mobile terminal

Abstract

A mobile terminal is disclosed. A mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a hinge assembly, wherein the hinge assembly includes a pair of body rotating bodies spaced apart in the width direction of the first body and the second body, a support bridge spaced between the pair of body rotating bodies and connecting the body rotating bodies to each other, and a display support spaced to overlap the support bridge and the first body and the second body in the width direction and formed to be movable in conjunction with the movement of the support bridge, wherein the display support is spaced apart from the flexible display in the first state and moves apart from the flexible display in the second state.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile terminal comprising a hinge assembly capable of supporting the back surface of a flexible display of a foldable mobile terminal. Background Technology

[0002] Terminals can be classified into mobile / portable terminals and stationary terminals depending on their mobility. Furthermore, mobile terminals can be divided into handheld terminals and vehicle-mounted terminals depending on whether the user can carry them directly.

[0003] The functions of mobile terminals are becoming more diverse. For example, they include data and voice communication, photography and video recording via a camera, voice recording, music file playback through a speaker system, and the ability to output images or videos on the display. Some terminals feature added electronic game play capabilities or function as multimedia players. In particular, recent mobile terminals can receive multicast signals that provide visual content such as broadcasts, videos, or television programs.

[0004] As the functions of such terminals become more diverse, they are being implemented in the form of multimedia players equipped with complex functions, such as taking photos or videos, playing music or video files, playing games, and receiving broadcasts.

[0005] In particular, in the case of foldable mobile devices, the structure for folding the body and the support structure on the back of the flexible display could conflict with each other or be insufficient. Consequently, a problem may arise where the rigidity of the flexible display weakens at the folding point. The problem to be solved

[0006] The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems. Another objective is to provide a mobile terminal with higher rigidity in the hinge portion by providing a structure for folding or unfolding the mobile terminal and a structure for supporting a flexible display when unfolded.

[0007] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a mobile terminal that is not easily damaged by external impacts by increasing the self-rigidity of the hinge assembly. means of solving the problem

[0008] To this end, a mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a first body, a second body rotatably formed relative to the first body, a flexible display continuously disposed on the first body and the second body, and a hinge assembly that enables the first body and the second body to move in a first state in which the first body and the second body are arranged parallel to each other and a second state in which the first body and the second body are arranged opposite each other, wherein the hinge assembly comprises a pair of body rotation bodies spaced apart in the width direction of the first body and the second body, a support bridge disposed between the pair of body rotation bodies and connecting the body rotation bodies to each other, and a display support disposed to overlap the support bridge and the first body and the second body in the width direction and formed to be movable in conjunction with the movement of the support bridge, wherein the display support is disposed to support the flexible display in the first state and moves to be spaced apart from the flexible display in the second state.

[0009] In addition, in one embodiment, the support bridge is positioned horizontally in the first state and vertically in the second state, and the display support is positioned between the support bridges in the first state and can be moved to be positioned below the support bridges during the transition to the second state.

[0010] In addition, in one embodiment, the display support can be positioned between the first body and the second body in the first state to support the flexible display.

[0011] Additionally, in one embodiment, the display support may include a first plate formed long in the center, a second plate extending adjacent to the body rotating body and forming a width wider than the first plate at both ends of the first plate, and a third plate disposed between the first plate and the second plate and forming a width wider than the second plate.

[0012] Additionally, in one embodiment, the display support further includes a sub-plate disposed below the second plate and having an inwardly concave hook groove formed therein, and the display support further includes a hook portion extending below the third plate and having a hook formed at its end that protrudes toward the hook groove, and the display support may be configured such that the hook portion is engaged with the hook groove and moves integrally with the sub-plate.

[0013] Additionally, in one embodiment, the support bridge may include a bridge portion formed long in the width direction of the first body and the second body, a connecting portion extending toward the display support from both ends of the bridge portion, and a support portion that is bent and extended from the connecting portion, supports the lower surface of the third plate in the first state, switches to the second state, and rotates to press the upper surface of the third plate.

[0014] In addition, in one embodiment, the hinge assembly further includes a hinge deco disposed on the back surface of the display support, and the hinge deco may be configured such that in a first state, both ends are disposed below the connecting portion of the support bridge, and in a second state, the hook portion of the display support is supported in the center.

[0015] In addition, in one embodiment, the support bridge is rotated together with the body rotating body during the process of changing state between the first state and the second state, and the third plate may be formed of two or more surfaces where the upper surface and the lower surface are connected so that the support member can be easily rotated during the process of the support bridge changing state between the first state and the second state.

[0016] A mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a first body, a second body rotatably formed relative to the first body, a flexible display integrally disposed on the first body and the second body, and a hinge assembly configured to move the first body and the second body in a first state in which the first body and the second body are arranged parallel to each other and a second state in which the first body and the second body are arranged opposite each other, wherein the hinge assembly comprises a pair of body rotation bodies spaced apart in the width direction of the first body and the second body, a pair of slot bodies disposed between the pair of body rotation bodies and configured to rotate together with the body rotation bodies, a support bridge disposed between the pair of slot bodies and connecting the spaced-apart slot bodies to each other, and a display support disposed to overlap the support bridge with the width direction of the first body and the second body and formed to be movable in conjunction with the movement of the support bridge, wherein the display support is disposed to support the flexible display in the first state, and the second In this state, it can be moved to be spaced apart from the flexible display.

