Electronic devices

Abstract

An electronic device includes: a display module including a display unit and a hinge unit, the hinge unit being coupled to the display unit and configured to curl together with the display unit, the display unit including a display panel, a flexible circuit board connected to the display panel, and a main circuit board connected to the flexible circuit board; and a housing including a plurality of sidewall portions, each extending in a first direction, wherein at least one of the plurality of sidewall portions includes a receiving recess into which the main circuit board is inserted, and the plurality of sidewall portions are deformable to have a closed state surrounding the display module and an open state exposing at least a portion of the display module to the outside of the housing.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0026649, filed on February 26, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an electronic device, and more specifically, to a rollable electronic device including a housing that is deformable to have a closed state and an open state. Background Technology

[0004] In recent years, flexible or foldable electronic devices have been developed, including foldable or rollable electronic devices using flexible display panels. The display module of a rollable electronic device can be coupled to a hinge unit and can be rolled up and housed in a housing in a rolled-up state.

[0005] The information disclosed in this background section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An electronic device comprising a display module and a housing, constructed according to the principles of the present invention, can reduce or minimize the separate space required for arranging the drive portion of the display module within the housing by arranging the drive portion of the display panel connected to the display module within an inner groove (i.e., a receiving recess) of the housing. Therefore, the electronic device exhibits improved portability and usability.

[0007] Additional features of the inventive concept will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concept.

[0008] According to an aspect of the present invention, an electronic device includes: a display module including a display unit and a hinge unit, the hinge unit being coupled to the display unit and configured to curl together with the display unit, the display unit including a display panel, a flexible circuit board connected to the display panel, and a main circuit board connected to the flexible circuit board; and a housing including a plurality of sidewall portions, each extending in a first direction, wherein at least one of the plurality of sidewall portions includes a receiving recess into which the main circuit board is inserted, and the plurality of sidewall portions are deformable to have a closed state surrounding the display module and an open state exposing at least a portion of the display module to the outside of the housing.

[0009] The electronic device may further include: a motherboard connected to the main circuit board; a power module connected to the main circuit board; and a plurality of wires for connecting the main circuit board to the motherboard and for connecting the motherboard to the power module, wherein at least one of the motherboard and the power module can be inserted into the receiving groove of the sidewall portion.

[0010] The plurality of sidewall portions may include a first sidewall portion, a second sidewall portion, a third sidewall portion, and a fourth sidewall portion. In the open state, the first sidewall portion, the second sidewall portion, the third sidewall portion, and the fourth sidewall portion are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The housing may include: a first connecting portion disposed between the first sidewall portion and the second sidewall portion; a second connecting portion disposed between the second sidewall portion and the third sidewall portion; and a third connecting portion disposed between the third sidewall portion and the fourth sidewall portion. Each of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion may include a wire groove, and a corresponding wire among the plurality of wires passes through the wire groove.

[0011] The display module can be rolled up in the second direction, and the first sidewall portion, the second sidewall portion, the third sidewall portion and the fourth sidewall portion can be deformed from the closed state to the open state in the second direction. In the closed state, a portion of the first sidewall portion can contact a portion of the fourth sidewall portion.

[0012] The third connecting portion can maintain the angle between the third sidewall portion and the fourth sidewall portion at a predetermined angle ranging from approximately 90° to approximately 180°.

[0013] At least one of the second sidewall portion, the third sidewall portion, and the fourth sidewall portion may include a base portion and a retaining portion, wherein the base portion and the retaining portion are arranged in the first direction by using a first curved line extending in the second direction as a boundary, and the retaining portion may be bent along the first curved line such that the angle between the retaining portion and the base portion is maintained at a predetermined angle in the range of approximately 90° to approximately 180°.

[0014] Each of the second sidewall portion, the third sidewall portion, and the fourth sidewall portion may further include an additional sidewall portion that is inserted into the receiving groove in a first mode and slides to the outside of the housing in a second mode, and can be bent from the retaining portion by using a second bend line that is spaced apart from the first bend line in the first direction and extends in the second direction as a boundary.

[0015] One of the plurality of sidewall portions may include a central portion that protrudes from the other sidewall portion and extends in the first direction, the central portion including a groove through which corresponding lines of the plurality of lines pass, and another sidewall portion may include a plurality of coupling portions that protrude from the other sidewall portion and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and the central portion is located between the plurality of coupling portions, the plurality of coupling portions being coupled to the central portion.

[0016] The grooves can be multiple and spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0017] The flexible circuit board may be bent, and the hinge unit is located therebetween, and the display panel and the main circuit board may be spaced apart from each other, with the hinge unit located therebetween.

[0018] The hinge unit may include: a plurality of extension portions, each extending in the first direction and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a plurality of engagement portions, each disposed between two adjacent extension portions, wherein the plurality of extension portions may have a plurality of widths corresponding to each other in the second direction, the plurality of widths gradually decreasing in the direction away from the flexible circuit board.

[0019] The hinge unit may further include: a support portion connected via the plurality of engagement portions to the extension portion closest to the flexible circuit board among the plurality of extension portions; and a cover portion coupled to the support portion to cover a portion of each of the display panel and the flexible circuit board, wherein the flexible circuit board may be curved and the support portion is located therebetween. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate illustrative embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the inventive concept.

[0021] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic device constructed according to the principles of the present invention, shown in its curled state.

[0022] Figure 1B It is shown Figure 1A A perspective view of the transitional state of an electronic device.

