ELECTRONIC DEVICES WITH FLEXIBLE DISPLAYS, AND FLEXIBLE DISPLAYS

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic device with a flexible display, and a flexible display. The electronic device in a scheme may consist of: a first enclosure; a second enclosure connected so that it may be able to move or rotate relative to the first enclosure; and a flexible display incorporated in the first and second enclosures and configured so that at least part of it may be deformed. The flexible display may consist of a deformable display panel and a glass element situated on the deformable display panel and configured to be deformable. The glass element may consist of, on at least one of its sides, recesses formed inward from the outer surface of the glass element.

Description

Flexible display and electronic device including the same

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a flexible display and an electronic device including the same.

[0002] Recently, interest in bendable electronic devices (hereinafter referred to as flexible electronic devices), including flexible displays or deformable displays (hereinafter referred to as flexible displays), has been increasing. It is essential that the window member used in a flexible display not only possess impact resistance through surface hardness and strength, but also flexibility to prevent deformation when bent or folded.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background information to aid in understanding this document. None of the above is claimed to be prior art related to this document or can be used to determine prior art.

[0004] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can prevent or reduce breakage of ultra-thin glass included in a flexible display by foreign substances entering the interior of the electronic device.

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment may include a first housing, a second housing coupled to the first housing so as to be movable or rotatable, and a flexible display accommodated in the first housing and the second housing, the flexible display having at least a portion configured to be deformable. The flexible display may include a deformable display panel and a glass member positioned on the deformable display panel and configured to be deformable. The glass member may include a plurality of recesses formed from an outer side of the glass member to an inner side thereof on at least one side thereof.

[0006] According to various embodiments proposed in the present disclosure, a flexible display can prevent or reduce breakage caused by foreign substances by forming a plurality of recesses near the edge of a flexible region of a glass member.

[0007] According to various embodiments proposed in the present disclosure, a flexible display can prevent or reduce damage caused by foreign substances by forming a thickness near the edge of a flexible region of a glass member to be thicker than other parts.

[0008] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from implementing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolding state according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2b is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a folding state according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a laminated structure of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of a frame portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Figure 6.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of Figure 8.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC of Fig. 10.

[0021] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the magnitude of stress applied when bending a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig. 14 is a graph showing the strength according to the thickness of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0024] Fig. 15 is a graph showing the relative repulsive force according to the thickness of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 16 is an example for explaining a method of forming multiple recesses in a glass member.

[0026] FIG. 17a and FIG. 17b are examples for explaining a method of forming a plurality of recesses in a glass member.

[0027] Figure 18 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIGS. 19A to 19D are cross-sectional views illustrating the shape of a first glass portion of a glass member according to various embodiments.

[0029] FIGS. 20A to 20C are plan views illustrating the planar shape of a first glass portion of a glass member according to various embodiments.

[0030] FIGS. 21A to 21C are perspective views illustrating a first glass portion of a glass member according to various embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a portion of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIGS. 23a to 24d are drawings illustrating a process of applying an attachment member to a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIGS. 25a to 25c are drawings showing an attachment member applied to a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIGS. 28A and 28B are plan views of a sliderable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 29 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device capable of being folded multiple times according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 31 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 32 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0041] Figures 33a to 33c are cross-sectional views taken along line MM in Figure 32.

[0042] The accompanying drawings are referenced in the following description, and specific examples of implementations are illustrated within the drawings. Furthermore, other examples may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various examples.

[0043] The various embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 33c below and in this patent document, are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any appropriately arranged system or device.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0047] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0048] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0049] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0050] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0051] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0052] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0053] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0054] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0055] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0056] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0057] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0058] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0059] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0060] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0061] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0062] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0063] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0064] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0065] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0066] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0067] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0068] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0069] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment. FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment. The electronic devices illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 3 are for illustrative purposes only, and the present disclosure is not limited by the drawings. The XYZ coordinate systems illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 3 are for illustrative purposes only, and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0070] An electronic device (200) (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include at least one pair of housings (210, 220). The pair of housings (210, 220) may be rotatably coupled to face each other and folded based on, for example, a hinge (e.g., hinge (240) of FIG. 3). For example, the pair of housings (210, 220) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged on both sides with a folding axis (F) as the center. One end region of the first housing (210) and one end region of the second housing (220) may be arranged side by side with the hinge (240) therebetween. The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may have a shape symmetrical about a plane extending in the Z1-axis direction and including a folding axis (F). Here, the folding axis (F) may be an X1-direction axis formed by a hinge (240).

[0071] The first housing (210) may have substantially the same length (e.g., length in the Y1-axis direction) as the second housing (220), but is not limited thereto. The first housing (210) may have substantially the same width (e.g., width in the X1-axis direction) as the second housing (220), but is not limited thereto.

[0072] Hereinafter, the 'unfolding state' or 'flat state' may refer to a state in which the angle formed by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is substantially 180 degrees. The 'folding state' or 'folded state' may refer to a state in which the angle formed by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is substantially 0 degrees. The 'intermediate state' may refer to any state between the unfolding state and the folded state. In the electronic device (200), for example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may rotate about the hinge (240) to form an angle of 0 to 180 degrees. In the electronic device (200), for example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may rotate about a hinge (240) between 180 degrees and 360 degrees.

[0073] The first housing (210) may include a first surface (210a) and a second surface (210b). The first surface (210a) may be provided to face, for example, a first direction (e.g., a +Z1 axis direction). The first surface (210a) may be, for example, a surface on which at least a portion of the flexible display (230) is disposed. The first surface (210a) may refer to, for example, a virtual surface that overlaps at least a portion of the flexible display (230). The second surface (210b) may be provided to face, for example, a second direction (e.g., a -Z1 axis direction). The second surface (210b) may be, for example, a surface on which the first rear cover (212) is disposed. The second surface (210b) may be parallel to the first surface (210a). The second surface (210b) may refer to a plane defined by, for example, the first rear cover (212).

[0074] The second housing (220) may include a third surface (220a) and a fourth surface (220b). The third surface (220a) may be provided to face, for example, a first direction (e.g., a +Z1 axis direction). The third surface (220a) may be, for example, a surface on which at least a portion of the flexible display (230) is disposed. The third surface (220a) may refer to, for example, a virtual surface that overlaps at least a portion of the flexible display (230). The fourth surface (220b) may be provided to face, for example, a second direction (e.g., a -Z1 axis direction). The fourth surface (220b) may be, for example, a surface on which the second rear cover (222) is disposed. The fourth surface (220b) may be parallel to the third surface (220a). The fourth surface (220b) may refer to a plane defined by, for example, the second rear cover (222).

[0075] When the electronic device (200) is unfolded, the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) can be positioned within one arbitrary virtual plane (e.g., X1-Y1 plane). For example, the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) can form the same plane when the electronic device (200) is unfolded. For example, the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) can be arranged to form 180 degrees with respect to the X1-Y1 plane when the electronic device (200) is unfolded. When the electronic device (200) is unfolded, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) can be positioned within another arbitrary virtual plane (e.g., X1-Y1 plane). For example, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) can form the same plane when the electronic device (200) is unfolded. For example, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) can be arranged to form 180 degrees with respect to the X1-Y1 plane in an unfolded state.

[0076] In a folded state of the electronic device (200), at least a part of the first side (210a) and at least a part of the third side (220a) may face each other. For example, in a folded state of the electronic device (200), the angle formed by the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) may be 0 degrees with respect to the X1-Y1 plane. As the electronic device (200) is folded from an unfolded state, the angle formed by the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) with respect to the X1-Y1 plane may gradually decrease. For example, in an intermediate state, the angle formed by the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) with respect to the X1-Y1 plane may be determined between about 0 degrees and about 180 degrees. In a folded state of the electronic device (200), the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) may be parallel to each other. For example, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) may face opposite directions when the electronic device (200) is folded.

[0077] A pair of housings (210, 220) included in the electronic device (200) are not limited to the illustrated shape and combination, and may be implemented by a combination and / or combination of other shapes or parts.

[0078] The first housing (210) may include a first side frame (211). The first side frame (211) may constitute a side of the first housing (210). The first side frame (211) may constitute a portion of the exterior of the first housing (210). The first side frame (211) may be provided to protect components housed inside the electronic device (200) from the outside.

[0079] The first side frame (211) may include a first side member (211a), a second side member (211b), and / or a third side member (211c). The first side member (211a) may have a first length along a first longitudinal direction (e.g., a Y1-axis direction). The second side member (211b) may extend from the first side member (211a) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., a X1-axis direction). The second side member (211b) may extend to have a second length that is the same as or different from the first length. The third side member (211c) may extend from the second side member (211b) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., a Y1-axis direction). The third side member (211c) may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the first side member (211a). The third side member (211c) may have a first length along a first longitudinal direction (e.g., Y1-axis direction).

[0080] The first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and the third side member (211c) may be arranged to be visible from the outside. At least a portion of the first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and / or the third side member (211c) may be formed as a curved surface. The first side frame (211) may be formed into a rectangular shape (e.g., a square or a rectangle) by the first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and the third side member (211c). The first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and the third side member (211c) may be formed integrally, but are not limited thereto.

[0081] The second housing (220) may include a second side frame (221). The second side frame (221) may constitute a side of the second housing (220). The second side frame (221) may constitute a part of the exterior of the second housing (220). The second side frame (221) may be provided to protect components housed inside the electronic device (200) from the outside.

[0082] The second side frame (221) may include a fourth side member (221a), a fifth side member (221b), and / or a sixth side member (221c). The fourth side member (221a) may have a third length along a first longitudinal direction (e.g., Y1-axis direction). The fifth side member (221b) may extend from the fourth side member (221a) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., X1-axis direction). The fifth side member (221b) may extend to have a fourth length that is the same as or different from the third length. The sixth side member (221c) may extend from the fifth side member (221b) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., Y1-axis direction). The sixth side member (221c) may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the fourth side member (221a). The sixth side member (221c) may have a third length along the first longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y1-axis direction).