[0017] Additionally, in one embodiment, the hinge assembly further includes a holding unit for free-stopping the body rotation body during the process of switching between the first state and the second state, and the holding unit includes a moving cam, one end of which is supported by the slot body, and a spring, one end of which is supported by the moving cam and the other end of which is supported by the support bridge, and the moving cam may be rotated as the slot body rotates from the first state to the second state to press the spring, and as the spring is compressed, the spring may press the slot body and the support bridge, respectively, to reduce additional rotation.

[0018] In addition, in one embodiment, the support bridge may further include a support bridge connecting portion that wraps around at least a portion of the body rotating body and the slot body so as to be connected to each other.

[0019] Additionally, in one embodiment, the support bridge connecting portion may include a first surface that surrounds one side of the slot body, another side of the slot body that is bent from the first surface and adjacent to one side of the slot body, a second surface that surrounds one side of the body rotating body, and a third surface that is bent from the second surface and surrounds another side of the body rotating body that is adjacent to one side of the body rotating body.

[0020] In addition, in one embodiment, the slot body is formed to have a thickness that can contact the second surface from the end of the first surface within the support bridge binding portion, and the body rotating body may include a protrusion that protrudes from one side to contact the second surface.

[0021] In addition, in one embodiment, a coupling pin may be further included that is disposed between the first surface and the third surface and is inserted through the slot body and the body rotating body.

[0022] In addition, in one embodiment, the support bridge connecting portion may further include a fourth surface that is bent from the first surface and formed to wrap around another surface of the slot body, and a fifth surface that is bent from the fourth surface and formed to wrap around yet another surface of the slot body. Effects of the invention

[0023] As such, the display support of a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention supports a flexible display when the mobile terminal is in a first state. Accordingly, by supporting the back space of the flexible display between the first body and the second body in the first state, the flexible display can be stably positioned without being pushed backward even when the flexible display is pressed or touched.

[0024] In addition, the display support is separated from the flexible display in the second state, and accordingly, unnecessary pressure is not applied to the folded portion of the flexible display in the second state where the first body and the second body are in a folded state, and by the third plate of the display support pressing the hinge deco, it is possible to prevent the hinge deco from being pushed inward by an external force in the second state. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a mobile terminal related to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are drawings showing a mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the hinge assembly of a mobile terminal shown in FIG. 3. Figure 5 is a drawing showing the display support separated from the hinge assembly shown in Figure 4. Figure 6 is a drawing for explaining the hinge assembly shown in Figure 4. FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the movement of a support bridge and a display support in a first state and a second state in a hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the back of a hinge assembly to explain a support bridge according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the support bridge separated from the hinge assembly to explain the support bridge of the hinge assembly of FIG. 8. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] Hereinafter, a mobile terminal related to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0027] In this specification, identical or similar reference numbers are assigned to identical or similar components even in different embodiments, and the description thereof is replaced by the first description. Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, the suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a mobile terminal (100) related to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are drawings showing a mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] The above mobile terminal (100) may include a wireless communication unit (110), an A / V (Audio / Video) input unit (120), a user input unit (123), a sensing unit (140), an output unit (150), a memory (170), an interface unit (160), a control unit (180), and a power supply unit (190). Since the components shown in FIG. 1 are not essential, a mobile terminal (100) having more components or fewer components may be implemented.

[0030] The wireless communication unit (110) may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the mobile terminal (100) and a wireless communication system or between the mobile terminal (100) and a network where the mobile terminal (100) is located. For example, the wireless communication unit (110) may include a broadcast reception module (111), a mobile communication module (112), a wireless internet module (113), a short-range communication module (114), and a location information module (115), etc.

[0031] The broadcast receiving module (111) receives broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel.

[0032] The above broadcast channel may include satellite channels and terrestrial channels. The above broadcast management server may refer to a server that generates and transmits broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information, or a server that receives previously generated broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information and transmits it to a terminal. The above broadcast signal may include not only TV broadcast signals, radio broadcast signals, and data broadcast signals, but also a broadcast signal in which a data broadcast signal is combined with a TV broadcast signal or a radio broadcast signal.

[0033] The above broadcast-related information may refer to information related to a broadcast channel, a broadcast program, or a broadcast service provider. The above broadcast-related information may also be provided through a mobile communication network. In such cases, it may be received by the mobile communication module (112).

[0034] The aforementioned broadcast-related information may exist in various forms. For example, it may exist in the form of an EPG (Electronic Program Guide) for DMB (Digital Multimedia Broadcasting) or an ESG (Electronic Service Guide) for DVB-H (Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld).

[0035] The above broadcast receiving module (111) can receive digital broadcast signals using a digital broadcasting system such as, for example, DMB-T (Digital Multimedia Broadcasting-Terrestrial), DMB-S (Digital Multimedia Broadcasting-Satellite), MediaFLO (Media Forward Link Only), DVB-H (Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld), and ISDB-T (Integrated Services Digital Broadcast-Terrestrial). Of course, the above broadcast receiving module (111) may be configured to be suitable for other broadcasting systems as well as the digital broadcasting systems described above.

[0036] Broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information received through the broadcast receiving module (111) can be stored in memory (170).

[0037] The mobile communication module (112) transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. The wireless signals may include various forms of data such as voice call signals, video call call signals, or text / multimedia message transmission and reception.

[0038] The wireless internet module (113) refers to a module for wireless internet access and can be embedded in or externally mounted on a mobile terminal (100). Wireless internet technologies such as WLAN (Wireless LAN, Wi-Fi), Wibro (Wireless broadband), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), and HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access) may be used.

