Electronic devices including flexible displays

Abstract

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a flexible display, a first housing, a second housing, at least one rotary contact structure, and a printed circuit board (PCB). The first housing moves to correspond to a shape change of the flexible display and includes a contact area. The second housing slides in the opposite direction to the movement of the first housing and mounts the flexible display. The rotary contact structure contacts the contact area, and the PCB is electrically connected to the at least one rotary contact structure. The at least one rotary contact structure includes a rotating component that maintains contact with the contact area while rotating during the shape change of the flexible display, a central component disposed within the rotating component, a conductive member inserted between the rotating component and the central component, and a support member that supports the central component and electrically connects the central component to the PCB. According to this application, at least a portion of the electronic device is capable of maintaining contact with the sliding housing to correspond to a sliding-in or sliding-out operation.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0142197, filed on October 29, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to an electronic device including a flexible display. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic devices incorporating flexible displays have been introduced or developed. These electronic devices can take the form of a housing folding around a hinge (foldable electronics) or a form in which a flexible display unfolds or is housed within the housing when bent (rollable electronics).

[0005] When the display is unfolded, the rollable electronic device can be used as a tablet PC via the extended display. The rollable electronic device can also be used as a typical smartphone, and its enhanced portability is achieved when the display is retracted during the bending process.

[0006] The above information is presented as background information only to aid in understanding this disclosure. No determination is made, and no assertion is made, regarding whether any of the above information is applicable to prior art relating to this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0007] When at least a portion of the housing and flexible display moves, the electronic device can use a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), c-clip, or pogo pins to maintain at least a portion of the housing in contact with surrounding components. In this case, the contact structure may deform due to friction, or the FPCB, c-clip, or pogo may not be applied to the rollable electronic device due to space constraints.

[0008] An aspect of this disclosure is to address at least the aforementioned problems and / or disadvantages, and to provide at least the following advantages. Therefore, one aspect of this disclosure is to provide an electronic device including a rotary contact structure, wherein at least a portion of the electronic device comprising a flexible display remains in contact with a sliding housing to correspond to a slide-in operation or a slide-out operation.

[0009] Other aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a flexible display, a first housing that moves in accordance with changes in the shape of the flexible display and includes a contact area, a second housing that slides in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the first housing and mounts the flexible display, a rotary contact structure that contacts the contact area, and a printed circuit board (PCB) electrically connected to at least one rotary contact structure. The at least one rotary contact structure may include a rotating component that maintains contact with the contact area while rotating during changes in the shape of the flexible display, a central component disposed within the rotating component, a conductive member inserted between the rotating component and the central component, and a support member that supports the central component and electrically connects the central component to the PCB.

[0011] Other aspects, advantages and salient features of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which describe various embodiments of the disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0012] From the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent, wherein:

[0013] Figure 1 An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0014] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 3 The contact between the contact pattern of the first housing and the rotary contact structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0016] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a rotary contact structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a rotary contact structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 6 The configuration of a rotating contact structure inside an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figure 7 A slide-out operation for a flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0020] Figure 8 A slide-in operation for a flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0021] Figure 9An arrangement of multiple contact areas according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 10 A rotary contact structure with a curved contact surface according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 11 Various types of conductive components according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown;

[0024] Figure 12 The present disclosure illustrates a mixture and arrangement of conductive and non-conductive spheres according to embodiments thereof;

[0025] Figure 13A A rotary contact structure with a fixed type support structure is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 13B This illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed in direction "P". Figure 13A A view of the shape of the rotary contact structure; and

[0027] Figure 14 This is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals will be understood to denote the same parts, components and structures. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is provided to aid in a full understanding of the various embodiments of this disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to aid understanding, but these are to be considered exemplary only. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and structures may be omitted.

[0030] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their bibliographical meaning, but are used solely by the inventors to enable a clear and consistent understanding of this disclosure. Therefore, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the following description, which provides various embodiments of this disclosure, is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0031] It should be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural indicators unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, referring to “the surface of a component” includes referring to one or more such surfaces.

[0032] Figure 1An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0033] Reference Figure 1 The electronic device 101 may include a first housing 110, a second housing 120, and a flexible display 130.

[0034] The first housing 110 can be used as a fixing cover to one side of the flexible display 130. When the flexible display 130 is unfolded, the first housing 110 can be stationary or can move in the opposite direction to the unfolding direction of the flexible display 130.

[0035] The second housing 120 can be used as a movable cover, to which the other side of the flexible display 130 is fixed. When the flexible display 130 is unfolded, the second housing 120 can move in the same direction as the flexible display 130.

[0036] The flexible display 130 can be housed within the first housing 110 while being at least partially bent. When housing the flexible display 130, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be arranged to overlap each other, and a minimal area of ​​the flexible display 130 can be exposed to the outside. In this case, the electronic device 101 can be used in the form of a candybar smartphone.

[0037] When the flexible display 130 is extended to its maximum extent (hereinafter referred to as the fully extended state), the movement of the second housing 120 complements the direction of the extension of the flexible display 130. In the fully extended state, the overlap between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be minimized. In the fully extended state, the display area of ​​the flexible display 130 can be exposed to the maximum extent, and the electronic device 101 can be used in the form of a tablet PC.

[0038] Despite Figure 1 Although not shown in the diagram, the flexible display 130 can be used in a partially unfolded state (hereinafter referred to as the partially unfolded state). In the partially unfolded state, the display area of ​​the flexible display 130 can be larger than the display area of ​​the retracted flexible display 130 (hereinafter referred to as the retracted state), and smaller than the display area of ​​the flexible display 130 in the fully unfolded state.

[0039] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Reference Figure 2The electronic device 101 may include a first housing 110, a second housing 120, an inner housing 125, a flexible display 130, a display support component 140, a first track 141, a second track 142, a roller 145, a printed circuit board 170, a rotary contact structure 180, a battery 195, and a back cover 198.