[0083] The fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and the sixth side member (221c) may be arranged to be visible from the outside. At least a portion of the fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and / or the sixth side member (221c) may be formed as a curved surface. The second side frame (221) may be formed into a rectangular shape (e.g., a square or a rectangle) by the fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and the sixth side member (221c). The first length may be substantially the same as the third length. The second length may be substantially the same as the fourth length. The fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and the sixth side member (221c) may be formed integrally, but is not limited thereto.

[0084] In the unfolded state of the electronic device (200), the first side member (211a) and the fourth side member (221a) may be positioned substantially in a straight line. In the unfolded state of the electronic device (200), the second side member (211b) and the fifth side member (221b) may be positioned parallel to each other. In the unfolded state of the electronic device (200), the third side member (211c) and the sixth side member (221c) may be positioned substantially in a straight line.

[0085] When the electronic device (200) is folded, the first side member (211a) and the fourth side member (221a) can be positioned to overlap each other. When the electronic device (200) is folded, the second side member (211b) and the fifth side member (221b) can be positioned to overlap each other. When the electronic device (200) is folded, the third side member (211c) and the sixth side member (221c) can be positioned to overlap each other.

[0086] The first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (212). The first rear cover (212) may form at least a portion of the second side (210b) of the first housing (210). The first rear cover (212) may be coupled to a first side frame (211). The first rear cover (212) may be formed integrally with the first side frame (211), for example.

[0087] The second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (222). The second rear cover (222) may form at least a portion of the fourth side (220b) of the second housing (220). The second rear cover (222) may be coupled to the second side frame (221). The second rear cover (222) may be formed integrally with the second side frame (221), for example.

[0088] The first rear cover (212) and / or the second rear cover (222) may be formed of, for example, at least one or a combination of coated or colored glass, ceramic, glassic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium).

[0089] The electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (230) (e.g., a foldable display or display). The flexible display (230) may be arranged across a first housing (210), a hinge (240), and a second housing (220). The flexible display (230) may be arranged to extend from a first surface (210a) of the first housing (210) across the hinge (240) to at least a portion of a third surface (220a) of the second housing (220). The flexible display (230) may be arranged such that the first surface (210a) of the first housing (210) and the third surface (220a) of the second housing (220) overlap each other. The flexible display (230) may have a portion corresponding to the hinge (240) that may be bent in accordance with the rotation of the hinge (240).

[0090] The flexible display (230) can be arranged so as to be visible from the outside when in an unfolded state. The flexible display (230) can be arranged so as to be invisible from the outside when in a folded state.

[0091] The electronic device (200) may include a protective cover (231). The protective cover (231) may be positioned to protect an edge portion of the flexible display (230). The protective cover (231) may form part of the exterior of the electronic device (200).

[0092] The electronic device (200) may include at least one of an input device (e.g., a microphone (203)), an audio output device (e.g., a call receiver (201) or a speaker (202)), a sensor module (204), a camera module (a first camera module (205) or a second camera module (208)), a connector port (207), a key input device (not shown), or an indicator (not shown) disposed in a first internal space (214) of a first housing (210) or a second internal space (224) of a second housing (220). The electronic device (200) may be configured such that at least one of the above-described components is omitted, or other components are additionally included.

[0093] The input device may include a plurality of microphones arranged to detect the direction of sound. The audio output device may include, for example, a call receiver (201) and a speaker (202). The audio output devices (201, 202) may be arranged to face the outside through at least one speaker hole formed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The connector port (207) may be arranged to face the outside through a connector port hole formed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220).

[0094] The sensor module (204) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (204) can include at least one of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a time of flight (TOF) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a fingerprint recognition sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor.

[0095] The camera module may include a first camera module (205) disposed on the front side (e.g., +Z1-axis direction side) of the electronic device (200) or a second camera module (208) disposed on the rear side (e.g., -Z1-axis direction side). The first camera module (205) and / or the second camera module (208) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. As an example, the first camera module (205) may be disposed under the flexible display (230) and configured to capture a subject through a portion of an active area of ​​the flexible display (230). A flash (209) may be positioned in the second camera module (208). The flash (209) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp.

[0096] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a laminated structure of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0097] The flexible display (400) illustrated in FIG. 4 may be at least partially similar to the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 2A) provided in the electronic device of FIG. 2A described above (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A).

[0098] According to one embodiment, electronic devices (200) having various form factors in which one housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) moves relative to another housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) may include a flexible display (400) as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (400) can be positioned to span at least the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). Accordingly, at least a portion of the flexible display (400) can bend as the second housing (220) moves relative to the first housing (210).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (400) may include a flexible region and a non-flexible region. The flexible region and the non-flexible region may be configured in various shapes and numbers depending on the form factor of the electronic device (200) on which the flexible display (400) is to be mounted. The flexible region may refer to a region that is bent depending on the electronic device (200). The non-flexible region may refer to a region other than the flexible region that is not bent or remains flat.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 4, the flexible display (400) may include a protective member (410) (e.g., a protective film), a glass member (420), and a display panel (430). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (400) may be configured such that the protective member (410), the glass member (420), and the display panel (430) are sequentially laminated from the upper side. Each component may be bonded by an adhesive member (P1, P2), but is not limited thereto.

[0102] The adhesive member (P1, P2) may include at least one of an optically clear adhesive film (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), a pressure sensitive adhesive film (PSA), a heat-reactive adhesive, a general adhesive, or a double-sided tape. The adhesive member (P1, P2) includes a photocurable adhesive material or a heat-curable adhesive material, and the material thereof is not particularly limited. The adhesive member (P1, P2) may include, for example, at least one of a first adhesive member (P1) provided to adhere the protective member (410) and the glass member (420), and a second adhesive member (P2) provided to adhere the glass member (420) and the display panel (430).

[0103] The first adhesive member (P1) may be arranged to be attached to at least a portion of the upper surface of the glass member (420). The second adhesive member (P2) may be arranged to be attached to at least a portion of the lower surface of the glass member (420). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and as will be described later, the first adhesive member (P1) may be attached to a portion of the upper surface of the glass member (420), and the second adhesive member (P2) may be attached to the remaining portion of the upper surface of the glass member (420). Adhesive members having different properties may be provided around the glass member (420) in various ways and structures.

[0104] The configuration illustrated in FIG. 4 is an example for convenience of explanation, and the flexible display (400) may further include additional configurations. For example, although not illustrated, various types of layers, such as a touch sensing layer, may be provided on the upper side of the display panel (430). The touch sensing layer may be configured to obtain coordinate accuracy of an external input. The touch sensing layer may be, for example, an electrostatic capacitive touch sensing member. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be replaced with a touch sensing layer of another type, such as an electromagnetic induction method, that includes two types of touch electrodes.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the display panel (430) may be disposed on the lower side of the glass member (420). The display panel (430) may be disposed on the lower side of the glass member (420), for example, with a polarizing layer (450) therebetween. The display panel (430) may be a display panel such as an organic light-emitting display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, or a quantum dot display panel, but the type thereof is not limited. The light-emitting layer of the organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the quantum dot display panel may include quantum dots and quantum rods. The display panel (430) may be formed so that at least a portion is bendable. For example, the display panel (430) may be formed so that at least a portion is deformable.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (400) may include a polarizing layer (450). The polarizing layer (450) may be disposed on the display panel (430). For example, the polarizing layer (450) may be disposed between the glass member (420) and the display panel (430). The polarizing layer (450) may absorb or destructively interfere with light incident from the outside, thereby reducing the external light reflectance of the flexible display (400). For example, the polarizing layer (450) may be formed integrally with the display panel (430) through a continuous process. For example, the polarizing layer (450) may be a component of the display panel (430). When the polarizing layer (450) and the display panel (430) are formed integrally, an adhesive material therebetween may be omitted. When the polarizing layer (450) is manufactured separately and attached to the display panel (430), it can be attached by an adhesive material.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the glass member (420) may be disposed on the upper side of the display panel (430). The glass member (420) may be attached to the display panel (430) by an attachment member so as to be in direct contact with it. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various types of layers, such as a polarizing layer (450) or a touch-sensitive layer (not shown), may be provided between the glass member (420) and the display panel (430).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the glass member (420) may have various shapes to improve the rigidity of the edge portion in the flexible region (400b). Among the edge portions of the glass member (420), the edge portion corresponding to the flexible region (400b) may be formed with a plurality of recesses (e.g., a plurality of recesses (830) of FIG. 8 or a plurality of recesses (1040) of FIG. 10) or may be formed to have a thicker thickness than other portions. The glass member (420) may have various structures in the edge portion to prevent or reduce breakage in the flexible region (400b), which will be described in detail later.

[0109] According to one embodiment, a protective member (410) (e.g., a protective film) may be disposed on the uppermost layer of the flexible display (400). The protective member (410) may be disposed on the upper side of the glass member (420) to protect the glass member (420) from external impact. The protective member (410) may protect the glass member (420) from external impact and may help prevent or reduce scattering of glass fragments when the glass member (420) is broken.

[0110] The protective member (410) and the glass member (420) can be bonded by a first adhesive member (P1). As the protective member (410) and the glass member (420) are bonded to each other, the first adhesive member (P1) can be placed between the protective member (410) and the glass member (420).

[0111] In one embodiment, the protective member (410) may be detachably attached to the glass member (420). If the protective member (410) is damaged by an external impact, a new protective member (410) may be attached onto the glass member (420). Accordingly, the adhesive strength of the first adhesive member (P1) may be weaker than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive member (P2).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the protective member (410) may include, but is not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyimide (PI), and may include a material used for the glass member (420) or the polymer member (460) described below. For example, the thickness of the protective member (410) may be substantially the same as or relatively thinner than the thickness of the glass member (420). As an example, the protective member (410) may be omitted from the configuration of the flexible display (400). When the protective member (410) is omitted, the first adhesive member (P1) may also be omitted.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (400) may include a polymer member (460) disposed below the display panel (430). The polymer member (460) may, for example, be applied with a dark color to help display the background when the display is off. The polymer member (460) may, for example, act as a buffer member to absorb impact from the outside of the electronic device and prevent or reduce damage to the flexible display (400).