[0039] The short-range communication module (114) refers to a module for short-range communication. Short-range communication technologies such as Bluetooth, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), infrared communication (IrDA, infrared Data Association), UWB (Ultra Wideband), and ZigBee may be used.

[0040] The location information module (115) is a module for obtaining the location of the mobile terminal (100), and a representative example thereof is a GPS (Global Position System) module.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the A / V (Audio / Video) input unit (120) is for inputting audio signals or video signals and may include a camera (121) and a microphone (122), etc. The camera (121) processes image frames, such as still images or video, obtained by an image sensor in video call mode or shooting mode. The processed image frames may be displayed on a display unit (151).

[0042] Image frames processed by the camera (121) can be stored in memory (170) or transmitted externally through a wireless communication unit (110). Two or more cameras (121) may be provided depending on the usage environment. Specifically, referring to (c) of FIG. 2, a camera (121) may be provided in an area exposed to the outside of the first body (210). Additionally, referring to FIG. 3, a second camera (121') may be further provided on the inner side of the first body.

[0043] The microphone (122) receives an external acoustic signal via a microphone in call mode, recording mode, voice recognition mode, etc., and processes it into electrical voice data. In the case of call mode, the processed voice data can be converted into a form that can be transmitted to a mobile communication base station through a mobile communication module (112) and output. Various noise removal algorithms can be implemented in the microphone (122) to remove noise generated during the process of receiving an external acoustic signal.

[0044] The user input unit (123) generates input data for the user to control the operation of the terminal. The user input unit (123) may be composed of a key pad dome switch, a touch pad (pressure / capacitive), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2(a), it can be provided as a key button.

[0045] The sensing unit (140) detects the current state of the mobile terminal (100), such as the location of the mobile terminal (100), the presence or absence of user contact, the orientation of the mobile terminal (100), and the acceleration / deceleration of the mobile terminal (100), and generates a sensing signal to control the operation of the mobile terminal (100). In addition, it may also sense whether an external device is connected to the interface unit (160).

[0046] Meanwhile, the sensing unit (140) may further include a proximity sensor (141), an illuminance sensor (142), an acceleration sensor (143), and a gyroscope sensor (144).

[0047] The output unit (150) is intended to generate output related to sight, hearing, or touch, and may include a display unit (151), a sound output module (152), an alarm unit (153), and a haptic module (154).

[0048] The display unit (151) displays (outputs) information processed by the mobile terminal (100). For example, if the mobile terminal (100) is in call mode, it displays a UI (User Interface) or GUI (Graphic User Interface) related to the call. If the mobile terminal (100) is in video call mode or shooting mode, it displays the captured or / and received video or UI, GUI.

[0049] The display unit (151) may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, and a 3D display.

[0050] Some of these displays may be configured to be transparent or light-transmitting so that the outside can be seen through them. This can be referred to as a transparent display, and representative examples of such transparent displays include TOLED (Transparant OLED). The rear structure of the display unit (151) may also be configured as a light-transmitting structure. Due to this structure, the user can see objects located at the rear of the terminal body through the area occupied by the display unit (151) of the terminal body.

[0051] Depending on the implementation form of the mobile terminal (100), there may be two or more display units (151). For example, in the mobile terminal (100), multiple display modules may be spaced apart or arranged integrally on one side, or they may be arranged on different sides respectively.

[0052] In the case where a display unit (151) and a sensor that detects touch operations (hereinafter referred to as a "touch sensor") form a layered structure (hereinafter referred to as a "touchscreen"), the display unit (151) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device. The touch sensor may take the form of, for example, a touch film, a touch sheet, a touch pad, etc.

[0053] The touch sensor may be configured to convert changes such as pressure applied to a specific part of the display unit (151) or capacitance occurring in a specific part of the display unit (151) into an electrical input signal. The touch sensor may be configured to detect not only the location and area of ​​the touch, but also the pressure at the time of touch.

[0054] When there is a touch input to the touch sensor, the corresponding signal(s) are sent to the touch controller. The touch controller processes the signal(s) and then transmits the corresponding data to the control unit (180). In this way, the control unit (180) can determine whether any area of ​​the display unit (151) has been touched.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 1, a proximity sensor (141) may be placed in an internal area of ​​a mobile terminal (100) enclosed by the touchscreen or near the touchscreen. The proximity sensor is a sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object approaching a predetermined detection surface or an object existing nearby using the force of an electromagnetic field or infrared rays without mechanical contact. The proximity sensor has a longer lifespan than a contact sensor and is also more versatile.

[0056] Examples of the above proximity sensors include transmissive photoelectric sensors, direct reflection photoelectric sensors, mirror reflection photoelectric sensors, high-frequency oscillation proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, magnetic proximity sensors, and infrared proximity sensors. If the touchscreen is capacitive, it is configured to detect the proximity of the pointer by a change in the electric field due to the pointer's proximity. In this case, the touchscreen (touch sensor) may also be classified as a proximity sensor.

[0057] For convenience of explanation, the act of making the pointer close to the touchscreen without making contact, thereby causing the position of the pointer on the touchscreen to be recognized, is referred to as a "proximity touch," and the act of the pointer actually making contact with the touchscreen is referred to as a "contact touch." The position on the touchscreen where the pointer makes a proximity touch refers to the position where the pointer corresponds vertically to the touchscreen when the pointer makes a proximity touch.

[0058] The proximity sensor detects a proximity touch and a proximity touch pattern (e.g., proximity touch distance, proximity touch direction, proximity touch speed, proximity touch time, proximity touch location, proximity touch movement state, etc.). Information corresponding to the detected proximity touch operation and proximity touch pattern can be displayed on a touchscreen.