[0041] The first housing 110 can be used as a fixing cover to one side of the flexible display 130. The first housing 110 can cover the rear surface of the electronic device 101 and the remaining side surface of the flexible display 130, but not the extended side surface of the flexible display 130. The first housing 110 can fix the first rail 141 and the second rail 142 to move the flexible display 130.

[0042] The first housing 110 may include a contact area (or contact pattern) formed on its inner surface and electrically connected to the rotary contact structure 180 (see...). Figure 3 or Figure 9 According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in a fully deployed state, a partially deployed state, or a retracted state, the contact area of ​​the first housing 110 can maintain contact with the rotating contact structure 180 (see [link]). Figure 3 ).

[0043] According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing 110 may include a conductive material and may be used as an antenna radiator. Signals transmitted or received through the first housing 110 may be transmitted to a wireless communication circuit inside the electronic device 101 via a rotating contact structure 180.

[0044] The second housing 120 can be used as a movable cover, to which the other side of the flexible display 130 is fixed. When the flexible display 130 is unfolded, the second housing 120 can move in the same direction as the flexible display 130. The second housing 120 can be connected to the inner housing 125.

[0045] The inner housing (or front cover, frame, third housing) 125 can support the flexible display 130. When the flexible display 130 is unfolded or retracted, the inner housing 125 can move in the same direction as the flexible display 130. The display support component 140, the printed circuit board (PCB) 170, and various components (e.g., camera module or sensor module) can be located on the inner housing 125.

[0046] The flexible display (or rollable display) 130 can display content such as text or images. In its retracted state, the flexible display 130 can be housed within the first housing 110 while being bent or wrapped. In this case, the display area of ​​the content displayed by the flexible display 130 may be smaller than the display area of ​​the flexible display 130 when pulled out and extended from the first housing 110. The display area of ​​the content displayed by the extended flexible display 130 may be larger than the display area of ​​the flexible display 130 housed within the first housing 110.

[0047] The display support member (e.g., a multi-rod structure) 140 may be a structure in which multiple rods are arranged at regular distances parallel to each other. The display support member 140 may be positioned between the flexible display 130 and the inner housing 125. The display support member 140 may be attached to each of the flexible display 130 and the inner housing 125 by separate adhesive members.

[0048] The display support member 140 may include a rack disposed at its end and connected to a first rail 141 or a second rail 142 for operation. The display support member 140 maintains a specified curved shape in the bending area of ​​the flexible display 130, thereby preventing the flexible display 130 from being damaged.

[0049] The first track 141 and the second track 142 can guide the movement of the display support member 140. The first track 141 can be connected to a first part (upper part) of the first housing 110, and the second track 142 can be connected to a second part (lower part) of the first housing 110. The first track 141 and the second track 142 can be used as bases for mounting to a rack on the display support member 140.

[0050] The roller 145 can reduce friction with the display support member 140 and can support the rod that constitutes the display support member 140.

[0051] The printed circuit board 170 may have various electronic components mounted on the printed circuit board 170 and necessary for driving the electronic device 101. For example, the printed circuit board 170 may have various electronic components mounted on the printed circuit board 170, such as processors, memory and communication circuits.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the rotary contact structure 180 can be mounted on the printed circuit board 170. In a stowed state, a partially unfolded state, or a fully unfolded state, the printed circuit board 170 can maintain electrical connection with the contact area of ​​the first housing 110 through the rotary contact structure 180.

[0053] The rotating contact structure 180 electrically connects the printed circuit board 170 to the contact area of ​​the first housing 110. When the flexible display 130 is unfolded or retracted, the rotating contact structure 180 can maintain contact with the contact area of ​​the first housing 110 while rotating (see...). Figure 3 ).

[0054] Battery 195 can supply the power required for the operation of electronic device 101. Battery 195 can be housed in first housing 110 and can be electrically connected to printed circuit board 170.

[0055] The rear cover 198 may cover the holes formed in the second housing 120. The holes may be formed to assemble the electronic device 101.

[0056] Figure 3 The contact between the contact area of ​​the first housing and the rotary contact structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0057] Reference Figure 3 The rotary contact structure 180 can electrically connect the contact area (or contact pattern) 115 of the first housing (or sliding housing) 110 to the printed circuit board 170. The rotary contact structure 180 can be fixed to the printed circuit board 170 and electrically connected to the printed circuit board 170.

[0058] The first housing 110 may include a contact area 115. The contact area 115 may contact a rotating contact structure 180. The contact area 115 may be in the form of a rod extending in a direction of movement of the first housing 110 (e.g., a first direction A or a second direction B). According to an embodiment, the contact area 115 may be a contact point (e.g., a feed point or ground point) that allows at least a portion of the first housing 110 to be used as an antenna radiator.

[0059] According to various embodiments, the contact area 115 may have an elastic structure. In this case, due to the elastic force of the contact area 115, the contact area 115 can easily contact the rotary contact structure 180. For example, the contact area 115 may be a spring structure protruding toward the rotary contact structure 180.

[0060] According to various embodiments, when the first housing 110 moves linearly along a first direction A or a second direction B, the rotating contact structure 180 can maintain contact with the contact area 115 while rotating counterclockwise or clockwise. For example, the first direction A can be the direction in which the flexible display 130 unfolds, and the second direction B can be the direction in which the flexible display 130 is folded up.

[0061] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a rotary contact structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Figure 5 The rotational contact structure according to an embodiment of this disclosure is along Figure 3 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0063] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The rotating contact structure 180 may include a rotating component (or outer ring) 410, a conductive component (or conductive bearing, conductive circular structure or conductive ball) 420, a central component (or inner ring) 430, and a supporting component (or supporting shaft) 440.