[0114] The polymer member (460) may include a plastic film as a base layer. The polymer member may include a plastic film including any one selected from the group consisting of polyethersulfone (PES, polyethersulphone), polyacrylate (PAR, polyacrylate), polyetherimide (PEI, polyetherimide), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN, polyethylene naphthalate), polyethylene terephthalate (PET, polyethylene terephthalate), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS, polyphenylene sulfide), polyarylate, polyimide (PI, polyimide), polycarbonate (PC, polycarbonate), or a combination thereof.

[0115] Although not shown, a metal sheet layer may be disposed on the lower side of the display panel (430). The metal sheet layer may help reinforce the rigidity of the electronic device. The metal sheet layer may be used, for example, to shield ambient noise and disperse heat emitted from surrounding heat-emitting components. The metal sheet layer may include at least one of STS (stainless steel), Cu, Al, or other alloy materials.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (400) may further include a printed layer (440). The printed layer (440) may be disposed in a portion of the flexible display (400). For example, the printed layer (440) may be disposed near an edge of the protective member (410). For example, the printed layer (440) may be disposed along an edge of the protective member (410). For example, the printed layer (440) may extend along an edge of the protective member (410) to have a shape that is approximately rectangular. For example, the printed layer (440) may be disposed along a border of the protective member (410). The printed layer (440) may be disposed on an upper surface or a lower surface of the protective member (410). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the printed layer (440) may also be disposed on an upper surface or a lower surface of the glass member (420).

[0117] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the printing layer (440) may be disposed along the edge of the glass member (420) as shown. For example, the printing layer (440) may be disposed on the upper or lower surface of the glass member (420).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the printed layer (440) may be a border (e.g., a BM (black matrix) printed layer) of a display area visible from the outside when the flexible display (400) is placed on an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A). The printed layer (440) may be formed along the border portion of the protective member (410), but is not limited thereto. As an example, the printed layer (440) may form, for example, a bezel pattern. The printed layer (440) may be composed of, for example, a light-blocking material that does not transmit light.

[0119] The printing layer (440) may have a width of, for example, 2.5 mm or less, but is not limited thereto.

[0120] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of a frame portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0121] The structure illustrated in Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration for explaining a foreign substance inflow structure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure illustrated in Fig. 5 is schematically illustrated for convenience of explanation, and the shape of Fig. 5 does not limit the scope of the rights of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (400), a protective cap (510), and a housing (210 or 220).

[0123] According to one embodiment, a protective cap (510) may be placed between the flexible display (400) and the housing (210 or 220) to prevent or reduce foreign matter from entering between the flexible display (400) and the housing (210 or 220). The protective cap (510) may be placed so as to contact an edge portion of the flexible display (400). The protective cap (510) may be made of, for example, a rubber material, but is not limited thereto.

[0124] The side of the flexible display (400) may have a step formed due to the size difference between each component. For example, the side of the glass member (420) may be positioned on the inside between the protective member (410) and the display panel (430), thereby forming a concave space.

[0125] While using the electronic device (200), foreign substances may enter between the flexible display (400) and the protective cap (510). In particular, when the electronic device (200) is bent, a small gap is formed between the protective cap (510) and the flexible display (400), and foreign substances may enter through this gap.

[0126] Foreign substances introduced between the flexible display (400) and the protective cap (510) may damage the glass member (420).

[0127] For example, when a foreign substance is located at a first position (D1) as illustrated, the glass member (420) may be damaged. Here, the first position (D1) may refer to a space between the protective member (410) and the protective cap (510). When a force that presses the protective cap (510) from above is applied when the foreign substance is located at the first position (D1), the glass member (420) may be damaged by the stress applied to the foreign substance. For example, when the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) is folded and / or unfolded, the foreign substance located at the first position may be pressed against the protective cap (510) and thus receive a pressing load toward the flexible display (400). This may cause destruction of the protective member (410) in contact with the foreign substance, and further, high stress may be transmitted to the glass member (420), causing damage to the glass member (420) and the display panel (430).

[0128] For example, if a foreign substance is located at a second position (D2) as illustrated, the glass member (420) may be damaged. The second position (D2) may refer to a position adjacent to the glass member (420) among the empty spaces between the side of the flexible display (400) and the housing (210 or 220). The foreign substance located at the second position (D2) may directly contact the side of the glass member (420), thereby causing a small crack to form in the side of the glass member (420). This small crack may grow due to stress formed by the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) during a folding operation or due to an external impact, thereby resulting in damage to the glass member (420).

[0129] In the present disclosure, by proposing a structure of a glass member (420) according to various embodiments, breakage of the glass member (420) can be reduced. A detailed description of the glass member (420) according to various embodiments will be described below.

[0130] Fig. 6 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Fig. 6.

[0131] The glass member (600) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 may be included in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) illustrated in FIG. 4). The glass member (600) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 may have a configuration substantially identical to or similar to the glass member illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the glass member (420) illustrated in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the glass member (600) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 may replace the glass member (e.g., the glass member (420) illustrated in FIG. 4) in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) illustrated in FIG. 4).

[0132] In Fig. 7, the thickness of the glass member (600) may be somewhat exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0133] The embodiments of FIGS. 6 and 7 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 4. The embodiments of FIGS. 6 and 7 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 8 to 33c.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the glass member (600) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is deformable. For example, the glass member (600) may include a non-flexible region (600a) and a flexible region (600b). Here, the non-flexible region (600a) of the glass member (600) may correspond to the non-flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the non-flexible region (400a) of FIG. 4). Here, the flexible region (600b) of the glass member (600) may correspond to the flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible region (400b) of FIG. 4).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the glass member (600) may include a first side (601), a second side (602) extending vertically from the first side (601), a third side (603) extending vertically from the second side (602) and parallel to the first side (601), and a fourth side (604) extending vertically from the third side (603) and parallel to the second side (602).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the glass member (600) may include a first glass portion (610) and a second glass portion (620).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (610) may include a portion adjacent to an edge of the glass member (600). The first glass portion (610) may include a region within a predetermined distance from the edge of the glass member (600). For example, the first glass portion (610) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge of the glass member (600) included in the flexible region (600b), within the flexible region (600b). For example, the first glass portion (610) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge portion of the edge of the glass member (600) corresponding to the flexible region (600b). For example, the first glass portion (610) may include a region within a predetermined distance from a portion of a side surface (e.g., the second side surface (602) or the fourth side surface (604)) of the glass member (600). Here, the predetermined gap may be less than 1 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0138] In one embodiment, the first glass portion (610) may be positioned such that it overlaps a portion of a printed layer (e.g., printed layer (440) of FIG. 4) when the glass member (600) is included in the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4. The first glass portion (610) may be positioned so as to be visually obscured by the printed layer (440).

[0139] In one embodiment, the first glass portion (610) may have a vertically symmetrical structure. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may have a shape that protrudes further toward at least one of the upper or lower sides. In one embodiment, the first glass portion (610) may have a shape that protrudes toward at least one of the upper or lower sides. For example, one of the upper or lower sides may have a non-protruding shape.

[0140] In one embodiment, the second glass portion (620) may be a different portion than the first glass portion (610). The second glass portion (620) may include at least a portion of the glass member (600) other than the first glass portion (610).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the thickness of the first glass portion (610) may be formed to be relatively thicker than the thickness of the second glass portion (620). For example, the thickness of the first glass portion (610) may be thicker than the average thickness of the glass member (600). The rigidity of the first glass portion (610) may be relatively stronger than the rigidity of the second glass portion (620). The difference in thickness between the first glass portion (610) and the second glass portion (620) may be formed by an etching process using a chemical substance, but the manufacturing method is not limited thereto.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (610) may be positioned to overlap at least a portion of an area where a protective cap (e.g., the protective cap (510) of FIG. 5) and a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 5) are in contact with each other, as shown in FIG. 5. By forming the first glass portion (610) to be relatively thicker than the second glass portion (620), even if a foreign substance is caught in the first location of FIG. 5 (e.g., the first location (D1) of FIG. 5), damage caused by the foreign substance can be effectively prevented or reduced.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the glass member (600) may include a third glass portion (630). The third glass portion (630) may be positioned between the first glass portion (610) and the second glass portion (620). The third glass portion (630) may be a portion that connects the first glass portion (610) and the second glass portion (620).

[0144] The third glass portion (630) may be formed to slope upward from the second glass portion (620) toward the first glass portion (610). The third glass portion (630) may be formed to slope downward from the first glass portion (610) toward the second glass portion (620). However, this is not limited thereto, and unlike the drawing, the third glass portion (630) may also form a step according to the difference in thickness between the first glass portion (610) and the second glass portion (620).

[0145] Fig. 8 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of Fig. 8.

[0146] The glass member (800) illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 may be included in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) illustrated in FIG. 4). The glass member (800) illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 may have a configuration substantially the same as or similar to the glass member illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the glass member (420) illustrated in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the glass member (800) illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 may replace the glass member (e.g., the glass member (420) illustrated in FIG. 4) in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) illustrated in FIG. 4).