[0059] The sound output module (152) can output audio data received from the wireless communication unit (110) or stored in the memory (170) in call signal reception, call mode or recording mode, voice recognition mode, broadcast reception mode, etc. The sound output module (152) may also output sound signals related to functions performed on the mobile terminal (100) (e.g., call signal reception sound, message reception sound, etc.). This sound output module (152) may include a receiver, a speaker, a buzzer, etc.

[0060] The alarm unit (153) outputs a signal to notify the occurrence of an event in the mobile terminal (100). Examples of events occurring in the mobile terminal (100) include receiving a call signal, receiving a message, inputting a key signal, and inputting a touch. The alarm unit (153) may output a signal to notify the occurrence of an event in a form other than a video signal or an audio signal, for example, by vibration. The video signal or audio signal may also be output through the display unit (151) or the voice output module (152), so they (151, 152) may be classified as part of the alarm unit (153).

[0061] The haptic module (154) generates various tactile effects that the user can feel. A typical example of a tactile effect generated by the haptic module (154) is vibration. The intensity and pattern of the vibration generated by the haptic module (154) can be controlled. For example, different vibrations can be synthesized and output or output sequentially.

[0062] The haptic module (154) can produce various tactile effects, including, in addition to vibration, effects caused by stimulation such as a pin array moving vertically toward the contact skin surface, air jet or suction force through a nozzle or suction port, brushing against the skin surface, contact with an electrode, electrostatic force, and effects caused by the reproduction of cold or hot sensations using an element capable of endothermic or exothermic heat.

[0063] The haptic module (154) can not only transmit tactile effects through direct contact, but can also be implemented so that the user can feel tactile effects through the sense of touch of fingers or arms. Two or more haptic modules (154) may be provided depending on the configuration of the mobile terminal (100).

[0064] The memory (170) can store a program for the operation of the control unit (180) and can also temporarily store input / output data (e.g., phonebook, message, still image, video, etc.). The memory (170) can store data regarding various patterns of vibration and sound output when a touch input is made on the touchscreen.

[0065] The memory (170) may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The mobile terminal (100) may operate in conjunction with web storage that performs the storage function of the memory (170) on the internet.

[0066] The interface unit (160) serves as a channel for all external devices connected to the mobile terminal (100). The interface unit (160) receives data from external devices, supplies power to deliver it to each component inside the mobile terminal (100), or allows data inside the mobile terminal (100) to be transmitted to external devices.

[0067] For example, as shown in (c) of FIG. 2,The interface section (160) may include a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device equipped with an identification module, an audio I / O (Input / Output) port, a video I / O (Input / Output) port, an earphone port, etc.

[0068] The identification module is a chip that stores various information for authenticating the usage rights of a mobile terminal (100), and may include a User Identify Module (UIM), a Subscriber Identify Module (SIM), a Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM), etc. A device equipped with an identification module (hereinafter referred to as the 'identification device') may be manufactured in the form of a smart card. Accordingly, the identification device may be connected to the terminal (100) through a port.

[0069] The above interface unit may serve as a channel through which power from the cradle is supplied to the mobile terminal (100) when the mobile terminal (100) is connected to an external cradle, or as a channel through which various command signals input from the cradle by a user are transmitted to the mobile terminal. The various command signals input from the cradle or the power may also function as signals to recognize that the mobile terminal is correctly mounted in the cradle.

[0070] A controller (180) typically controls the overall operation of a mobile terminal (100). For example, it performs related control and processing for voice calls, data communication, video calls, etc. The controller (180) may also be equipped with a multimedia module (181) for multimedia playback. The multimedia module (181) may be implemented within the controller (180) or may be implemented separately from the controller (180).

[0071] Referring to FIG. 3, the control unit (180) may include two control units. For example, it may include a main control unit (180a) and an auxiliary control unit (180b). Through these two control units, various operations of the mobile terminal can be performed more quickly and stably.

[0072] The control unit (180) can perform pattern recognition processing to recognize handwriting input or drawing input performed on the touchscreen as characters and images, respectively.

[0073] The power supply unit (190) receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit (180) and supplies power necessary for the operation of each component. The power supply unit (190) includes a battery, and the battery may be an internal battery that is rechargeable and may be detachably coupled to the terminal body for charging, etc.

[0074] Additionally, the power supply unit (190) may be provided with a connection port, and the connection port may be configured as an example of an interface (160) to which an external charger that supplies power for charging the battery is electrically connected.

[0075] As another example, the power supply unit (190) may be configured to charge the battery wirelessly without using the connection port. In this case, the power supply unit (190) may receive power from an external wireless power transmission device using one or more of an inductive coupling method based on magnetic induction or a magnetic resonance coupling method based on electromagnetic resonance.

[0076] Meanwhile, various embodiments described below may be implemented in a recording medium readable by a computer or a similar device, for example, using software, hardware, or a combination thereof.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 2, a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first body, a second body rotatably formed relative to the first body, and a flexible display (DP) continuously disposed on the first body and the second body.

[0078] A mobile terminal (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first body (210) and a second body (220) formed to be rotatable relative to each other. That is, it may be composed of a flexible display (DP) and a foldable mobile terminal (100). At this time, the first body (210) and the second body (220) may be arranged in a first state in which they are placed side by side with each other, and the first body (210) and the second body (220) may be arranged in a second state in which they are placed opposite each other.