[0023] Figure 1C It is shown Figure 1AA perspective view of the electronic device in its unfolded state.

[0024] Figure 2A and Figure 2B yes Figure 1C A perspective view of the electronic device, showing the display module of the electronic device in its unfolded state.

[0025] Figure 3A and Figure 3B yes Figure 2A and Figure 2B The perspective view of the display unit of the display module shows the unfolded state of the display unit.

[0026] Figure 4A yes Figure 2A and Figure 2B An exploded perspective view of the hinge unit of the display module, showing the unfolded state of the hinge unit.

[0027] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A side view of a portion of the hinge unit.

[0028] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A A side view of the hinge unit, showing the hinge unit in a curled state.

[0029] Figure 5A yes Figure 1A A block diagram of an electronic device.

[0030] Figure 5B yes Figure 1C A plan view of the casing of an electronic device.

[0031] Figure 6A It is shown Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the coupling relationship of the side wall portion of the shell.

[0032] Figure 6B It is shown Figure 5B A perspective view of the coupling relationship of the side wall portions of the housing.

[0033] Figure 6C It is shown Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the coupling relationship of the side wall portion of the shell.

[0034] Figure 7A yes Figure 5B A plan view of an embodiment of a side wall portion of the housing.

[0035] Figure 7B yes Figure 5B A plan view of an embodiment of the other side wall portion of the housing.

[0036] Figure 7C yes Figure 5BA plan view of another embodiment of a side wall portion of the housing.

[0037] Figure 7D yes Figure 5B A plan view of another embodiment of the other side wall portion of the housing.

[0038] Figure 8A and Figure 8B yes Figure 1A A perspective view of another embodiment of the electronic device.

[0039] Figure 9 yes Figure 1A A perspective view of another embodiment of the electronic device.

[0040] Figure 10A yes Figure 1A A side view of the electronic device.

[0041] Figure 10B , Figure 10C , Figure 10D and Figure 10E It is shown Figure 10A A perspective view of an electronic device in one state. Detailed Implementation

[0042] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments or implementations of the invention. As used herein, “embodiment” and “implementation” are interchangeable terms and are non-limiting examples of apparatus or methods employing one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent that various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments. Furthermore, the various embodiments may be different, but are not necessarily exclusive. For example, specific shapes, configurations, and features of an embodiment may be used or implemented in another embodiment without departing from the scope of the inventive concept.

[0043] Unless otherwise stated, the illustrated embodiments are to be understood as illustrative features providing details of variations in ways in which the inventive concept can be implemented in practice. Therefore, without departing from the scope of the inventive concept, features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects (hereinafter individually or collectively referred to as “elements”) of various embodiments may be otherwise combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged.

[0044] The use of crosshairs and / or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not express or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material properties, size, scale, commonality between the elements shown, or any other characteristics, properties, etc. Furthermore, in the drawings, the dimensions of elements and their relative dimensions may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When embodiments can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence may be performed in a different order than that described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in the reverse order of their description. Moreover, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0045] When a component or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another component or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other component or layer, or an intermediary component or layer may be present. However, when a component or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another component or layer, an intermediary component or layer is not present. Therefore, the term "connection" can refer to a physical, electrical, and / or fluid connection with or without an intermediary component. Furthermore, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system such as the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 can be perpendicular to each other, or can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purposes of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" can be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046] Although the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various types of elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element.

[0047] Spatial relative terms, such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “above,” “above,” “above,” “higher,” and “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”), may be used herein for descriptive purposes and, thus, to describe the relationship of one element to another as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of a device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will subsequently be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can cover both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and therefore, the spatial relative descriptive terms herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0048] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a (an)” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. Furthermore, the terms “comprises / comprising / includes and / or including” used in this specification indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than terms of degree, and therefore, the inherent deviations used to describe measured, calculated, and / or provided values ​​will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0049] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional and / or exploded views as schematic diagrams of idealized embodiments and / or intervening structures. Therefore, variations in the illustrated shapes will be expected due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Consequently, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shape of the shown areas, but rather include, for example, shape deviations due to manufacturing processes. In this way, the areas shown in the figures can be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these areas may not reflect the actual shapes of the areas of the device, and therefore are not intended to be limiting.

[0050] In accordance with the conventions of the art, some embodiments are described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings according to functional blocks, units, and / or modules. Those skilled in the art will understand that these blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuitry, such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hardwired circuits, memory elements, and wiring connections, which can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing techniques or other manufacturing techniques. Where blocks, units, and / or modules are implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, they can be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and may optionally be driven by firmware and / or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit, and / or module may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or as a combination of dedicated hardware performing some functions and processors performing other functions (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry). Furthermore, without departing from the scope of the inventive concept, each block, unit, and / or module of some embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interactive and discrete blocks, units, and / or modules. Furthermore, without departing from the scope of the inventive concept, blocks, units, and / or modules of some embodiments can be physically combined into more complex blocks, units, and / or modules.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense.

[0052] Figure 1A This is a perspective view showing an electronic device in one state according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1B This is a perspective view showing an electronic device in one state according to an embodiment. Figure 1C This is a perspective view showing an electronic device in one state according to an embodiment. Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a perspective view showing the display module of an electronic device in its unfolded state according to an embodiment.

[0053] Reference Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C According to an embodiment, the electronic device EA may include a rollable display module DM and a housing CS.