[0147] In Fig. 9, the thickness of the glass member (800) may be somewhat exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0148] The embodiments of FIGS. 8 and 9 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 7. The embodiments of FIGS. 8 and 9 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 33c.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the glass member (800) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is deformable. For example, the glass member (800) may include a non-flexible region (800a) and a flexible region (800b). Here, the non-flexible region (800a) of the glass member (800) may correspond to the non-flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the non-flexible region (400a) of FIG. 4). Here, the flexible region (800b) of the glass member (800) may correspond to the flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible region (400b) of FIG. 4).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the glass member (800) may include a first side (801), a second side (802) extending vertically from the first side (801), a third side (803) extending vertically from the second side (802) and parallel to the first side (801), and a fourth side (804) extending vertically from the third side (803) and parallel to the second side (802).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the glass member (800) may include a first glass portion (810) and a second glass portion (820).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (810) may include a portion adjacent to an edge of the glass member (800). The first glass portion (810) may include a region within a predetermined distance from the edge of the glass member (800). For example, the first glass portion (810) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge of the glass member (800) included in the flexible region (800b), in the flexible region (800b). For example, the first glass portion (810) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge portion of the edge of the glass member (800) corresponding to the flexible region (800b). For example, the first glass portion (810) may include a region within a predetermined distance from a portion of a side surface (e.g., the second side surface (802) or the fourth side surface (804)) of the glass member (800). Here, the predetermined gap may be less than 1 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0153] The first glass portion (810) may be positioned to overlap a portion of a printed layer (e.g., printed layer (440) of FIG. 4) when the glass member (800) is included in the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4. The first glass portion (810) may be positioned to be visually obscured by the printed layer (440).

[0154] The second glass portion (820) may be a different portion from the first glass portion (810). The second glass portion (820) may include at least a portion of the glass member (800) other than the first glass portion (810).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the glass member (800) may include a plurality of recesses (830). The plurality of recesses (830) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface of the glass member (800). For example, the plurality of recesses (830) may be formed inwardly from the outside (or from the edge) of the glass member (800) on at least one side surface of the glass member (800). The plurality of recesses (830) may be formed near an edge corresponding to a flexible region (800b) of the glass member (800). For example, the plurality of recesses (830) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface corresponding to the flexible region (800b). The plurality of recesses (830) may be formed to vertically penetrate the glass member (800), but are not limited thereto. A plurality of recesses (830) may be arranged adjacent to the first glass portion (810). The plurality of recesses (830) may be formed by, but are not limited to, a physical processing method, a laser processing method, or a chemical etching method.

[0156] In one embodiment, a plurality of recesses (830) may be formed around the first glass portion (810). For example, the first glass portion (810) may have a comb-like shape due to the plurality of recesses (830), but is not limited thereto. For example, the first glass portion (810) may be positioned between two adjacent recesses (830).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. For example, the plurality of recesses (830) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval along the longitudinal direction of the glass member (800). Here, the longitudinal direction of the glass member (800) may refer to the longitudinal direction of the second side (802). Here, the predetermined interval may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the depth (L2) of the plurality of recesses (830) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the width (L1) of the plurality of recesses (830) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830) may include a first recess (830-1) and a second recess (830-2). The first recess (830-1) and the second recess (830-2) may be arranged adjacent to each other. The first recess (830-1) and the second recess (830-2) may be arranged spaced apart from each other with the first glass portion (810) therebetween. The first recess (830-1) and the second recess (830-2) may have substantially the same size or shape, but are not limited thereto.

[0159] Since each of the plurality of recesses (830) is formed to have a small size of less than 1 millimeter, direct impact on the display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4) can be prevented or reduced by the plurality of recesses (830). For example, even if force is applied to the first glass portion (810) side of a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4), the force is not directly applied from the protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 4) to the display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4), and the first glass portion (810) having a roughly comb shape can protect the display panel (430).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the spacing (L3) between the plurality of recesses (830) may be variable even within the flexible region (800b). According to one embodiment, the spacing between the plurality of recesses (830) may become smaller as they get closer to the center of the flexible region (800b) (e.g., the folding axis (F) of FIG. 3).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (810) of the glass member (800) has a shape roughly like a comb by having a plurality of recesses (830), thereby preventing or reducing breakage of the glass member (800) due to the introduction of foreign substances. For example, even if foreign substances are introduced into the second position of FIG. 5 (e.g., the second position (D2) of FIG. 5), the probability of the foreign substances coming into contact with the side surface area of ​​the first glass portion (810) can be reduced.

[0162] Even if a foreign substance comes into contact with the first glass portion (810) of the glass member (800) and a crack occurs on the side of the first glass portion (810), the crack can be prevented or reduced from spreading to the entire area of ​​the glass member (800) due to the structural feature of an approximately comb shape. Even if the flexible area (800b) of the glass member (800) is bent, the stress applied to the first glass portion (810) can be relatively reduced because the first glass portion (810) has an approximately comb shape. That is, since the stress applied to the first glass portion (810) having a plurality of recesses (830) formed therein is relatively smaller when bent compared to the glass having no plurality of recesses (830) formed therein, the spread of the crack can be prevented or reduced.

[0163] Fig. 10 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC of Fig. 10.

[0164] The glass member (1000) illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 may be included in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) illustrated in FIG. 4). The glass member (1000) illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 may have a configuration substantially the same as or similar to the glass member illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the glass member (420) illustrated in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the glass member (1000) illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 may replace the glass member (e.g., the glass member (420) illustrated in FIG. 4) in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) illustrated in FIG. 4).

[0165] In Fig. 11, for convenience of explanation, the thickness of the glass member (1000) may be somewhat exaggerated.

[0166] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9. The embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 12 to 33c.

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the glass member (1000) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is deformable. For example, the glass member (1000) may include a non-flexible region (1000a) and a flexible region (1000b). Here, the non-flexible region (1000a) of the glass member (1000) may correspond to the non-flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the non-flexible region (400a) of FIG. 4). Here, the flexible region (1000b) of the glass member (1000) may correspond to the flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible region (400b) of FIG. 4).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000) may include a first side (1001), a second side (1002) extending vertically from the first side (1001), a third side (1003) extending vertically from the second side (1002) and parallel to the first side (1001), and a fourth side (1004) extending vertically from the third side (1003) and parallel to the second side (1002).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000) may include a first glass portion (1010) and a second glass portion (1020).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (1010) may include a portion adjacent to an edge of the glass member (1000). The first glass portion (1010) may include a region within a predetermined distance from the edge of the glass member (1000). For example, the first glass portion (1010) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge of the glass member (1000) included in the flexible region (1000b), in the flexible region (1000b). For example, the first glass portion (1010) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge portion of the edge of the glass member (1000) corresponding to the flexible region (1000b). For example, the first glass portion (1010) may include a region within a predetermined distance from a portion of a side surface of the glass member (1000) (e.g., the second side surface (1002) or the fourth side surface (1004)). Here, the predetermined distance may be 1 mm or less, but is not limited thereto.

[0171] The first glass portion (1010) may be positioned to overlap a portion of a printed layer (e.g., printed layer (440) of FIG. 4) when the glass member (1000) is included in the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4. The first glass portion (1010) may be positioned to be visually obscured by the printed layer (440).

[0172] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (1010) may have a vertically symmetrical structure. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may have a shape that protrudes further on at least one of the upper or lower sides. According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (1010) may have a shape that protrudes on at least one of the upper or lower sides. For example, one of the upper or lower sides may have a non-protruding shape.

[0173] The second glass portion (1020) may be a different portion from the first glass portion (1010). The second glass portion (1020) may include at least a portion of the glass member (1000) other than the first glass portion (1010).

[0174] According to one embodiment, the thickness of the first glass portion (1010) may be formed to be relatively thicker than the thickness of the second glass portion (1020). For example, the thickness of the first glass portion (1010) may be thicker than the average thickness of the glass member (1000). The rigidity of the first glass portion (1010) may be relatively stronger than the rigidity of the second glass portion (1020). The difference in thickness between the first glass portion (1010) and the second glass portion (1020) may be formed by an etching process using a chemical substance, but the manufacturing method is not limited thereto.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (1010) may be positioned to overlap at least a portion of an area where a protective cap (e.g., the protective cap (510) of FIG. 5) and a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 5) are in contact, as shown in FIG. 5. By forming the first glass portion (1010) to be relatively thicker than the second glass portion (1020), even if a foreign substance is caught in the first location of FIG. 5 (e.g., the first location (D1) of FIG. 5), damage caused by the foreign substance can be effectively prevented or reduced.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000) may include a plurality of recesses (1040). The plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface of the glass member (1000). For example, the plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed inwardly from the outside (or from the edge) of the glass member (1000) on at least one side surface of the glass member (1000). The plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed near an edge corresponding to a flexible region (1000b) of the glass member (1000). For example, the plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface corresponding to the flexible region (1000b). The plurality of recesses (1040) may be arranged adjacent to the first glass portion (1010). The plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed by, but are not limited to, a physical processing method, a laser processing method, or a chemical etching method.

[0177] According to one embodiment, a plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed around the first glass portion (1010). For example, the first glass portion (1010) may have a comb-like shape due to the plurality of recesses (1040), but is not limited thereto.

[0178] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (1040) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. For example, the plurality of recesses (1040) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval along the longitudinal direction of the glass member (1000). Here, the longitudinal direction of the glass member (1000) may refer to the longitudinal direction of the second side (1002). Here, the predetermined interval may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the depth (L2) of the plurality of recesses (1040) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the width (L1) of the plurality of recesses (1040) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (1040) may include a first recess (1040-1) and a second recess (1040-2). The first recess (1040-1) and the second recess (1040-2) may be arranged adjacent to each other. The first recess (1040-1) and the second recess (1040-2) may be arranged spaced apart from each other with the first glass portion (1010) therebetween. The first recess (1040-1) and the second recess (1040-2) may have substantially the same size or shape, but are not limited thereto.

[0180] Since each of the plurality of recesses (1040) is formed to have a small size of less than 1 millimeter, direct impact on the display panel (430) can be prevented or reduced by the plurality of recesses (1040). For example, even if force is applied to the first glass portion (1010) in a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4), the force is not directly applied from the protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 4) to the display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4), and the first glass portion (1010) having a roughly comb shape can protect the display panel (430).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the spacing (L3) between the plurality of recesses (1040) may be variable even within the flexible region (1000b). According to one embodiment, the spacing between the plurality of recesses (1040) may become smaller as they get closer to the center of the flexible region (1000b) (e.g., the folding axis (F) of FIG. 3).