[0079] Specifically, FIG. 2(a) shows a first state, i.e., an unfolded state, in which the first body (210) and the second body (220) are arranged side by side. FIG. 2(c) shows a second state, i.e., a folded state, in which the first body (210) and the second body (220) are arranged opposite each other. FIG. 2(b) shows a transition state in which the first body (210) and the second body (220) are switched from the first state to the second state.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 2, when the mobile terminal (100) is in a first state, a transparent area (TA) may be provided on the front. The transparent area (TA) is a part that is visible from the outside even when in a second state, and the lower area of ​​the flexible display (DP) in FIG. 2 (a) may be visible from the outside.

[0081] A flexible display (DP) integrally formed with the first body (210) and the second body (220) may be disposed on the first body (210) and the second body (220). Additionally, a front side deco (230) may be disposed between the first body (210) and the second body (220) to finish the space between the first body (210) and the second body (220) in the first state.

[0082] A hinge deco (390), which will be described later, may be placed behind the front side deco (230). The hinge deco (390) serves to shield the space created as the first body (210) and the second body (220) change from a first state to a second state. A hinge assembly (300) may be placed inside the aforementioned hinge deco (390).

[0083] Referring to FIG. 3, a hinge assembly (300) may be disposed between the first body (210) and the second body (220). The hinge assembly (300) is rotatably formed so that the first body (210) and the second body (220) form a first state and a second state. This will be examined in detail below.

[0084] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the hinge assembly of a mobile terminal shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the display support separated from the hinge assembly shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the hinge assembly shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the movement of the support bridge and the display support in the first state and the second state in a hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] The hinge assembly (300) of the present invention includes a body rotating body (310), a support bridge (330), and a display support (340).

[0086] (Body rotation body (310))

[0087] The body rotation body (310) includes a pair of body rotation bodies (310) spaced apart in the width direction of the first body (210) and the second body (220). The body rotation body (310) is connected to the first body (210) and the second body (220). Specifically, the body rotation body (310) may be connected to the first body (210) and the second body (220) by a connecting member (not shown) connected to a body rotation body hole (312).

[0088] The body rotation body (310) may include a left body rotation body (310L) and a right body rotation body (310R). The body rotation body (310) is spaced apart from the first body (210) and the second body (220) in the width direction and joined from both sides, so that the hinge assembly (300) can more stably support the first body (210) and the second body (220) during the process of switching from the first state to the second state.

[0089] Each of the left body rotation body (310L) and the right body rotation body (310R) may include a first body rotation body (310a) connected to the first body (210) and a second body rotation body (310b) connected to the second body (220). Additionally, a support frame (305) may be further provided at the bottom of the body rotation body (310). Specifically, referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, a support frame (305) may be provided at the bottom of the body rotation body (310).

[0090] The first body rotating body (310a) and the second body rotating body (310b) can rotate by interlocking with each other. Specifically, referring to FIG. 6 (a), a rotating part (318) is provided. The rotating part (318) is shaped like a projection protruding downward so as to intersect with each other on the first body rotating body (310a) and the second body rotating body (310b), respectively.

[0091] The rotating part (318) moves on the support frame (305) during the process in which the body rotating body (310) switches between the first state and the second state, and can guide the rotation of the body rotating body (310).

[0092] Meanwhile, the first body rotating body (310a) and the second body rotating body (310b) may each be provided with a cross projection (314) that partially protrudes toward each other. The cross projection (314) can also guide the first body rotating body (310a) and the second body rotating body (310b) to rotate stably toward each other.

[0093] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 6, the support frame (305) and the sub-plate (350) can be joined to each other through the joining hole (355). The sub-plate (350) will be described in detail later.

[0094] (Support bridge (330))

[0095] A support bridge (330) is positioned between a pair of body rotation bodies (310). The support bridge (330) connects the body rotation bodies (310) to each other. Specifically, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the support bridge (330) can connect body rotation bodies (310) and / or slot bodies (320) that are spaced apart on both sides to each other.

[0096] The support bridge (330) can be integrally combined with the body rotating body (310). Accordingly, the support bridge (330) can rotate together with the body rotating body (310) as the body rotating body (310) rotates. That is, the support bridge (330) rotates together with the body rotating body (310) during the process of changing states from a first state to a second state.

[0097] At this time, the support bridge (330) can be positioned horizontally in the first state and vertically in the second state. Specifically, referring to FIG. 7, the support bridge (330) can be positioned horizontally in the first state as shown in FIG. 7 (b). And, in the second state as shown in FIG. 7 (d), the support bridge (330) can be positioned vertically.

[0098] (Display support (340))

[0099] The display support (340) is positioned to overlap the support bridge (330) and the first body (210) and the second body (220) in the width direction. Specifically, referring to FIG. 5, the display support (340) is positioned to overlap the support bridge (330) and the first body (210) in the width direction.

[0100] And, the display support (340) is formed to be movable in conjunction with the movement of the support bridge (330). Specifically, the display support (340) can be moved up and down as the support bridge (330) transitions from a first state to a second state.

[0101] For example, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the display support (340) is positioned between the support bridges (330) in the first state. Then, as shown in FIG. 7(d), during the transition to the second state, the display support (340) can be moved to be positioned below the support bridges (330).

[0102] (Movement of display support (340))

[0103] The display support (340) is positioned to support the flexible display (DP) in the first state and is moved to be spaced apart from the flexible display (DP) in the second state.

[0104] Specifically, referring to FIG. 7(a), in the first state, the display support (340) is positioned between the first body (210) and the second body (220). The display support (340) can be positioned to support the flexible display (DP) from the back.

