Electronic devices

Abstract

To provide an electronic device with reduced case thickness. [Solution] The electronic device includes a display module including first and second non-folding regions in a first direction, a folding region between them, a case including first and second cases superimposed on the first and second non-folding regions, and a hinge portion between the first and second cases defining a two-axis rotation axis in a second direction, the hinge portion including a frame between the first and second cases, a first rotor between the first case and the frame, a first link coupled to at least one of the sides of the first rotor facing in a second direction and including a first projection on one side adjacent to the frame, a second rotor between the second case and the frame, a second link coupled to at least one of the sides of the second rotor facing in a second direction and including a second projection on one side adjacent to the frame, and a plurality of connecting gears that mesh with the first and second projections, the number of first and second projections being different from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, electronic devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigations, and smart TVs that provide images to users include an electronic device for displaying images. The electronic device generates an image and provides it to the user through a display screen.

[0003] Recently, with the technological development of electronic devices, various types of display devices have been developed. For example, flexible electronic devices that can be slid or wound and extended outside the case have been developed. A flexible electronic device whose shape can be variously deformed is easy to carry and can improve user convenience.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device with a reduced thickness of the case.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a display module comprising a first non-folding region, a second non-folding region, and a folding region positioned between the first and second non-folding regions, arranged in a first direction; a case comprising a first case superimposed on the first non-folding region and a second case superimposed on the second non-folding region; and a hinge portion positioned between the first and second cases and defining a two-axis rotation axis extending parallel to a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein the hinge portion comprises a frame positioned between the first and second cases and a first row positioned between the first case and the frame. A rotor comprising a first link coupled to at least one of the two sides of the first rotor facing each other in the second direction and having a first projection located on one side adjacent to the frame, a second rotor positioned on the second case and the frame, a second link coupled to at least one of the two sides of the second rotor facing each other in the second direction and having a second projection located on one side adjacent to the frame, and a plurality of connecting gears that mesh with at least one first projection in the first projection and at least one second projection in the second projection, the number of the first projections and the number of the second projections may differ from each other.

[0007] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a display module comprising a first non-folding region, a second non-folding region, and a folding region positioned between the first and second non-folding regions, arranged in a first direction; a case comprising a first case superimposed on the first non-folding region and a second case superimposed on the second non-folding region; and a hinge portion positioned between the first and second cases and defining a two-axis rotation axis extending parallel to a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein the hinge portion comprises a frame positioned between the first and second cases, a first rotor coupled to one side adjacent to the first case among the two sides of the frame facing each other in the first direction, and in the second direction The display module includes a first hinge including a first link coupled to at least one of the two sides of the first rotor which are opposite to each other, a second rotor coupled to the other side of the frame which is adjacent to the second case which are opposite to each other in a first direction, a second hinge including a second link coupled to at least one of the two sides of the second rotor which are opposite to each other in a second direction, and at least one coupling gear positioned between the first hinge and the second hinge and connecting the first link and the second link to each other, wherein when the display module is folded, the first case and the second case rotate around the two axis of rotation to face each other, and the rotation angle of the first link can be greater than the rotation angle of the second link. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to embodiments of the present invention, when the folding region of the display module is folded, the portion of the folding region adjacent to the first case may include a reverse curvature portion, while the portion of the folding region adjacent to the second case may not include a reverse curvature portion. Therefore, the thickness of the second case may be smaller than the thickness of the first case. Consequently, the thickness of the electronic device can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1]This is a perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the folded state of the electronic device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device shown. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the electronic device shown. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display module shown. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a cross-section of the display panel shown in the diagram. [Figure 7] Figure 3 is a plan view of the display module shown. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates a cross-section of an electronic panel corresponding to any one of the pixels shown in Figure 7. [Figure 9A] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the display device corresponding to the line I-I' shown in the diagram. [Figure 9B] Figure 9A is a diagram showing the bending state of the bending region. [Figure 10] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge module shown. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the connection between the first plate and the wing plate. [Figure 12] Figure 10 is a plan view of the hinge case shown. [Figure 13] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge section shown. [Figure 14A] This is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the frame and the first rotor. [Figure 14B] This is a cross-sectional view of the frame and the first rotor corresponding to the line II-II' shown in Figure 14A. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the frame, the first rotor, and the first link. [Figure 16A] This is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the frame and the second link. [Figure 16B] A cross-sectional view of a frame, a first rotor, and a second rotor corresponding to the line III-III' shown in FIG. 16A. [Figure 17] A perspective view for explaining the connection of a frame, a second rotor, and a second link. [Figure 18A] A perspective view for explaining the connection of a frame, a connecting gear, a cap, a spring, and a spring pin. [Figure 18B] A cross-sectional view of a second link and a connecting gear corresponding to the line IV-IV' shown in FIG. 18A. [Figure 19] A perspective view for explaining the connection of a hinge portion and first and second cases. [Figure 20A] A cross-sectional view of a hinge module EDC corresponding to the line V-V' shown in FIG. 19. [Figure 20B] A cross-sectional view showing a state where the hinge module EDC shown in FIG. 20A is folded. [Figure 21A] A cross-sectional view for explaining the rotation of a first link and a second link. [Figure 21B] A cross-sectional view for explaining the rotation of a first link and a second link.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] In this specification, when a predetermined component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is described as being "on", "connected to", or "coupled to" another component, it means that it can be directly disposed / connected / coupled on the other component or that a third component can also be disposed between them.

[0011] The same reference numerals refer to the same components. Also, in the drawings, the thickness, ratio, and dimensions of the components are exaggerated for the purpose of efficient explanation of the technical content. "And / or" includes all combinations of one or more of the associated components that can be defined.

[0012] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe a variety of components, but such components should not be limited by such terms. The terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may be referred to as the first component. A singular expression may include plural expressions unless otherwise clearly distinguished in context.

[0013] Furthermore, terms such as “down,” “on the lower side,” “up,” and “on the upper side” are used to describe the relationships between components shown in the drawing. These terms are relative concepts and are described in relation to the direction shown in the drawing.

[0014] Terms such as “includes” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof as described in the specification, and should be understood not to preemptively exclude the presence or possibility of adding one or more other features, numbers, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0015] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art in which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an overly idealistic or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a drawing showing the folded state of the electronic device shown in Figure 1.

[0018] Referring to Figure 1, the electronic device ED may be a device that is activated in response to an electrical signal and displays an image. For example, the electronic device ED may be a large device such as a television or an outdoor billboard, or a medium-sized device such as a monitor, mobile phone, tablet, navigation system, or game console. However, the embodiments of the electronic device ED are illustrative and are not limited to any one of them without departing from the concept of the present invention. In this embodiment, the electronic device ED is illustrated as an example mobile phone.

[0019] The electronic device ED according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a rectangular shape with a short side extending in a first direction DR1 and a long side extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, it is not limited to this, and the electronic device ED may have various shapes such as circles and polygons. The electronic device ED may be flexible.

[0020] Hereinafter, the direction that intersects substantially perpendicularly with the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as the third direction DR3. Furthermore, in this specification, "in a plan view" can be defined as the view from the third direction DR3.

[0021] The electronic device ED may include a folding region FA and a plurality of non-folding regions NFA1, NFA2. The non-folding regions NFA1, NFA2 may include a first non-folding region NFA1 and a second non-folding region NFA2. The folding region FA may be positioned between the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2. The first non-folding region NFA1, the folding region FA, and the second non-folding region NFA2 may be arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0022] For illustrative purposes, one folding region FA and two non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 are shown, but the number of folding region FA and non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 is not limited to these. For example, the electronic device ED may include more than two non-folding regions and multiple folding regions positioned between the non-folding regions.

[0023] The top surface of the electronic device ED can be defined as a display surface DS, which may have planes defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. An image IM generated by the electronic device ED can be provided to the user through the display surface DS.

[0024] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image, while the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA can surround the display area DA and define the frame of an electronic device ED that is printed in a predetermined color.

[0025] Referring to Figure 2, the electronic device ED may be a foldable electronic device ED that can be folded or unfolded. For example, the electronic device ED can be folded by folding a folding axis FX parallel to a second direction DR2 in the folding region FA. The folding axis FX can be defined as a major axis parallel to the long side of the electronic device ED. When the electronic device ED is folded, the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 face each other, and the electronic device ED can be in-folded so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, although not shown, the electronic device ED can be out-folded around the folding axis FX so that the display surface DS is exposed to the outside. Also, although not shown, the electronic device ED may be in-folded and out-folded simultaneously.

[0026] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device shown in Figure 1.

[0027] Referring to Figure 3, the electronic device ED may include a display device DD, an electronic module EM, a power supply module PSM, and a hinge module EDC. Although not shown, the electronic device ED may further include a device structure for controlling the folding operation of the display device DD (e.g., a hinge section HGP (see Figure 10)). The hinge section HGP (see Figure 10) will be described in detail below.

[0028] The display device DD can generate images and sense external inputs. The display device DD may include a window module WM and a display module DM. The window module WM can provide the front of the electronic device ED. The window module WM can be positioned on top of the display module DM to protect it. The window module WM can transmit light generated by the display module DM and provide it to the user.

[0029] The display module DM may include a display panel DP. Although only the display panel DP is shown in the stacked structure of the display module DM in Figure 3, the display module DM may substantially include multiple components arranged above and below the display panel DP. The detailed stacked structure of the display module DM will be described in detail below. The display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA corresponding to the display area DA and non-display area NDA of the electronic device ED in Figure 1.

[0030] The display module DM may include a data drive unit DDV located on the non-display area NDA of the display panel DP. The data drive unit DDV can be manufactured directly as a circuit chip and mounted on the non-display area NDA. However, it is not limited to this, and the data drive unit DDV can also be mounted on a flexible circuit board connected to the display panel DP.

[0031] The electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM can be housed within the hinge module EDC. Exemplarily, Figure 3 illustrates the electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM exposed to the outside of the hinge module EDC. Although not shown, the electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM can be connected to each other via a separate flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM can control the operation of the display device DD. The power supply module PSM can supply power to the electronic module EM.

[0032] The hinge module EDC can house a display device DD, an electronic module EM, and a power supply module PSM. The hinge module EDC can include two first and second cases HS1 and HS2 to fold the display device DD. The first and second cases HS1 and HS2 can be extended in the second direction DR2 and arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0033] The hinge module EDC may further include a cover plate SPT. The cover plate SPT can be positioned on the first and second cases HS1 and HS2. The cover plate SPT may include a first cover plate SPT1, a wing plate WPT, and a second cover plate SPT2. The first cover plate SPT1 and the wing plate WPT can be superimposed on the first case HS1. The second cover plate SPT2 can be superimposed on the second case HS2. The cover plate SPT is described in detail below.

[0034] Figure 4 is a block diagram of the electronic device shown in Figure 3.

[0035] Referring to Figure 4, the electronic device ED may include an electronic module EM, a power supply module PSM, and a display device DD. The electronic module EM may include a control module 10, a wireless communication module 20, an image input module 30, an acoustic input module 40, an acoustic output module 50, a memory 60, and an external interface module 70, etc. The modules may be mounted on a circuit board or electrically connected via a flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM may be electrically connected to the power supply module PSM.