[0182] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (1010) of the glass member (1000) has a shape roughly like a comb by having a plurality of recesses (1040), thereby preventing or reducing breakage of the glass member (1000) due to the introduction of foreign substances. For example, even if foreign substances are introduced into the second position of FIG. 5 (e.g., the second position (D2) of FIG. 5), the probability of the foreign substances coming into contact with the side surface of the glass member (1000) can be reduced by reducing the side surface area of ​​the first glass portion (1010).

[0183] Even if a foreign substance comes into contact with the first glass portion (1010) of the glass member (1000) and a crack occurs on the side of the first glass portion (1010), the crack can be prevented from spreading to the entire area of ​​the glass member (1000) due to the structural feature of an approximately comb shape. Even if the flexible area (1000b) of the glass member (1000) is bent, the stress applied to the first glass portion (1010) can be relatively reduced because the first glass portion (1010) has an approximately comb shape. That is, since the stress applied to the first glass portion (1010) in which the plurality of recesses (1040) are formed is relatively smaller when bent compared to the glass in which the plurality of recesses (1040) are not formed, the spread of the crack can be prevented or reduced.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000) may include a third glass portion (1030). The third glass portion (1030) may be positioned between the first glass portion (1010) and the second glass portion (1020). The third glass portion (1030) may be a portion that connects the first glass portion (1010) and the second glass portion (1020).

[0185] The third glass portion (1030) may be formed to be inclined from the second glass portion (1020) toward the first glass portion (1010). The third glass portion (1030) may be formed to be inclined downward from the first glass portion (1010) toward the second glass portion (1020). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and unlike the drawing, the third glass portion (1030) may also form a step according to the difference in thickness between the first glass portion (1010) and the second glass portion (1020).

[0186] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0187] Fig. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a flexible display (1200) including the glass member (1000) illustrated in Figs. 10 and 11. Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are used for components substantially identical to those described in Fig. 4 among the components surrounding the glass member (1000).

[0188] The embodiment of FIG. 12 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 11. The embodiment of FIG. 12 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 13 to 33c.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 12, a protective member (410) may be attached or coupled to the upper surface of a glass member (1000). The glass member (1000) may be attached or coupled to the protective member (410) by a first adhesive member (P1). The thickness of a portion of the first adhesive member (P1) that comes into contact with the first glass portion (1010) may be thinner than the thickness of a portion of the first adhesive member (P1) that comes into contact with the second glass portion (1020).

[0190] A display panel (430) or a polarizing layer (e.g., the polarizing layer (450) of FIG. 4) may be attached or combined to the lower surface of the glass member (1000). The glass member (1000) may be attached or combined with the display panel (430) by a second adhesive member (P2). The thickness of a portion of the second adhesive member (P2) that is in contact with the first glass portion (1010) may be thinner than the thickness of a portion of the second adhesive member (P2) that is in contact with the second glass portion (1020).

[0191] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the magnitude of stress applied when bending a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0192] Fig. 13 (a) is a drawing in a state where a plurality of recesses are not formed at the edge of the glass member. Fig. 13 (b) is a drawing in a state where a plurality of recesses are formed at the edge of the glass member. Fig. 13 (b) may be a drawing showing a stress value for bending of the glass member of Fig. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of Fig. 8) or the glass member of Fig. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of Fig. 10). The glass member illustrated in Fig. 13 (a) and the glass member illustrated in Fig. 13 (b) may be substantially the same in parts except that a plurality of recesses are formed.

[0193] In Figures 13 (a) and 13 (b), the shade becomes darker as the bending stress becomes stronger during bending.

[0194] Comparing Fig. 13(a) and Fig. 13(b), one can see a difference in the magnitude of stress applied to the edge (or corner) when the glass member is bent. When multiple recesses are formed, the magnitude of stress applied to the edge portion of the glass member can be reduced. Accordingly, even if a foreign substance flows into the second location (D2) as described in Fig. 5 and causes a crack to form at the edge of the glass member (1000), the stress applied during bending is reduced, thereby preventing or reducing the expansion of the crack.

[0195] For example, in the case of (a) of Fig. 13, the maximum stress applied to the edge may be 655.2 MPa. For example, in the case of (b) of Fig. 13, the maximum stress applied to the edge may be 510.2 MPa. It can be confirmed that by forming multiple recesses, the magnitude of the maximum stress applied to the edge when bending the glass member is reduced by approximately 22%.

[0196] Fig. 14 is a graph showing the strength according to the thickness of a glass member according to one embodiment. Fig. 15 is a graph showing the relative repulsive force according to the thickness of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0197] Referring to Fig. 14, it can be confirmed that as the thickness of the glass member increases, the strength of the glass member generally increases. Here, the PEN drop may refer to the height at which breakage occurs when the pen is dropped from a certain distance above. Here, the PEN pressure refers to the force that presses the glass member using the PEN, and the value of the PEN pressure may increase as the strength of the glass member increases. It can be confirmed that as the thickness of the glass member increases, the strength of the glass member generally increases.

[0198] For example, when the glass member has a thickness of 60 micrometers or more, it can be seen that both the PEN drop and PEN pressure show strength improvements of 1.9 times and 2.8 times or more, respectively, compared to a thickness of 30 micrometers.

[0199] Referring to Figure 15, as the thickness of the glass member increases, the repulsive force may increase. For example, if the glass member has a thickness of 60 micrometers or more, the repulsive force may increase by approximately eight times compared to a glass member with a thickness of 30 micrometers. High repulsive force may cause a decline in the folding performance of the glass member.

[0200] Accordingly, even if the thickness of the first glass portion (the first glass portion (610) of FIG. 6 or the first glass portion (1010) of FIG. 10) is increased to increase the rigidity as illustrated in FIG. 6 or FIG. 10), it is necessary to set an appropriate thickness so that the repulsive force does not increase excessively. For example, the thickness of the first glass portion (610, 1010) may be 30 micrometers to 60 micrometers, but is not limited thereto.

[0201] Fig. 16 is an example for explaining a method of forming multiple recesses in a glass member.

[0202] FIG. 16 illustrates one of the methods for forming a plurality of recesses (e.g., a plurality of recesses (830) of FIG. 8 or a plurality of recesses (1040) of FIG. 10) formed in the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., a glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., a glass member (1000) of FIG. 10).

[0203] Referring to FIG. 16, a plurality of recesses (830, 1040) can be formed by etching edges of a plurality of stacked glass members (1600) by stacking a plurality of glass members (1610). A position where a recess is to be formed in the plurality of stacked glass members (1600) can be physically etched using an etching tool (C). The etching tool (C) can be, for example, a CNC (computer numerical control) tool. The etching tool (C) can include, for example, a diamond tip or a micro grinding wheel.

[0204] FIG. 17a and FIG. 17b are examples for explaining a method of forming a plurality of recesses in a glass member.

[0205] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate one of the methods for forming a plurality of recesses (e.g., a plurality of recesses (830) of FIG. 8 or a plurality of recesses (1040) of FIG. 10) formed in a glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., a glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or a glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., a glass member (1000) of FIG. 10).

[0206] Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, a plurality of recesses (830, 1040) can be formed by a chemical etching method. First, as illustrated in FIG. 17A, a phase-changing process can be performed on a portion (1720) to be etched in a glass member (1710). For example, the portion (1720) to be etched can be phase-changed using a Bessel beam, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0207] After the phase change of the portion to be etched (1720) is performed, a plurality of recesses (1730) can be formed as illustrated in FIG. 17b by exposing the glass member (1710) to an etching solution. Various types of acidic or basic solutions can be used as the etching solution. For example, the etching solution can include ammonium fluoride, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, fluorosilicic acid, sodium oxide, or hydrofluoric acid.

[0208] Figure 18 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0209] The manufacturing method of FIG. 18 is described using a flexible display including a glass member (1000) illustrated in FIG. 10 as an example, but the manufacturing method of FIG. 18 may also be applied or utilized when manufacturing a flexible display including glass members according to various other embodiments. The manufacturing method of FIG. 18 describes some steps in the manufacturing process of a flexible display.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 18, a method for manufacturing a flexible display may include a process (1810) of forming a plurality of recesses in a portion of an edge of a base glass. The plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed by physical etching or chemical etching. For example, the plurality of recesses (1040) may be formed by the physical etching or chemical etching methods described in FIGS. 16 to 17b.

[0211] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a flexible display may include a step (1820) of masking a specific area and performing chemical etching. Here, the specific area may be a first glass portion (1010) or a third glass portion (1030) of a glass member (1000). By chemically etching an unmasked area, a difference in thickness of the glass member (1000) may be formed. For example, the third glass portion (1030) may be appropriately masked so that only a portion thereof may be etched. The second glass portion (1020) may be etched so that the overall thickness thereof is thinned without being masked. Through the step 1820, a difference in thickness may be formed among the first glass portion (1010), the second glass portion (1020), and the third glass portion (1030).

[0212] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a flexible display may include a step (1830) of applying an adhesive material to a glass member (1000). Here, the adhesive material may refer to a first adhesive material (P1) and a second adhesive material (P2) as illustrated in FIG. 4 , but is not limited thereto. Since the glass member (1000) has a first glass portion (1010) having a relatively thick thickness and a plurality of recesses (1040) formed therein, it is necessary to apply an adhesive material, unlike in a conventional method. This will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 23a .

[0213] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a flexible display may include a process (1840) of bonding or adhering a glass member (1000) to a display panel (e.g., a display panel (430) of FIG. 4) and a protective member (e.g., a protective member (410) of FIG. 4). The display panel (430) may be bonded or adhered to a lower surface of the glass member (1000). The protective member (410) may be bonded or adhered to an upper surface of the glass member (1000).