[0105] And, referring to (g) of FIG. 7, in the second state, the display support (340) is moved in a direction away from the flexible display (DP).

[0106] A display support (340) of a mobile terminal (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention supports a flexible display (DP) when the mobile terminal (100) is in a first state. Accordingly, by supporting the back space of the flexible display (DP) between the first body (210) and the second body (220) in the first state, the flexible display (DP) can be stably positioned without being pushed backward even when the flexible display (DP) is pressed or touched.

[0107] And, the display support (340) is separated from the flexible display (DP) in the second state. Accordingly, in the second state where the first body (210) and the second body (220) are in a folded state, unnecessary pressure may not occur at the folded portion of the flexible display (DP). In addition, by the third plate (343) of the display support (340) pressing the hinge deco (390), the hinge deco (390) may be prevented from being pushed inward by an external force in the second state.

[0108] (Slot body (320))

[0109] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 4, a pair of slot bodies (320) may be further included, which are positioned between a pair of body rotating bodies (310) and configured to rotate together with the body rotating bodies (310). The slot bodies (320) may be integrally coupled with the body rotating bodies (310) and the support bridge (330).

[0110] (Display support (340) structure)

[0111] Referring to FIG. 5, the display support (340) may include a first plate (341), a second plate (342), and a third plate (343). The first plate (341) may be formed elongated in the center.

[0112] The second plate (342) can form a wider width than the first plate (341) at both ends of the first plate (341). Since the second plate (342) must support the flexible display (DP) in the first state, it is desirable for it to have a wider width than the first plate (341). In addition, in this respect, the second plate (342) can be extended adjacent to the body rotating body (310).

[0113] The third plate (343) is positioned between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342). The third plate (343) forms a wider width than the second plate (342). The third plate (343) has the widest width.

[0114] The third plate (343) may be subjected to upward and downward pressure by a support member (333) protruding from the support bridge (330). The third plate (343) may be formed with a wide width to be connected to the support member (333) protruding from the support bridge (330). Additionally, the third plate (343) has a predetermined thickness downward to receive the pressure applied to the display support (340) by the support member (333) of the support bridge (330).

[0115] The display support (340) further includes a hook portion (345) that extends to the lower part of the third plate (343) and has a hook formed at its end that protrudes toward a hook groove (352). It also further includes a sub-plate (350) that is positioned below the second plate (342) and has an inwardly concave hook groove (352) formed therein. The display support (340) is configured so that the hook portion (345) engages with the hook groove (352) and moves integrally with the sub-plate (350).

[0116] (Structure of the support bridge (330))

[0117] The support bridge (330) may include a bridge portion (331), a connecting portion (332), and a supporting portion (333).

[0118] Specifically, referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, the bridge portion (331) is formed to be long in the width direction of the first body (210) and the second body (220). And, the connecting portion (332) extends from both ends of the bridge portion (331) toward the display support (340).

[0119] Referring to FIG. 7, the support member (333) is bent and extended from the connecting member (332) and is configured to support the lower surface of the third plate (343) in the first state, and then switch to the second state and rotate to press the upper surface of the third plate (343).

[0120] Specifically, referring to FIG. 7(b), the support member (333) may include a first part (333a) extending downward from the connecting part (332), and a second part (333b) protruding from the first part (333a) toward the display support (340). A connecting surface (333c) formed by a curve connecting the first part (333a) and the second part (333b) may be formed.

[0121] (Explanation of the movement of the support bridge (330) and the display support (340)

[0122] As illustrated in FIG. 7(a), in the first state, the second surface (335b) of the support portion (333) of the support bridge (330) can support the lower surface of the third plate (343) of the display support (340). Also, the connecting portion (332) of the support bridge (330) can be supported by a hinge deco (390).

[0123] Through this, even when the display support (340) is pressed downward, the display support (340) can be supported by the support bridge (330) and the hinge deco (390).

[0124] Figure 7(c) shows the movement of the support bridge (330) during the transition from the first state to the second state. As the support bridge (330) rotates, the connecting surface (333c) of the support bridge (330) can press against the upper surface (343e) of the third plate (343). Through the pressing of the support bridge (330), the display support (340) can be moved downward.

[0125] Figure 7 (d) shows the state after switching to the second state. The first part (333a) of the support bridge (330) can press the upper surface of the third plate (343) of the display support (340). Accordingly, even if the display support (340) is pressed from the hinge deco (390) side in the second state, the movement of the hinge deco (390) inward can be reduced.

[0126] Figure 7 (e) is the initial stage of the transition from the second state to the first state. At this time, the display support (340) can be raised upward as the hinge deco (390) rises.

[0127] Figure 7 (f) is the post-process of transitioning from the second state to the first state. At this time, the second part (333b) of the support bridge (330) can be inserted toward the lower surface of the display support (340).

[0128] (Hinge Deco (390))

[0129] The hinge assembly (300) may further include a hinge deco (390) positioned on the back surface of the display support (340). In a first state, both ends of the hinge deco (390) are positioned below the connecting portion (332) of the support bridge (330), and in a second state, the hook portion (345) of the display support (340) may be supported in the center.

[0130] Specifically, referring to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 8, the hinge deco (390) can be placed on the back surface of the hinge assembly (300). And, referring to FIG. 7, the hook portion (345) of the display support (340) can be supported in the second state.

[0131] (Description of the third plate (343) of the support bridge (330))

[0132] The third plate (343) may be made of two or more surfaces with upper and lower surfaces connected so that the support member (333) can be easily rotated during the process of the support bridge (330) changing state to the first state and the second state.