[0064] The rotating component (or outer ring) 410 can rotate while in contact with the contact area 115. The contact area 115 can move linearly to correspond to changes in the shape of the electronic device 101 (folded state, partially unfolded state, or fully unfolded state), and the rotating component 410 can maintain contact with the contact area 115 by rotating.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the rotating component 410 may include a first guide portion 411 formed on the inner surface of the rotating component 410 to provide a path that allows the conductive member 420 to move or rotate.

[0066] A conductive member 420 can be inserted between the rotating member 410 and the central member 430. The conductive member 420 can reduce friction that may occur due to the rotation of the rotating member 410 by moving or rotating. The conductive member 420 can be at least partially made of a conductive material and can electrically connect the rotating member 410 and the central member 430.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the conductive member 420 can be made of a single material. For example, the conductive member 420 may include a plurality of metal spheres (see [link to embodiment]). Figure 11 ).

[0068] According to another embodiment, the conductive member 420 can be made of a variety of materials. For example, the conductive member 420 can be in the form of alternating arrangements of metal spheres and ceramic spheres with conductive properties (see [link]). Figure 12 Therefore, the durability (abrasion resistance) of the conductive component 420 can be enhanced.

[0069] The central component (or inner ring) 430 may be disposed within the rotating component 410. The central component 430 may be made of a conductive material and may be a contact portion with a diameter smaller than that of the rotating component 410. The central component 430 may be electrically connected to the rotating component 410 via a conductive member 420. When the rotating component 410 or the conductive member 420 rotates, the central component 430 may remain stationary and not rotate.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the central component 430 may include a second guide portion 431 formed on the outer surface of the central component 430 to provide a path for allowing the conductive member 420 to move or rotate.

[0071] According to an embodiment, the central component 430 may include a hole (or opening) 435 to connect the central component 430 to the support component 440. Although Figure 4 The shape of the hole 435 is shown, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the central member 430 may include a groove formed in the surface facing the support member 440.

[0072] The first end 441 of the support member 440 can be inserted into and fixed in the hole 435 of the central member 430. The second end 442 of the support member 440 can be connected to and fixed to the printed circuit board 170. The support member 440 can be made of a conductive material. The support member 440 can be an elastic structure formed in an axial direction perpendicular to the rotating member 410. The support member 440 can be implemented in an elastic form or with an elastic material. For example, the support member 440 can be bent like a spring to have elasticity.

[0073] According to an embodiment, when no external force is applied, the support member 440 may allow the rotating member 410 or the central member 430 to remain in contact with the contact area 115 at a specified angle (e.g., approximately 90 degrees).

[0074] According to the embodiment, when an external force is applied to the electronic device 101 to change the structure of the electronic device 101 (depending on the stored state, partially unfolded state, or fully unfolded state), the shape or degree of compression of the support member 440 can be changed.

[0075] The printed circuit board 170 can fix the second end 442 of the support member 440 to the printed circuit board 170 and can be electrically connected to the support member 440. The printed circuit board 170 can be electrically connected to the contact area 115 through the rotating member 410, the conductive member 420, the central member 430 and the support member 440.

[0076] Figure 6 The configuration of a rotating contact structure within an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0077] Reference Figure 6 The inner housing 125 can hold the printed circuit board 170 and various components (e.g., camera module 199 or sensor module). The printed circuit board 170 may have a rotary contact structure 180 mounted in a region adjacent to (or adjacent to the end of) the first housing 110. The printed circuit board 170 can receive power from the battery 195.

[0078] The first housing 110 may include a contact area (or contact pattern) 115. The contact area 115 may move linearly to correspond to changes in the structure of the electronic device 101 (depending on whether it is in a stowed state, a partially unfolded state, or a fully unfolded state). The rotating contact structure 180 may maintain contact with the contact area 115 during rotation to correspond to a linear movement distance of the contact area 115 (or the first housing 110).

[0079] Figure 7 A slide-out operation for a flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0080] Reference Figure 7 When an external force is applied to the flexible display 130 to pull it out, the display area of ​​the flexible display 130 is expanded and unfolded as the flexible display 130 is gradually pulled out (slid out) beyond the first housing 110 (sliding operation). When the flexible display 130 undergoes the sliding operation, the first housing (or sliding housing) 110 may gradually move in a first direction A opposite to the unfolding direction of the flexible display 130 (or the first housing 110 does not move, and the inner housing 125, the printed circuit board 170, and the rotary contact structure 180 move in a direction opposite to the first direction A).

[0081] With the flexible display 130 housed in the first housing 110 before undergoing the slide-out operation in operation 710, the rotating contact structure 180 can contact the first point 115a of the contact area 115. When the second housing 120 of the electronic device 101 and the flexible display 130 undergo the slide-out operation, the rotating contact structure 180 can rotate counterclockwise to correspond to the linear movement of the contact area 115 in the first direction A.

[0082] When the flexible display 130 is partially slide-out, that is, during operation 720, the flexible display 130 is partially unfolded, and the rotating contact structure 180 can maintain contact with a point between the first point 115a and the second point 115b of the contact area 115. When the slide-out operation is maintained, the rotating contact structure 180 can rotate continuously counterclockwise.

[0083] When the sliding operation for the flexible display 130 is terminated at operation 730, causing the flexible display 130 to be fully unfolded, the rotating contact structure 180 can maintain contact with the second point 115b of the contact area 115.

[0084] Figure 8 A slide-in operation for a flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0085] Reference Figure 8When an external force is applied to the flexible display 130 to allow it to be introduced, the display area of ​​the flexible display 130 can be reduced as it is gradually retracted (slid into) the first housing 110 (sliding-in operation). During the sliding-in operation, the first housing (or sliding housing) 110 can gradually move along a second direction B opposite to the direction in which the flexible display 130 is retracted (or the first housing 110 does not move, and the inner housing 125, printed circuit board 170, and rotary contact structure 180 move in a direction opposite to the second direction B).