[0214] FIGS. 19A to 19D are cross-sectional views illustrating the shape of a first glass portion of a glass member according to various embodiments.

[0215] FIGS. 19a to 19d are drawings for explaining various side shapes of the first glass portion (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) of the glass member (1900, 1900-1, 1900-2, 1900-3).

[0216] A portion of the glass member (1900, 1900-1, 1900-2, 1900-3) illustrated in FIGS. 19A to 19D may be included in the glass member of FIG. 6 (e.g., the glass member (600) of FIG. 6) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). The various shapes illustrated in FIGS. 19A to 19D may be applied to the glass member of FIG. 6 (e.g., the glass member (600) of FIG. 6) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). The first glass portions (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) having various shapes illustrated in FIGS. 19a to 19d can replace the first glass portion of FIG. 6 (e.g., the first glass portion (610) of FIG. 6) or the first glass portion of FIG. 10 (e.g., the first glass portion (1010) of FIG. 10). Hereinafter, a redundant description of the first glass portion will be omitted.

[0217] The embodiments of FIGS. 19A to 19D can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 18. The embodiments of FIGS. 19A to 19D can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 20A to 33C.

[0218] Referring to FIGS. 19A to 19D , the glass member (1900, 1900-1, 1900-2, 1900-3) may include a first glass portion (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) and a second glass portion (1920, 1920-1, 1920-2, 1920-3). The first glass portion (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) may be relatively thicker than the second glass portion (1920, 1920-1, 1920-2, 1920-3). Here, the thickness can be compared with the average thickness of the first glass portion (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) and the average thickness of the second glass portion (1920, 1920-1, 1920-2, 1920-3). The first glass portion (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) may have a vertically symmetrical structure, but is not limited thereto.

[0219] Referring to FIG. 19A, a first glass portion (1910) and a second glass portion (1920) may be connected by a curved surface. The connection portion between the first glass portion (1910) and the second glass portion (1920), which is formed by a difference in thickness between the first glass portion (1910) and the second glass portion (1920), may be a portion vulnerable to external pressure (or a portion prone to breakage). If a step is formed between the first glass portion (1910) and the second glass portion (1920), the glass member (1900) becomes vulnerable to breakage, and therefore, as illustrated, a curved surface may be formed to supplement rigidity.

[0220] Referring to FIG. 19b, the first glass portion (1910-1) of the glass member (1900-1) may form an inclined surface. When the first glass portion (1910-1) extends from the second glass portion (1920-1), the first glass portion (1910-1) may be formed to slope upward as it moves away from the second glass portion (1920-1). The structure illustrated in FIG. 19b is a structure that reduces the step between the first glass portion (1910-1) and the second glass portion (1920-1), thereby avoiding the formation of a step that is vulnerable to breakage due to a thickness difference.

[0221] Referring to FIG. 19c, the first glass portion (1910-2) of the glass member (1900-2) may include a chamfered portion (1911). The chamfered portion (1911) may be formed on an outer side of the first glass portion (1910-2). The chamfered portion (1911) may be formed at a free end of the first glass portion (1910-2). The chamfered portion (1911) may be a chamfered portion at a corner portion of the first glass portion (1910-2). The chamfered portion (1911) may be formed to be inclined upward or downward at the corner portion of the first glass portion (1910-2). By forming a chamfer (1911) on the first glass portion (1910-2), the surface area of ​​the outer surface of the first glass portion (1910-2) can be reduced. When the surface area of ​​the outer surface of the first glass portion (1910-2) is reduced, even if a foreign substance is introduced to the second location (e.g., the second location (D2) of FIG. 5), the probability of the foreign substance coming into contact with the outer surface of the first glass portion (1910-2) and causing a crack can be reduced.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 19d, the first glass portion (1910-3) of the glass member (1900-2) may include a groove (1912). The groove (1912) may be formed on at least one of the upper surface or the lower surface of the first glass portion (1910-3). The groove (1912) may have a cross-section of an approximately semicircular shape or a hemispherical shape. However, the shape of the groove (1912) is not limited thereto. The groove (1912) may disperse the applied pressure when pressure is applied to the first glass portion (1910-3).

[0223] The shape of the first glass portion (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) is not limited to that described above. For example, the first glass portion may be formed by combining at least two shapes among the shapes illustrated in FIGS. 19A to 19D, and may have various shapes with a difference in thickness between the first glass portion (1910, 1910-1, 1910-2, 1910-3) and the second glass portion (1920, 1920-1, 1920-2, 1920-3).

[0224] FIGS. 20A to 20C are plan views illustrating the planar shape of a first glass portion of a glass member according to various embodiments.

[0225] FIGS. 20A to 20C are drawings for explaining various planar shapes of a plurality of recesses (2030, 2030-1, 2030-2) of a glass member (2000, 2000-1, 2000-2). The plurality of recesses (2030, 2030-1, 2030-2) illustrated in FIGS. 20A to 20C may be included in the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). The various shapes of the plurality of recesses (2030, 2030-1, 2030-2) illustrated in FIGS. 20a to 20c can be applied to an edge portion of a flexible region (e.g., a flexible region (1000b) of FIG. 10) of the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., a glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., a glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). Hereinafter, a redundant description of the plurality of recesses and the first glass portion is omitted.

[0226] The embodiments of FIGS. 20A to 20C can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 19D. The embodiments of FIGS. 20A and 20C can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 21A to 33C.

[0227] Referring to FIGS. 20A to 20C, the glass member (2000, 2000-1, 2000-2) may include a plurality of recesses (2030, 2030-1, 2030-2). According to one embodiment, the glass member (2000, 2000-1, 2000-2) may include a first glass portion (2010, 2010-1, 2010-2) and a second glass portion (2020, 2020-1, 2020-2). One first glass portion (2010, 2010-1, 2010-2) may be positioned between two adjacent recesses (2030, 2030-1, 2030-2).

[0228] Referring to FIG. 20A, the glass member (2000) may include a chamfered portion (2011). The first glass portion (2010) may include the chamfered portion (2011). The chamfered portion (2011) may be formed at an outer corner of the first glass portion (2010). The chamfered portion (2011) may be formed by cutting the outer corner of the first glass portion (2010) in a horizontal direction.

[0229] In one embodiment, portions of the plurality of recesses (2030) may extend with the same width. The plurality of recesses (2030) may be expanded in width at portions adjacent to edges or side surfaces of the glass member (2000) by the chamfer (2011).

[0230] Referring to FIG. 20b, each of the plurality of recesses (2030-1) of the glass member (2000-1) may be formed to have a variable width. Each of the plurality of recesses (2030-1) may be formed to have a width that decreases as it moves away from the edge of the adjacent glass member (2000-1).

[0231] Referring to FIG. 20c, each of the plurality of recesses (2030-2) of the glass member (2000-2) may be formed to have a variable width. Each of the plurality of recesses (2030-2) may be formed to have a wider width as it moves away from the edge of the adjacent glass member (2000-1).

[0232] The shapes of the plurality of recesses (2030, 2030-1, 2030-2) are not limited to those described above. For example, the plurality of recesses may be formed by combining at least two shapes among those illustrated in FIGS. 20A to 20C, and may also have various shapes that are dug inward in a planar direction from the edge portion of the glass member (2000, 2000-1, 2000-2).

[0233] FIGS. 21A to 21C are perspective views illustrating a first glass portion of a glass member according to various embodiments.

[0234] FIGS. 21A to 21C are drawings for explaining various shapes of the first glass portion (2110, 2110-1, 2110-2) of the glass member (2100, 2100-1, 2100-2). A portion of the glass member (2100, 2100-1, 2100-2) illustrated in FIGS. 21A to 21C may be included in the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). The various shapes illustrated in FIGS. 21A to 21C can be applied to the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). The first glass portions (2110, 2110-1, 2110-2) having the various shapes illustrated in FIGS. 21A to 21C can replace the first glass portion of FIG. 8 (e.g., the first glass portion (810) of FIG. 8) or the first glass portion of FIG. 10 (e.g., the first glass portion (1010) of FIG. 10). Hereinafter, a duplicate description of the first glass portion will be omitted.

[0235] The embodiments of FIGS. 21A to 21C can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 20C. The embodiments of FIGS. 21A and 21C can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 22 to 33C.

[0236] Referring to FIGS. 21A to 21C, the glass member (2100, 2100-1, 2100-2) may include a first glass portion (2110, 2110-1, 2110-2). The first glass portion (2110, 2110-1, 2110-2) may include a first side (2111, 2111-1, 2111-2) and a second side (2112, 2112-1, 2112-2).

[0237] In one embodiment, the first side (2111, 2111-1, 2111-2) may be a side facing outward from the first glass portion (2110, 2110-1, 2110-2). The first side (2111, 2111-1, 2111-2) may be a portion of an edge portion of the glass member (2100).

[0238] According to one embodiment, the second side (2112, 2112-1, 2112-2) may be a side extending substantially perpendicularly from the first side (2111, 2111-1, 2111-2). The second side (2112, 2112-1, 2112-2) may be a surface facing an adjacent recess. The second side (2112, 2112-1, 2112-2) may be formed of two side surfaces extending from each end of the first side (2111, 2111-1, 2111-2) and being parallel to each other.

[0239] Referring to FIG. 21A, in the first glass portion (2110) of the glass member (2100), the first side (2111) may have an oblong or oval shape. The first side (2111) may have a curved edge. According to one embodiment, the second side (2112) may be formed as a curved surface.

[0240] Referring to FIG. 21b, the first glass portion (2110-1) of the glass member (2100-1) may include an upper surface (2113-1) and a lower surface (2114-1) facing opposite to the upper surface (2113-1).

[0241] According to one embodiment, the upper surface (2113-1) and the lower surface (2114-1) of the first glass portion (2110-1) may be formed so that a portion thereof protrudes outwardly from the second side surface (2112-1). The second side surface (2112-1) may be positioned so as to be recessed inwardly between the upper surface (2113-1) and the lower surface (2114-1).