[0054] According to the embodiment, the housing CS can be transformed into various states according to the user's purpose. For example, Figure 1A The housing CS in the image indicates the closed state, and Figure 1CThe housing CS in the image indicates that it is in the open state. Figure 1B The shell CS in the diagram illustrates a state from the closed state to the open state.

[0055] The housing CS may include multiple sidewall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4, and connecting portions CP1, CP2, and HG. Each of the sidewall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4 may extend in a first direction DR1. The sidewall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4 may be coupled to each other or spaced apart from each other.

[0056] For example, in the open state, the first sidewall portion C1, the second sidewall portion C2, the third sidewall portion C3, and the fourth sidewall portion C4 can be arranged in the second direction DR2. For example, the first sidewall portion C1 can be connected to the second sidewall portion C2 via the first connecting portion CP1, the second sidewall portion C2 can be connected to the third sidewall portion C3 via the second connecting portion CP2, and the third sidewall portion C3 can be connected to the fourth sidewall portion C4 via the third connecting portion HG.

[0057] In the closed state, since a portion of the first sidewall portion C1 is coupled to at least a portion of the fourth sidewall portion C4, the sidewall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4 can surround the rolled-up display module DM. The coupling method can include a coupling method using magnetic force or a coupling method using individual coupling portions. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. When the housing CS is in the closed state, the sidewall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4 can provide an internal space CH capable of accommodating the display module DM.

[0058] The connecting portions CP1, CP2 and HG can each extend in the first direction DR1 and are spaced apart from each other between the corresponding sidewall portions C1, C2, C3 and C4 and in the second direction DR2.

[0059] The connecting portions CP1, CP2 and HG may include a first connecting portion CP1 disposed between the first sidewall portion C1 and the second sidewall portion C2, a second connecting portion CP2 disposed between the second sidewall portion C2 and the third sidewall portion C3, and a third connecting portion HG disposed between the third sidewall portion C3 and the fourth sidewall portion C4.

[0060] The connecting parts CP1, CP2 and HG can be set between the corresponding side wall parts C1, C2, C3 and C4 and bend while the side wall parts C1, C2, C3 and C4 deform according to the closed state and the open state.

[0061] According to an embodiment, in the closed state, the sidewall portions C1, C2, C3 and C4 can accommodate the display module DM and the components for driving the display module DM, and protect the components disposed therein.

[0062] The third connecting portion HG can adjust the degree to which the fourth sidewall portion C4, which opens and closes from the first sidewall portion C1, is open and closed. For example, the third connecting portion HG can adjust the angle between the fourth sidewall portion C4 and the third sidewall portion C3 differently. Therefore, an electronic device EA can be provided in which the fourth sidewall portion C4 is able to keep the display module DM in the deployed state. A related description will be provided later. Figure 8A and Figure 8B Describe it.

[0063] Although not in Figures 1A to 1C As shown, however, the additional sidewall portion used to cover the side surface of the display module DM can be further connected to one end and the other end of the first connecting portion CP1, which are spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The additional sidewall portion can also open and close when the housing CS deforms from the closed state to the open state.

[0064] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a view showing the electronic device EA in its unfolded state. Figure 2A This is a view showing the display surface IS of the display module DM in its unfolded state, and Figure 2B This is a view showing the shell CS in its unfolded state.

[0065] Figure 1A The rollable display module DM described herein can be unfolded in the second direction DR2 with the side wall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4 of the housing CS open in the second direction DR2. Here, a portion of the unfolded display module DM can protrude from the side wall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4 in the second direction DR2, and be exposed from the fourth side wall portion C4 located at the outermost portion of the side wall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4.

[0066] The display module DM can even be coupled to the housing CS in a state where it is coupled to the first sidewall portion C1 so that it can be rolled up or unfolded. When rolled up, the remaining portion of the display module DM, except for the portion that overlaps with the first sidewall portion C1, can be spaced apart from the second sidewall portion C2, the third sidewall portion C3, and the fourth sidewall portion C4, and when unfolded, the remaining portion of the display module DM can contact the second sidewall portion C2, the third sidewall portion C3, and the fourth sidewall portion C4.

[0067] The display module DM may include a display unit DU and a hinge unit HU. The display unit DU may include a display surface IS for displaying images. The display surface IS may be the front surface of the display module DM in its unfolded state. The images displayed to the user through the display unit DU may include static images and dynamic images.

[0068] The display surface IS may include an active region AA and a peripheral region NAA adjacent to the active region AA. The active region AA may be defined as an area for displaying images and as an area for setting the lines and driving elements required to drive the display unit DU. The peripheral region NAA may have a predetermined color and surround the active region AA.

[0069] The active area AA can sense external inputs applied from the outside. External inputs can include various types of inputs provided from outside the electronic device EA.

[0070] For example, external input can include contact or touch generated by a part of the user's body (such as a hand). External input can also include hovering exerted by an object positioned by a nearby electronic device EA or by an object positioned at a predetermined distance by the nearby electronic device EA. Furthermore, external input can be of various types, such as force, pressure, temperature, and light.

[0071] Hinge unit HU can be disposed below display unit DU to support display unit DU. Hinge unit HU may include multiple joints and is substantially curled when coupled to display unit DU. Coupling of first sidewall portion C1 to display module DM can be performed such that the hinge unit HU that overlaps with first sidewall portion C1 is coupled to display module DM.

[0072] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a perspective view showing the display unit in its unfolded state according to an embodiment. Figure 4A This is an exploded perspective view showing the hinge unit in the unfolded state according to an embodiment.