[0036] The control module 10 can control the overall operation of the electronic device ED. For example, the control module 10 can activate or deactivate the display device DD in response to user input. The control module 10 can also control the image input module 30, the sound input module 40, and the sound output module 50, etc., in response to user input. The control module 10 may include at least one microprocessor.

[0037] The wireless communication module 20 can send and receive wireless signals with other terminals using Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi. The wireless communication module 20 can send and receive voice signals using a general communication line. The wireless communication module 20 may include a transmitting circuit 22 that modulates and transmits the signal to be transmitted, and a receiving circuit 24 that demodulates the received signal.

[0038] The image input module 30 can process image signals and convert them into image data that can be displayed on the display device DD. The acoustic input module 40 can receive external acoustic signals via a microphone in recording mode or voice recognition mode, etc., and convert them into electrical audio data. The acoustic output module 50 can convert acoustic data received from the wireless communication module 20 or acoustic data stored in the memory 60 and output it externally.

[0039] The external interface module 70 can serve as an interface connected to an external charger, a wired / wireless data port, and a card socket (e.g., a memory card, SIM / UIM card).

[0040] The power module (PSM) can supply the power necessary for the overall operation of the electronic device (ED). The power module (PSM) can include a standard battery device.

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display module shown in Figure 3.

[0042] Referring to Figure 5, the display module DM may include a display panel DP, an input sensing unit ISP placed on the display panel DP, an anti-reflective layer RPL placed on the input sensing unit ISP, and a panel protection layer PPL placed beneath the display panel DP. The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. For example, the display panel DP may include a flexible substrate and a plurality of elements placed on the flexible substrate.

[0043] The display panel DP according to one embodiment of the present invention is an emissive display panel and is not particularly limited. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic emissive display panel or an inorganic emissive display panel. The emissive layer of an organic emissive display panel may contain organic emissive materials. The emissive layer of an inorganic emissive display panel may contain quantum dots and quantum loads, etc. Hereinafter, the display panel DP will be described as an organic emissive display panel.

[0044] The input sensing unit (ISP) may include multiple sensor units (not shown) for sensing external inputs using a capacitive method. The input sensing unit (ISP) can be formed directly on the display panel (DP) during the manufacturing of the display module (DM).

[0045] The anti-reflective layer RPL can be placed on the input sensing unit ISP. The anti-reflective layer RPL can be formed on the input sensing unit ISP during the manufacturing of the display module DM. The anti-reflective layer RPL can be defined as an external light anti-reflective film. The anti-reflective layer RPL can reduce the reflectivity of external light incident from the display device DD toward the display panel DP.

[0046] Exemplary, the input sensing unit ISP may be formed directly on the display panel DP, and the anti-reflective layer RPL may be formed directly on top of the input sensing unit ISP, but embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the input sensing unit ISP may be manufactured separately and attached to the display panel DP by an adhesive layer, and the anti-reflective layer RPL may be manufactured separately and attached to the input sensing unit ISP by an adhesive layer.

[0047] The display panel DP, input sensing unit ISP, and anti-reflective layer RPL can be defined as an electronic panel EP.

[0048] The panel protection layer (PPL) can be placed beneath the display panel (DP). The panel protection layer (PPL) can protect the underside of the display panel (DP). The panel protection layer (PPL) can contain flexible plastic materials. For example, the panel protection layer (PPL) can contain polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0049] Figure 6 is an illustrative diagram showing a cross-section of the display panel shown in Figure 5.

[0050] As an example, Figure 6 shows a cross-section of the display panel DP as viewed from the second direction DR2.

[0051] Referring to Figure 6, the display panel DP can include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the substrate SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0052] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include glass or a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI). The display element layer DP-OLED may be placed on the display area DA.

[0053] Multiple pixels can be arranged in the circuit element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED. Each pixel may include a transistor located in the circuit element layer DP-CL and a light-emitting element located in the display element layer DP-OLED and connected to the transistor. The pixel configuration is described in detail in Figure 8.

[0054] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be placed on the circuit element layer DP-CL so as to cover the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can protect the pixels from moisture, oxygen, and external foreign substances.

[0055] Figure 7 is a plan view of the display module shown in Figure 3.

[0056] Referring to Figure 7, the display module DM can include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and an emission driver EDV.

[0057] The display panel DP may include a first region AA1, a second region AA2, and a bending region BA between the first region AA1 and the second region AA2. The bending region BA may extend in the second direction DR2, and the first region AA1, the bending region BA, and the second region AA2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0058] The first region AA1 may include a display region DA and a non-display region NDA surrounding the display region DA. The non-display region NDA may enclose the display region DA. The display region DA is the region where the image is displayed, and the non-display region NDA may be the region where the image is not displayed. The second region AA2 and the bending region BA may be regions where the image is not displayed.

[0059] When viewed in the second direction DR2, the first region AA1 may include a first non-folding region NFA1, a second non-folding region NFA2, and a folding region FA between the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2.

[0060] The display panel DP may include multiple pixels PX, multiple scan lines SL1 to SLm, multiple data lines DL1 to DLn, multiple light-emitting lines EL1 to Elm, and first and second control lines CSL1 and CSL2, a power line PL, multiple coupling lines CNL, and multiple pads PD. m and n are natural numbers. The pixels PX are arranged in the display area DA and can be coupled to the scan lines SL1 to SLm, data lines DL1 to DLn, and light-emitting lines EL1 to Elm.

[0061] The scanning drive unit SDV and the light emission drive unit EDV can be placed in the non-display area NDA. The scanning drive unit SDV and the light emission drive unit EDV can be placed in the non-display areas NDA adjacent to each other on both sides of the first area AA1, which faces each other in the second direction DR2. The data drive unit DDV can be placed in the second area AA2. The data drive unit DDV can be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the second area AA2.

[0062] Scanning lines SL1 to SLm can be extended in the second direction DR2 and connected to the scanning drive unit SDV. Data lines DL1 to DLn can be extended in the first direction DR1 and connected to the data drive unit DDV via the bending region BA. Light emission lines EL1 to ELm can be extended in the second direction DR2 and connected to the light emission drive unit EDV.

[0063] The power line PL can be extended in the first direction DR1 and placed in the non-display area NDA. The power line PL can be placed between the display area DA and the light-emitting drive unit EDV, but is not limited to this, and may also be placed between the display area DA and the scanning drive unit SDV.

[0064] The power line PL can be extended to the second region AA2 via the bending region BA. The power line PL can be extended toward the lower end of the second region AA2 in a plan view. The power line PL can receive the drive voltage.

[0065] The coupling line CNL can be extended in the second direction DR2 and arranged in the first direction DR1. The coupling line CNL can be connected to the power line PL and the pixel PX. The drive voltage can be applied to the pixel PX through the power line PL and coupling line CNL, which are connected to each other.

[0066] The first control line CSL1 is connected to the scanning drive unit SDV and can be extended towards the lower end of the second region AA2 via the bending region BA. The second control line CSL2 is connected to the light emission drive unit EDV and can be extended towards the lower end of the second region AA2 via the bending region BA. The data drive unit DDV can be positioned between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0067] In a plan view, the pad PD can be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the second region AA2. The data drive unit DDV, power line PL, first control line CSL1, and second control line CSL2 can be connected to the pad PD.

[0068] Data lines DL1 to DLn can be connected to the corresponding pads PD via the data drive unit DDV. For example, data lines DL1 to DLn can be connected to the data drive unit DDV, and the data drive unit DDV can be connected to the pads PD corresponding to each of the data lines DL1 to DLn.

[0069] Although not shown in the diagram, a printed circuit board can be connected to the pad PD, and a timing controller and voltage generator can be arranged on the printed circuit board. The timing controller can be manufactured as an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the printed circuit board. The timing controller and voltage generator can be connected to the pad PD via the printed circuit board.

[0070] The timing controller can control the operation of the scanning drive unit SDV, the data drive unit DDV, and the light emission drive unit EDV. The timing controller can generate scanning control signals, data control signals, and light emission control signals in response to control signals received from an external source. The voltage generation unit can generate drive voltages.

[0071] Scanning control signals can be provided to the scanning drive unit SDV via the first control line CSL1. Light emission control signals can be provided to the light emission drive unit EDV via the second control line CSL2. Data control signals can be provided to the data drive unit DDV. The timing controller can receive image signals from an external source, convert the data format of the image signals to match the interface specifications with the data drive unit DDV, and provide it to the data drive unit DDV.

[0072] The scanning drive unit (SDV) can generate multiple scanning signals in response to a scanning control signal. These scanning signals can be applied to pixels PX through scanning lines SL1 to SLm. The scanning signals can be applied to pixels PX sequentially.

[0073] The data drive unit DDV can generate multiple data voltages corresponding to the image signal in response to a data control signal. The data voltages can be applied to the pixel PX through data lines DL1 to DLn. The light emission drive unit EDV can generate multiple light emission signals in response to a light emission control signal. The light emission signals can be applied to the pixel PX through light emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0074] A pixel PX can receive a data voltage in response to a scanning signal. A pixel PX can display an image by emitting light with a brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to a light emission signal. The light emission time of a pixel PX can be controlled by the light emission signal.

[0075] Figure 8 is an illustrative diagram showing a cross-section of an electronic panel corresponding to any one of the pixels shown in Figure 7.

[0076] Referring to Figure 8, a pixel PX may include a transistor TR and a light-emitting element OLED. The light-emitting element OLED may include a first electrode AE ​​(or anode), a second electrode CE (or cathode), a hole control layer HCL, an electron control layer ECL, and a light-emitting layer EML.

[0077] The transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED can be arranged on a substrate SUB. While one transistor TR is illustrated exemplarily, the pixel PX can substantially include multiple transistors and at least one capacitor for driving the light-emitting element OLED.

[0078] The display area DA may include an emitting area PA corresponding to each pixel PX and a non-emitting area NPA surrounding the emitting area PA. The light-emitting element OLED can be placed in the emitting area PA.

[0079] A buffer layer BFL is placed on a substrate SUB, and the buffer layer BFL may be an inorganic layer. A semiconductor pattern can be placed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include polysilicon, amorphous silicon, or metal oxide.

[0080] The semiconductor pattern can be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. The semiconductor pattern may contain high-doping and low-doping regions. The conductivity of the high-doping region is greater than that of the low-doping region and can effectively function as the source and drain electrodes of a transistor (TR). The low-doping region can effectively correspond to the active (or channel) of the transistor.

[0081] The source S, active A, and drain D of the transistor TR can be formed from a semiconductor pattern. A first insulating layer INS1 can be placed on the semiconductor pattern. The gate G of the transistor TR can be placed on the first insulating layer INS1. A second insulating layer INS2 can be placed on the gate G. A third insulating layer INS3 can be placed on the second insulating layer INS2.

[0082] The connecting electrode CNE may include a first connecting electrode CNE1 and a second connecting electrode CNE2 to connect the transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED. The first connecting electrode CNE1 is placed on a third insulating layer INS3 and can be connected to a drain D through a first contact hole CH1 defined in the first to third insulating layers INS1 to INS3.

[0083] A fourth insulating layer INS4 can be placed on the first connecting electrode CNE1. A fifth insulating layer INS5 can be placed on the fourth insulating layer INS4. A second connecting electrode CNE2 can be placed on the fifth insulating layer INS5. The second connecting electrode CNE2 can be connected to the first connecting electrode CNE1 through a second contact hole CH2 defined in the fourth and fifth insulating layers INS4 and INS5.

