined as a display surface DS, and can be a plane parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The image IM generated by the display module 100 can be provided to the user through the display surface DS.

[0053] The display surface DS includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image, while the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and provide a frame portion of the foldable display device 1 printed in a predetermined color.

[0054] The display module 100 is flexible and includes a display panel 110 and a touch sensing unit 120 configured on the display panel 110. The display panel 110 can generate an image and provide it to a user. The display panel 110 can be a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light emitting display panel including an organic light emitting diode (OLED) element or a quantum dot electroluminescence device (QD-EL) element, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, or any of various display panels other than these that can display images.

[0055] Quantum dots are semiconductor materials with a crystalline structure of several nanometers in size, composed of hundreds to thousands of atoms. Since quantum dots are very small in size, the surface area per unit volume is wide, and most of the atoms are present on the surface of the nanocrystals, showing quantum confinement effects, etc. Through this quantum confinement effect, the emission wavelength can be adjusted only by adjusting the size of the quantum dots, and it has excellent color purity and high PL (photoluminescence) luminous efficiency. The quantum dot light-emitting (QD-EL) element can be a three-layer structure element including a hole transport layer (HTL) and an electron transport layer (ETL) at both ends and a quantum dot light-emitting layer in between.

[0056] The touch sensing unit 120 can sense external input (such as a user's hand or a touch pen) to change it into a predetermined input signal, and provide the input signal to the display panel 110. The touch sensing unit 120 may include a plurality of touch sensor units (not shown) for sensing external input. The touch sensor unit may sense external input in an electrostatic capacitive manner. The display panel 110 may receive the input signal from the touch sensing unit 120 and generate an image corresponding to the input signal.

[0057] The folding member FM can support the display module 100 and be folded by rotating with the first rotation axis RX1 and the second rotation axis RX2 as reference. By folding the folding member FM, the flexible display module 100 can be folded by the folding member FM. When the foldable display device 1 is folded, the foldable display device 1 can be folded inward (inner folding) so that the display surfaces DS of different regions of the display module 100 face each other.

[0058] The more specific structure of the folding member FM will be described below. Figure 4 Hereinafter, a direction crossing a plane parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as a third direction DR3. The third direction DR3 may include an upper direction and a lower direction which is an opposite direction of the upper direction.

[0059] Figure 3 Yes means Figure 1 A diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a foldable display device.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 , the display panel 110 may include a base layer BSL, a pixel layer PXL disposed on the base layer BSL, and a protection layer PTL disposed on the base layer BSL to cover the pixel layer PXL.

[0061] The base layer BSL defines the back side of the display module 100 and may be flexible. The pixel layer PXL includes a plurality of pixels (not shown) that may be driven by an electrical signal to generate an image IM. The protective layer PTL may protect the pixel layer PXL, and the touch sensing unit 120 may be disposed on the protective layer PTL. The protective layer PTL may be formed of multiple layers and may include an organic insulating film or an inorganic insulating film.

[0062] Although not shown, a window may be further included on the touch sensing unit 120. The window covers the display module 100 to protect it. The window may be formed of a transparent material. The window may be formed of plastic, in which case the window may have a bendable property.

[0063] Examples of plastics applicable to the window portion include polyimide, polyacrylate, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylenenaphthalate (PEN), polyvinylidene chloride, polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), polystyrene, ethylene vinylalcohol copolymer, polyethersulphone (PES), polyetherimide (PEI), polyphenylenesulfide (PPS), polyallylate, triacetyl cellulose (TAC), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), etc., but are not limited thereto. The window portion may be formed by including one or more of the plastic substances listed above.

[0064] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the foldable display device shown.

[0065] Reference Figure 4 The foldable display device 1 includes a display module 100 and a folder FM. The folder FM includes a first supporting member 210 , a second supporting member 220 , a hinge 300 , a rail 400 , a first rear surface cover 510 , and a second rear surface cover 520 .

[0066] The first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 , and the display module 100 is disposed on the first supporting member 210 , the second supporting member 220 , the hinge 300 , and the rail 400 .

[0067] One side of the first supporting member 210 and one side of the second supporting member 220 are arranged to face each other. The folding area FA of the display module 100 is arranged at the combination position of the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 and the hinge 300, the non-folding area NFA1 of the display panel 110 is arranged on the upper surface of the first supporting member 210, and the non-folding area NFA2 is arranged on the upper surface of the second supporting member 220.

[0068] At least one hinge 300 is connected to one side of the first supporting member 210 and one side of the second supporting member 220 facing each other in the first direction DR1. The hinge 300 provides rotation axes to one side of the first supporting member 210 and one side of the second supporting member 220, respectively. The rotation axes (RX1, RX2) include a first rotation axis RX1 provided at one side of the first supporting member 210 and a second rotation axis RX2 provided at one side of the second supporting member 220.

[0069] The hinge 300 includes a plurality of hinge structures (300_1, 300_2) arranged in the second direction DR2 and disposed between the first support member 210 and the second support member 220. As an example, the hinge 300 includes two hinge structures (300_1, 300_2), but the number of hinge structures (300_1, 300_2) is not limited thereto.

[0070] use Figures 5 to 12 The hinge 300 will be described in detail.

[0071] A plurality of rails 400 are respectively arranged along the second direction DR2 on one side of the first supporting member 210 and one side of the second supporting member 220. The rail 400 may include a first rail member 410 and a second rail member 420. The first rail member 410 may be attached to one side of the first supporting member 210, and the second rail member 420 may be attached to one side of the display module 100 opposite to the first supporting member 210.

[0072] However, the number and arrangement of the rails 400 are not limited thereto. For example, one rail 400 may be arranged on one side and the other side of the first supporting member 210 along the second direction DR2, and one rail 400 may be arranged on one side and the other side of the second supporting member 220 along the second direction DR2.

[0073] The rail 400 provides a separation space for reducing external impact applied to the foldable display device 1. The rail 400 according to an embodiment can be manufactured in a straight line shape, and the second rail member 420 can move a specific distance from one side to the other side or from the other side to one side along the second direction DR2 based on the first rail member 410. That is, based on the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 to which the first rail member 410 is attached respectively, the display module 100 to which the second rail member 420 is attached can move a specific distance to both sides along the second direction DR2.

[0074] Thus, when an external impact is applied to one side of the first supporting member 210 or the second supporting member 220 coupled to the housing of the foldable display device 1, the display module 100 can be moved a specific distance in a direction opposite to the direction in which the impact is applied through the track 400, thereby reducing the possibility of damage caused by the impact.

[0075] Will refer to Figures 13 to 16 Let's explain track 400 in detail.