[0073] Figure 4B This is a side view showing a portion of the hinge unit according to an embodiment. Figure 4C This is a side view showing the hinge unit in a curled state according to an embodiment.

[0074] Reference Figure 3A and Figure 3B According to the embodiments, the display unit DU may include a display panel DP, a main circuit board MPCB, a flexible circuit board FPCB, and a driver chip DC.

[0075] The display panel DP may include multiple pixels. Pixels can generate light to display an image on the display surface IS. The display panel DP may include a grayscale display layer for generating light. Depending on the type of display panel DP, the grayscale display layer may include various embodiments. For example, the display panel DP may be one of a liquid crystal display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) display panel, an electrowetting display panel, an organic light-emitting display panel, and an inorganic light-emitting display panel. However, the embodiments are not limited to these.

[0076] The flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) can electrically connect the display panel (DP) and the main circuit board (MPCB). The FPCB may include flexible pads that are connected one-to-one with the display pads of the display panel (DP). Additionally, the FPCB may include flexible pads that are connected one-to-one with the main pads of the main circuit board (MPCB).

[0077] The flexible circuit board (FPCB) can be provided as a plurality of such boards, spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. When a region of each of the flexible circuit boards (FPCB) is bent, the main circuit board (MPCB) can be positioned to face the rear surface of the display panel (DP).

[0078] The flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) may include a driver chip (DC). The driver chip DC can receive signals from the main printed circuit board (MPCB), and the display panel (DP) can also receive signals from the driver chip DC. In this embodiment, each of the driver chips DC may be a data driving circuit. In this embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) can transmit signals provided from the signal control unit to the display panel (DP).

[0079] The main circuit board (MPCB) may include a connector (CNT). When the main circuit board (MPCB) is mounted on the rear surface of the display panel (DP) via a flexible circuit board (FPCB), the main circuit board (MPCB) can be connected to the motherboard via the connector (CNT).

[0080] The signal control unit can be mounted on the main circuit board (MPCB). The signal control unit can receive image data and control signals from an external graphics control unit and send the received control signals to the display panel (DP).

[0081] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B The hinge unit HU may include a support portion SP, a cover portion CP, multiple extension portions EX, multiple engagement portions JT, and an additional support portion BP.

[0082] Reference Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe support portion SP can be connected to the extension portion EX closest to the flexible circuit board FPCB within the extension portion EX via a joint portion JT disposed between the extension portion EX and the support portion SP. The support portion SP may include a first surface SP-U and a second surface SP-B.

[0083] A portion of the flexible circuit board (FPCB) and a portion of the display panel (DP) connected to the flexible circuit board (FPCB) may be located on the first surface (SP-U).

[0084] Because the flexible circuit board FPCB is curved, and the support portion SP is located therein, and the support portion SP is located between the display panel DP and the main circuit board MPCB, the main circuit board MPCB can be configured with its rear surface facing the display panel DP. Therefore, the remaining portion of the flexible circuit board FPCB can be disposed on the second surface SP-B.

[0085] The cover portion CP can be coupled to the support portion SP and cover a portion of the display panel DP and the flexible circuit board FPCB disposed on the support portion SP. Therefore, moisture and foreign matter can be prevented from being introduced into the flexible circuit board FPCB.

[0086] The additional support portion BP can be connected to the extension portion EX furthest from the flexible circuit board FPCB within the extension portion EX via the joint portion JT located between the extension portion EX and the additional support portion BP. Since the additional support portion BP, together with the support portion SP, fixes the display unit DU, the display unit DU can be stably coupled to the hinge unit HU so that it can be rolled up or unfolded.

[0087] Each extension EX can extend along the first direction DR1 and be spaced apart from each other along the second direction DR2. The extension EX can include a first extension EX1, a second extension EX2, a third extension EX3, ..., and an (n-1)th extension EX. n-1 and the nth extension EX n The extension EX can be positioned below the display unit DU to protect the display unit DU.

[0088] The joining portions JT can each extend in a first direction DR1 and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2. The joining portions JT can be positioned between two adjacent extension portions EX to easily adjust the angle between the extension portions EX.

[0089] Each of the mating portions JT may include a main body portion BJ and retaining pins SJ1 and SJ2. In the main body portion BJ, recesses JH1 and JH2 may be defined, into which retaining pins SJ1 and SJ2 are inserted, respectively.

[0090] In each extension EX, a groove can be defined that overlaps with the corresponding grooves in the grooves JH1 and JH2, and fixing pins SJ1 and SJ2 can be coupled to the grooves JH1 and JH2 of the main body part BJ and the groove of the extension EX, so that two adjacent extensions EX are connected to each other and the main body part BJ is located between the two adjacent extensions EX.

[0091] Each of the grooves JH1 and JH2 in the main body portion BJ can have an area larger than the area of ​​each of the fixing pins SJ1 and SJ2. Therefore, although the fixing pins SJ1 and SJ2 couple the main body portion BJ and the extension portion EX, the fixing pins SJ1 and SJ2 can move within the space between the grooves JH1 and JH2. Thus, when the hinge unit HU is repeatedly rolled and unfolded, the hinge unit HU can have an easily deformable shape.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the extension EX may include a first extension EX1, a second extension EX2, a third extension EX3, ..., and an (n-1)th extension EX. n-1 and the nth extension EX n .