[0084] A sixth insulating layer INS6 can be placed on the second connecting electrode CNE2. The layers from the buffer layer BFL to the sixth insulating layer INS6 can be defined as circuit element layers DP-CL. The first insulating layer INS1 to the sixth insulating layer INS6 may be inorganic or organic layers.

[0085] A first electrode AE ​​can be placed on the sixth insulating layer INS6. The first electrode AE ​​can be connected to a second connecting electrode CNE2 through a third contact hole CH3 defined in the sixth insulating layer INS6. A pixel definition film PDL can be placed on the first electrode AE ​​and the sixth insulating layer INS6, with an opening PX_OP defined to expose a predetermined portion of the first electrode AE.

[0086] The hole control layer (HCL) can be placed on the first electrode (AE) and the pixel definition layer (PDL). The hole control layer (HCL) may include a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

[0087] The EML (Emission-Moisture Layer) can be placed on the Hole Control Layer (HCL). The EML can be placed in the region corresponding to the aperture PX_OP. The EML can contain organic and / or inorganic materials. The EML can generate one of the following light colors: red, green, and blue.

[0088] The electron control layer (ECL) can be placed on the light-emitting layer (EML) and the hole control layer (HCL). The electron control layer (ECL) may include an electron transport layer and an electron injection layer. The hole control layer (HCL) and the electron control layer (ECL) can be placed in common in the light-emitting region (PA) and the non-light-emitting region (NPA).

[0089] The second electrode CE can be placed on the electronic control layer ECL. The second electrode CE can be placed in common with the pixel PX. The layer on which the light-emitting element OLED is placed can be defined as the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0090] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be placed on the second electrode CE to cover the pixel PX. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may include a first encapsulation layer EN1 placed on the second electrode CE, a second encapsulation layer EN2 placed on the first encapsulation layer EN1, and a third encapsulation layer EN3 placed on the second encapsulation layer EN2.

[0091] The first and third sealing layers EN1 and EN3 include an inorganic insulating layer that can protect the pixel PX from moisture / oxygen. The second sealing layer EN2 includes an organic insulating layer that can protect the pixel PX from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0092] A first voltage can be applied to the first electrode AE ​​through the transistor TR, and a second voltage having a lower level than the first voltage can be applied to the second electrode CE. Holes injected into the light-emitting layer EML combine with electrons to form excitons, and as the excitons transition to the bottom state, the light-emitting element OLED can emit light.

[0093] An input sensing unit (ISP) can be placed on the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE). The input sensing unit (ISP) can be manufactured directly on the upper surface of the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE).

[0094] Since the base layer BS is disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE, the base layer BS can include an inorganic insulating layer. At least one inorganic insulating layer can be provided as the base layer BS on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0095] The input sensing unit ISP may include a first conductive pattern CTL1 and a second conductive pattern CTL2 disposed on the first conductive pattern CTL1. The first conductive pattern CTL1 may be disposed on a base layer BS. An insulating layer TINS ​​may be disposed on the base layer BS so as to cover the first conductive pattern CTL1. The insulating layer TINS ​​may include an inorganic insulating layer or an organic insulating layer. The second conductive pattern CTL2 may be disposed on the insulating layer TINS.

[0096] The first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can be superimposed on the non-emitting region NPA. Although not shown in the figures, the first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can be arranged on the non-emitting region NPA between the emitting regions PA and may have a mesh shape.

[0097] The first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can form the sensors of the input sensing unit ISP described above. For example, the mesh-shaped first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can be separated from each other in a predetermined region to form a sensor. A portion of the second conductive pattern CTL2 can be connected to the first conductive pattern CTL1.

[0098] An anti-reflective layer RPL can be placed on the second conductive pattern CTL2. The anti-reflective layer RPL may include a black matrix BM and multiple color filters CF. The black matrix BM can be superimposed on the non-emitting region NPA, and the color filters CF can each be superimposed on the emitting region PA.

[0099] The black matrix BM can be placed on the insulating layer TINS ​​so as to cover the second conductive pattern CTL2. The black matrix BM can have an aperture B_OP superimposed on the light-emitting region PA and aperture PX_OP. The black matrix BM can absorb and block light. The width of aperture B_OP can be greater than the width of aperture PX_OP.

[0100] The color filter CF can be placed on the insulating layer TINS ​​and the black matrix BM. The color filter CF can be placed in each of the openings B_OP. A planarizing insulating layer PINS can be placed on the color filter CF. The planarizing insulating layer PINS can provide a flat top surface.

[0101] When external light directed toward the display panel DP is reflected by the display panel DP and provided again to the external user, the user can see the external light as if it were a mirror. To prevent this phenomenon, the anti-reflective layer RPL may, for example, include multiple color filters CF that display the same color as the pixels PX of the display panel DP. The color filters CF can filter the external light with the same color as the pixels PX. In such a case, the external light does not need to be visible to the user.

[0102] However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the anti-reflective layer RPL may include a polarizing film to reduce the reflectance of external light. The polarizing film may be manufactured separately and bonded to the input sensing unit ISP by an adhesive layer. The polarizing film may include a phase delayer and / or a polarizer.

[0103] Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of the display device corresponding to the line I-I' shown in Figure 7. Figure 9B is a drawing showing the bent state of the bending region shown in Figure 9A.

[0104] As an example, Figure 9A is a diagram showing a part of the display unit DSP, a part of the support plate PLT, and a part of the window module WM.

[0105] Referring to Figure 9A, the display device DD may include a display unit DSP, a window module WM positioned on the display unit DSP, and a support plate PLT positioned below the display unit DSP. The support plate PLT can support the display module DM. The window module WM may include a window WIN, a window protective layer WP, a hard coating layer HC, and first and second adhesive layers AL1 and AL2.

[0106] The display unit DSP may include an electronic panel EP, an impact absorption layer ISL, a panel protection layer PPL, a barrier layer BRL, and third to sixth adhesive layers AL3 to AL6. The impact absorption layer ISL, electronic panel EP, panel protection layer PPL, third adhesive layer AL3, and fourth adhesive layer AL4 can be defined as a display module DM. The configuration of the electronic panel EP and panel protection layer PPL has been described in detail in Figure 5, so a further explanation will be omitted.

[0107] The shock-absorbing layer ISL can be placed on the electronic panel EP. The shock-absorbing layer ISL can protect the electronic panel EP by absorbing external shocks applied from above the display device DD toward the electronic panel EP. The shock-absorbing layer ISL can be manufactured in the form of a stretched film.

[0108] The impact-absorbing layer (ISL) may contain a flexible plastic material. A flexible plastic material can be defined as a synthetic resin film. For example, the impact-absorbing layer (ISL) may contain a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0109] WindowWIN can be placed on top of the impact absorption layer ISL. WindowWIN can protect the electronic panel EP from external scratches. WindowWIN can be optically transparent. WindowWIN may include glass, but is not limited to glass; WindowWIN may also include a synthetic resin film.

[0110] WindowWIN can have a multilayer or single-layer structure. For example, WindowWIN may include multiple synthetic resin films bonded together with adhesive, or it may include a glass substrate and a synthetic resin film bonded together with adhesive.

[0111] The window protection layer WP can be placed on the window WIN. The window protection layer WP may contain a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. The hard coating layer HC can be placed on the upper surface of the window protection layer WP.

[0112] The printing layer PIT can be placed on the underside of the window protection layer WP. The printing layer PIT may be black, but its color is not limited to black. The printing layer PIT can be adjacent to the frame of the window protection layer WP.

[0113] The barrier layer BRL can be placed beneath the panel protective layer PPL. The barrier layer BRL can increase resistance to compressive forces caused by external pressure. Therefore, the barrier layer BRL can play a role in preventing deformation of the electronic panel EP. The barrier layer BRL can contain flexible plastic materials such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0114] The barrier layer BRL can have a light-absorbing color. For example, the barrier layer BRL can be black. In such a case, when viewing the display module DM, the components placed beneath the barrier layer BRL do not need to be visible.

[0115] The first adhesive layer AL1 can be placed between the window protection layer WP and the window WIN. The first adhesive layer AL1 can bond the window protection layer WP and the window WIN together. The first adhesive layer AL1 can cover the printing layer PIT.

[0116] The second adhesive layer AL2 can be placed between the window WIN and the impact absorption layer ISL. The second adhesive layer AL2 allows the window WIN and the impact absorption layer ISL to bond to each other.

[0117] The third adhesive layer AL3 can be placed between the impact absorption layer ISL and the electronic panel EP. The third adhesive layer AL3 can bond the impact absorption layer ISL and the electronic panel EP together.

[0118] A fourth adhesive layer AL4 can be placed between the electronic panel EP and the panel protective layer PPL. The electronic panel EP and the panel protective layer PPL can be bonded to each other by the fourth adhesive layer AL4.

[0119] A fifth adhesive layer AL5 can be placed between the panel protective layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL. The panel protective layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL can be bonded together by the fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0120] A sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be placed between the barrier layer BRL and the support plate PLT. Specifically, the support plate PLT can be placed below the barrier layer BRL, and the sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be placed between the barrier layer BRL and the support plate PLT. The barrier layer BRL and the support plate PLT can be bonded together by the sixth adhesive layer AL6.

[0121] The sixth adhesive layer AL6 may be superimposed on the first and second non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2, but not on the folding region FA. In other words, the sixth adhesive layer AL6 does not have to be placed in the folding region FA.

[0122] The first to sixth adhesive layers AL1 to AL6 may include, but are not limited to, transparent adhesives such as pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA) or optically clear adhesives (OCA).

[0123] The thickness of the panel protection layer PPL can be less than the thickness of the window protection layer WP, and the thickness of the barrier layer BRL can be less than the thickness of the panel protection layer PPL. The thickness of the electronic panel EP can be less than the thickness of the barrier layer BRL and may be the same as the thickness of the window WIN. The thickness of the impact absorption layer ISL can be less than the thickness of the electronic panel EP.

[0124] The thickness of the first adhesive layer AL1 is the same as the thickness of the barrier layer BRL, and the thicknesses of the second adhesive layer AL2 and the third adhesive layer AL3 may be the same as the thickness of the panel protective layer PPL. The thickness of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be the same as the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0125] The thickness of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 and the fifth adhesive layer AL5 can be less than the thickness of the electronic panel EP and greater than the thickness of the shock absorption layer ISL. The thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be less than the thickness of the shock absorption layer ISL. The thickness of the hard coating layer HC can be less than the thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL6.

[0126] The electronic panel EP, the impact absorption layer ISL, the panel protection layer PPL, and the third and fourth adhesive layers AL3 and AL4 may have the same width as each other. The window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1 may have the same width as each other. The barrier layer BRL and the fifth and sixth adhesive layers AL5 and AL6 may have the same width as each other.

[0127] The widths of the electronic panel EP, the impact absorption layer ISL, the panel protection layer PPL, and the third and fourth adhesive layers AL3 and AL4 can be greater than the widths of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The frames of the electronic panel EP, the impact absorption layer ISL, the panel protection layer PPL, and the third and fourth adhesive layers AL3 and AL4 can be positioned outside the frames of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0128] The width of window WIN and the second adhesive layer AL2 can be smaller than the width of window protective layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The width of the second adhesive layer AL2 can be smaller than the width of window WIN. The frame of window WIN can be positioned inside the frame of window protective layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The frame of the second adhesive layer AL2 can be positioned inside the frame of window WIN.