[0133] Specifically, referring to FIG. 7(b), the third plate (343) may include a lower surface (343a), a side surface (343b), an upper surface (343c), and a lower side surface (343d) and an upper side surface (343e) of the third plate (343) where the lower surface (343a) and the upper surface (343c) are connected. At this time, the upper side surface (343e) and the lower side surface (343d) of the third plate (343) may connect the side surface (343b) of the third plate (343) with the upper surface (343c) and the lower surface (343a) of the third plate (343).

[0134] (Holding Unit)

[0135] The hinge assembly (300) may further include a holding unit for the body rotation body (310) to free stop during the process of switching between states from a first state to a second state.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 5, the holding unit includes a moving cam (364) with one end supported by a slot body (320), and a spring (366) with one end supported by the moving cam (364) and the other end supported by a support bridge (330).

[0137] The moving cam (364) rotates as the slot body (320) rotates from a first state to a second state, thereby pressing the spring (366). That is, the moving cam (364) can be moved in a direction that rotates and presses the spring (366). Accordingly, as the spring (366) is compressed, it can press the slot body (320) and the support bridge (330), respectively. As the spring (366) presses both the slot body (320) and the support bridge (330), the external force required for the rotation of the slot body (320) and the support bridge (330) can be increased. Accordingly, additional rotation can be reduced in the absence of external force.

[0138] (Gear section (362))

[0139] Referring to FIG. 5, a gear section (362) may be further included between the body rotating body (310) and the slot body (320). The gear section (362) may include a first gear section (362a) and a second gear section (362b).

[0140] The first gear section (362a) can guide the vertical transition of the slot body (320) as it rotates. The second gear section (362b) can guide the subplate (350) to move downward.

[0141] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the back of a hinge assembly to explain a support bridge according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the support bridge separated from the hinge assembly to explain the support bridge of the hinge assembly of FIG. 8.

[0142] The support bridge (330) may further include a support bridge connecting part (335) that wraps around at least a portion of the body rotating body (310) and the slot body (320) to be connected to each other.

[0143] (Support bridge connecting part (335))

[0144] The support bridge connecting part (335) may include a first surface (335a), a second surface (335b), and a third surface (335c).

[0145] Specifically, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the first surface (335a) covers one side of the slot body (320). Then, the second surface (335b) is bent from the first surface (335a) and is formed to cover one side of the slot body (320), another side of the slot body (320) adjacent to the first side of the slot body (320), and one side of the body rotating body (310). The third surface (335c) is bent from the second surface (335b) and is formed to cover one side of the body rotating body (310) and another side of the body rotating body (310) adjacent to the first side of the body rotating body (310).

[0146] At this time, the first surface (335a) to the third surface (335c) of the support bridge connecting part (335) may be formed in a 'U' shape. Also, a slot body (320) and a body rotating body (310) may be inserted into the support bridge connecting part (335).

[0147] The slot body (320) may be formed within the support bridge connecting portion (335) to have a thickness that can contact the second surface (335b) from the end of the first surface (335a). Specifically, referring to FIG. 8, one end of the slot body (320) is formed at the same position as the end of the first surface (335a). And, it may be formed with a thickness corresponding to the inner length of the first surface (335a) so as to contact the interior of the second surface (335b).

[0148] The body rotating body (310) may include a protrusion (312) that protrudes from one side to contact the second surface (335b). Specifically, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the protrusion (312) may protrude from the back surface of the body rotating body (310) toward the second surface (335b).

[0149] (Connecting pin (380))

[0150] It may further include a coupling pin (380) disposed between the first surface (335a) and the third surface (335c) and inserted through the slot body (320) and the body rotating body (310).

[0151] The connecting pin (380) can be inserted into a through hole (not shown) formed in the slot body (320) and the body rotating body (310) to integrally connect the slot body (320) and the body rotating body (310). The connecting pin (380) can be formed so as not to be detached to the outside by the support bridge connecting part (335).

[0152] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the support bridge connecting part (335) may be formed to integrally connect the body rotating body (310), the slot body (320), and the support bridge (330). Additionally, the integrality of the body rotating body (310) and the slot body (320) may be further enhanced through a connecting pin (380) that penetrates the body rotating body (310) and the slot body (320).

[0153] Through this, even when the hinge assembly (300) is subjected to external impact, the hinge assembly (300) itself may be reduced from twisting or some components may detach, thereby increasing the rigidity of the hinge assembly (300).

[0154] (Support bridge connecting part (335) - 4th side (335d) and 5th side (335e))

[0155] Meanwhile, the support bridge connecting portion (335) may further include a fourth surface (335d) that is bent at the first surface (335a) and formed to wrap around another surface of the slot body (320), and a fifth surface (335e) that is bent at the fourth surface (335d) and formed to wrap around yet another surface of the slot body (320).

[0156] Specifically, referring to FIG. 9, the support bridge connecting portion (335) may include a fourth surface (335d) that surrounds another surface of the slot body (320) that does not come into contact with the first surface (335a) to the third surface (335c), and a fifth surface (335e) that surrounds the surface of the slot body (320) that intersects with the fourth surface (335d).

[0157] In addition, a through hole (335eh) that can be coupled with a groove formed in the slot body (320) may be formed on the fifth surface (335e). By inserting a coupling member through the through hole (335eh), the slot body (320) and the support bridge (330) can be coupled more firmly.