[0093] The extensions EX can have different widths in the second direction DR2. For example, the width of each of the extensions EX can gradually decrease in the direction from the support portion SP to the additional support portion BP. That is, the width of each of the extensions EX can gradually decrease in the direction away from the flexible circuit board FPCB.

[0094] In the second direction DR2, the first extension EX1 has a first width W1. The second extension EX2 has a second width W2, and the third extension EX3 has a third width W3. The (n-1)th extension EX... n-1 Having a width W of the (n-1)th degree n-1 and the nth extension EX n Having the nth width W n .

[0095] According to an embodiment, the width can range from a first width W1 to an nth width W. n The width gradually decreases. The decrease can be achieved by equal differences. For example, when moving in the second direction DR2, the first width W1 relative to the nth width W n The rate or percentage of decrease can be substantially constant. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0096] Reference Figure 4C In the curled state, the first extension EX1 can overlap with the ninth extension EX9, and the (n-8)th extension EX...n-8 It can be combined with the nth extension EX n overlapping.

[0097] Figure 5A This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figure 5B This is a plan view showing the housing of an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figure 5A The block diagram will describe the components of the electronic device EA, excluding the housing CS and the hinge unit HU.

[0098] Reference Figure 5A According to an embodiment, the electronic device EA may include the aforementioned display module DM, power module PM, and electronic module EM. The electronic module EM may include a first electronic module EM1 and a second electronic module EM2. The display module DM, power module PM, first electronic module EM1, and second electronic module EM2 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0099] The display module (DM) may include a display panel (DP) and a detection sensor (ISP). The display panel (DP) generates images, and the detection sensor (ISP) detects external inputs.

[0100] The first electronic module EM1 and the second electronic module EM2 include various functional modules for operating the electronic device EA.

[0101] The first electronic module EM1 may include a control module CM, a wireless communication module TM, an image input module IIM, a sound input module AIM, a memory MM, and an external interface IF. The first electronic module EM1 can be directly installed onto the motherboard MB, which is electrically connected to the display module DM (see reference). Figure 5B Alternatively, it can be mounted on a separate board and electrically connected to the motherboard MB via a connector (see [reference]). Figure 5B ).

[0102] The control module (CM) controls the overall operation of the electronic device (EA). The control module (CM) can be in the form of a microprocessor. For example, the control module (CM) activates or deactivates the display module (DM). The control module (CM) can also control other modules, such as the image input module (IIM) or the voice input module (AIM), based on touch signals received from the display module (DM).

[0103] The wireless communication module TM can transmit or receive wireless signals to another terminal using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi links. The wireless communication module TM can transmit or receive voice signals using standard communication lines. The wireless communication module TM includes a transmitting section TM1 for modulating and transmitting the signal to be transmitted, and a receiving section TM2 for demodulating the received signal.

[0104] The Image Input Module (IIM) processes image signals to convert them into image data that can be displayed on the Display Module (DM). The Audio Input Module (AIM) receives external audio signals via a microphone in either recording or voice recognition mode, converting the received audio signals into electronic voice data.

[0105] The external interface IF can be implemented as an interface that connects to an external charger, a wired / wireless data port, or a card slot (e.g., a card slot for memory cards and SIM / UIM cards).

[0106] The second electronic module EM2 may include a sound output module AOM, a light emission module LM, a light receiving module LRM, and a camera module CMM. These modules can be directly installed onto the motherboard MB (see reference). Figure 5B Alternatively, it can be mounted on a separate board and electrically connected to the display module DM or the first electronic module EM1 via a connector.

[0107] The audio output module AOM can convert audio data received from the wireless communication module TM or audio data stored in the memory MM, and output the converted audio data to the outside.

[0108] A light-emitting module (LM) can generate and output light. The LM can output infrared light. For example, the LM may include a light-emitting diode (LED) element. A light-receiving module (LRM) can detect infrared light. The LRM can be activated when infrared light of a predetermined level or higher is detected. The LRM may include a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. The infrared light generated by the LM can be output and subsequently reflected by an external object (e.g., a user's finger or face), and the reflected infrared light can be incident on the LRM. A camera module (CMM) can capture external images.

[0109] The power module (PM) provides the power required for the overall operation of the electronic device (EA). The power module (PM) may include a typical battery module.

[0110] Figure 5B This is a view showing the arrangement of the housing CS and the components for driving the display module DM according to an embodiment.

[0111] The housing CS according to an embodiment may include a plurality of sidewall portions C1, C2, C3 and C4 and connecting portions CP1, CP2 and HG. Each of the sidewall portions C1, C2, C3 and C4 may extend in a first direction DR1. The sidewall portions C1, C2, C3 and C4 may be coupled to each other or spaced apart from each other.

[0112] In at least one of the sidewall portions C1, C2, C3 and C4, a receiving groove for a component for driving the display module DM may be defined.

[0113] For example, it contains Figure 3A and Figure 3B The receiving recess of the main circuit board MPCB described herein can be defined in the first sidewall portion C1. The receiving recess for accommodating the motherboard MB can be defined in the second sidewall portion C2. On the motherboard MB, a first electronic module EM1 (see reference) can be mounted. Figure 5A ) and the second electronic module EM2 (refer to Figure 5A At least one of the modules. The receiving recess accommodating the power module PM may be defined in the third sidewall portion C3.

[0114] The main circuit board (MPCB), motherboard (MB), and power module (PM) can be connected via wires.

[0115] The wires can pass through the corresponding first connection portion CP1 and second connection portion CP2, and connect to the main circuit board MPCB, motherboard MB and power module PM.