[0086] When the flexible display 130 is fully extended in operation 730, the rotating contact structure 180 can contact the second point 115b of the contact area 115. When the flexible display 130 undergoes a sliding operation, the rotating contact structure 180 can rotate clockwise to correspond to the linear movement of the contact area 115 in the second direction B.

[0087] When the flexible display 130 is partially sliding in, that is, during operation 720, the flexible display 130 is partially unfolded, and the rotating contact structure 180 can maintain contact with a point between the first point 115a and the second point 115b of the contact area 115. When the sliding in operation is maintained, the rotating contact structure 180 can rotate continuously clockwise.

[0088] When the sliding operation for the flexible display 130 is terminated in operation 710 and the flexible display 130 is thus housed, the rotating contact structure 180 can contact the first point 115a of the contact area 115.

[0089] Figure 9 An arrangement of multiple contact areas according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Although Figure 9 Two contact areas are shown disposed on the inner surface of the first housing 911, 912 or 913, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0090] Reference Figure 9 The first rollable electronic device 901 may include a sliding housing (first housing) 911, a first rotary contact structure 981-1, a second rotary contact structure 981-2, and a printed circuit board 971. The first rollable electronic device 901 may be implemented in the same or similar manner as electronic device 101.

[0091] The sliding housing 911 may include a first contact area 911a and a second contact area 911b. The first contact area 911a may contact a first rotary contact structure 981-1. The second contact area 911b may contact a second rotary contact structure 981-2.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the first contact region 911a and the second contact region 911b may have different lengths. For example, the first contact region 911a may have a first length L1, and the second contact region 911b may have a second length L2 that is shorter than the first length L1.

[0093] According to various embodiments, the contact time between the first contact area 911a and the first rotary contact structure 981-1 may be different from the contact time between the second contact area 911b and the second rotary contact structure 981-2, depending on the change in shape of the first rollable electronic device 901 (depending on the stored state, partially unfolded state, or fully unfolded state).

[0094] The first contact area 911a can continuously contact the first rotating contact structure 981-1, depending on the structural changes of the first rollable electronic device 901 (depending on the retracted state, partially unfolded state, or fully unfolded state). For example, when the first rotating contact structure 981-1 is communicating in the first frequency band, the first rollable electronic device 901 can continuously transmit or receive signals in the first frequency band, regardless of the retracted state of the flexible display 130.

[0095] When the first rollable electronic device 901 is in a retracted or partially unfolded state, the second contact area 911b can maintain contact with the second rotary contact structure 981-2. When the first rollable electronic device 901 is in a fully unfolded state, the second contact area 911b may not maintain contact with the second rotary contact structure 981-2. For example, when the second rotary contact structure 981-2 communicates in a second or third frequency band, the first rollable electronic device 901 can transmit or receive signals in the second frequency band through the second rotary contact structure 981-2 in the retracted or partially unfolded state, and can transmit or receive signals in the third frequency band in the fully unfolded state.

[0096] although Figure 9 The first rotary contact structure 981-1 and the second rotary contact structure 981-2 are shown to have different conduction states in their respective contact areas, depending on the state of the electronic device caused by the movement of the sliding housing 911. However, the first rotary contact structure 981-1 and the second rotary contact structure 981-2 can be configured to rotate in the same direction.

[0097] According to various embodiments, the second rollable electronic device 902 may include a sliding housing 912, a rotating contact structure 982, and a printed circuit board 972. The second rollable electronic device 902 may be implemented in the same or similar manner as electronic device 101.

[0098] The sliding housing 912 may include a first contact area 912a and a second contact area 912b. The rotating contact structure 982 may include a first rotating component 982-1, an insulating component 982a, and a second rotating component 982-2. The first contact area 912a may contact the first rotating component 982-1. The second contact area 912b may contact the second rotating component 982-2.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the insulating component 982a may be located between the first rotating component 982-1 and the second rotating component 982-2. Due to the insulating component 982a, the first rotating component 982-1 and the second rotating component 982-2 may independently contact the first contact area 912a and the second contact area 912b respectively while moving.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the first contact area 912a and the second contact area 912b may have equal lengths. The first contact area 912a and the second contact area 912b may transmit and receive signals for performing different functions. For example, the first contact area 912a and the first rotating component 982-1 may transmit and receive signals in a first frequency band, and the second contact area 912b and the second rotating component 982-2 may transmit and receive signals in a second frequency band.

[0101] According to various embodiments, the first contact area 912a can continuously maintain contact with the first rotating member 982-1, and the second contact area 912b can continuously maintain contact with the second rotating member 982-2, depending on the change in the structure of the second rollable electronic device 902 (depending on the stored state, partially unfolded state, or fully unfolded state).

[0102] According to various embodiments, the third rollable electronic device 903 may include a sliding housing 913, a rotating contact structure 983, and a printed circuit board 973. The third rollable electronic device 903 may be implemented in the same or similar manner as electronic device 101.

[0103] The sliding housing 913 may include a first contact area 913a and a second contact area 913b. The rotating contact structure 983 may include a first rotating component 983-1, an insulating component 983a, and a second rotating component 983-2. The first contact area 913a may contact the first rotating component 983-1. The second contact area 913b may contact the second rotating component 983-2.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the insulating component 983a can be inserted between the first rotating component 983-1 and the second rotating component 983-2. Due to the insulating component 983a, the first rotating component 983-1 and the second rotating component 983-2 can independently contact the first contact area 913a and the second contact area 913b respectively while moving.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the first contact region 913a and the second contact region 913b may have different lengths. For example, the first contact region 913a may have a first length L3, and the second contact region 913b may have a second length L4 that is shorter than the first length L3.

[0106] The first contact area 913a and the second contact area 913b can transmit and receive signals for performing different functions. For example, the first contact area 913a and the first rotating component 983-1 transmit and receive signals associated with the operation of the antenna, and the second contact area 913b and the second rotating component 983-2 can transmit and receive signals associated with the operation of the display. For example, the first contact area 913a and the first rotating component 983-1 communicate in a first frequency band, and the second contact area 913b and the second rotating component 983-2 can communicate in a second frequency band.