[0076] The first rear surface cover 510 is configured to cover the first support member 210 from the back side of the first support member 210. The first rear surface cover 510 can be configured to cover a portion of the hinge cover 300_3 configured between the first support member 210 and the second support member 220 (for example, the upper end of the lower surface of the hinge cover). The first rear surface cover 510 can be chamfered at its corner. The first rear surface cover 510 can be empty inside or form an empty space between the first rear surface cover 510 and the first support member 210 while being firmly connected to the first support member 210. For example, the first rear surface cover 510 can have a structure formed by a bottom surface of a quadrilateral shape and three side walls extending from the bottom surface. That is, it can be a structure in which one side of the quadrilateral has no side walls and is open.

[0077] The second rear surface cover 520 may be configured to cover the second support member 220 from the back side of the second support member 220. The second rear surface cover 520 may be configured to cover the remaining part (e.g., the lower end of the hinge cover) of the hinge cover 300_3 that is partially covered by the second rear surface cover 520. The second rear surface cover 520 may be chamfered at a corner similar to the first rear surface cover 510. The second rear surface cover 520 may be empty inside or may be firmly connected to the second support member 220 while forming an empty space between the second rear surface cover 520 and the second support member 220. In connection therewith, the second rear surface cover 520 may have a structure formed by a bottom surface of a quadrilateral shape and three side walls extending from the bottom surface. That is, it may be a structure in which one side of the quadrilateral is open without side walls.

[0078] The hinge 300 may be placed and fixed to the hinge cover 300_3. The hinge cover 300_3 may be covered by one side of the first rear surface cover 510 and the second rear surface cover 520 or exposed to the outside as the foldable display device 1 is folded. For example, when the foldable display device 1 is unfolded, the hinge cover 300_3 may be covered by the first rear surface cover 510 and the second rear surface cover 520. When the foldable display device 1 is folded, the hinge cover 300_3 may be configured to be exposed to the outside from the side of the first rear surface cover 510 and the second rear surface cover 520.

[0079] Below, we will refer to Figures 5 to 12 The hinge 300 will be described in detail.

[0080] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge of a foldable display device according to an embodiment. Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a hinge connection state of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0081] Reference Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 At least a portion of the hinge 300 involved in one embodiment may include a first bracket shell 310, a first shell washer 301, 303, a first leaf spring 302, a first bracket internal gear 320, a first gear washer 304, a first bracket center 330, a first main gear 341 (e.g., a sawtooth cylindrical gear), a first shaft gear 351 (e.g., a sawtooth cylindrical gear), a second shaft gear 352 (e.g., a sawtooth cylindrical gear), a second main gear 342 (e.g., a sawtooth cylindrical gear), a second bracket center 360, a second gear washer 309, a second bracket internal gear 370, a second leaf spring 307, second shell washers 306, 308 and a second bracket shell 380.

[0082] The first bracket shell 310 is arranged adjacent to the first bracket internal gear 320 and fixed to the first bracket internal gear 320. For example, at least one protrusion is provided on the right side of the first bracket shell 310, and the at least one protrusion is inserted into the groove provided in the first bracket internal gear 320 and fixed. The first bracket shell 310 may have a cross section of an arc with a certain angle (for example, a right angle). The upper end of the first bracket shell 310 may be combined with the second support member 220 (for example, threaded combination), for example. The side of the first bracket shell 310 may be combined with the first support member 210 (for example, magnet combination). Thus, the first bracket shell 310 can rotate during the hinge action of the second support member 220, and be magnet-coupled with the first support member 210 during the period when the first support member 210 and the second support member 220 are arranged side by side. The first bracket shell 310 may be separated from the first support member 210 during the period when the first support member 210 and the second support member 220 are folded. The curved surface of the first bracket housing 310 is disposed to face the inside of the hinge housing. The first bracket housing 310 may be formed of a material having a certain rigidity (eg, metal material), but the first bracket housing 310 of the present invention is not limited to the above material.

[0083] The first shell washers 301 and 303 are arranged between the first bracket shell 310 and the first bracket internal gear 320, and the first leaf spring 302 can be arranged between the first shell washers 301 and the first shell washers 303. The first shell washers 301 and 303 and the first leaf spring 302 can be fixed to the first bracket internal gear 320 by rivets. According to various embodiments, the rivets can be replaced by other fixing components such as nuts or E-shaped rings. The first shell washers 301 and 303 and the first leaf spring 302 can be placed in a groove provided on one side of the first bracket internal gear 320. A hole penetrating the first bracket internal gear 320 can be provided on the inner side of the groove. A part of the first main gear 341 penetrating the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360 can be arranged in the hole.

[0084] The first carrier internal gear 320 is disposed on a first side (e.g., Figure 6 The first bracket shell 310 can be fixed on the second side (for example, the left side) and the second side (for example, the left side) can be fixed on the first bracket shell 310. Figure 6 The first bracket center 330 may be configured (the right side is the reference). The first bracket internal gear 320 may rotate along the side of the first bracket center 330. The first bracket internal gear 320 may be configured in a semi-elliptical shape, and an internal gear meshing with the first main gear 341 may be provided on the inner side. The internal gear may be provided in the shape of a semi-elliptical arc. The material of the first bracket internal gear 320 may be provided as a metal material having a certain rigidity. For example, the first bracket internal gear 320 may be provided as the same material as the first bracket shell 310. The material of the first bracket internal gear 320 described in various embodiments is not limited to the above-mentioned metal material.

[0085] The first gear washer 304 may be disposed between the first bracket inner gear 320 and the first bracket center 330. For example, the first gear washer 304 may be placed in a groove (or hole) provided in the first bracket center 330. The first gear washer 304 may be inserted into one side of the second main gear 342 that passes through the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360.

[0086] The first bracket center 330 may be disposed between the first bracket inner gear 320 and the second bracket center 360. The first bracket center 330 may be configured in a semi-elliptical shape larger than the first bracket inner gear 320. A hole for inserting a portion of the first main gear 341 and a hole for inserting a portion of the second main gear 342 may be provided in the first bracket center 330. A hole that passes through the top and bottom may be provided in the center of the first bracket center 330 (for example, from the center of the flat upper end to the lower end in the semi-elliptical shape). A boss provided on the hinge housing may be inserted into the hole that passes through the top and bottom.

[0087] The first main gear 341 (or the first shaft) may pass through the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360, and one side is disposed on the internal gear provided in the first bracket internal gear 320. The first main gear 341 may include: a first left through portion 341a, which protrudes to the left side of the first bracket internal gear 320 and passes through the first shell washers 301, 303 and the first leaf spring 302; a first gear pattern portion 341b, which is continuous with the first left through portion 341a, and one side is combined with the internal gear portion of the first bracket internal gear 320, and the other side is gear-coupled with the first shaft gear 351; a first right through portion 341c, which passes through the hole provided in the second bracket center 360 and is inserted into the second gear washer 309. The first left through portion 341a, the first gear pattern portion 341b and the first right through portion 341c divide the first main gear 341 according to function or position, and the first left through portion 341a, the first gear pattern portion 341b and the first right through portion 341c may have a continuous structure.