[0129] The widths of the barrier layer BRL and the fifth and sixth adhesive layers AL5 and AL6 can be smaller than the widths of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The frames of the barrier layer BRL and the fifth and sixth adhesive layers AL5 and AL6 can be positioned inside the frames of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0130] The support plate PLT can be positioned below the display unit DSP to support the display unit DSP. The support plate PLT can be positioned below the electronic panel EP to support the electronic panel EP. The width of the support plate PLT may be substantially the same as the width of the electronic panel EP. The support plate PLT may be more rigid than the display unit DSP.

[0131] The support plate PLT may contain non-metallic materials. For example, the support plate PLT may contain a reinforced fiber composite material. The reinforced fiber composite material may be carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP).

[0132] The support plate PLT can be made lighter by including a reinforcing fiber composite material. In one embodiment, the support plate PLT, by including a reinforcing fiber composite material, can have a lighter weight than a metal support plate made of metal material, while having the same level of modulus and strength as a metal support plate.

[0133] Furthermore, by including a reinforcing fiber composite material, the shape of the support plate PLT can be more easily processed compared to a metal support plate. For example, a support plate PLT containing a reinforcing fiber composite material can be more easily processed through a laser process or a microblasting process. However, this is illustrative and not limited to the above, and the support plate PLT may also contain metallic material.

[0134] The support plate PLT may include a first non-folding portion PLT1, a folding portion PLF, and a second non-folding portion PLT2. The first non-folding portion PLT1 can be superimposed on the first non-folding region NFA1. The folding portion PLF can be superimposed on the folding region FA. The second non-folding portion PLT2 can be superimposed on the second non-folding region NFA2.

[0135] Multiple openings OP can be defined in the folding portion PLF. The openings OP can be formed by penetrating the support plate PLT in the third direction DR3. When viewed in the second direction DR2, the openings OP can be spaced apart in the first direction DR1. The openings OP can be formed through the aforementioned laser process or microblasting process. The width of the portion in which the openings OP are formed can be smaller than the width of the opened portion of the sixth adhesive layer AL6.

[0136] By defining the opening OP as the portion of the support plate PLT that overlaps the folding region FA, the flexibility of the portion of the support plate PLT that overlaps the folding region FA can be increased. As a result, the support plate PLT can be folded at the center of the folding region FA.

[0137] The folding section PLF may include branch sections BR. The branch sections BR can be positioned between adjacent openings OP in the first direction DR1.

[0138] Although not shown in the diagram, the display device DD may further include a digitizer located beneath the support plate PLT, a shielding layer, and heat dissipation.

[0139] Referring to Figure 9B, the panel protection layer PPL and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 do not necessarily have to be located beneath the bending region BA. The panel protection layer PPL and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 can be located beneath the second region AA2 of the electronic panel EP. The data drive unit DDV can be located beneath the second region AA2 of the electronic panel EP.

[0140] The printed circuit board (PCB) can be connected to the second region AA2 of the electronic panel EP. The printed circuit board (PCB) can be connected to one side of the second region AA2. The bending region BA can be bent so that the second region AA2 is positioned below the first region AA1. Therefore, the data drive unit DDV and the printed circuit board (PCB) can be positioned below the first region AA1.

[0141] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge module shown in Figure 3. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the connection between the first plate and the wing plate shown in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a plan view of the hinge case shown in Figure 10.

[0142] As an example, Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the first cover plate SPT1 and a portion of the wing plate WPT.

[0143] In the components shown in Figures 10 to 12, explanations for components identical to those described in the aforementioned drawings will be omitted or simplified.

[0144] Referring to Figure 10, the hinge module EDC may include a first case HS1, a second case HS2, a hinge case HCS, multiple hinge sections HGP, and a cover plate SPT.

[0145] The first case HS1 can be superimposed on the first non-folding region NFA1 (see Figure 1). The second case HS2 can be superimposed on the second non-folding region NFA2 (see Figure 1). The first case HS1 and the second case HS2 can be arranged in the first direction DR1. In plan view, each of the first case HS1 and the second case HS2 can be parallel to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0146] An enclosure groove AGR can be defined on the top surface of each of the first case HS1 and the second case HS2. The electronic module EM (see Figure 3) and the power module PSM (see Figure 3) can be housed in the enclosure groove AGR defined in the first and second cases HS1 and HS2.

[0147] Referring to Figures 10 and 12, the hinge case HCS can be positioned between the first case HS1 and the second case HS2. The hinge case HCS can be superimposed on the folding region FA (see Figure 1). The hinge case HCS can be extended in the second direction DR2. A hinge housing groove HGR can be defined on the upper surface of the hinge case HCS.

[0148] The hinge case HCS may include a rod portion BAP and a plurality of coupling protrusions HPT. The rod portion BAP may have a rod shape extended in a second direction DR2. The hinge housing groove HGR may be defined by the rod portion BAP.

[0149] The two pairs of coupling protrusions (HPTs) can be separated from each other in the second direction DR2. Each of the pair of coupling protrusions (HPTs) can be separated from each other in the second direction DR2. Although two pairs of coupling protrusions (HPTs) are shown exemplarily, the number of coupling protrusions (HPTs) can vary depending on the number of hinges (HGPs). The coupling protrusions (HPTs) can have a circular shape.

[0150] The hinge portions HGP can be separated from each other in the second direction DR2. The hinge portions HGP can be positioned in the hinge housing groove HGR between the first case HS1 and the second case HS2. The hinge portions HGP can be coupled to the hinge case HCS. Each of the hinge portions HGP can be coupled to the corresponding coupling projection HPT within the coupling projection HPT in the hinge housing groove HGR.

[0151] The hinge portion HGP can be superimposed on the folding region FA (see Figure 1). The hinge portion HGP can define a biaxial rotation axis between the first case HS1 and the second case HS2, parallel to the second direction DR2. The biaxial rotation axis defined by the hinge portion HGP is described in detail below.

[0152] Referring to Figures 3, 10, and 11, the cover plate SPT may include a first cover plate SPT1, a wing plate WPT, and a second cover plate SPT2. The first cover plate SPT1 may be parallel to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The first cover plate SPT1 may be rectangular in shape, having a short side extended in the first direction DR1 and a long side extended in the second direction DR2.

[0153] The first cover plate SPT1 can be superimposed on the first case HS1. The first cover plate SPT1 can be superimposed on the first non-folding region NFA1 (see Figure 1).

[0154] As shown in Figure 11, the first cover plate SPT1 may include a first flat section PLA1 and a wing guide section PGD. The upper surface of the first flat section PLA1 may be parallel to a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The wing guide section PGD may be positioned on the lower surface of the first flat section PLA1. The wing guide section PGD may be positioned adjacent to one side of the first flat section PLA1 facing the wing plate WPT, among the two sides of the first flat section PLA1 facing each other in the first direction DR1. The wing guide section PGD extends downward on the lower surface of that side of the first flat section PLA1 and toward the wing plate WPT in the first direction DR1. In the example in Figure 11, the wing guide section PGD protrudes from the lower surface of the first flat section PLA1 at a desired distance from the end of that side of the first flat section PLA1, extending toward the wing plate WPT while having a curved portion. The curved portion is formed in an arc shape having a curved lower surface and a curved upper surface. The end of the wing guide portion PGD facing the wing plate WPT extends so as to be able to cover at least a part of the wing projection PPR described later from below. Furthermore, the end of the wing guide portion PGD facing the wing plate WPT extends in the first direction DR1 to a point where it does not contact the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2 of the wing plate WPT, when the first cover plate SPT1 and the wing plate WPT are aligned along a plane including the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0155] The wing guide groove PGR can be defined by the lower surface of the first flat portion PLA1 and the upper surface of the wing guide portion PGD. The wing guide groove PGR can be extended from one side of the first flat portion PLA1 in the first direction DR1. In the example of Figure 11, the wing guide groove PGR is formed by the space enclosed by the end of the first flat portion PLA1, the wing guide portion PGD, and the wing projection PPR.

[0156] The wing plate WPT can be parallel to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The wing plate WPT can extend further in the second direction DR2 than in the first direction DR1.

[0157] The wing plate WPT can be positioned on one side adjacent to the second case HS2 among the two sides of the first cover plate SPT1 that face each other in the first direction DR1.

[0158] The wing plate WPT may include a second flat section PLA2 and a wing projection PPR. The second flat section PLA2 may be parallel to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The wing projection PPR may be positioned on the lower surface of the second flat section PLA2. The wing projection PPR may be positioned on one side of the second flat section PLA2 adjacent to the first cover plate SPT1, while the two sides of the second flat section PLA2 face each other in the first direction DR1. The wing projection PPR protrudes downward from the lower surface of that side of the second flat section PLA2 and toward the first flat section PLA1 in the first direction DR1. In the example in Figure 11, the tip of the wing projection PPR toward the first flat section PLA1 protrudes so as to overlap a portion of the lower surface of the first flat section PLA1. The lower surface of the wing projection PPR may be arc-shaped and may face the curved arc-shaped upper surface of the wing guide section PGD. For example, it is preferable that the arc-shaped curvature of the lower surface of the wing projection PPR and the arc-shaped curvature of the upper surface of the wing guide portion PGD are of similar magnitude.

[0159] When the first cover plate SPT1 and the wing plate WPT are placed on the first case HS1, the wing plate WPT can be coupled so as to rotate relative to the first cover plate SPT1. The wing projection PPR can be placed in the wing guide groove PGR. The wing projection PPR can be moved along the wing guide groove PGR. When the wing projection PPR moves along the wing guide groove PGR, the wing plate WPT can rotate relative to the first cover plate SPT1. In other words, the wing plate WPT is rotatable toward the first cover plate SPT1 about an axis of rotation extending in the second direction DR2. The wing guide groove PGR is formed to have space equal to the angle by which the wing plate WPT can rotate toward the first cover plate SPT1. When the wing plate WPT rotates toward the first cover plate SPT1, the wing projection PPR moves along the wing guide groove PGR. At this time, the wing projection PPR can move such that its arc-shaped lower surface aligns with the arc-shaped upper surface of the wing guide groove PGR, and can, for example, slide.

[0160] Referring to Figures 3 and 10, the second cover plate SPT2 may be rectangular in shape, having a short side extended in the first direction DR1 and a long side extended in the second direction DR2. The second cover plate SPT2 can be superimposed on the second case HS2. The second cover plate SPT2 can be superimposed on the second non-folding region NFA2 (see Figure 1).

[0161] The second cover plate SPT2 can be positioned adjacent to the first cover plate SPT1 on the other side of the wing plate WPT, which is separated from the first cover plate SPT1, while facing each other in the first direction DR1. The wing plate WPT can be positioned between the first cover plate SPT1 and the second cover plate SPT2. The first cover plate SPT1, the wing plate WPT, and the second cover plate SPT2 can be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0162] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge shown in Figure 10. Figure 14A is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the frame and the first rotor. Figure 14B is a cross-sectional view of the frame and the first rotor corresponding to the line II-II' shown in Figure 14A. Figure 15 is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the frame, the first rotor, and the first link.

[0163] In the following, only one of the hinge parts HGP shown in Figure 10 is illustrated, but any other hinge part HGP in Figure 10 can have a substantially identical structure.