[0107] According to various embodiments, the first contact area 913a can continuously maintain contact with the first rotating component 983-1, and the second contact area 913b can maintain contact with the second rotating component 983-2 for a specific time, and can not maintain contact with the second rotating component 983-2 for another specific time, depending on the change in the structure of the third rollable electronic device 903 (depending on the stored state, partially unfolded state, or fully unfolded state).

[0108] Figure 10 A rotary contact structure with a curved contact surface is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] Reference Figure 10 The rotating contact structure 1080 can electrically connect the printed circuit board 1070 to the contact area 1010 of the sliding housing. The rotating contact structure 1080 may have a curved contact surface. Therefore, the rotating contact structure 1080 can stably maintain contact with the contact area 1010 to correspond to changes in the structure of the electronic device (corresponding to a stowed state, a partially unfolded state, or a fully unfolded state).

[0110] For example, when the structure of the electronic device changes (to a stowed state, a partially unfolded state, or a fully unfolded state), the contact angle α between the rotating component of the rotary contact structure 1080 and the contact area 1010 can change differently. The rotary contact structure 1080 can stably maintain contact with the contact area 1010 to correspond to various compression states, such as a first state 1001 where the contact angle α is a right angle, a second state 1002 where the contact angle α is an obtuse angle, or a third state 1003 where the contact angle α is an acute angle. When there are assembly tolerances between components, stable contact between the rotating component of the rotary contact structure 1080 and the contact area 1010 can be maintained.

[0111] Figure 11 Various types of conductive components according to embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0112] Reference Figure 11 The conductive components (e.g., conductive supports, conductive circular structures, or conductive balls) between the rotating parts 1110, 1120, and 1130 of the inserted rotary contact structure and the central parts 1115, 1125, and 1135 can be made of various conductive materials.

[0113] For example, conductive components can be implemented using multiple metal balls 1118 (bearing structure) arranged at uniform distances. Although Figure 11 Eight metal spheres 1118 are shown arranged at a uniform distance, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0114] In another example, the conductive component can be implemented using multiple conductive rubber (or multiple conductive sponges) 1128 arranged at uniform intervals. Compared to multiple metal balls 1118, the conductive rubber 1128 can more easily absorb impacts and can reduce friction or sound. Although Figure 11 Four conductive rubbers 1128 are shown arranged at a uniform distance, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0115] In another example, the conductive component can be implemented using multiple leaf springs 1138 arranged at uniform intervals. The leaf springs 1138 can be lighter than multiple metal balls 1118 and can rotate faster than multiple metal balls 1118. Although Figure 11 Four leaf springs 1138 are shown arranged at a uniform distance, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0116] According to various embodiments, materials used to ensure lubrication (e.g., hot grease) may be coated inside the conductive component.

[0117] Figure 12 The present disclosure illustrates a mixture and arrangement of conductive and non-conductive spheres according to embodiments thereof.

[0118] Reference Figure 12 The rotary contact structure 1201 may include a rotating component 1210, conductive components 1221 and 1222, a central component 1230, and a supporting component 1240.

[0119] According to an embodiment, conductive members 1221 and 1222 may include a first type of ball 1221 made of a first material (e.g., ceramic) and a second type of ball 1222 made of a second material (e.g., metal). When the first type of ball 1221 and the second type of ball 1222 are arranged alternately, the durability (wear resistance) of conductive members 1221 and 1222 can be enhanced.

[0120] The first type of ball 1221 and the second type of ball 1222 can be alternately arranged between the rotating component 1210 and the central component 1230. When the first type of ball 1221 is inserted between the second type of ball 1222, the noise caused by the rotation or movement of the rotating component 1210 or the conductive components 1221 and 1222 can be reduced, and the wear resistance of the conductive components 1221 and 1222 can be enhanced.

[0121] According to an embodiment, the first type of ball 1221 and the second type of ball 1222 can be arranged in a specified number less than a specified arrangement angle b. For example, when the arrangement angle is 30 degrees, one first type of ball 1221 and one second type of ball 1222 can be arranged less than the arrangement angle b. Therefore, a stable electrical connection can be maintained even if wear is caused by friction between the conductive members 1221 and 1222.

[0122] Figure 13A A rotary contact structure with a fixed type of support structure is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0123] Figure 13B This illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed in direction P. Figure 13A A view of the shape of the rotary contact structure when the rotary contact structure is in use.

[0124] Reference Figure 13A and Figure 13B The rotary contact structure 1380 can electrically connect the printed circuit board 1370 to the sliding housing 1310. The rotary contact structure 1380 may include a rotating component 1381, a conductive component (or multiple conductive balls) 1382, a central component 1383, a first support component 1385, a second support component 1386, and a support structure 1388.

[0125] The first support member 1385 and the second support member 1386 can be respectively placed between the central member 1383 and the support structure 1388. According to an embodiment, the first support member 1385 and the second support member 1386 can be formed separately, or they can be integrally formed through the central member 1383. The first support member 1385 and the second support member 1386 can fix the central member 1383 to the support structure 1388.

[0126] The rotating contact structure 1380 can be fixed by a separate support structure 1388, rather than being directly fixed to the printed circuit board 1370. The support structure 1388 can be placed between the contact area 1375 of the printed circuit board 1370 and the sliding housing 1310. The support structure 1388 can support the rotating component 1381, allowing the rotating component 1381 to rotate in a fixed position.

[0127] When the sliding housing 1310 moves linearly in a first direction (direction A) or a second direction (direction B) to correspond to changes in the structure of the electronic device (folded state, partially unfolded state, or fully unfolded state), the rotating component 1381 can maintain contact with the sliding housing 1310 while rotating counterclockwise or clockwise.