[0088] One side of the first shaft gear 351 may be gear-coupled with the gear pattern portion provided on the first main gear 341, and the other side thereof may be gear-coupled with the second shaft gear 352. Thus, during the rotation of the first main gear 341, the first shaft gear 351 may transmit the rotational force to the second shaft gear 352. The first shaft gear 351 may be disposed on a common inner side formed when the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360 are coupled.

[0089] One side of the second shaft gear 352 can be gear-coupled with the gear pattern portion provided on the second main gear 342, and the other side can be gear-coupled with the first shaft gear 351. The second shaft gear 352 can transmit the rotational force to the first shaft gear 351 during the rotation of the second main gear 342. The second shaft gear 352 can be arranged on the common inner side formed when the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360 are combined. According to various embodiments, in order to reduce the thickness of the foldable display device 1 component, the size and number of the sub-gears (such as the first shaft gear 351 and the second shaft gear 352) can be changed. However, the foldable display device 1 of the present invention is not limited to the number and size of the shaft gears. For example, the first shaft gear 351 and the second shaft gear 352 can be set to a small size below a certain size in order to reduce the thickness of the foldable display device 1 component. Thus, the foldable display device 1 can have a hinge structure including two first shaft gears and two second shaft gears. The size of the two first shaft gears or the two second shaft gears can be half the size of one first shaft gear or one second shaft gear. Alternatively, the hinge structure of the foldable display device 1 may also include three first shaft gears and three second shaft gears.

[0090] The second main gear 342 (or the second shaft) can be substantially the same as the first main gear 341, for example, including: a second right through portion 342c, which penetrates the right side of the second bracket internal gear 370 and inserts the second shell washers 306, 308 and the second leaf spring 307; a second gear pattern portion 342b, one side of which is gear-coupled with the internal gear of the second bracket internal gear 370, and a part of the other side is gear-coupled with the second shaft gear 352; a second left through portion 342a, which penetrates the hole set in the center 330 of the first bracket and inserts the first gear washer 304. The left or right direction of the above-mentioned through portion is based on the shown figure, and can also be named in different ways according to the change of the configuration direction.

[0091] The second bracket center 360 may be disposed between the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket inner gear 370. The second bracket center 360 may be configured to have substantially the same shape as the first bracket center 330 (e.g., a semi-elliptical shape larger than the second bracket inner gear 370). The second bracket center 360 may have a through hole through which the first main gear 341 and the second main gear 342 pass. The second bracket center 360 may have a hole that passes through from the flat upper end to the lower end in order to be coupled to the boss of the hinge housing.

[0092] The second gear washer 309 may be coupled to the end of the first right through portion 341 c of the first main gear 341 and seated in the groove provided in the second bracket center 360 .

[0093] The second bracket internal gear 370 may be disposed between the second bracket center 360 and the second bracket shell 380. The shape and material of the second bracket internal gear 370 may be substantially the same as the shape and material of the first bracket internal gear 320. For example, the second bracket internal gear 370 may be configured to be a semi-elliptical shape smaller than the second bracket center 360, and may have an internal gear gear-coupled with the second main gear 342 in a certain area.

[0094] The second shell washers 306, 308 and the second leaf spring 307 may be placed in a groove (or hole) provided on one side of the second bracket inner gear 370, and coupled to the second right through portion 342c of the second main gear 342. The second leaf spring 307 may be disposed between the second shell washers 306 and 308, and apply elastic force to the second shell washers 306, 308 in the left and right directions.

[0095] The second bracket shell 380 may be substantially the same shape and material as the first bracket shell 310 described above, and may be arranged in the opposite direction to the first bracket shell 310. For example, the second bracket shell 380 may be fixed to one side of the second bracket internal gear 370. The outer peripheral surface of the second bracket shell 380 may include a curved surface portion having a certain curvature and an end portion forming the curved surface portion. The upper end portion among the end portions may be combined with the first support member 210 (for example, by threaded combination). The side portion among the end portions may be combined with the second support member 220 (for example, by magnet combination).

[0096] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a rotation state of a hinge of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0097] Reference Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 , the hinge 300 involved in one embodiment can be configured so that the side portions of the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360 (for example, the right side portion of the first bracket center 330 and the left side portion of the second bracket center 360 when the figure is used as a reference) face each other. Among the holes of the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360, the hole set on the lower side based on the figure is configured so that the first main gear 341 passes through, and one side of the first gear pattern portion 341b of the first main gear 341 can be combined with the internal gear of the first bracket internal gear 320. Among the holes of the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360, the hole set on the upper side based on the figure is configured so that the second main gear 342 passes through, and one side of the second gear pattern portion 342b of the second main gear 342 is combined with the internal gear of the second bracket internal gear 370. The left side of the first carrier internal gear 320 is combined with the first carrier case 310 , and the right side of the second carrier internal gear 370 is combined with the second carrier case 380 .

[0098] When the first bracket shell 310 is combined with the second support member 220 and the second bracket shell 380 is combined with the first support member 210, and the external pressure is applied to the first support member 210 or the second support member 220 and the first support member 210 and the second support member 220 are folded in directions facing each other, as shown in the figure, the first bracket shell 310 and the first bracket inner gear 320 can be configured to rotate by a first angle (e.g., 90 degrees) in the counterclockwise direction from the initial state with the first bracket center 330 as the reference. Similarly, the second bracket shell 380 and the second bracket inner gear 370 can be configured to rotate by a first angle (e.g., 90 degrees) in the clockwise direction from the initial state with the second bracket center 360 as the reference. The first direction and the second direction may be opposite directions to each other.

[0099] Fig. 8A as well as Figure 8BThis is a diagram showing an example of a configuration associated with the center of a bracket of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0100] Reference Fig. 8A as well as Figure 8B As described above, the hinge 300 according to one embodiment may include a first bracket shell 310 , a first bracket internal gear 320 , a first bracket center 330 , a second bracket center 360 , a second bracket internal gear 370 , and a second bracket shell 380 .

[0101] Fig. 8A as well as Figure 8B The figure only shows the bracket centers (330, 360), the main gears (341, 342) and the shaft gears (351, 352). The first main gear 341 and the second main gear 342 may be arranged to penetrate the first bracket center 330 and the second bracket center 360.

[0102] Figure 8B It means along Fig. 8A BB` intercepted figure. As shown in the figure, the center formed while combining with the center of the bracket (330, 360) can be jointly configured with a first shaft gear 351 gear-coupled with the first main gear 341 and a second shaft gear 352 gear-coupled with the second main gear 342 and the first shaft gear 351. In the above structure, if the first main gear 341 rotates in a first direction (for example, clockwise), the first shaft gear 351 can rotate in a second direction (for example, counterclockwise), the second shaft gear 352 gear-coupled with the first shaft gear 351 rotates in the first direction again, and the second main gear 342 gear-coupled with the second shaft gear 352 rotates in the second direction. As described above, through the first shaft gear 351 and the second shaft gear 352, the first main gear 341 and the second main gear 342 can rotate in opposite directions within a limited range.