[0164] In the components shown in Figures 13 to 15, explanations for components identical to those described in the aforementioned drawings will be omitted or simplified.

[0165] Referring to Figures 13 and 14A, the hinge HGP may include a first rotor RT1, multiple first links LK1, multiple first shaft links SF1, a frame FRM, multiple connecting gears CGR, multiple cams CAM, multiple springs SPR, multiple spring pins PNS, a second rotor RT2, multiple second links LK2, and multiple second shaft links SF2.

[0166] Multiple housing coupling openings CAP can be defined on the upper surface of the frame FRM. The housing coupling openings CAP can be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2. The housing coupling openings CAP can have a shape corresponding to the coupling projection HPT (see Figure 12). Exemplarily, in plan view, the housing coupling openings CAP can have a circular shape. The coupling projection HPT (see Figure 12) can be inserted into the housing coupling openings CAP. Thus, the frame FRM can be coupled to the hinge case HCS (see Figure 12).

[0167] The frame FRM may include a frame body FBD, a first guide projection GPR1, and a second guide projection GPR2. A housing coupling opening CAP may be defined on the upper surface of the frame body FBD. A coupling projection HPT (see Figure 12) may be inserted into the housing coupling opening CAP. In the example of Figure 13, the frame FRM has a pair of arc-shaped frame bodies FBD facing a second direction DR2. The pair of frame bodies FBD are separated by a predetermined distance in the second direction DR2, and there is space between the pair of frame bodies FBD.

[0168] The upper and lower surfaces of the portions adjacent to the first rotor RT1 on both sides of the frame body FBD facing each other in the first direction DR1 may include curved surfaces. The portions of the frame body FBD facing each other in the second direction DR2 may have a curved shape. In other words, each frame body FBD includes an arc-shaped portion extending along the first direction DR1. The frame body FBD also includes a wall portion. The wall portion is connected to the other side of the pair of arc-shaped portions of each frame body FBD that is separated from the first rotor RT1, and extends in the second direction DR2 and also in the third direction DR3. The wall portion is connected to the pair of arc-shaped portions, so that the pair of arc-shaped portions are supported by the wall portion so that they face the second direction DR2.

[0169] The first coupling groove RGR1 can be defined on one side (the side adjacent to the first rotor RT1) of the frame bodies FBD facing each other in the first direction DR1. The first coupling groove RGR1 can extend in the first direction DR1 from one side to the other (in the first direction DR1, from the side adjacent to the first rotor RT1 to the other side separated from the first rotor RT1). In other words, the first coupling groove RGR1 is formed on each of the faces of the pair of frame bodies FBD facing the second direction DR2 (the first inner surface IP1 described later) by the first inner surface IP1 and the first guide projection GPR1, extending from the side adjacent to the first rotor RT1 to the other side separated from the first rotor RT1.

[0170] The second coupling groove RGR2 can be defined on one side of the frame FRM, which faces each other in the first direction DR1. The second coupling groove RGR2 can extend in the first direction DR1 from one side to the other on the frame body FBD, which faces each other in the first direction DR1. The second coupling groove RGR2 can be located above the first coupling groove RGR1.

[0171] The first guide projection GPR1 can be positioned on the first inner surface IP1 of the frame body FBD that defines the first coupling groove RGR1. The first guide projections GPR1 can be positioned on opposing first inner surfaces IP1. The first guide projections GPR1 can extend from the first inner surfaces IP1 in the second direction DR2. That is, the pair of first inner surfaces IP1 are surfaces of the pair of frame bodies FBD that face the second direction DR2 in the arc-shaped portion. Each first inner surface IP1 is aligned with a plane that includes the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. The first guide projection GPR1 protrudes from each of the first inner surfaces IP1 in the second direction DR2. One first guide projection GPR1 protrudes from the first inner surface IP1 on the side facing the other first guide projection GPR1 along the second direction DR2. That is, the pair of first guide projections GPR1 can face each other in the second direction DR2. The pair of first guide projections GPR1 are separated by a predetermined distance in the second direction DR2.

[0172] The first guide projection GPR1 may have a shape that corresponds to both sides of the frame body FBD facing each other in the second direction DR2. The first guide projection GPR1 may have a curved shape. The upper and lower surfaces of the first guide projection GPR1 may be curved. The curvature of the upper and lower surfaces of the first guide projection GPR1 may be the same as the curvature of the upper and lower surfaces of the frame body FBD which has a curved surface. In other words, each first guide projection GPR1 protrudes from the first inner surface IP1 in the arc-shaped portion of each frame body FBD and extends in an arc along the said arc-shaped portion.

[0173] The second guide projection GPR2 can be positioned on the second inner surface IP2 of the frame body FBD that defines the second coupling groove RGR2. The second guide projections GPR2 can be positioned on opposing second inner surface IP2s. The second guide projections GPR2 can extend from the second inner surface IP2 in the second direction DR2. The second guide projections GPR2 can face each other in the second direction DR2. To elaborate further, the wall portion of the frame body FBD has a recess that is indented into the third direction DR3 at the center of the second direction DR2 and at the top of the third direction DR3. The pair of second inner surface IP2s are surfaces that face the second direction DR2 in the recess. Each second inner surface IP2 is aligned with a plane that includes the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. One second guide projection GPR2 protrudes from the second inner surface IP2 on the side facing the other second guide projection GPR2 along the second direction DR2. In other words, the pair of second guide projections GPR2 can face each other in the second direction DR2. A pair of second guide protrusions GPR2 are separated by a predetermined distance in the second direction DR2. In the third direction DR3, there is a separation between the second guide protrusions GPR2 and the wall portion, and this separated portion becomes the second coupling groove RGR2.

[0174] The second guide projection GPR2 can have a curved shape. The upper and lower surfaces of the second guide projection GPR2 can have curved surfaces. In other words, the pair of second guide projections GPR2 are formed in an arc shape. In the example in Figures 14A and 14B, the pair of second guide projections GPR2 are interrupted and not continuous with respect to the pair of first guide projections GPR1.

[0175] The curvature of the upper surface of the first guide projection GPR1 and the curvature of the upper surface of the second guide projection GPR2 can be different from each other. The curvature of the upper surface of the first guide projection GPR1 and the curvature of the upper surface of the second guide projection GPR2 will be described in detail below.

[0176] The first rotor RT1 may include a first body portion BD1 and a first coupling portion AP1. The upper surface of the first body portion BD1 may include a flat surface APL and an inclined surface SL extending from the flat surface APL in a first direction DR1. The flat surface APL may be parallel to a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The first body portion BD1 can be coupled to a first case HS1 (see Figure 10). Although not shown, it can be coupled to the first case HS1 (see Figure 10) by inserting a fixing pin through a first case opening HOP1 defined in the flat surface APL. That is, for example, the first coupling portion AP1 is located outside the first case HS1, and with the first body portion BD1 inserted inside the first case HS1, the first body portion BD1 and the first case HS1 are coupled via the fixing pin by inserting the fixing pin into the first case opening HOP1.

[0177] The height of the inclined surface SL can be lower than the height of the flat surface APL. The height of the inclined surface SL can be lower as it moves further away from the flat surface APL. Of the two sides of the first body portion BD1 facing each other in the first direction DR1, the thickness of one side can be smaller than the thickness of the other side. Of the two sides of the first body portion BD1 facing each other in the first direction DR1, one side can be defined as the side adjacent to the first joint AP1. The portion of the first body portion BD1 corresponding to the inclined surface SL has an inclined surface SL which is an upper surface facing upward in the third direction DR3 and a lower surface facing downward. The inclined surface SL is inclined downward toward the first joint AP1 side. The lower surface is along the planes including the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Therefore, the portion of the first body portion BD1 corresponding to the inclined surface SL has a thickness in the third direction DR3 that decreases along the first direction DR1 toward the side adjacent to the first joint AP1, from the side away from the first joint AP1.

[0178] First sliding grooves SGR1 can be defined on both sides of the first body portion BD1 facing each other in the second direction DR2. The first sliding grooves SGR1 can extend in the first direction DR1 from one side to the other on both sides of the first body portion BD1 facing each other in the first direction DR1. In examples such as Figures 13 and 14A, the first sliding grooves SGR1 are not formed in the portion corresponding to the flat surface APL, but are formed in the portion corresponding to the inclined surface SL. The first sliding grooves SGR1 are formed in a concave shape that recesses into the second direction DR2 on both outer sides of the first body portion BD1 facing the second direction DR2. The depth of the first sliding grooves SGR1 in the second direction DR2 is such that the first sliding portion SLP1 can be inserted.

[0179] The first joint AP1 can extend from the first body BD1 in the first direction DR1. The first joint AP1 can extend from one side of the first body BD1. In plan view, the width of the first joint AP1 in the second direction DR2 can be smaller than the width of the first body BD1 in the second direction DR2. The first joint AP1 can have a curved shape. The upper surface of the first joint AP1 can have a curved surface. In examples such as Figure 13 and Figure 14A, the first joint AP1 extends toward the frame FRM and is arc-shaped. The width of the first body BD1 in the second direction DR2 is about the same as the width of the frame FRM in the second direction DR2. In the second direction DR2, the width of the first joint AP1 is about the same as or greater than the separation distance between a pair of frame bodies FBD. In the second direction DR2, the distance between the outer end face of the first body BD1 and the outer end face of the first joint AP1 is about the same as the width of each frame body FBD.

[0180] The first guide groove GGR1 can be defined on both sides of the first joint AP1 facing each other in the second direction DR2. The first guide groove GGR1 can be extended in the first direction DR1. The first guide groove GGR1 can have a curved shape. In the example in Figure 13, the first guide groove GGR1 is formed concave on the surface of the first joint AP1 facing the second direction DR2. The first guide groove GGR1 is also formed in an arc shape so as to follow the arc shape of the first joint AP1 from one end to the other in the first direction DR1 of the first joint AP1.

[0181] The first rotor RT1 can be coupled to the frame FRM. The first rotor RT1 can be positioned in the first coupling groove RGR1 defined in the frame body FBD. The first rotor RT1 can be coupled to the first guide projection GPR1.

[0182] The first coupling part AP1 can be coupled to the first guide projection GPR1. The first guide projection GPR1 can be positioned in the first guide groove GGR1. The first guide groove GGR1 can have a shape corresponding to the first guide projection GPR1. For example, the arc shape of the first guide projection GPR1 and the first coupling groove RGR1 corresponds to the arc shape of the first guide groove GGR1 and the first coupling part AP1. The first guide projection GPR1 can be fitted into the first guide groove GGR1 by sliding it into the first guide groove GGR1. This allows the first rotor RT1 and the frame FRM to be coupled.

[0183] Referring to Figures 14A and 14B, the first joint AP1 can be rotated along the first guide projection GPR1. The first joint AP1 can be rotated about a first rotation axis RX1 which is parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0184] When the first coupling part AP1 rotates around the first rotation axis RX1, the first body part BD1 connected to the first coupling part AP1 can rotate around the first rotation axis RX1. At this time, the first guide projection GPR1 slides along the first guide groove GGR1. Although not shown in the figures, when the first body part BD1 rotates around the first rotation axis RX1, the first case HS1 (see Figure 10) connected to the first body part BD1 can rotate around the first rotation axis RX1. The rotation of the first case HS1 (see Figure 10) will be described in detail below.