[0128] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device in a network environment according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0129] Reference Figure 14 In network environment 1400, electronic device 1401 can communicate with electronic device 1402 via a first network 1498 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or with at least one of electronic device 1404 or server 1408 via a second network 1499 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, electronic device 1401 can communicate with electronic device 1404 via server 1408. According to an embodiment, electronic device 1401 may include a processor 1420, a memory 1430, an input module 1450, a sound output module 1455, a display module 1460, an audio module 1470, a sensor module 1476, an interface 1477, a connection terminal 1478, a haptic module 1479, a camera module 1480, a power management module 1488, a battery 1489, a communication module 1490, a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) 1496, or an antenna module 1497. In some embodiments, at least one of the aforementioned components (e.g., connection terminal 1478) may be omitted from electronic device 1401, or one or more other components may be added to electronic device 1401. In some embodiments, some of the aforementioned components (e.g., sensor module 1476, camera module 1480, or antenna module 1497) may be implemented as a single integrated component (e.g., display module 1460).

[0130] Processor 1420 may run software (e.g., program 1440) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of electronic device 1401 connected to processor 1420, and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to embodiments, as at least part of the data processing or calculations, processor 1420 may store commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 1476 or communication module 1490) in volatile memory 1432, process the commands or data stored in volatile memory 1432, and store the result data in non-volatile memory 1434. According to embodiments, processor 1420 may include a main processor 1421 (e.g., central processing unit (CPU) or application processor (AP)) or an auxiliary processor 1423 (e.g., graphics processing unit (GPU), neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor (ISP), sensor central processor, or communication processor (CP)) that is operationally independent of or combined with the main processor 1421. For example, when electronic device 1401 includes a main processor 1421 and an auxiliary processor 1423, the auxiliary processor 1423 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 1421, or may be adapted to be dedicated to a specific function. The auxiliary processor 1423 may be implemented separately from the main processor 1421, or may be implemented as part of the main processor 1421.

[0131] When the main processor 1421 is inactive (e.g., in sleep) state, the auxiliary processor 1423 (rather than the main processor 1421) can control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 1401 (e.g., display module 1460, sensor module 1476, or communication module 1490), or when the main processor 1421 is active (e.g., running an application), the auxiliary processor 1423 can work with the main processor 1421 to control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 1401 (e.g., display module 1460, sensor module 1476, or communication module 1490). According to embodiments, the auxiliary processor 1423 (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., camera module 1480 or communication module 1490) functionally associated with the auxiliary processor 1423. According to embodiments, the auxiliary processor 1423 (e.g., a neural processing unit) may include hardware structures dedicated to artificial intelligence model processing. Artificial intelligence models can be generated through machine learning. For example, such learning can be performed via electronic device 1401 where the artificial intelligence is executed, or via a separate server (e.g., server 1408). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include multiple layers of artificial neural networks. The artificial neural networks may be deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), restricted Boltzmann machines (RBMs), deep belief networks (DBNs), bidirectional recurrent deep neural networks (BRDNNs), or deep Q-networks, or combinations of two or more thereof, but are not limited to these. Additionally or optionally, the artificial intelligence model may include software structures in addition to hardware structures.

[0132] The memory 1430 may store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device 1401 (e.g., processor 1420 or sensor module 1476). The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., program 1440) and input or output data for commands associated with it. The memory 1430 may include volatile memory 1432 or non-volatile memory 1434.

[0133] The program 1440 may be stored as software in the memory 1430, and the program 1440 may include, for example, an operating system (OS) 1442, middleware 1444, or application 1446.

[0134] Input module 1450 can receive commands or data from outside electronic device 1401 (e.g., a user) that will be used by other components of electronic device 1401 (e.g., processor 1420). Input module 1450 may include, for example, a microphone, mouse, keyboard, keys (e.g., buttons), or digital pen (e.g., stylus).

[0135] The sound output module 1455 can output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 1401. The sound output module 1455 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as playing multimedia or playing records. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0136] Display module 1460 can visually provide information to the outside of electronic device 1401 (e.g., to a user). Display module 1460 may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and control circuitry for controlling a respective one of the display, holographic device, and projector. According to an embodiment, display module 1460 may include a touch sensor adapted to detect touch or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of the force caused by touch.

[0137] The audio module 1470 can convert sound into electrical signals and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module 1470 can obtain sound via the input module 1450, or output sound via the sound output module 1455 or headphones of an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 1402) that is directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 1401.

[0138] Sensor module 1476 can detect the operating state of electronic device 1401 (e.g., power or temperature) or the environmental state outside electronic device 1401 (e.g., user state), and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to embodiments, sensor module 1476 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, gyroscope sensor, atmospheric pressure sensor, magnetic sensor, accelerometer, grip sensor, proximity sensor, color sensor, infrared (IR) sensor, biometric sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or illuminance sensor.

[0139] Interface 1477 may support one or more specific protocols used to enable electronic device 1401 to connect directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly to external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 1402). According to embodiments, interface 1477 may include, for example, a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a Secure Digital Card (SD) interface, or an audio interface.

[0140] Connection 1478 may include a connector, via which electronic device 1401 may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 1402). According to embodiments, connection 1478 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0141] The haptic module 1479 can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimulation (e.g., vibration or motion) or electrical stimulation that can be recognized by a user through his touch or kinesthesia. According to an embodiment, the haptic module 1479 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0142] Camera module 1480 can capture still or moving images. According to embodiments, camera module 1480 may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, an image signal processor, or a flash.

[0143] The power management module 1488 manages the power supply to the electronic device 1401. According to an embodiment, the power management module 1488 may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0144] Battery 1489 can power at least one component of electronic device 1401. According to an embodiment, battery 1489 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable rechargeable battery, or a fuel cell.