[0103] Fig.9A as well as Fig. 9B FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the operating state of the bracket center and the gears inside the bracket of the foldable display device according to one embodiment. Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration state of a foldable display device based on a configuration form of a hinge according to an embodiment.

[0104] Reference Fig.9A The foldable display device 1 includes a state in which at least a portion of the hinge structure is viewed from the direction in which the second bracket inner gear 370 is configured in the flat state, referring to Fig. 9B, a diagram showing an example of a state in which the foldable display device 1 is folded at a second angle (for example, an angle in which the first support member 210 and the second support member 220 face each other) and at least a portion of the hinge 300 is viewed with reference to the direction in which the second bracket internal gear 370 is configured.

[0105] Fig.9A as well as Fig. 9B 3 is a diagram of the shape of the second bracket internal gear 370 coupled to the second bracket center 360. A portion of the gear pattern portion of the second main gear 342, which is configured to the right side based on the longitudinal center line of the second bracket center 360, is gear-coupled with the internal gear 371 of the second bracket internal gear 370, and can perform rotational movement under external pressure. For example, under continuous application of force, the second bracket internal gear 370 can be configured to be parallel to the longitudinal center line of the second bracket center 360. As the second bracket internal gear 370 rotates, the first bracket internal gear 320 can rotate in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the second bracket internal gear 370. Thus, as shown in the figure, the flat surfaces of the first bracket internal gear 320 and the second bracket internal gear 370 can be parallel to the longitudinal center line of the bracket center (330, 360) (or configured to be perpendicular to the transverse center line of the bracket center (330, 360)). As described above, as the first bracket internal gear 320 and the second bracket internal gear 370 are coupled to a position away from the center of the bracket center (330, 360) (for example, a position biased to the right edge position or the left edge position) through the first main gear 341 and the second main gear 342, when rotating, Fig.10 As shown in the figure, the virtual rotation axes RX1 and RX2 may be located at a certain height from the surface of the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 toward the upper side, a certain height from the back side of the display module 100 toward the upper side, a certain height from the upper surface of the display module 100 toward the upper side, or a certain height above the horizontal center line of the bracket center (330, 360). Alternatively, the virtual rotation axes RX1 and RX2 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom surface or the lowermost end surface of the display module 100 when viewed from the upper side to the lower side based on the figure shown.

[0106] The shape and size of the internal gear 321 of the first bracket internal gear 320 and the internal gear 371 of the second bracket internal gear 370 (for example, the size of the circular curved hole in the form of a part of the arc at the end of which can be inserted into the main gear and the number and size of the teeth and tooth grooves of the internal gears 321 and 371, etc.) can be adjusted so that the first bracket internal gear 320 and the second bracket internal gear 370 should be arranged side by side with the bracket center (330, 360) and the position at which they should be arranged at a 90-degree angle to the bracket center (330, 360).

[0107] In the foldable display device 1, the shape of the internal gears 321 and 371 limits the maximum rotation amplitude of the bracket internal gears (320 and 370), and is limited to the bracket internal gears (320 and 370) being able to rotate within a range of 90 degrees based on the horizontal center line of the bracket center (330 and 360). At this time, the bracket internal gears (320 and 370) are configured to be biased to the left and right sides of the bracket center (330 and 360), respectively, so that when the first support member 210 and the second support member 220 are folded to face each other, a certain size of gap can be formed between the bracket internal gears (320 and 370). This size of gap can make the curvature of the central area of ​​the display module 100 always maintain a certain degree. For example, the central area of ​​the display module 100 can be bent into a "U" shape when the first support member 210 and the second support member 220 are folded. As the display module 100 is bent into a "U" shape, the pressure points (such as inflection points) generated in the central area are less than those in relatively different forms (such as a display folded in a water drop shape or a bar shape), so less pressure can be applied. Therefore, the foldable display device 1 of the present invention can have a relatively longer life.

[0108] Fig.11 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a magnet member arrangement structure of a hinge of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0109] Reference Fig.11 The hinge 300 includes the first bracket shell 310, the first bracket internal gear 320, the first bracket center 330, the second bracket center 360, the second bracket internal gear 370 and the second bracket shell 380 as described above. In order to rotate the first bracket internal gear 320 and the second bracket internal gear 370, the main gear and the shaft gear can be configured to pass through the bracket center (330, 360).

[0110] A first magnet component 311 may be disposed on one side of the first bracket shell 310. For example, with reference to the figure, in a state where the surface of the first bracket shell 310 having a coupling hole coupled with the second shell (not shown) is disposed facing upward, the first magnet component 311 may be disposed on the side where the curved surface portion is not formed. The side may have a placement groove of a certain depth so as to place and fix the first magnet component 311. The first magnet component 311 may be embedded (hard embedded) in the placement groove of the side of the first bracket shell 310 or fixed to the placement groove of the side by other adhesive components.

[0111] A second magnet component 381 may be disposed on one side of the second bracket shell 380. For example, with reference to the figure, in a state where the surface of the second bracket shell 380 having a coupling hole coupled with the first shell (not shown) is disposed facing upward, the second magnet component 381 may be disposed on the side portion where the curved surface portion is not formed. The side portion may include a placement groove of a certain depth so as to place and fix the second magnet component 381. The second magnet component 381 may be embedded (hard embedded) in the placement groove of the side portion of the second bracket shell 380 or fixed to the placement groove of the side portion by other adhesive components.

[0112] Fig.12 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a connection between a hinge and a hinge housing of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0113] Reference Fig.12 , the foldable display device 1 may include a first hinge structure 300_1 and a second hinge structure 300_2. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the foldable display device 1 may use only one hinge structure as required, or may use more than three hinge structures. For example, the number of hinge structures may be designed to increase or decrease corresponding to the size of the foldable display device 1.

[0114] In the first hinge structure 300_1, a first through hole 331 penetrating from the center of the flat surface to the bottom surface may be provided at the center 330 of the first bracket. The first boss 300_31 provided on the hinge cover 300_3 may be inserted into the first through hole 331.

[0115] In the first hinge structure 300_1, a second through hole 361 penetrating from the center of the flat surface to the bottom surface may be provided at the second bracket center 360. The second boss 300_32 provided on the hinge cover 300_3 may be inserted into the second through hole 361.

[0116] The hinge cover 300_3 may include a housing, a first boss 300_31, a second boss 300_32, a third boss 300_33, and a fourth boss 300_34 disposed inside the housing. The housing may be, for example, closed at the edges of the left and right sides, with an opening toward the upper side, a hollow inside, and a semi-elliptical longitudinal axial cross section. The curved surface of the hinge 300 may be disposed on the inner side of the housing and face the inner side.

[0117] The first boss 300_31 and the second boss 300_32 may be disposed on one side of a housing that can be coupled to a first through hole 331 provided at a first bracket center 330 of the hinge 300 and a second through hole 361 provided at a second bracket center 360 .