[0242] According to one embodiment, the first side (2111-1) may have a plane having an approximately I-shape. By configuring the cross-section of the first glass portion (2110-1) to have an approximately I-shape, the rigidity of the first glass portion (2110-1) can be enhanced.

[0243] Referring to FIG. 21c, in the first glass portion (2110-2) of the glass member (2100-2), the first side (2111-2) may be formed by having an edge portion chamfered. The first side (2111-2) may have an edge portion cut to form a sloped surface.

[0244] The shape of the first glass portion (2110, 2110-1, 2110-2) is not limited to that described above. For example, the first glass portion may be formed by combining at least two shapes among those illustrated in FIGS. 21A to 21C.

[0245] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a portion of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0246] A portion of the glass member (2200) illustrated in FIG. 22 may be included in the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). The plurality of recesses (2230) illustrated in FIG. 22 may be applied to the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of FIG. 8) or the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). Hereinafter, a duplicate description of the first glass portion and the second glass portion is omitted.

[0247] Referring to FIG. 22, the glass member (2200) may include at least one of a first glass portion (2210), a second glass portion (2220), or a plurality of recesses (2230). The plurality of recesses (2230) may be formed in the first glass portion (2210).

[0248] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (2230) may be configured not to penetrate vertically, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 8 or FIG. 10. By forming the plurality of recesses (2230) not to penetrate vertically, even if force is applied to a portion corresponding to the first glass portion (2210) of the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4), the display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4) may be prevented or reduced from being directly exposed to the pressing force.

[0249] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (2230) may include a bottom surface (2231). The bottom surface (2231) may prevent or reduce direct exposure of the display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4) from the protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 4).

[0250] According to one embodiment, the bottom surface (2231) may be formed to slope upward toward the inner side of the plane of the glass member (2200). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the bottom surface (2231) may be formed to be parallel to the upper surface of the glass member (2200) or slope downward toward the inner side of the plane of the glass member (2200).

[0251] FIGS. 23a to 24d are drawings illustrating a process of applying an attachment member to a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0252] For convenience of explanation, FIGS. 23a to 24d illustrate the process of applying an attachment member based on the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the process of applying an attachment member and the structure of the applied attachment member illustrated in FIGS. 23a to 24d can also be applied to the glass member of FIG. 6 (e.g., the glass member (600) of FIG. 6) and the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of FIG. 8).

[0253] In the case of the glass members (600, 800, 1000, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when the adhesive member is laminated in a conventional manner, foreign matter penetration or a pushing phenomenon may occur. For example, when the adhesive member is laminated on the upper and lower surfaces of the glass member (1000) in a conventional manner, an empty space where the adhesive member is not applied may be formed due to the space formed by the plurality of recesses (1040), and foreign matter may penetrate into the empty space. For example, when the adhesive member is laminated on the upper and lower surfaces of the glass member (1000) in a conventional manner, a pushing phenomenon may occur in a section where the thickness is variable. In the present disclosure, a method and structure for resolving the foreign matter penetration or pushing phenomenon are illustrated in FIGS. 23A to 24D.

[0254] For convenience of explanation, the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10 is used as an example in FIGS. 23a to 24d, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The process of applying the attachment member and the structure of the applied attachment member illustrated in FIGS. 23a to 24d can also be applied to various shapes in which the thickness of the edge side of the glass member is variable or a recess or hole is formed on the edge side.

[0255] Fig. 23a is a plan view of the glass member (1000) viewed from the front, Fig. 23b is a plan view of the glass member (1000) of Fig. 23a viewed from the rear, Fig. 23c is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD, and Fig. 23d is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE.

[0256] The embodiments of FIGS. 23a to 24d can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 22. The embodiments of FIGS. 23a and 24d can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 25a to 33c.

[0257] Referring to FIGS. 23a, 23b, 23c, and 23d, a first adhesive member (2310) may be applied or adhered to a portion of the upper surface of the glass member (1000). The first adhesive member (2310) may be positioned on the second glass portion (1020) of the glass member (1000).

[0258] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive member (2310) may include at least one of an optically clear adhesive film (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), a pressure sensitive adhesive film (PSA), a heat-reactive adhesive, a general adhesive, or a double-sided tape.

[0259] Fig. 24a is a plan view of the glass member (1000) viewed from the front, Fig. 24b is a plan view of the glass member (1000) of Fig. 24a viewed from the rear, Fig. 24c is a cross-sectional view taken along the line DD, and Fig. 24d is a cross-sectional view taken along the line EE.

[0260] Referring to FIGS. 24a, 24b, 24c, and 24d, a second adhesive member (2320) may be applied or adhered to the lower surface of the glass member (1000) and the remaining portion of the upper surface of the glass member (1000). Here, the second adhesive member (2320) may be applied in the form of a liquid. Here, the second adhesive member (2320) in the form of a liquid may be OCR, but is not limited thereto.

[0261] According to one embodiment, when the second adhesive member (2320) in the form of a liquid is applied to the lower surface of the glass member (1000), the second adhesive member (2320) in the form of a liquid can penetrate into a portion not covered by the first adhesive member (2310). Here, the portion not covered by the first adhesive member (2310) may include a portion corresponding to the first glass portion (1010) and the third glass portion (1030) of the upper surface of the glass member (1000) and an empty space formed by a plurality of recesses (1040).

[0262] According to one embodiment, when the second adhesive member (2320) in the form of a liquid is applied, the second adhesive member (2320) may be applied to the entire lower surface of the glass member (1000). The second adhesive member (2320) may be applied to the first glass portion (1010) and the third glass portion (1030) of the upper surface of the glass member (1000). The second adhesive member (2320) may be applied to a plurality of recesses (1040) of the glass member (1000).

[0263] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive member (2320) may include at least one of an optically clear adhesive film (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), a pressure sensitive adhesive film (PSA), a heat-reactive adhesive, a general adhesive, or a double-sided tape.

[0264] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000) and the first adhesive member (2310) and the second adhesive member (2320) bonded to the glass member (1000) illustrated in FIG. 24A may be included in the flexible display of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4). For example, a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 4) may be attached to a portion of the second adhesive member (2320) on the upper side of the glass member (1000) and the first adhesive member (2310). For example, a display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4) may be attached to the second adhesive member (2320) on the lower side of the glass member (1000).

[0265] According to one embodiment, the adhesive strength of the second adhesive member (2320) may be relatively greater than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive member (2310), but is not limited thereto.

[0266] According to one embodiment, the elastic coefficient (e.g., modulus) of the second adhesive member (2320) may be greater than the elastic coefficient of the first adhesive member (2310). The third glass portion (1030) located between the first glass portion (1010) and the second glass portion (1020) may be a portion vulnerable to breakage due to the concentration of stress during bending. Therefore, the second adhesive member (2320) having a large modulus value may be applied around the first glass portion (1010) and the third glass portion (1030) to supplement rigidity.

[0267] FIGS. 25a to 25c are drawings showing an attachment member applied to a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0268] For convenience of explanation, FIGS. 25a to 25c illustrate an attachment member application process based on the glass member of FIG. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the application process of the attachment member and the structure of the applied attachment member illustrated in FIGS. 25a to 25c can also be applied to the glass member of FIG. 6 (e.g., the glass member (600) of FIG. 6) and the glass member of FIG. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of FIG. 8).

[0269] For convenience of explanation, the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10 is used as an example in FIGS. 25A to 25C, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The structure of the attachment member illustrated in FIG. 17 can also be applied to various shapes in which the thickness of the edge side of the glass member is variable, or a recess or hole is formed on the edge side.

[0270] Fig. 25a is a plan view of the glass member (1000) viewed from the front, Fig. 25b is a plan view of the glass member (1000) of Fig. 25a viewed from the rear, and Fig. 24c is a cross-sectional view taken along the line FF.

[0271] The embodiments of FIGS. 25a to 25c can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 24d. The embodiments of FIGS. 25a and 25c can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 26 to 33c.

[0272] Referring to FIGS. 25a to 25c, a first adhesive member (2510), a second adhesive member (2520), and a third adhesive member (2530) can be applied or adhered around the glass member (1000).

[0273] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive member (2510) may be applied to a portion of the upper surface of the glass member (1000). The upper surface of the glass member (1000) may be a surface to which a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 4) is adhered. For example, the first adhesive member (2510) may be adhered to the upper surface of the second glass portion (1020).

[0274] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive member (2520) may be applied to a portion of the lower surface of the glass member (1000). The lower surface of the glass member (1000) may be a surface to which a display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4) is adhered. For example, the second adhesive member (2520) may be adhered to the lower surface of the second glass portion (1020).

[0275] According to one embodiment, a third adhesive member (2530) may be applied or adhered to the first glass portion (1010) and the third glass portion (1030) of the glass member (1000). Here, the third adhesive member (2530) may be applied in the form of a liquid. Here, the third adhesive member (2530) in the form of a liquid may be OCR, but is not limited thereto.

[0276] According to one embodiment, when the second adhesive member (2520) in the form of a liquid is applied around the first glass portion (1010) and the third glass portion (1030) of the glass member (1000), the third adhesive member (2530) in the form of a liquid can penetrate into the portion where a step is formed due to a difference in thickness and the portion where a groove is formed due to a plurality of recesses.

[0277] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive member (2510), the second adhesive member (2520), or the third adhesive member (2530) may include at least one of an optically clear adhesive film (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), a pressure sensitive adhesive film (PSA), a heat-reactive adhesive, a general adhesive, or a double-sided tape.

[0278] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000) illustrated in FIG. 17 and the first adhesive member (2510), the second adhesive member (2520), and the third adhesive member (2530) bonded to the glass member (1000) may be included in the flexible display of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4). For example, a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 4) may be attached to a portion of the third adhesive member (2530) on the upper side of the glass member (1000) and the first adhesive member (2510). For example, a display panel (e.g., the display panel (430) of FIG. 4) may be attached to a portion of the third adhesive member (2530) on the lower side of the glass member (1000) and the second adhesive member (2520).