[0145] Communication module 1490 can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between electronic device 1401 and external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 1402, electronic device 1404, or server 1408), and perform communication via the established communication channel. Communication module 1490 may include one or more communication processors capable of operating independently of processor 1420 (e.g., application processor (AP)) and supporting direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication. According to embodiments, communication module 1490 may include wireless communication module 1492 (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or wired communication module 1494 (e.g., local area network (LAN) communication module or power line communication (PLC) module). One of these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device via a first network 1498 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network 1499 (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, 5G network, next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a wide area network (WAN))). These various types of communication modules can be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip) or as multiple components (e.g., multiple chips) that are separate from each other. The wireless communication module 1492 can identify and verify the electronic device 1401 in the communication network (such as the first network 1498 or the second network 1499) using user information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) stored in the user identification module 1496.

[0146] Wireless communication module 1492 can support 5G networks following 4G networks and next-generation communication technologies (such as new radio (NR) access technologies). NR access technologies can support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine-type communication (mMTC), or ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). Wireless communication module 1492 can support high-frequency bands (e.g., millimeter (mm) wave bands) to achieve, for example, high data transmission rates. Wireless communication module 1492 can support various technologies used to ensure performance on high-frequency bands, such as, for example, beamforming, massive MIMO, full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, or massive antennas. Wireless communication module 1492 can support various requirements specified in electronic device 1401, external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 1404), or network system (e.g., second network 1499). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 1492 may support peak data rates (e.g., 20 Gbps or greater) for implementing eMBB, lost coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for each of the downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less round trip) for implementing URLLC.

[0147] Antenna module 1497 can transmit or receive signals or power to or from the exterior of electronic device 1401 (e.g., external electronic device). According to an embodiment, antenna module 1497 may include an antenna comprising a radiating element formed of a conductive material or conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, antenna module 1497 may include multiple antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication scheme used in a communication network (such as a first network 1498 or a second network 1499) can be selected from the multiple antennas by, for example, communication module 1490 (e.g., wireless communication module 1492). Signals or power can then be transmitted or received between communication module 1490 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, additional components besides the radiating element (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally incorporated into antenna module 1497.

[0148] According to various embodiments, antenna module 1497 can form a millimeter-wave antenna module. According to embodiments, the millimeter-wave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC), and multiple antennas (e.g., an array antenna), wherein the RFIC is disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and is capable of supporting a specified high-frequency band (e.g., a millimeter-wave band), and the multiple antennas are disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., a top or side surface) of the printed circuit board and are capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the specified high-frequency band.

[0149] At least some of the aforementioned components can be interconnected and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) between them via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., bus, general purpose input / output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industrial processor interface (MIPI)).

[0150] According to an embodiment, commands or data can be sent or received between electronic device 1401 and external electronic device 1404 via server 1408 connected to a second network 1499. Each of electronic device 1402 or electronic device 1404 can be a device of the same type as electronic device 1401, or a device of a different type. According to an embodiment, all or some operations that would be performed on electronic device 1401 can be performed on one or more of external electronic devices 1402, external electronic devices 1404, or server 1408. For example, if electronic device 1401 is required to automatically perform a function or service, or is required to perform a function or service in response to a request from a user or another device, electronic device 1401 may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service instead of running the function or service, or electronic device 1401 may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service in addition to running the function or service. Upon receiving the request, one or more external electronic devices may perform at least a portion of the requested function or service, or perform additional functions or services related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to electronic device 1401. Electronic device 1401 may provide the result as at least a partial response to the request, with or without further processing. For this purpose, technologies such as cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing may be used. Electronic device 1401 may use, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing to provide ultra-low latency services. In another embodiment, external electronic device 1404 may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. Server 1408 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to embodiments, external electronic device 1404 or server 1408 may be included in a second network 1499. Electronic device 1401 may be applied to intelligent services based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technologies (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare).

[0151] The electronic device according to various embodiments can be one of a variety of types of electronic devices. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the electronic device is not limited to those described above.

[0152] According to various embodiments, electronic devices (e.g., Figure 1 Electronic device 101 Figure 14The electronic device 1401 may include a flexible display, a first housing, a second housing, at least one rotary contact structure, and a printed circuit board (PCB). The first housing moves to correspond to a shape change of the flexible display and includes a contact area. The second housing slides in a direction opposite to that of the first housing and mounts the flexible display. The at least one rotary contact structure contacts the contact area, and the printed circuit board (PCB) is electrically connected to the at least one rotary contact structure. The at least one rotary contact structure may include a rotating component that maintains contact with the contact area while rotating during the shape change of the flexible display, a central component disposed within the rotating component, a conductive member inserted between the rotating component and the central component, and a support member that supports the central component and electrically connects the central component to the PCB.

[0153] According to various embodiments, the rotating component may include a contact surface that contacts the contact area, and the contact surface is curved.

[0154] According to various embodiments, the contact area moves linearly to correspond to changes in the shape of the flexible display.

[0155] According to various embodiments, the contact area may include a first end and a second end, wherein at least one rotary contact structure may contact the first end when the flexible display slides into the first housing, and at least one rotary contact structure may contact the second end when the flexible display slides out of the first housing.

[0156] According to various embodiments, the contact area may include a first contact area and a second contact area that is separate from and parallel to the first contact area.

[0157] According to various embodiments, at least one rotary contact structure may further include an insulating member to divide the rotary member into a first contact portion and a second contact portion, the first contact portion being able to contact a first contact area, and the second contact portion being able to contact a second contact area.

[0158] According to various embodiments, at least one rotary contact structure may further include a first rotary contact structure and a second rotary contact structure, wherein a first contact area may contact the first rotary contact structure and a second contact area may contact the second rotary contact structure.

[0159] According to various embodiments, the first contact area and the second contact area may have different lengths.

[0160] According to various embodiments, the first contact area can send or receive signals for performing a first function, and the second contact area can send or receive signals for performing a second function.

[0161] According to various embodiments, the support member can be an elastic structure formed in an axial direction perpendicular to the rotating member.

[0162] According to various embodiments, the support component may include a shaft passing through the central component.