[0185] Referring to Figures 14A and 15, the first link LK1 may include a first link body RTB1, a plurality of first sliding portions SLP1, and a plurality of first projections PTR1. The first link body RTB1 may extend in a first direction DR1. A first shaft opening ROP1 may be defined on one side adjacent to the frame FRM among the two sides of the first link body RTB1 facing each other in the first direction DR1. In examples such as Figure 14A, the first link body RTB1 is plate-shaped.

[0186] Each first sliding portion SLP1 can be positioned on both sides of the first link body RTB1 facing each other in the second direction DR2. The first sliding portions SLP1 can be positioned adjacent to the other side of the first link body RTB1 that is spaced away from the frame FRM, while facing each other in the first direction DR1. Exemplarily, when viewed from the second direction DR2, the first sliding portion SLP1 can have a circular shape. Each first sliding portion SLP1 is formed to project from the first link body RTB1 in the second direction SR2.

[0187] The first projection PTR1 can be positioned on one side (the side adjacent to the frame FRM) of the first link body RTB1, which faces each other in the first direction DR1. The first projection PTR1 can be arranged in a circular pattern. The first projection PTR1 can surround a portion of the first shaft opening ROP1. In examples such as Figures 13, 14A, and 15, the aforementioned one side of the first link body RTB1 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape so as to surround a portion of the first shaft opening ROP1. Multiple first projection PTR1 are formed so as to protrude from the surface of this cylindrical portion of the first link body RTB1. The multiple first projection PTR1 extend along the second direction DR2 and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0188] A pair of first links LK1 can be positioned on either side of a first rotor RT1 facing each other in a second direction DR2. The first rotor RT1 can be positioned between the pair of first links LK1. Each first link LK1 is coupled to a first body portion BD1 via first sliding grooves SGR1 defined on either side of the first body portion BD1 facing each other in a second direction DR2. In this case, a first sliding portion SLP1 can be positioned within the first sliding grooves SGR1.

[0189] The first link LK1 can be positioned on both sides of the frame FRM facing each other in the second direction DR2. The frame FRM can be positioned between a pair of first links LK1. The first shaft link SF1 can be coupled to the frame FRM by passing through the first link body RTB1. The first shaft link SF1 can be coupled to the first shaft coupling groove SOP1 defined in the frame FRM by passing through the first shaft opening ROP1. The first shaft coupling groove SOP1 is formed concavely on the surface of the frame body FBD in the second direction DR2. In examples such as Figure 13, the first shaft coupling groove SOP1 is formed at the upper end position adjacent to the first rotor RT1 of the arc-shaped frame body FBD. In examples such as Figures 13 and 15, at least a portion of the frame FRM is positioned between a pair of first links LK1.

[0190] The first link body RTB1 can be rotated around the first shaft link SF1. The first link body RTB1 can be rotated around the first shaft link SF1 on a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. When the first link body RTB1 rotates around the first shaft link SF1, the first sliding part SLP1 facing the first body part BD1 can move along the first sliding groove SGR1.

[0191] Figure 16A is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the frame and the second link. Figure 16B is a cross-sectional view of the frame, first rotor, and second rotor corresponding to the line III-III' shown in Figure 16A.

[0192] In Figures 16A and 16B, explanations for components that are identical to those described in the previously mentioned drawings will be omitted or simplified.

[0193] Referring to Figures 13 and 16A, the second rotor RT2 may include a second body portion BD2 and a second coupling portion AP2. A pair of second case openings HOP2 may be defined on the upper surface of the second body portion BD2. The pair of second case openings HOP2 may be arranged in a second direction DR2. The second body portion BD2 may be coupled to the second case HS2 (see Figure 10). Although not shown, a fixing pin may be coupled to the second case HS2 (see Figure 10) by passing through the second case openings HOP2. This couples the second rotor RT2 and the second case HS2.

[0194] Second sliding grooves SGR2 can be defined on both sides of the second body portion BD2 that face each other in the second direction DR2. The second sliding grooves SGR2 can extend in the first direction DR1 from one side adjacent to the frame FRM to the other side of the second body portion BD2 that face each other in the first direction DR1. As shown in Figure 16A, etc., the second sliding grooves SGR2 are formed in a concave shape that recesses into the second direction DR2 on both outer sides of the second body portion BD2 that face the second direction DR2. The depth of the second sliding grooves SGR2 in the second direction DR2 is such that the second sliding portion SLP2 can be inserted.

[0195] The second joint AP2 can extend from the second body BD2 in the first direction DR1. The second joint AP2 can extend from one side of the second body BD2 facing each other in the first direction DR1. In plan view, the width of the second joint AP2 in the second direction DR2 can be smaller than the width of the second body BD2 in the second direction DR2. In examples such as Figure 16A, the second joint AP2 extends toward the frame FRM. The width of the second body BD2 in the second direction DR2 is approximately the same as the width of the frame FRM in the second direction DR2. In the second direction DR2, the width of the second joint AP2 is approximately the same as or greater than the separation distance between a pair of frame bodies FBD. In the second direction DR2, the distance between the outer end face of the second body BD2 and the outer end face of the second joint AP2 is approximately the same as the width of each frame body FBD.

[0196] The second rotor RT2 can be coupled to the frame FRM. The second rotor RT2 can be positioned in the second coupling groove RGR2. The second rotor RT2 can be positioned in the second coupling groove RGR2 defined in the frame body FBD. The second rotor RT2 can be coupled to the second guide projection GPR2.

[0197] The second coupling part AP2 can be coupled to the second guide projection GPR2. The second guide projection GPR2 can be positioned within the second guide groove GGR2. The second guide groove GGR2 can have a shape corresponding to the second guide projection GPR2. For example, in the examples shown in Figures 14A and 16, the second guide groove GGR2 is formed in an arc shape to correspond to the arc-shaped second guide projection GPR2. The arc length of the second guide projection GPR2 is shorter than the arc length of the second guide groove GGR2. The second guide projection GPR2 can be fitted into the second guide groove GGR2 by sliding it into the groove. This allows the second rotor RT2 and the frame FRM to be coupled.

[0198] Referring to Figures 16A and 16B, the second coupling AP2 can be rotated along the second guide projection GPR2. The second coupling AP2 can be rotated about the second rotation axis RX2, which is parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0199] When the second coupling part AP2 rotates around the second rotation axis RX2, the second body part BD2 connected to the second coupling part AP2 can rotate around the second rotation axis RX2. At this time, the second guide projection GPR2 slides along the second guide groove GGR2. Although not shown in the figures, when the second body part BD2 rotates around the second rotation axis RX2, the second case HS2 (see Figure 10) connected to the second body part BD2 can rotate around the second rotation axis RX2.

[0200] The radii of rotation of the first rotor RT1 and the radii of rotation of the second rotor RT2 can be different from each other. The radii of rotation of the first rotor RT1 can be greater than the radii of rotation of the second rotor RT2. When viewed in the second direction DR2, the radii of rotation of the first rotor RT1 can be defined as the maximum distance from the top surface of the first rotor RT1 to the first rotation axis RX1. When viewed in the second direction DR2, the radii of rotation of the second rotor RT2 can be defined as the maximum distance from the top surface of the second rotor RT2 to the second rotation axis RX2. In the examples shown in Figures 14B, 16B, etc., in the second direction view, the first rotation axis RX1 is the center point of the circle containing the arc-shaped first guide projection GPR1. Also, in the second direction view, the second rotation axis RX2 is the center point of the circle containing the arc-shaped second guide projection GPR2.

[0201] Since the rotation radius of the first rotor RT1 is larger than that of the second rotor RT2, when the electronic device ED (see Figure 1) is folded, the volume of the space defined between the first rotor RT1 and the frame FRM can be larger than the volume of the space defined between the second rotor RT2 and the frame FRM. Therefore, even if the folding region FA (see Figure 9A) of the display device DD (see Figure 9A) is folded into an asymmetric shape, it is less likely to interfere with the hinge portion HGP. The folding shape of the display device DD (see Figure 9A) will be described in detail below.

[0202] Figure 17 is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the frame, the second rotor, and the second link.

[0203] In Figure 17, explanations for components that are identical to those described in the previously mentioned diagrams will be omitted or simplified.

[0204] Referring to Figures 16A and 17, the second link LK2 may include a second link body RTB2, a plurality of second sliding portions SLP2, and a plurality of second projections PTR2. The second link body RTB2 may extend in a first direction DR1. A second shaft opening ROP2 may be defined on one side adjacent to the frame FRM among the two sides of the first link body RTB1 facing each other in the first direction DR1. In examples such as Figures 13 and 17, the second link body RTB2 is plate-shaped.

[0205] The second sliding portion SLP2 can be positioned on both sides of the second link body RTB2 facing each other in the second direction DR2. The second sliding portion SLP2 can be positioned adjacent to the other side of the second link body RTB2 that is spaced away from the frame FRM, while facing each other in the first direction DR1. Exemplarily, when viewed in the second direction DR2, the second sliding portion SLP2 may have a circular shape. The second sliding portion SLP2 is formed to project in the second direction SR2 relative to the second link body RTB2.

[0206] The second projection PTR2 can be positioned on one side (the side adjacent to the frame FRM) of the second link body RTB2, which faces each other in the first direction DR1. The second projection PTR2 can be arranged in a circular pattern. The second projection PTR2 can surround a portion of the second shaft opening ROP2. In examples such as Figures 13 and 17, the aforementioned one side of the second link body RTB2 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape so as to surround a portion of the second shaft opening ROP2. Multiple second projections PTR2 are formed so as to protrude from the surface of this cylindrical portion of the second link body RTB2. The multiple second projections PTR2 extend along the second direction DR2 and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0207] A pair of second links LK2 can be positioned on either side of a second rotor RT2, facing each other in a second direction DR2. The second rotor RT2 can be positioned between the pair of second links LK2. Each second link LK2 is coupled to a second body portion BD2 via second sliding grooves SGR2 defined on either side of the second body portion BD2, facing each other in a second direction DR2. In this case, a second sliding portion SLP2 can be positioned within the second sliding grooves SGR2.

[0208] The second link LK2 can be positioned on both sides of the frame FRM facing each other in the second direction DR2. The frame FRM can be positioned between a pair of second links LK2. The second shaft link SF2 can be coupled to the frame FRM by passing through the second link body RTB2. The second shaft link SF2 can be coupled to a second shaft coupling groove SOP2 defined in the frame FRM by passing through the second shaft opening ROP2. The second shaft coupling groove SOP2 is formed concavely on the frame body FBD in the second direction DR2. In examples such as Figure 13, the second shaft coupling groove SOP2 is formed at the upper end of the frame body FBD adjacent to the second rotor RT2. In examples such as Figures 13 and 15, at least a portion of the frame FRM is positioned between a pair of second links LK2.

[0209] The second link body RTB2 can be rotated around the second shaft link SF2. The second link body RTB2 can be rotated around the second shaft link SF2 on a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. When the second link body RTB2 rotates around the second shaft link SF2, the second sliding part SLP2 facing the second body part BD2 can move along the second sliding groove SGR2.

[0210] Figure 18A is a perspective view illustrating the connection of the frame, connecting gear, cap, spring, and spring pin. Figure 18B is a cross-sectional view of the second link and connecting gear corresponding to the line IV-IV' shown in Figure 18A.