[0118] The second hinge structure 300_2 can be configured in substantially the same form as the first hinge structure 300_1. If the center of the bracket included in the second hinge structure 300_2 is placed on the hinge cover 300_3, the through hole formed in the center of the bracket can be combined with the third boss 300_33 and the fourth boss 300_34 of the hinge cover 300_3.

[0119] In the above description, the structure of the track 400 with two hinge structures is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the track 400, one hinge structure may be configured, or three or more hinge structures may be configured. As described above, the number of hinge structures may be increased or decreased according to the size of the foldable display device 1.

[0120] Fig.13 Yes means Figure 4 A perspective view of the track is shown. Fig.14 yes Fig.13 Exploded perspective view of the track shown.

[0121] Below, refer to Fig.13 as well as Fig.14 Let's explain track 400.

[0122] The track 400 may include: a first track component 410 attached to one surface of the first supporting component 210; a second track component 420 attached to one surface of the display module 100 opposite to the first supporting component 210 and slidably coupled to the first track component 410; a third track component 430 supporting the sliding movement of the first track component 410 and the second track component 420; and an elastic component 440 for mitigating impacts during the sliding movement of the first track component 410 and the second track component 420.

[0123] The first rail member 410 is attached to one surface of the first supporting member 210 and supports the display module 100 to enable sliding movement. The first rail member 410 may include a first rail member body 411 and first rail member flanges 412 bent at both sides of the first rail member body 411 .

[0124] A first support protrusion 414 may be provided on one side of the first rail member body 411 in the second moving direction D2 to support a third support protrusion 423 formed on the second rail member 420 in order to prevent the second rail member 420 from being separated in the second moving direction D2. The first support protrusion 414 may be formed by bending a portion of the first rail member body 411 in a direction to be coupled to the second rail member 420. The third support protrusion 423 may be formed by bending a portion of the second rail member body 421 in a direction to be coupled to the first rail member 410. Thus, the second rail member 420 may be prevented from being separated from the first rail member 410 in the second moving direction D2.

[0125] A second support protrusion 415 supporting a fourth support protrusion 424 formed on the second rail member 420 may be provided on one side of the first moving direction D1 of the first rail member body 411 to prevent the second rail member 420 from being separated in the first moving direction D1. The second support protrusion 415 may be formed by bending a portion of the first rail member body 411 in a direction to be coupled to the second rail member 420. The fourth support protrusion 424 may be formed by bending a portion of the second rail member body 421 in a direction to be coupled to the first rail member 410. Thus, the second rail member 420 may be prevented from being separated from the first rail member 410 in the first moving direction D1.

[0126] The first rail member body 411 may include a first guide member 413 inserted into the first guide protrusion 433 and the second guide protrusion 434 of the third rail member 430 and guiding the first guide protrusion 433 and the second guide protrusion 434. The first guide member 413 may be formed along a moving path of the first guide protrusion 433 and the second guide protrusion 434. A side surface of the first guide member 413 in the second moving direction D2 contacts the first guide protrusion 433, and movement of the first guide protrusion 433 in the second moving direction D2 may be restricted. A side surface of the first guide member 413 in the first moving direction D1 contacts the second guide protrusion 434, and movement of the second guide protrusion 434 in the first moving direction D1 may be restricted.

[0127] A first orbital turning area 416 for supporting the first ball B1 of the third orbital member 430 may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first orbital member flange 412. Thus, the first ball B1 of the third orbital member 430 may slide and move along the first orbital turning area 416 in a state of rolling contact with the first orbital member 410. The first orbital turning area 416 may be formed along the length direction of the first orbital member 410 so as to accommodate the first ball B1.

[0128] The second rail member 420 may be slidably coupled to the first rail member 410. The second rail member 420 may be coupled to the inner side of the first rail member flange 412 of the first rail member 410. The second rail member 420 may include a second rail member body 421 and second rail member flanges 422 bent at both sides of the second rail member body 421.

[0129] The third rail member 430 may be disposed between the first rail member 410 and the second rail member 420 to support the sliding movement of the second rail member 420. The third rail member 430 may include a plurality of first balls B1 and a third rail member body 431 supporting the plurality of first balls B1 to be rotatable.

[0130] The third rail member body 431 may include a first ball groove 432 into which the first ball B1 is rotatably inserted. Thus, the first ball B1 may rotate and move along the first rail raceway 416 and the outer raceway 425 while being inserted into the first ball groove 432 .

[0131] The third rail member body 431 may include a first guide protrusion 433 and a second guide protrusion 434 which are inserted into the first guide 413 and guided by the first guide 413 .

[0132] The first guide protrusion 433 and the second guide protrusion 434 may be formed by bending a portion of the third rail member body 431 toward the first rail member 410. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first guide protrusion 433 and the second guide protrusion 434 may be provided by combining independent components with the third rail member body 431. The first guide protrusion 433 may be provided on one side of the second moving direction D2 of the third rail member body 431. The second guide protrusion 434 may be provided on one side of the first moving direction D1 of the third rail member body 431.

[0133] The elastic member 440 may be composed of various elastic members such as an elastic band or a coil spring, and both ends of the elastic member 440 may be fixed to an area of ​​the first rail member 410 and the second rail member 420, respectively. Fig.13 as well as Fig.14 The elastic member 440 formed of a coil spring is illustrated in FIG.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the elastic member 440 may include a first elastic member 440A and a second elastic member 440B. One side of the first elastic member 440A may be fixed to the first supporting protrusion 414 of the first rail member 410, and the other side of the first elastic member 440A may be fixed to the third supporting protrusion 423 of the second rail member 420. One side of the second elastic member 440B may be fixed to the second supporting protrusion 415 of the first rail member 410, and the other side of the second elastic member 440B may be fixed to the fourth supporting protrusion 424 of the second rail member 420.

[0135] The elastic force of the elastic member 440 may be such that the first rail member 410 and the second rail member 420 are kept from sliding relative to each other when no external impact is applied to the foldable display device 1. That is, the elastic member 440 may be deformed to absorb the impact when the foldable display device 1 is subjected to an external impact, or may not be deformed to maintain the position of the display module 100 when no external impact is applied to the foldable display device 1.

[0136] Fig.15 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where no external impact is applied to the foldable display device according to an embodiment. Fig.16 FIG. 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where an external impact is applied to a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0137] Reference Figure 4 , Fig.15 as well as Fig.16 , the foldable display device 1 may include a first supporting member 210 and a second supporting member 220. The display module 100 may be disposed on the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220. The foldable display device 1 may include a first corner region C1 on the upper left side, a second corner region C2 on the lower left side, a third corner region C3 on the upper right side, and a fourth corner region C4 on the lower right side.