[0116] In the electronic device EA according to the embodiment, since the module for driving the display module DM is housed in the housing CS, a separate space for arranging the module can be omitted. Therefore, a slim electronic device EA with improved user convenience can be provided.

[0117] Figure 6A This is a cross-sectional view showing the coupling relationship of the sidewall portions according to an embodiment. Figure 6B This is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship of the sidewall portions according to an embodiment. Figure 6C This is a cross-sectional view showing the coupling relationship of the sidewall portions according to an embodiment. Figure 7A This is a plan view showing a sidewall portion according to an embodiment. Figure 7B This is a plan view showing another sidewall portion according to an embodiment. Figure 7C This is a plan view showing a sidewall portion according to an embodiment. Figure 7D This is a plan view showing another sidewall portion according to an embodiment.

[0118] In the following text, Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C The sidewall portions CM1 and CM2 described herein can be applied to Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C The sidewall portions C1, C2, C3, and C4 are described in the text.

[0119] Reference Figure 6A and Figure 6BThe first sidewall portion CM1 may include a first main body portion CA and a plurality of coupling portions PA. The first main body portion CA may define a first receiving groove BH1 capable of receiving a first module MD1. The plurality of coupling portions PA may protrude from the first main body portion CA and be spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1.

[0120] The second sidewall portion CM2 may include a second main body portion CB and a central portion PB. A second receiving groove BH2 capable of accommodating the second module MD2 may be defined within the second main body portion CB. The central portion PB may protrude from the second main body portion CB and extend in a first direction DR1. The central portion PB may be disposed between the coupling portions PA.

[0121] The coupling portion PA and the central portion PB can be aligned with each other in the first direction DR1 and coupled by a fixing pin PI passing through the coupling portion PA and the central portion PB.

[0122] The first module MD1 and the second module MD2 can be electrically connected via line CL. Line CL can be connected via connectors provided in the first module MD1 and the second module MD2.

[0123] According to an embodiment, the line CL used to connect the first module MD1 and the second module MD2 can be defined on the contact surface PS (refer to...). Figure 6C The wire groove in the first module MD1 is connected to one end of each of the second module MD2, and the first main body part CA contacts the central part PB at the contact surface PS.

[0124] The first module MD1 and the second module MD2 can be Figure 5B One of the main circuit board (MPCB), motherboard (MB), and power module (PM) described in the document.

[0125] Reference Figure 7A and Figure 7B According to an embodiment, the first sidewall portion CM1-A may include a first main body portion CA and two coupling portions PA. The two coupling portions PA may protrude from the first main body portion CA and are spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1. According to an embodiment, a first groove H1 may be defined in the contact surface PS of the first main body portion CA.

[0126] The second sidewall portion CM2-A may include a second main body portion CB and a central portion PB. The central portion PB may protrude from the second main body portion CB and extend in a first direction DR1. The central portion PB may be disposed between the coupling portions PA. According to an embodiment, a second groove H2 may be defined in the contact surface PS of the central portion PB.

[0127] Each of the contact surface PS of the first main body portion CA and the contact surface PS of the central portion PB can be defined as the first sidewall portion CM1-A and the second sidewall portion CM2-B, through the fixing pin PI (refer to...). Figures 6A to 6C The surfaces that come into contact with each other during coupling.

[0128] Each of the grooves H1 and H2 according to the embodiment can be provided as a hole extending in the first direction DR1.

[0129] According to an embodiment, although used to drive the display unit DU (refer to...) Figure 2A The module is located in the first sidewall portion CM1-A and the second sidewall portion CM2-B, but because line CL (refer to) is provided... Figure 6C The wires pass through the grooves H1 and H2, so that electronic devices EA (refer to) can be easily electrically connected to the modules therein. Figure 5B ).

[0130] Reference Figure 7C and Figure 7D According to an embodiment, the first sidewall portion CM1-B may include a first main body portion CA and two coupling portions PA. The two coupling portions PA may protrude from the first main body portion CA and are spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1. According to an embodiment, a plurality of third grooves H3 may be defined in the contact surface PS of the first main body portion CA.

[0131] The second sidewall portion CM2-B may include a second main body portion CB and a central portion PB. The central portion PB may protrude from the second main body portion CB and extend in a first direction DR1. The central portion PB may be disposed between coupling portions PA. According to an embodiment, a plurality of fourth grooves H4 may be defined in the contact surface PS of the central portion PB.

[0132] The cable trays H3 and H4 can each extend in the first direction DR1 and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0133] Each of the third slots H3 can overlap with its corresponding fourth slot H4. Therefore, although multiple lines CL are provided for connecting modules (see reference...) Figure 6C However, line CL can be set in the side wall portions CM1-B and CM2-B.

[0134] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a perspective view showing an electronic device in one state according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 7B The same or similar components described herein will be indicated by the same or similar reference numerals, and for ease of description, overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

[0135] Reference Figure 8A and Figure 8B According to an embodiment, the electronic device EA-1 may include a display module DM-1 and a housing CS-1.

[0136] The housing CS-1 may include multiple sidewall portions C1-1, C2-1, C3-1 and C4-1, and connecting portions CP1, CP2 and HG. The sidewall portions C1-1, C2-1, C3-1 and C4-1 may each extend in a first direction DR1 and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2.