[0211] In the components shown in Figures 18A and 18B, explanations of components identical to those described in the previously mentioned drawings will be omitted or simplified. With the frame FRM at the center, a pair of multiple connecting gears OGR, a pair of multiple cams CAM, a pair of multiple springs SPR, a pair of multiple spring pins PNS, etc., are arranged facing the second direction DR2. Below, we will mainly describe one of each pair.

[0212] Referring to Figures 13, 18A, and 18B, the insertion opening GOP in Figure 13 can be defined on both sides of the frame body FBD facing each other in the second direction DR2. Although only one side of the frame body FBD is shown in Figure 13, the insertion opening GOP can also be defined on the other side of the frame body FBD that faces the second direction DR2.

[0213] The insertion opening GOP can be defined below the first and second shaft coupling grooves SOP1 and SOP2. The insertion opening GOP can be arranged in a shape corresponding to both sides of the frame body FBD facing each other in the second direction DR2. The insertion opening GOP can be arranged in a curved shape. In examples such as Figure 18A, multiple insertion opening GOP are formed below the first shaft coupling groove SOP1 and the second shaft coupling groove SOP2 located at the upper end position in the arc-shaped frame body FBD in the third direction DR3. Multiple insertion opening GOPs correspond to each of the multiple connecting gears CGR. Multiple connecting gears CGR are arranged in an arc shape along the first direction DR1, and multiple insertion opening GOPs are arranged in an arc shape to correspond to each of these multiple connecting gears CGR. Multiple insertion opening GOPs are formed concave in a surface in the second direction DR2 of the frame body FBD.

[0214] The number of connecting gears CGR can be even. Exemplarily, four connecting gears CGR are shown in Figures 18A and 18B, but the number of connecting gears CGR is not limited. In examples such as Figures 13 and 18, each connecting gear CGR is elongated in the second direction DR2, and has multiple protrusions formed on its outer surface. These multiple protrusions extend along the second direction DR2 and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Multiple protrusions on a connecting gear CGR adjacent to multiple first protrusions PTR1 are formed to mesh with each other. Multiple protrusions on a connecting gear CGR adjacent to multiple second protrusions PTR2 are formed to mesh with each other.

[0215] In the first direction DR1, adjacent coupling gears CGR can mesh with each other and rotate together around a rotation axis parallel to the second direction DR2. Among the coupling gears CGR, the rotation directions of adjacent coupling gears CGR in the first direction DR1 can be opposite to each other.

[0216] The connecting gears CGR can be positioned on both sides of the frame FRM facing each other in the second direction DR2. The connecting gears CGR can be positioned adjacent to the insertion openings GOP defined on both sides of the frame FRM facing each other in the second direction DR2. Each of the connecting gears CGR can be adjacent to a corresponding insertion opening GOP among a plurality of insertion openings GOP.

[0217] Multiple linking gears CGR can be arranged to correspond to each of the multiple insertion openings GOP. Multiple linking gears CGR can be arranged in a curved shape. As shown in Figure 18B, the centerline GCT, defined as a virtual line connecting the centers of the multiple linking gears CGR when viewed in the second direction DR2, can be curved. The curvature of the centerline GCT can be the same as the curvature of the upper and lower surfaces of the frame body FBD. The curvature of the centerline GCT can be the same as the curvature of the first guide projection GPR1 shown in Figure 13.

[0218] By arranging multiple connecting gears CGR in a curved shape, even if the folding region FA (see Figure 9A) is folded into an asymmetric shape and has a curved surface, the folding region FA (see Figure 9A) and the connecting gears CGR are less likely to interfere with each other. The folding shape of the folding region FA (see Figure 9A) will be described in detail below.

[0219] Multiple connecting gears CGR can be positioned between the first projection PTR1 and the second projection PTR2. Among the multiple connecting gears CGR, the connecting gear CGR adjacent to the first link LK1 can mesh with the first projection PTR1 and rotate together. Among the first projection PTR1, at least one first projection PTR1 can mesh with an adjacent connecting gear CGR within the connecting gear CGR. When the electronic device ED (see Figure 1) moves from a folding state to an unfolding state, or from an unfolding state to a folding state, the first projection PTR1 can sequentially mesh with adjacent connecting gears CGR in a counterclockwise order. The rotation direction of the connecting gear CGR that mesh with the first projection PTR1 within the connecting gear CGR and the first link LK1 may be opposite.

[0220] Among the multiple connecting gears CGR, the connecting gear CGR adjacent to the second link LK2 can mesh with the second projection PTR2 and rotate together. Within the second projection PTR2, at least one second projection PTR2 can mesh with an adjacent connecting gear CGR within the connecting gear CGR. When the electronic device ED (see Figure 1) moves from the folding state to the unfolding state, or from the unfolding state to the folding state, the second projection PTR2 can sequentially mesh with adjacent connecting gears CGR in a counterclockwise order. Within the connecting gear CGR, the rotation direction of the connecting gear CGR that meshes with the second projection PTR2 and the second link LK2 may be opposite.

[0221] The first link LK1 and the second link LK2 can be connected to each other by a connecting gear CGR. When the first link LK1 rotates, the second link LK2 can rotate. Specifically, when the first link LK1 rotates around the first shaft link SF1, the connecting gear CGR can rotate around an axis of rotation parallel to the second direction DR2. When the connecting gear CGR rotates, the second link LK2 can rotate around the second shaft link SF2.

[0222] The rotation directions of the first link LK1 and the second link LK2 may be opposite to each other. For example, when the first link LK1 rotates clockwise, the second link LK2 may rotate counterclockwise. Therefore, when the electronic device ED (see Figure 1) moves from an unfolded state to a folded state, the first link LK1 and the second link LK2 may face each other. When the electronic device ED (see Figure 1) moves from a folded state to an unfolded state, the first link LK1 and the second link LK2 do not have to face each other.

[0223] The number of first protrusions PTR1 can be different from the number of second protrusions PTR2. The number of first protrusions PTR1 can be less than the number of second protrusions PTR2. For example, in Figure 18B, there are 7 first protrusions PTR1 and 10 second protrusions PTR2. However, the number of first protrusions PTR1 and second protrusions PTR2 are not limited to these.

[0224] When the electronic device ED (see Figure 1) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the rotation angles of the first link LK1 and the second link LK2 can be different from each other. The rotation angle of the first link LK1 can be greater than the rotation angle of the second link LK2. The rotation angles of the first link LK1 and the second link LK2 are described in detail below.

[0225] As shown in Figure 13, multiple cams CAM can be positioned on one side of the connecting gear CGR, which is separated from the frame FRM, on both sides of the connecting gear CGR, which is facing each other in the second direction DR2. A pin opening NOP can be defined for each cam CAM. The pin opening NOP can extend in the second direction DR2. The pin opening NOP can extend from one side of the connecting gear CGR to the other on both sides of the cams CAM, which are facing each other in the second direction DR2. In other words, one pin opening NOP is formed to penetrate the interior of one cam CAM in the second direction DR2.

[0226] Each pin opening NOP can be arranged to correspond to each connecting gear CGR. Multiple cams CAM are arranged in an arc along the first direction DR1 along the arrangement of multiple connecting gears CGR. Multiple pin opening NOP can be arranged in a curved shape along the arc-shaped arrangement of multiple cams CAM.

[0227] Multiple springs SPR can be adjacent to each other on one side of the cam CAM, which faces each other in the second direction DR2. Each of the multiple springs SPR can be positioned adjacent to the corresponding pin opening NOP within the pin opening NOP.

[0228] Multiple spring pins PNS can be extended in the second direction DR2. Each spring pin PNS can pass through the corresponding spring SPR in the spring SPR, the corresponding pin opening NOP in the pin opening NOP, and the corresponding connecting gear CGR in the connecting gear CGR, and be coupled to the corresponding insertion opening GOP in the insertion opening GOP. The spring SPR, cam CAM, and connecting gear CGR can be coupled to the frame FRM by the spring pins PNS.

[0229] Figure 19 is a perspective view illustrating the connection between the hinge and the first and second cases. Figure 20A is a cross-sectional view of the hinge module EDC corresponding to the line V-V' shown in Figure 19. Figure 20B is a cross-sectional view showing the hinge module EDC shown in Figure 20A in a folded state.

[0230] For the sake of simplicity, the display device DD (see Figure 3) and cover plate SPT (see Figure 10) have been omitted from Figure 19. Furthermore, in Figures 20A and 20B, the display device DD is simplified and shown as a single layer.

[0231] For illustrative purposes, in Figure 20B, the first rotor RT1 and the second rotor RT2 in the unfolded state are shown by dotted lines.

[0232] In the components shown in Figures 19 to 20B, explanations for components identical to those described in the aforementioned drawings will be omitted or simplified.

[0233] Referring to Figures 19, 20A, and 20B, the hinge HGP can be coupled to the hinge case HCS. The first case HS1 and the second case HS2 can be coupled to the hinge HGP. The hinge HGP can be positioned between the first case HS1 and the second case HS2.

[0234] The user can fold the electronic device ED so that the first case HS1 and the second case HS2 face each other. The user can apply force to the first case HS1 and the second case HS2 to rotate them on a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. The first case HS1 and the second case HS2 can be rotated to the same angle.

[0235] When the first case HS1 and the second case HS2 rotate, the first rotor RT1 connected to the first case HS1 can rotate around the first rotation axis RX1. The second rotor RT2 connected to the second case HS2 can rotate around the second rotation axis RX2.

[0236] The first angle θ1, defined as the rotation angle of the first rotor RT1, and the second angle θ2, defined as the rotation angle of the second rotor RT2, may be of the same size. The flat surface APL of the first rotor RT1 and the upper surface of the second rotor RT2 may be parallel to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0237] When the first rotor RT1 and the second rotor RT2 are rotating, the first cover plate SPT1 and the second cover plate SPT2, which are positioned on the first rotor RT1 and the second rotor RT2, can face each other. When unfolded, the first cover plate SPT1 and the second cover plate SPT2 can be parallel to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0238] As the first rotor RT1 and the second rotor RT2 rotate, the wing plate WPT can be rotated around an axis of rotation parallel to the second direction DR2 relative to the first cover plate SPT1. The wing plate WPT can be rotated and positioned on the inclined surface SL of the first rotor RT1.

[0239] When the hinge module EDC is folded, the folding region FA is bent, and the display device DD can be folded. The folding region FA rotates around a two-axis rotation axis, and the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 can be folded so that they face each other. When folded, the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 can be parallel to the third direction DR3.

[0240] The folding region FA can be superimposed on the hinge region HGP. The folding region FA can include a curved surface region CSP and an inverse curvature region ICV. The inverse curvature region ICV can extend in the first direction DR1 from one side adjacent to the first rotor RT1 among the curved surface region CSPs facing each other in the first direction DR1. The inverse curvature region ICV can be positioned between the curved surface region CSP and the first non-folding region NFA1. The inverse curvature region ICV can be superimposed on the wing plate WPT.