[0163] According to various embodiments, the conductive component may include a plurality of conductive balls arranged at a specified distance.

[0164] According to various embodiments, the conductive component can be configured such that non-conductive spheres and conductive spheres are alternately arranged.

[0165] According to various embodiments, the conductive components can be configured such that non-conductive spheres and conductive spheres are arranged in a specified number less than a specified angle.

[0166] According to various embodiments, the conductive component may include multiple conductive sponges or multiple conductive leaf springs.

[0167] According to various embodiments, the rotating component may include a guide formed on the inner surface of the rotating component to move or rotate the conductive member.

[0168] According to various embodiments, at least a portion of the first housing can be used as an antenna for wireless communication, and at least one rotating contact structure can transmit wireless communication signals to the PCB.

[0169] According to various embodiments, the contact area may have an elastic structure protruding toward at least one rotary contact structure.

[0170] It should be understood that the various embodiments of this disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to the specific embodiments, but rather to include various changes, equivalents, or substitutions to the respective embodiments. In the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. As used herein, each of the phrases such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together with the corresponding phrase among the plurality of phrases. As used herein, terms such as “first” and “second” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish the corresponding component from another component and do not limit the component in other respects (e.g., importance or order). It will be understood that, whether or not the terms “operably” or “communically” are used, if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as “combined with another element (e.g., a second element),” “combined to another element (e.g., a second element),” “connected to another element (e.g., a second element),” or “attached to another element (e.g., a second element)”, it means that the first element can be directly (e.g., wiredly) connected to the second element, wirelessly connected to the second element, or connected to the second element via a third element.

[0171] As used in connection with various embodiments of this disclosure, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms (e.g., "logic," "logic block," "part," or "circuit"). A module may be a single integrated component adapted to perform one or more functions, or the smallest unit or part of such a single integrated component. For example, according to embodiments, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0172] The various embodiments set forth herein can be implemented as software (e.g., program 1440) containing one or more instructions readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device 1401) stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 1436 or external memory 1438). For example, under the control of a processor, the processor (e.g., processor 1420) of the machine (e.g., electronic device 1401) can invoke and execute at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, with or without the use of one or more other components. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. Machine-readable storage media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but this term does not distinguish between data being stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and data being temporarily stored in the storage medium.

[0173] According to embodiments, methods according to various embodiments of this disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product can be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or via an app store (e.g., the Play Store). TM The computer program product may be published online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded), or may be distributed directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones) (e.g., downloaded or uploaded). If published online, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily generated, or at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored in a machine-readable storage medium (such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an app store's server, or a forwarding server).

[0174] According to various embodiments, each of the above-described components (e.g., a module or program) may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Optionally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform the one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as the corresponding component of the multiple components performed one or more functions before integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be run in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0175] According to various embodiments, the rotary contact structure may include a rotating component that at least partially includes a conductive portion, a central component disposed within the rotating component, a conductive member inserted between the rotating component and the central component, and a support component that supports the central component and electrically connects the central component to an external PCB.

[0176] According to various embodiments, the support member can be configured to have an elastic force in the axial direction perpendicular to the rotating member.

[0177] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, an electronic device can continuously maintain electrical contact with a designated contact area by using a rotating contact structure to correspond to the sliding operation of the housing.

[0178] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, electronic devices can prevent deformation or breakage of the contact area by using a rotating contact structure.

[0179] Although this disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising: Flexible displays; A first housing is configured to move in response to changes in the shape of the flexible display and includes a contact area; The second housing is configured to slide relative to the first housing in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the first housing, and to mount the flexible display. At least one rotary contact structure is in contact with the contact area; as well as A printed circuit board is electrically connected to the at least one rotary contact structure; Wherein, the at least one rotary contact structure includes: A rotating component is configured to remain in contact with the contact area while rotating during the process of changing the shape of the flexible display; The central component is located within the rotating component. A conductive component is disposed between the rotating component and the central component, and A support component is configured to support the central component and electrically connect the central component to the printed circuit board.

2. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, in, The rotating component includes a contact surface that contacts the contact area. The contact surface is curved.

3. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The contact area moves linearly to correspond to the shape change of the flexible display.

4. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, in, The contact area includes a first end and a second end. Wherein, when the flexible display slides into the first housing, the at least one rotating contact structure contacts the first end, and When the flexible display slides out of the first housing, the at least one rotating contact structure contacts the second end.

5. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The contact area includes: A first contact area and a second contact area, wherein the second contact area is separate from the first contact area and is arranged parallel to the first contact area.

6. The electronic device as claimed in claim 5, in, The at least one rotary contact structure further includes an insulating component, the insulating component being configured to divide the rotary component into a first contact portion and a second contact portion; Wherein, the first contact portion contacts the first contact area, and The second contact portion contacts the second contact area.

7. The electronic device as claimed in claim 5, in, The at least one rotary contact structure further includes a first rotary contact structure and a second rotary contact structure. Wherein, the first contact area contacts the first rotating contact structure, and The second contact area is in contact with the second rotary contact structure.

8. The electronic device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The first contact area and the second contact area have different lengths.

9. The electronic device as claimed in claim 5, in, The first contact area is configured to send or receive signals for performing a first function, and The second contact area is configured to send or receive signals for performing a second function.

10. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein, The support component is an elastic structure formed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating component.

11. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The support component includes a shaft passing through the central component.

12. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The conductive component includes: Multiple conductive spheres are arranged at intervals between each other.

13. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The conductive component is configured such that non-conductive spheres and conductive spheres are arranged alternately.

14. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein, The conductive component is configured such that the non-conductive spheres and the conductive spheres are arranged at an angle less than a specified angle and in a specified number.

15. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, in, At least a portion of the first housing serves as an antenna for wireless communication, and The at least one rotating contact structure transmits wireless communication signals to the printed circuit board.

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