[0137] According to an embodiment, with the housing CS-1 and the display module DM-1 open, the third connecting portion HG can fix the angle θ between the third sidewall portion C3-1 and the fourth sidewall portion C4-1 to a predetermined angle. For example, the angle θ between the third sidewall portion C3-1 and the fourth sidewall portion C4-1 can be approximately 90° or greater to approximately 180° or less.

[0138] According to an embodiment, a housing CS-1 can be provided, which is deformable and can maintain the shape of the display module DM-1 at an angle suitable for the user's purpose, even when the display module DM-1 and the housing CS-1 are open. Therefore, an electronic device EA-1 with improved user convenience can be provided.

[0139] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 7B The same or similar components described herein will be indicated by the same or similar reference numerals, and for ease of description, overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

[0140] Reference Figure 9 According to an embodiment, the electronic device EA-2 may include a display module DM-2 and a housing CS-2.

[0141] The housing CS-2 may include multiple sidewall portions C1-2, C2-2, C3-2 and C4-2, and connecting portions CP1, CP2 and HG. The sidewall portions C1-2, C2-2, C3-2 and C4-2 may each extend in a first direction DR1 and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2.

[0142] The second sidewall portion C2-2 may include a second retaining portion Z2-1 and a second base portion Z2-2. By using a first bending line K1 extending in the second direction DR2 as a boundary, the second retaining portion Z2-1 can be bent in the direction from the display module DM-2 to the second base portion Z2-2.

[0143] The third sidewall portion C3-2 may include a third retaining portion Z3-1 and a third base portion Z3-2. By using a first bending line K1 extending in the second direction DR2 as a boundary, the third retaining portion Z3-1 can be bent in the direction from the display module DM-2 to the third base portion Z3-2.

[0144] The fourth sidewall portion C4-2 may include a fourth retaining portion Z4-1 and a fourth base portion Z4-2. By using a first bending line K1 extending in the second direction DR2 as a boundary, the fourth retaining portion Z4-1 can be bent in the direction from the display module DM-2 to the fourth base portion Z4-2.

[0145] The angle between each of the retaining portions Z2-1, Z3-1 and Z4-1 and each of the corresponding base portions Z2-2, Z3-2 and Z4-2 can be approximately 90° or greater to approximately 180° or less.

[0146] According to an embodiment, an electronic device EA-2 can be provided that can be easily kept in the deployed state of the display module DM-2.

[0147] Figure 10A This is a side view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figures 10B to 10E It is shown Figure 10A A perspective view of an electronic device in one state. (Compared to...) Figures 1A to 7B The same or similar components described herein will be indicated by the same or similar reference numerals, and for ease of description, overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

[0148] Reference Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C , Figure 10D and Figure 10E According to an embodiment, the electronic device EA-3 may include a display module DM-3 and a housing CS-3. Figure 10A The diagram shows the state in which the display module DM-3 is installed within the housing CS-3, and Figure 10B , Figure 10C , Figure 10D and Figure 10E The expanded display module DM-3 is shown.

[0149] The housing CS-3 may include multiple sidewall portions C1-3, C2-3, C3-3 and C4-3, and connecting portions CP1, CP2 and HG. The sidewall portions C1-3, C2-3, C3-3 and C4-3 may each extend in a first direction DR1 and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2.

[0150] The second sidewall portion C2-3 may include a second main sidewall portion X2-1 and a second additional sidewall portion X2-2. In a first mode, the second additional sidewall portion X2-2 may be disposed in a receiving groove defined in the second main sidewall portion X2-1, and in a second mode, the second additional sidewall portion X2-2 may slide from the second main sidewall portion X2-1 to protrude outward. The second additional sidewall portion X2-2 may be configured not to interfere with the motherboard MB disposed in the second main sidewall portion X2-1 in the first mode.

[0151] The second main sidewall portion X2-1 may include a second retaining portion X2-S1 and a second base portion X2-S2. In the second mode, the second retaining portion X2-S1 can be bent from the second base portion X2-S2 by using a first bending line K1 extending in the second direction DR2 as a boundary.

[0152] The third sidewall portion C3-3 may include a third main sidewall portion X3-1 and a third additional sidewall portion X3-2. In a first mode, the third additional sidewall portion X3-2 may be disposed in a receiving groove defined in the third main sidewall portion X3-1, and in a second mode, the third additional sidewall portion X3-2 may slide outward from the third main sidewall portion X3-1. The third additional sidewall portion X3-2 may be configured not to interfere with the power module PM disposed in the third main sidewall portion X3-1 in the first mode.

[0153] The third main sidewall portion X3-1 may include a third retaining portion X3-S1 and a third base portion X3-S2. In the second mode, the third retaining portion X3-S1 can be bent from the third base portion X3-S2 by using a first bending line K1 extending in the second direction DR2 as a boundary.

[0154] The fourth sidewall portion C4-3 may include a fourth main sidewall portion X4-1 and a fourth additional sidewall portion X4-2. In a first mode, the fourth additional sidewall portion X4-2 may be disposed in a receiving groove defined in the fourth main sidewall portion X4-1, and in a second mode, the fourth additional sidewall portion X4-2 may slide from the fourth main sidewall portion X4-1 to protrude outward.

[0155] The fourth main sidewall portion X4-1 may include a fourth retaining portion X4-S1 and a fourth base portion X4-S2. In the second mode, the fourth retaining portion X4-S1 can be bent from the fourth base portion X4-S2 by using a first bending line K1 extending in the second direction DR2 as a boundary.