[0138] The rails 400 are respectively arranged along the second direction DR2 on one side of the first supporting member 210 and on one side of the second supporting member 220. However, the number and arrangement of the rails 400 are not limited thereto. For example, one rail 400 may be respectively arranged along the second direction DR2 on one side and the other side of the first supporting member 210 (the vicinity of the folding area FA of the display module 100), and one rail 400 may be respectively arranged along the second direction DR2 on one side and the other side of the second supporting member 220 (the vicinity of the folding area FA of the display module 100).

[0139] The rail 400 may include a first rail member 410 and a second rail member 420. The first rail member 410 may be attached to one surface of the first supporting member 210, and the second rail member 420 may be attached to one surface of the display module 100 opposite to the first supporting member 210.

[0140] The rail 400 provides a separation space for reducing the impact applied to the outside of the foldable display device 1. Fig.15 As shown, the separation space may include: a first separation space defined by a distance obtained by subtracting the length of the compressed elastic member 440 from the shortest distance between the first support protrusion 414 of the first rail member 410 and the third support protrusion 423 of the second rail member 420; and a second separation space defined by a distance obtained by subtracting the length of the compressed elastic member 440 from the shortest distance between the second support protrusion 415 of the first rail member 410 and the fourth support protrusion 424 of the second rail member 420. The first separation space and the second separation space may have the same length.

[0141] The track 400 according to an embodiment can be made into a straight line shape. Taking the first track component 410 as a reference, the second track component 420 can be extended from one side (eg, Fig.15 The lower area of ​​the display module 100) to the other side ( Fig.15 ) a specific distance, or from the other side ( Fig.15 The upper area of ​​the display module 100) to one side (eg Fig.15 The first separated space and the second separated space are moved to a lower area of ​​the display module 100 .

[0142] For example, when a user drops the foldable display device 1 while using the foldable display device 1 , the foldable display device 1 may collide with the ground from the second corner region C2 .

[0143] At this time, when the display module 100 is combined with the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 by the adhesive member, the external impact will be mostly transmitted to the display module 100, and the first non-folding area NFA1 of the display module 100 may be acted with a force to move from the second corner area C2 to the first corner area C1 due to the external impact, and conversely, the second non-folding area NFA2 may be acted with a force to move from the third corner area C3 to the fourth corner area C4 due to gravity. As a result, the display module 100 near the second corner area C2 to which the external impact is applied will certainly be damaged, and there is a misalignment that is expected to move in opposite directions with respect to the folding area FA, so there is a possibility that the folding area FA of the display module 100 is also damaged.

[0144] However, according to the present embodiment, when an external impact is transmitted to the display module 100, the external impact is dispersed by the rail 400, and the misalignment phenomenon generated in the folding area FA of the display module 100 can be alleviated. That is, the second rail member 420 combined with the first rail member 410 can slide along the second direction DR2 from the second corner area C2 and the fourth corner area C4 toward the first corner area C1 and the third corner area C3 by the first distance d1.

[0145] In other words, based on the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 to which the first rail member 410 is respectively attached, the display module 100 to which the second rail member 420 is attached can slide along the second direction DR2 from the second corner area C2 and the fourth corner area C4 toward the first corner area C1 and the third corner area C3 by a first distance d1.

[0146] Therefore, when an external impact is applied to one side of the first supporting member 210 or the second supporting member 220 coupled to the housing of the foldable display device 1, the display module 100 moves a specific distance in the direction opposite to the direction of the impact through the track 400, thereby reducing the possibility of damage due to the impact.

[0147] Furthermore, when the rail 400 includes the elastic member 440 , the display module 100 vibrates in the first moving direction D1 and the second moving direction D2 , and an effect of further attenuating external impact can be expected.

[0148] In the following embodiments, the same configurations as those in the previously described embodiments are omitted or simplified, and the differences are mainly described.

[0149] Fig.17 An embodiment involves Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the foldable display device shown.

[0150] Reference Fig.17 The foldable display device 1_1 of this embodiment and Figure 4 The difference between the foldable display device 1 shown in the figure is that a metal plate 600 is further included between the display module 100 and the folding member FM. Figure 4 The same effect as in the embodiment.

[0151] To further explain, Fig.17 In the foldable display device 1_1 shown, the lower surface of the display module 100 and the upper surface of the metal plate 600 are integrally combined, and a plurality of rails 400 are combined on both sides of the lower surface of the metal plate 600 .

[0152] According to an embodiment, the first support member 210, the second support member 220 and the metal plate 600 are combined with the first rail member 410, and the metal plate 600 is combined with the second rail member 420, so that they can slide and move. Therefore, when the foldable display device 1_1 is subjected to an external impact, the display module 100 slides and moves as a whole, thereby reducing the risk of damage.

[0153] The metal plate 600 may also be formed of a metal sheet having sufficient rigidity to withstand the folding and unfolding of the display module 100. The thickness of the metal sheet is preferably less than 0.1 mm. The metal sheet may be formed of invar alloy. The embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the metal sheet may be SUS (Steel Use Stainless).

[0154] The metal plate 600 may be bonded to the flat areas NFA1 and NFA2 of the display module 100 via an adhesive layer not shown. On the contrary, the metal plate 600 is not bonded to the folding area FA of the display module 100. That is, the metal plate 600 may maintain a state of being fixed to the flat areas NFA1 and NFA2 of the display module 100 but not fixed to the folding area FA of the display module 100 and slightly floating.

[0155] Fig.18 It is a perspective view showing a state where rails according to an embodiment are connected. Fig.19 yes Fig.18 Exploded perspective view of the track shown. Fig. 20 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where no external impact is applied to the foldable display device according to an embodiment. Fig.21 FIG. 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where an external impact is applied to a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0156] Reference Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figures 18 to 21 ,and Figures 13 to 16 The difference of the illustrated embodiment is that the track 400_1 is not a straight line but a curved shape and the display module 100 combined with the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 200 slides in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction when the foldable display device 1 is subjected to an external impact.

[0157] In more detail, the track 400_1 may include: a first track component 410_1, attached to one surface of the first supporting component 210; a second track component 420_1, attached to a surface of the display module 100 opposite to the first supporting component 210, and slidably coupled to the first track component 410_1; a third track component 430_1, supporting the sliding movement of the first track component 410_1 and the second track component 420_1; and an elastic component 440_1, mitigating the impact of the first track component 410_1 and the second track component 420_1 when they slide.

[0158] The first rail member 410_1 , the second rail member 420_1 , and the third rail member 430_1 may be curved rather than straight. According to an embodiment, the third moving direction D3 may be counterclockwise, and the fourth moving direction D4 may be clockwise.

[0159] The first rail component 410_1 is attached to one surface of the first supporting component 210 and can support the display module 100 to slide. The first rail component 410_1 may include a first rail component body 411_1 and first rail component flanges 412_1 bent at both sides of the first rail component body 411_1.