[0241] The curved surface portion CSP can bend into a curved shape when the display device DD is folded. The curved surface portion CSP can bend to have a predetermined curvature. The wing plate WPT can support the reverse curvature portion ICV. The reverse curvature portion ICV can be bent in the opposite direction to the curved surface portion CSP by the wing plate WPT. The curvature of the reverse curvature portion ICV can be different from the curvature of the curved surface portion CSP. In other words, in the example of the folded state shown in Figure 20B, in the second direction view, the curved surface portion CSP of the folding region FA is arc-shaped. The reverse curvature portion ICV is continuous with one end of the arc-shaped curved surface portion CSP, and the first non-folding region NFA1 is sequentially continuous with one end of the reverse curvature portion ICV. The second non-folding region NFA2 is continuous with the other end of the arc-shaped curved surface portion CSP. Although the reverse curvature portion ICV is inclined with respect to the third direction DR3, it is linear in the second direction view. The first non-folding region NFA1 is linear along the third direction DR3. On the other hand, in the example of the unfolded state shown in Figure 20A, the curved portion CSP extends linearly in the second direction view. In the second direction view, along the plane including the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, a linear inverse curvature portion ICV and a linear first non-folding region NFA1 are successively connected on one end of the linear curved portion CSP, and a linear second non-folding region NFA2 is continuous on the other end of the linear curved portion CSP.

[0242] In accordance with the folding structure described above, when the display device DD is folded, the folding regions FA facing each other in the first direction DR1 can be asymmetrical between the side adjacent to the first rotor RT1 and the side adjacent to the second rotor RT2. The side of the folding region FA adjacent to the first rotor RT1 can include a reverse curvature portion. The other side of the folding region FA adjacent to the second rotor RT2 can not include a reverse curvature portion.

[0243] When the display device DD is folded and both sides of the folding region FA include the reverse curvature portion ICV, the volume of the space occupied by the folding region FA may increase. Therefore, in order to prevent the display device DD and the hinge portion HGP from interfering with each other, it is necessary to increase the volume of the housing groove AGR (see Figure 10). Consequently, the thickness of the first and second cases HS1 and HS2 will increase.

[0244] However, by using the hinge portion HGP according to one embodiment of the present invention, one side of the folding region FA can be asymmetrical. In this invention, the other side of the folding region FA does not need to include the reverse curvature portion ICV. Therefore, the space occupied by the portion of the folding region FA adjacent to the second rotor RT2 can be reduced. Consequently, the volume of the housing groove AGR (see Figure 10) defined by the second case HS2 can be reduced, and the thickness of the second case HS2 can be reduced. The thickness of the second case HS2 can be smaller than the thickness of the first case HS1. Therefore, the overall thickness of the electronic device ED can be reduced.

[0245] Furthermore, since the turning radius of the first rotor RT1 is larger than that of the second rotor RT2, interference between the first rotor RT1 and the folding region FA can be prevented. In addition, by arranging the multiple connecting gears CGR in a curved shape, interference between the folding region FA and the multiple connecting gears CGR can be prevented.

[0246] Figures 21A and 21B are cross-sectional views illustrating the rotation of the first and second links.

[0247] For illustrative purposes, the display device DD is simplified and shown as a single layer in Figures 21A and 21B.

[0248] For illustrative purposes, in Figure 21B, the first link LK1 and the second link LK2 are shown as dotted lines when they are in the unfolded state.

[0249] Referring to Figures 21A and 21B, when the first rotor RT1 rotates around the first rotation axis RX1, the first link LK1 connected to the first rotor RT1 can rotate around the first shaft link SF1. When the first link LK1 rotates, the first sliding part SLP1 can move along the first sliding groove SGR1.

[0250] When the second rotor RT2 rotates around the second rotation axis RX2, the second link LK2 connected to the second rotor RT2 can rotate around the second shaft link SF2. When the second link LK2 rotates, the second sliding part SLP2 can move along the second sliding groove SGR2.

[0251] The number of first protrusions PTR1 can be different from the number of second protrusions PTR2. The number of first protrusions PTR1 can be less than the number of second protrusions PTR2. Exemplarily, there are 7 first protrusions PTR1 and 10 second protrusions PTR2. However, this is illustrative and not limited to the number of first protrusions PTR1 and second protrusions PTR2. Since the number of first protrusions PTR1 is less than the number of second protrusions PTR2, the third angle θ3, defined as the rotation angle of the first link LK1, can be greater than the fourth angle θ4, defined as the rotation angle of the second link LK2.

[0252] When the electronic device ED is in the unfolded state, the upper surfaces of the first link LK1 and the second link LK2 can be parallel to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. When the electronic device ED is in the folded state, the upper surface of the second link LK2 can be parallel to the plane defined by the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR3. When the electronic device ED is in the folded state, the upper surface of the first link LK1 can be parallel to the lower surface of the wing plate WPT. The upper surface of the first link LK1 can be parallel to the inclined surface SL.

[0253] Therefore, the wing plate WPT can support the folding region FA, and one side of the folding region FA can form an inverse curvature portion ICV. Thus, the folding region FA can be folded asymmetrically.

[0254] As described above with reference to embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be modified and altered in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the claims below. Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to limit the technical spirit of the invention, and all technical spirit within the claims below and equivalent scopes should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the rights of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0255] ED electronic equipment DD display device WM Window Module DM display module EDC Hinge Module HS1, HS2 Cases 1 and 2 HCS Hinge Case HGP hinge section RT1 First rotor RT2 Second rotor LK1 1st Link LK2 2nd Link FRM Frame CGR (Connecting Gear)

Claims

1. A display module including a first non-folding region, a second non-folding region, and a folding region positioned between the first and second non-folding regions, A case including a first case superimposed on the first non-folding region, and a second case superimposed on the second non-folding region, A hinge portion is positioned between the first case and the second case and defines a two-axis rotation axis that extends parallel to a second direction intersecting the first direction, The aforementioned hinge portion is, A frame positioned between the first and second cases, A first rotor is positioned between the first case and the frame, A first link, which is coupled to at least one of the two sides of the first rotor facing each other in the second direction and includes a first projection located on one side adjacent to the frame, The second rotor is arranged in the second case and the frame, A second link, which is coupled to at least one of the two sides of the second rotor facing each other in the second direction and includes a second projection located on one side adjacent to the frame, The first projection includes at least one first projection and at least one second projection among the second projections, and a plurality of connecting gears that mesh with each other. The number of the first protrusions and the number of the second protrusions are different for each electronic device.

2. When the display module is folded, the first case and the second case rotate around the two-axis rotation axis and face each other. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the rotation angle of the first rotor coupled to the first case and the rotation angle of the second rotor coupled to the second case are the same as each other.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein when the display module is folded, the rotation angle of the first link is greater than the rotation angle of the second link.

4. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein the number of the first protrusions is smaller than the number of the second protrusions.

5. The first rotor is A first body portion coupled to the first case, It includes a first coupling portion that extends from the first body portion in the first direction and is positioned in a first coupling groove defined in the frame, The second rotor is A second body portion coupled to the second case, The electronic device according to claim 4, further comprising: a second coupling portion extending from the second body portion in the first direction and positioned in a second coupling groove defined in the frame.

6. The aforementioned frame is Frame body and A plurality of first guide protrusions having a curved shape are arranged on the first inner surface of the frame body that defines the first coupling groove, The frame body comprising a plurality of second guide protrusions having a curved shape, which are arranged on the second inner surface of the frame body defining the second coupling groove, The first guide projection is positioned in a first guide groove defined on both sides of the first joint that are opposite to each other in the second direction, and the second guide projection is positioned in a second guide groove defined on both sides of the second joint that are opposite to each other in the second direction. The electronic device according to claim 5, wherein the curvature of the first guide projection is smaller than the curvature of the second guide projection.

7. The aforementioned connecting gears are provided in an even number, The aforementioned connecting gears are arranged in a curved shape, The electronic device according to claim 6, wherein the curvature of the virtual curve connecting the centers of the connecting gears is the same as the curvature of the first guide projection.

8. The first link includes a first sliding portion located on one side of the first link facing the first rotor, The second link includes a second sliding portion located on one side of the second link that faces the second rotor, The first sliding portion is positioned in a first sliding groove defined on one side of the first rotor facing the first link, The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein the second sliding portion is positioned in a second sliding groove defined on one side of the second rotor facing the second link.

9. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein when the display module is folded, the folding region is folded asymmetrically.

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, when the folding region is folded, a portion of the folding region adjacent to the first non-folding region includes a reverse curvature portion, and the other portion of the folding region adjacent to the second non-folding region does not include a reverse curvature portion.

11. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein the thickness of the first case is greater than the thickness of the second case.

12. A display module including a first non-folding region, a second non-folding region, and a folding region positioned between the first and second non-folding regions, A case including a first case superimposed on the first non-folding region, and a second case superimposed on the second non-folding region, A hinge portion is positioned between the first case and the second case and defines a two-axis rotation axis that extends parallel to a second direction intersecting the first direction, The aforementioned hinge portion is, A frame positioned between the first and second cases, A first rotor coupled to one side adjacent to the first case among the two sides of the frame facing each other in the first direction, A first hinge including a first link coupled to at least one of the two sides of the first rotor facing each other in the second direction, A second rotor coupled to the other side of the frame adjacent to the second case, on both sides of the frame facing each other in the first direction, A second hinge including a second link coupled to at least one of the two sides of the second rotor facing each other in the second direction, The system includes at least one connecting gear positioned between the first hinge and the second hinge, which connects the first link and the second link to each other. An electronic device in which, when the display module is folded, the first case and the second case rotate around the two-axis rotation axis and face each other, and the rotation angle of the first link is greater than the rotation angle of the second link.

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, wherein when the display module is folded, the rotation angle of the first rotor and the rotation angle of the second rotor are the same as each other.

14. The first link includes a plurality of first protrusions located on one side of the first link adjacent to the frame, The second link includes a plurality of second protrusions located on one side of the second link adjacent to the frame, The electronic device according to claim 13, wherein the number of the first protrusions is less than the number of the second protrusions.

15. The electronic device according to claim 14, wherein the rotation radius of the first rotor is greater than the rotation radius of the second rotor.

16. When the display module is folded, the folding area is folded asymmetrically. The electronic device according to claim 14, wherein the curvature of the portion of the folding region adjacent to the first non-folding region is greater than the curvature of the portion of the folding region adjacent to the second non-folding region.

17. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein the thickness of the first case is greater than the thickness of the second case.

18. The aforementioned frame is A first guide projection having a curved shape is positioned on the inner surface of the first coupling groove into which the first rotor is coupled, The second rotor is coupled to a second coupling groove, which is positioned on the inner surface of the second coupling groove and has a curved shape, and includes a second guide projection, The electronic device according to claim 12, wherein the curvature of the first guide projection is smaller than the curvature of the second guide projection.

19. The first rotor is A first body portion coupled to the first case, It includes a first coupling portion that extends from the first body portion in the first direction and is positioned in a first coupling groove defined in the frame, The second rotor is A second body portion coupled to the second case, It includes a second coupling portion that extends from the second body portion in the first direction and is positioned in a second coupling groove defined in the frame, The electronic device according to claim 18, wherein the first guide projection is arranged in first guide grooves defined on both sides of the first coupling portion which are opposite to each other in the second direction, and the second guide projection is arranged in second guide grooves defined on both sides of the second coupling portion which are opposite to each other in the second direction.

20. The aforementioned connecting gear is provided in multiple units, The aforementioned connecting gears are arranged in a curved shape, The electronic device according to claim 18, wherein the curvature of the virtual curve connecting the centers of the connecting gears is the same as the curvature of the first guide projection.

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