[0156] In the second mode (i.e., the state in which each of the additional sidewall portions X2-2, X3-2 and X4-2 slides from the receiving groove of each of the main sidewall portions X2-1, X3-1 and X4-1), the additional sidewall portions X2-2, X3-2 and X4-2 can be bent from the corresponding retaining portions X2-S1, X3-S1 and X4-S1 by using the second bending line K2 as the boundary.

[0157] The second curved line K2 may be spaced apart from the first curved line K1 in the first direction DR1 and extend in the second direction DR2.

[0158] Figure 10D The diagram shows a state in which the retaining portions X2-S1, X3-S1, and X4-S1 are bent from the base portions X2-S2, X3-S2, and X4-S2 with reference to the first bending line K1, and the additional sidewall portions X2-2, X3-2, and X4-2 are bent from the retaining portions X2-S1, X3-S1, and X4-S1 with reference to the second bending line K2.

[0159] Reference Figure 10E A portion of each of the additional sidewall portions X2-2, X3-2, and X4-2 can be bent in the direction toward the display surface IS of the display module DM-3 while fully bent from the retaining portions X2-S1, X3-S1, and X4-S1 to retain the display module DM-3. Therefore, the unfolded display module DM-3 can be held in place by the housing CS-3 (see reference). Figures 10A to 10D It is kept in the air. Therefore, an electronic device with improved user convenience, EA-3, can be provided.

[0160] In the electronic device according to the embodiment, since the module for driving the display module is housed within the housing, a separate space for arranging the module can be omitted. Therefore, a slim electronic device with improved usability can be provided.

[0161] While certain embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to these embodiments, but is limited to the broader scope of the appended claims, as well as various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An electronic device, wherein, The electronic device includes: A display module includes a display unit and a hinge unit, the hinge unit being coupled to the display unit and configured to roll together with the display unit. The display unit includes a display panel, a flexible circuit board connected to the display panel, and a main circuit board connected to the flexible circuit board. The housing includes multiple sidewall portions, each extending in a first direction. At least one of the plurality of sidewall portions includes a receiving groove, into which the main circuit board is inserted, and The plurality of sidewall portions are deformable to have a closed state surrounding the display module and an open state exposing at least a portion of the display module to the outside of the housing.

2. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The electronic device also includes: The motherboard is connected to the main circuit board; The power module is connected to the main circuit board; and Multiple wires are used to connect the main circuit board to the motherboard and to connect the motherboard to the power module. At least one of the motherboard and the power module is inserted into the receiving groove of the sidewall portion.

3. The electronic device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The plurality of sidewall portions include a first sidewall portion, a second sidewall portion, a third sidewall portion, and a fourth sidewall portion. In the open state, the first sidewall portion, the second sidewall portion, the third sidewall portion, and the fourth sidewall portion are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and... The housing includes: The first connecting portion is disposed between the first sidewall portion and the second sidewall portion; A second connecting portion is disposed between the second sidewall portion and the third sidewall portion; and The third connecting portion is disposed between the third sidewall portion and the fourth sidewall portion. Each of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion includes a groove through which a corresponding wire of the plurality of wires passes.

4. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The display module is curled in the second direction. The first sidewall portion, the second sidewall portion, the third sidewall portion, and the fourth sidewall portion deform from the closed state to the open state in the second direction, and In the closed state, a portion of the first sidewall portion contacts a portion of the fourth sidewall portion.

5. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The third connecting portion maintains the angle between the third sidewall portion and the fourth sidewall portion at a predetermined angle within the range of 90° to 180°.

6. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein, At least one of the second sidewall portion, the third sidewall portion, and the fourth sidewall portion includes a base portion and a retaining portion, which are arranged in the first direction using a first curved line extending in the second direction as a boundary, and... The retaining portion is bent along the first bending line such that the angle between the retaining portion and the base portion is maintained at a predetermined angle within the range of 90° to 180°.

7. The electronic device as claimed in claim 6, wherein, Each of the second, third, and fourth sidewall portions further includes an additional sidewall portion, which is inserted into the receiving groove in a first mode and slides to the outside of the housing in a second mode. The additional sidewall portion bends from the retaining portion by using a second bend line that is spaced apart from the first bend line in the first direction and extends in the second direction as a boundary.

8. The electronic device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, One of the plurality of sidewall portions includes a central portion that protrudes from the first sidewall portion and extends in the first direction. The central portion includes a groove through which corresponding lines of the plurality of lines pass. Another sidewall portion of the plurality of sidewall portions includes a plurality of coupling portions that protrude from the other sidewall portion of the plurality of sidewall portions and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and the central portion is located between the plurality of coupling portions that are coupled to the central portion.

9. The electronic device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The grooves are provided in multiple portions and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

10. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein, The flexible circuit board is curved, and the hinge unit is located therebetween. The display panel and the main circuit board are spaced apart from each other, and the hinge unit is located therebetween.

11. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The hinge unit includes: A plurality of extension portions, each extending in the first direction, and the plurality of extension portions arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and Multiple joining portions, each positioned between two adjacent extension portions, The plurality of extended portions have a plurality of widths corresponding to each other in the second direction, and the plurality of widths gradually decrease in the direction away from the flexible circuit board.

12. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein, The hinge unit also includes: The support portion is connected via the plurality of engaging portions to the extension portion closest to the flexible circuit board among the plurality of extension portions; and The covering portion is coupled to the supporting portion to cover a portion of each of the display panel and the flexible circuit board. The flexible circuit board is curved, and the support portion is located therebetween.

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