[0160] On one side of the first rail member body 411_1 in the fourth moving direction D4, a first supporting protrusion 414_1 supporting the third supporting protrusion 423_1 formed on the second rail member 420_1 may be provided to prevent the second rail member 420_1 from detaching in the fourth moving direction D4. The first supporting protrusion 414_1 may be formed by bending a portion of the first rail member body 411_1 in a direction to be coupled to the second rail member 420_1. The third supporting protrusion 423_1 may be formed by bending a portion of the second rail member body 421_1 in a direction to be coupled to the first rail member 410_1. Thus, the second rail member 420_1 may be prevented from detaching from the first rail member 410_1 in the fourth moving direction D4.

[0161] On one side of the first rail member body 411_1 in the third moving direction D3, a second support protrusion 415_1 may be provided to support the fourth support protrusion 424_1 formed on the second rail member 420_1 in order to prevent the second rail member 420_1 from detaching in the third moving direction D3. The second support protrusion 415_1 may be formed by bending a portion of the first rail member body 411_1 in a direction to be coupled to the second rail member 420_1. The fourth support protrusion 424_1 may be formed by bending a portion of the second rail member body 421_1 in a direction to be coupled to the first rail member 410_1. Thus, the second rail member 420_1 may be prevented from detaching from the first rail member 410_1 in the third moving direction D3.

[0162] The first rail member body 411_1 may include a first guide member 413_1 inserted into the first guide protrusion 433_1 and the second guide protrusion 434_1 of the third rail member 430_1, and guiding the first guide protrusion 433_1 and the second guide protrusion 434_1. The first guide member 413_1 may be formed along the moving path of the first guide protrusion 433_1 and the second guide protrusion 434_1. A side surface of the first guide member 413_1 in the fourth moving direction D4 contacts the first guide protrusion 433_1, and the movement of the first guide protrusion 433_1 in the fourth moving direction D4 may be limited. A side surface of the first guide member 413_1 in the third moving direction D3 contacts the second guide protrusion 434_1, and the movement of the second guide protrusion 434_1 in the third moving direction D3 may be limited.

[0163] A first orbital turning area 416_1 supporting the first ball B1 of the third orbital component 430_1 may be provided on the inner circumference of the first orbital component flange 412_1. Thus, the first ball B1 of the third orbital component 430_1 may slide and move along the first orbital turning area 416_1 in a state of rolling contact with the first orbital component 410_1. The first orbital turning area 416_1 may be formed along the length direction of the first orbital component 410_1 so as to accommodate the first ball B1.

[0164] The second rail member 420_1 may be slidably coupled to the first rail member 410_1. The second rail member 420_1 may be coupled to the inner side of the first rail member flange 412_1 of the first rail member 410_1. The second rail member 420_1 may include a second rail member body 421_1 and second rail member flanges 422_1 bent at both sides of the second rail member body 421_1.

[0165] The third rail member 430_1 may be disposed between the first rail member 410_1 and the second rail member 420_1 to support the sliding movement of the second rail member 420_1. The third rail member 430_1 may include a plurality of first balls B1 and a third rail member body 431_1 rotatably supporting the plurality of first balls B1.

[0166] The third rail member body 431_1 includes a first ball groove 432_1 into which the first ball B1 is rotatably inserted, so that the first ball B1 can rotate and move along the first rail raceway 416_1 and the outer raceway 425_1 while being inserted into the first ball groove 432_1.

[0167] The third rail member body 431_1 may include a first guide protrusion 433_1 and a second guide protrusion 434_1 which are inserted into the first guide 413_1 and guided by the first guide 413_1 .

[0168] The first guide protrusion 433_1 and the second guide protrusion 434_1 may be formed by bending a portion of the third rail member body 431_1 toward the first rail member 410_1. However, this is not limited to this, and the first guide protrusion 433_1 and the second guide protrusion 434_1 may also be provided by combining independent components with the third rail member body 431_1. The first guide protrusion 433_1 may be provided on one side of the fourth moving direction D4 of the third rail member body 431_1. The second guide protrusion 434_1 may be provided on one side of the third moving direction D3 of the third rail member body 431_1.

[0169] The elastic component 440_1 may be composed of various elastic components such as an elastic band or a coil spring, and both ends of the elastic component 440_1 may be fixed to an area of ​​the first rail component 410_1 and the second rail component 420_1, respectively. Fig.18 as well as Fig.19 4. The elastic member 440_1 composed of a coil spring is shown in the figure as an example.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the elastic component 440_1 may include a first elastic component 440A_1 and a second elastic component 440B_1. One side of the first elastic component 440A_1 may be fixed to the first supporting protrusion 414_1 of the first rail component 410_1, and the other side of the first elastic component 440A_1 may be fixed to the third supporting protrusion 423_1 of the second rail component 420_1. One side of the second elastic component 440B_1 may be fixed to the second supporting protrusion 415_1 of the first rail component 410_1, and the other side of the second elastic component 440B_1 may be fixed to the fourth supporting protrusion 424_1 of the second rail component 420_1.

[0171] The elastic force of the elastic member 440_1 only needs to be such that the first rail member 410_1 and the second rail member 420_1 can maintain a state where they do not slide relative to each other when no external impact is applied to the foldable display device 1. That is, the elastic member 440_1 can be deformed to absorb the impact when the foldable display device 1 is subjected to an external impact, but does not deform to maintain the position of the display module 100 when no external impact is applied to the foldable display device 1.

[0172] Fig. 20 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where no external impact is applied to the foldable display device according to an embodiment. Fig.21 FIG. 1 is a perspective plan view showing a state where an external impact is applied to a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0173] Reference Figure 4 , Fig. 20 as well as Fig.21 , the foldable display device 1 may include a first supporting member 210 and a second supporting member 220. The display module 100 may be disposed on the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220. The foldable display device 1 may include a first corner region C1 on the upper left side, a second corner region C2 on the lower left side, a third corner region C3 on the upper right side, and a fourth corner region C4 on the lower right side.

[0174] The plurality of tracks 400_1 may be respectively arranged near the first corner region C1 and the second corner region C2 on the first supporting member 210 and the third corner region C3 and the fourth corner region C4 on the second supporting member 220. According to one embodiment, the plurality of tracks 400_1 may be arranged along a circle of a virtual circle so as to slide the display module 100 in a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction. That is, the track 400_1 may be equivalent to an arc of a virtual circle.

[0175] The rail 400_1 may include a first rail member 410_1 and a second rail member 420_1. The first rail member 410_1 may be attached to one surface of the first supporting member 210, and the second rail member 420_1 may be attached to one surface of the display module 100 opposite to the first supporting member 210.

[0176] The rail 400_1 provides a separation space for reducing the impact applied to the outside of the foldable display device 1. Fig. 20As shown, the separation space may include: a first separation space defined by a distance obtained by subtracting the length of the compressed elastic member 440_1 from the shortest distance between the first support protrusion 414_1 of the first rail member 410_1 and the third support protrusion 423_1 of the second rail member 420_1; and a second separation space defined by a distance obtained by subtracting the length of the compressed elastic member 440_1 from the shortest distance between the second support protrusion 415_1 of the first rail member 410_1 and the fourth support protrusion 424_1 of the second rail member 420_1. The first separation space and the second separation space may have the same length.