[0158] A support bridge connecting portion (335) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be formed to integrally connect a body rotating body (310), a slot body (320), and a support bridge (330). Additionally, the integrality of the body rotating body (310) and the slot body (320) may be further enhanced through a connecting pin (380) that penetrates the body rotating body (310) and the slot body (320).

[0159] In addition, the support bridge connecting portion (335) can further increase the bonding strength between the support bridge (330) and the slot body (320) by including a fourth surface (335d), a fifth surface (335e) that surrounds the surface of the slot body (320), and a through hole (335eh) for connection.

[0160] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claim 1 A first body; a second body formed to be rotatable relative to the first body; a flexible display continuously disposed on the first body and the second body; and a hinge assembly configured to move the first body and the second body in a first state in which the first body and the second body are arranged parallel to each other and a second state in which the first body and the second body are arranged opposite each other, wherein the hinge assembly comprises: a pair of body rotation bodies spaced apart in the width direction of the first body and the second body; and a support bridge disposed between the pair of body rotation bodies and connecting the body rotation bodies to each other. A mobile terminal comprising: a display support arranged to overlap the support bridge and the first body and the second body in the width direction, and formed to be movable in conjunction with the movement of the support bridge; wherein the display support is arranged to support the flexible display in the first state and moves to be spaced apart from the flexible display in the second state; and wherein the display support comprises: a first plate formed elongated in the center; a second plate extending adjacent to the body rotating body and forming a width wider than the first plate at both ends of the first plate; and a third plate arranged between the first plate and the second plate and forming a width wider than the second plate. Claim 2 A mobile terminal according to claim 1, wherein the support bridge is positioned horizontally in the first state and vertically in the second state, the display support is positioned between the support bridges in the first state and is moved to be positioned below the support bridges during the process of transitioning to the second state, and the display support is positioned between the first body and the second body in the first state to support the flexible display. Claim 3 delete Claim 4 delete Claim 5 A mobile terminal according to claim 1, further comprising a sub-plate disposed below the second plate and having an inwardly concave hook groove formed therein, and the display support further comprising a hook portion extending below the third plate and having a hook formed at its end that protrudes toward the hook groove, and the display support configured such that the hook portion engages with the hook groove and moves integrally with the sub-plate. Claim 6 A mobile terminal according to claim 5, wherein the support bridge comprises: a bridge portion formed long in the width direction of the first body and the second body; a connecting portion extending toward the display support from both ends of the bridge portion; and a support portion bent and extended from the connecting portion, which supports the lower surface of the third plate in the first state, switches to the second state, and rotates to press the upper surface of the third plate. Claim 7 A mobile terminal according to claim 6, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises a hinge deco disposed on the back surface of the display support, and wherein the hinge deco is configured such that, in a first state, both ends are disposed below the connecting portion of the support bridge, and in a second state, the hook portion of the display support is supported in the center. Claim 8 A mobile terminal according to claim 6, wherein the support bridge rotates together with the body rotating body during the process of changing states between the first state and the second state, and the third plate is composed of two or more surfaces connected to the upper surface and the lower surface so that the support member can easily rotate during the process of the support bridge changing states between the first state and the second state. Claim 9 A first body; a second body formed to be rotatable relative to the first body; a flexible display integrally disposed on the first body and the second body; and a hinge assembly configured to move the first body and the second body in a first state in which the first body and the second body are arranged parallel to each other and a second state in which the first body and the second body are arranged opposite each other, wherein the hinge assembly comprises: a pair of body rotation bodies spaced apart in the width direction of the first body and the second body; a pair of slot bodies disposed between the pair of body rotation bodies and configured to rotate together with the body rotation bodies; and a support bridge disposed between the pair of slot bodies and connecting the spaced-apart slot bodies to each other. A mobile terminal comprising: a display support arranged to overlap the support bridge and the first body and the second body in the width direction and formed to be movable in conjunction with the movement of the support bridge; wherein the display support is arranged to support the flexible display in the first state and moves to be spaced apart from the flexible display in the second state; and wherein the support bridge further comprises a support bridge connecting portion that wraps at least a portion of the body rotating body and the slot body to be connected to each other, and wherein the support bridge connecting portion comprises: a first surface wrapping one side of the slot body; a second surface that is bent from the first surface and wraps another side of the slot body adjacent to one side of the slot body and one side of the body rotating body; and a third surface that is bent from the second surface and wraps another side of the body rotating body adjacent to one side of the body rotating body. Claim 10 A mobile terminal according to claim 9, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises a holding unit for free-stopping the body rotating body during the process of mutually switching from the first state to the second state, the holding unit comprises: a moving cam having one end supported by the slot body; and a spring having one end supported by the moving cam and the other end supported by the support bridge, wherein the moving cam is rotated as the slot body rotates from the first state to the second state to press the spring, and as the spring is compressed, the spring presses the slot body and the support bridge, respectively, thereby reducing additional rotation. Claim 11 delete Claim 12 delete Claim 13 A mobile terminal according to claim 9, wherein the slot body is formed to have a thickness capable of contacting the second surface from the end of the first surface within the support bridge binding portion, and the body rotating body comprises: a protrusion protruding from one side to contact the second surface; and a coupling pin disposed between the first surface and the third surface and inserted through the slot body and the body rotating body. Claim 14 delete Claim 15 A mobile terminal according to claim 9, wherein the support bridge connecting portion further comprises: a fourth surface that is bent from the first surface and formed to wrap around another surface of the slot body; and a fifth surface that is bent from the fourth surface and formed to wrap around yet another surface of the slot body.

Images