[0177] The track 400_1 according to an embodiment may be made into a curved shape. Based on the first track component 410_1 , the second track component 420_1 may move a specific distance in the clockwise direction along the fourth direction DR4 or move the first separation space and the second separation space in the counterclockwise direction.

[0178] For example, when the user drops the foldable display device 1 while using it, the foldable display device 1 may collide with the ground from the second corner area C2 .

[0179] At this time, when the display module 100 is combined with the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 by the adhesive member, the external impact may be mostly transmitted to the display module 100. In the first non-folding area NFA1 of the display module 100, a force that moves from the second corner area C2 to the first corner area C1 may be applied due to the external impact. On the contrary, in the second non-folding area NFA2, a force that moves from the third corner area C3 to the fourth corner area C4 may be applied due to gravity. As a result, the display module 100 near the second corner area C2 to which the external impact is applied will certainly be damaged, and there is a misalignment that moves in opposite directions with respect to the folding area FA, so there is a possibility that the folding area FA of the display module 100 will also be damaged.

[0180] However, according to the present embodiment, when an external impact is transmitted to the display module 100, the rail 400_1 disperses the external impact and can alleviate the misalignment phenomenon generated in the folding area FA of the display module 100. That is, the second rail member 420_1 combined with the first rail member 410_1 can slide and move in the clockwise direction along the third direction DR3 by a third distance d3.

[0181] In other words, based on the fact that the plurality of first rail members 410_1 are attached to the first supporting member 210 and the second supporting member 220 near the corners, the display module 100 to which the second rail member 420_1 is attached can slide in the clockwise direction by the second distance d2.

[0182] Thus, when an external impact is applied to one side of the first supporting member 210 or the second supporting member 220 coupled to the housing of the foldable display device 1, the display module 100 can be moved a specific distance through the track 400_1 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the impact is applied, thereby reducing the possibility of damage due to the impact.

[0183] Furthermore, when the rail 400_1 includes the elastic member 440_1 , the display module 100 can vibrate in the clockwise direction as well as the counterclockwise direction, and thus an effect of further attenuating external impact can be expected.

[0184] The above description is centered on the embodiments of the present invention, but this is only an example and does not limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art should be able to understand that various modifications and applications not illustrated in the above content can be performed within the scope of the essential characteristics of the embodiments of the present invention. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments of the present invention can be modified to implement. In addition, it should be interpreted that the differences involved in such modifications and applications are also included in the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A foldable display device, comprising: The first supporting member and the second supporting member respectively include a short side and a long side, and are separated from each other; A display module, configured on the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a hinge coupled to one side of the first supporting member and one side of the second supporting member; at least one first track, disposed between the first supporting member and the display module and disposed along a long side of the first supporting member; as well as at least one second track, disposed between the second supporting member and the display module and disposed along a long side of the second supporting member, The first rail and the second rail are capable of sliding in a first moving direction and in a second moving direction which is a direction opposite to the first moving direction. The first track and the second track include: a first rail member attached to one side of the first supporting member and comprising a first guide; and The second rail component is attached to a surface of the display module opposite to the first supporting component and is slidably coupled to the first rail component. The first rail member includes: a first supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a second supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction. The second rail member includes: a third supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a fourth supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction. The third supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the first moving direction by the first supporting protrusion, and the fourth supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the second moving direction by the second supporting protrusion. The first rail and the second rail further include an elastic member disposed between the first supporting protrusion and the third supporting protrusion and between the second supporting protrusion and the fourth supporting protrusion. The first rail and the second rail further include a third rail member disposed between the first rail member and the second rail member and including a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion that are movably inserted into the first guide piece.

2. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The elastic member is any one of an elastic band and a coil spring.

3. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The elastic member has an elastic force for preventing the first rail member and the second rail member from sliding when no impact is applied to the first supporting member and / or the second supporting member from the outside.

4. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The third rail member includes: a plurality of balls; and a third rail member body rotatably supporting the plurality of balls.

5. A foldable display device, comprising: The first supporting member and the second supporting member respectively include a short side and a long side, and are separated from each other; a metal plate, disposed on the first supporting member and the second supporting member; A display module, configured on the metal plate; a hinge coupled to one side of the first supporting member and one side of the second supporting member; at least one first rail, disposed between the first supporting member and the metal plate and disposed along a long side of the first supporting member; as well as at least one second rail is disposed between the second supporting member and the metal plate and along a long side of the second supporting member, The first rail and the second rail are capable of sliding in a first moving direction and in a second moving direction which is a direction opposite to the first moving direction. The first track and the second track include: a first rail member attached to one side of the first supporting member and comprising a first guide; and The second rail component is attached to a surface of the display module opposite to the first supporting component and is slidably coupled to the first rail component. The first rail member includes: a first supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a second supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction. The second rail member includes: a third supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a fourth supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction. The third supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the first moving direction by the first supporting protrusion, and the fourth supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the second moving direction by the second supporting protrusion. The first rail and the second rail further include an elastic member disposed between the first supporting protrusion and the third supporting protrusion and between the second supporting protrusion and the fourth supporting protrusion. The first rail and the second rail further include a third rail member disposed between the first rail member and the second rail member and including a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion that are movably inserted into the first guide piece.

6. A foldable display device, comprising: The first supporting member and the second supporting member respectively include a short side and a long side, and are separated from each other; A display module, configured on the first supporting member and the second supporting member; a hinge coupled to one side of the first supporting member and one side of the second supporting member; a plurality of first rails, arranged between the first supporting member and the display module, and arranged in a region near an intersection of a short side and a long side of the first supporting member; as well as A plurality of second rails are arranged between the second supporting member and the display module and arranged in the vicinity of the intersection of the short side and the long side of the second supporting member. The first rail and the second rail are capable of sliding in a first moving direction and in a second moving direction which is a direction opposite to the first moving direction. The first track and the second track include: a first rail member attached to one side of the first supporting member and comprising a first guide; and The second rail component is attached to a surface of the display module opposite to the first supporting component and is slidably coupled to the first rail component. The first rail member includes: a first supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a second supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction. The second rail member includes: a third supporting protrusion formed on one side of the first moving direction; and a fourth supporting protrusion formed on one side of the second moving direction. The third supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the first moving direction by the first supporting protrusion, and the fourth supporting protrusion is prevented from moving in the second moving direction by the second supporting protrusion. The first rail and the second rail further include an elastic member disposed between the first supporting protrusion and the third supporting protrusion and between the second supporting protrusion and the fourth supporting protrusion. The first rail and the second rail further include a third rail member disposed between the first rail member and the second rail member and including a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion that are movably inserted into the first guide piece.

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