[0279] According to one embodiment, the adhesive strength of the second adhesive member (2520) may be relatively greater than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive member (2510), but is not limited thereto.

[0280] According to one embodiment, the elastic coefficient (e.g., modulus) of the third adhesive member (2530) may be greater than the elastic coefficient of the first adhesive member (2510) or the second adhesive member (2520). The third glass portion (1030) located between the first glass portion (1010) and the second glass portion (1020) may be a portion vulnerable to breakage due to the concentration of stress during bending. Therefore, the third adhesive member (2530) having a large modulus value may be applied around the first glass portion (1010) and the third glass portion (1030) to supplement rigidity.

[0281] Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0282] For convenience of explanation, Fig. 26 illustrates an attachment member application process based on the glass member of Fig. 10 (e.g., the glass member (1000) of Fig. 10). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the application process of the attachment member and the structure of the applied attachment member illustrated in Fig. 26 can also be applied to the glass member of Fig. 6 (e.g., the glass member (600) of Fig. 6) and the glass member of Fig. 8 (e.g., the glass member (800) of Fig. 8).

[0283] In the case of the glass member (600, 1000, 1900) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a step may occur when the adhesive member is laminated in a conventional manner. For example, when the adhesive member is laminated to the upper and lower surfaces of the glass member (1000) in a conventional manner, a step may occur in the adhesive member due to the difference in thickness between the first glass portion (610, 1010, 1910) and the second glass portion (620, 1020, 1920). Due to the step of the adhesive member, a space may be generated due to the step when the glass member (1000) is attached to a peripheral structure. Alternatively, visibility may be reduced due to the step of the adhesive member. In the present disclosure, a method and structure for resolving the step or visibility are illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0284] For convenience of explanation, the glass member (1000) of FIG. 10 is used as an example in FIG. 26, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The structure illustrated in FIG. 26 can also be applied to various shapes of glass members with variable edge thicknesses. Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping content will be omitted.

[0285] In Fig. 26, the sizes of the first glass portion (1010) and the third glass portion (1030) are somewhat exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0286] The embodiment of Fig. 26 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 25c. The embodiment of Fig. 26 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of Figs. 27 to 33c.

[0287] Referring to FIG. 26, the flexible display (2600) may include a protective member (2610), a glass member (1000), or a display panel (2630).

[0288] According to one embodiment, the protective member (2610) may have a step structure. According to one embodiment, a portion of the protective member (2610) may be formed to protrude downward. For example, a portion of the protective member (2610) may be formed to protrude toward the glass member (1000). A step portion (2611) may be formed on the lower side of the protective member (2610) by a protruding surface. The step portion (2611) formed on the protective member (2610) may compensate for the step of the glass member (1000).

[0289] In one embodiment, the refractive index of the protective member (2610) may be substantially the same as the refractive index of the first adhesive member (P1).

[0290] Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0291] Among the configurations illustrated in Fig. 27, the same reference numbers are used for configurations that are substantially identical or similar to the configuration illustrated in Fig. 4. Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping configurations are omitted.

[0292] The embodiment of Fig. 27 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 26. The embodiment of Fig. 27 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of Figs. 28a to 33c.

[0293] Referring to FIG. 27, the flexible display (2700) may include a glass member (2720). The glass member (2720) may be positioned between the protective member (410) and the display panel (430). The glass member (2720) may be bonded to the protective member (410) by a first adhesive member (P1). The glass member (2720) may be bonded to the display panel (430) by a second adhesive member (P2).

[0294] According to one embodiment, the glass member (2720) may include a first glass portion (2721), a second glass portion (2722), and a third glass portion (2723).

[0295] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (2721) may include a portion adjacent to an edge of the glass member (2720). The first glass portion (2721) may include a region within a predetermined distance from the edge of the glass member (2720). For example, the first glass portion (2721) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge of the glass member (2720) included in the flexible region (e.g., the flexible region (400b) of FIG. 4) in a flexible region. For example, the first glass portion (2721) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge portion of the edge of the glass member (2720) corresponding to the flexible region (400b). Here, the predetermined distance may be 1 mm or less, but is not limited thereto.

[0296] The second glass portion (2722) may be a different portion from the first glass portion (2721). The second glass portion (2722) may include at least a portion of the glass member (2720) other than the first glass portion (2721).

[0297] According to one embodiment, the thickness of the first glass portion (2721) may be formed to be relatively thicker than the thickness of the second glass portion (2722). For example, the thickness of the first glass portion (2721) may be thicker than the average thickness of the glass member (2720). The rigidity of the first glass portion (2721) may be relatively stronger than the rigidity of the second glass portion (2722). The difference in thickness between the first glass portion (2721) and the second glass portion (2722) may be formed by an etching process using a chemical substance, but the manufacturing method is not limited thereto.

[0298] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (2721) may be formed to protrude to one side. The first glass portion (2721) may be formed to protrude downward. Accordingly, the upper surface (2720a) of the glass member (2720) may be formed to be flat, and the lower surface (2720b) ​​of the glass member (2720) may be formed to have a portion protruding downward. By forming the upper surface (2720a) of the glass member (2720) to be flat, the adhesive strength between the glass member (2720) and the protective member (410) may be improved.

[0299] According to one embodiment, a third glass portion (2723) may be provided between the first glass portion (2721) and the second glass portion (2722). The third glass portion (2723) may be a portion connecting the first glass portion (2721) and the second glass portion (2722).

[0300] According to one embodiment, the third glass portion (2723) may be formed on the lower surface (2720b) ​​of the glass member (2720) to be inclined from the second glass portion (2722) toward the first glass portion (2721). The third glass portion (2723) may be formed to be inclined downward from the first glass portion (2721) toward the second glass portion (2722). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and unlike the drawing, the third glass portion (2723) may also form a step according to the difference in thickness between the first glass portion (2721) and the second glass portion (2722).

[0301] FIGS. 28A and 28B are plan views of a sliderable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0302] Referring to FIGS. 28A and 28B , a slideable electronic device (2800) may include a first housing (2810), a second housing (2820), and a flexible display (2830). The slideable electronic device (2800) may refer to any device that changes a display area of ​​a flexible display (2830) that is visually visible to the outside by allowing one housing (e.g., the second housing (2820)) to slide relative to another housing (e.g., the first housing (2810)).

[0303] According to one embodiment, a receiving space may be provided within the first housing (2810) and / or the second housing (2820). The receiving space may accommodate a number of electronic components necessary for operation.

[0304] In one embodiment, the second housing (2820) may be accommodated within the first housing (2810). The second housing (2820) may be coupled to the first housing (2810) so as to slide relative to the first housing (2810). When the second housing (2820) slides away from the first housing (2810), the display area of ​​the flexible display (2830) may expand. When the second housing (2820) slides closer to the first housing (2810), the display area of ​​the flexible display (2830) may contract. Here, the display area may refer to an area of ​​the flexible display (2830) that is visually visible from the outside of the slideable electronic device (2800).

[0305] In one embodiment, the flexible display (2830) may be partially accommodated within the first housing (2810) or the second housing (2820). When the second housing (2820) slides outwardly relative to the first housing (2810), a portion of the flexible display (2830) accommodated within the first housing (2810) or the second housing (2820) may be pulled outward.

[0306] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (2830) may include a non-flexible region (2830a) and a flexible region (2830b). The non-flexible region (2830a) may be a flat region. The non-flexible region (2830a) may be a region that is always visually exposed regardless of the movement of the second housing (2820). The flexible region (2830b) may be a region that can be accommodated within the first housing (2810) or the second housing (2820). The visually exposed region of the flexible region (2830b) may vary depending on the movement of the second housing (2820).

[0307] According to one embodiment, the configuration of the flexible display (2830) may be substantially the same as or similar to the configuration of the flexible display of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4).

[0308] FIG. 29 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0309] The glass member (2900) illustrated in FIG. 29 may be a component of the flexible display of FIGS. 28a and 28b (e.g., the flexible display (2830) of FIG. 28a).

[0310] Referring to FIG. 29, the glass member (600) may be configured to be at least partially deformable. For example, the glass member (2900) may include a non-flexible region (2900a) and a flexible region (2900b). Here, the non-flexible region (2900a) of the glass member (2900) may correspond to the non-flexible region of FIG. 28b (e.g., the non-flexible region (2830a) of FIG. 28b). Here, the flexible region (2900b) of the glass member (2900) may correspond to the flexible region (2830b) of FIG. 28b.

[0311] According to one embodiment, the glass member (2900) may include a first side (2901), a second side (2902) extending vertically from the first side (2901), a third side (2903) extending vertically from the second side (2902) and parallel to the first side (2901), and a fourth side (2904) extending vertically from the third side (2903) and parallel to the second side (2902).

[0312] According to one embodiment, the glass member (2900) may include a first glass portion (2910) and a second glass portion (2920).

[0313] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (2910) may include a portion adjacent to an edge of the glass member (2900). The first glass portion (2910) may include a region within a predetermined distance from the edge of the glass member (2900). For example, the first glass portion (2910) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge of the glass member (2900) included in the flexible region (2900b), in the flexible region (2900b). For example, the first glass portion (2910) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge portion of the edge of the glass member (2900) corresponding to the flexible region (2900b). For example, the first glass portion (2910) may include a region within a predetermined distance from a portion of a side surface of the glass member (2900) (e.g., the second side surface (2902) or the fourth side surface (2904)). Here, the predetermined distance may be, but is not limited to, 1 mm or less.

[0314] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (2910) may have a vertically symmetrical structure. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may have a shape that protrudes further toward at least one of the upper or lower sides. According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (2910) may have a shape that protrudes toward at least one of the upper or lower sides. For example, one of the upper or lower sides may have a non-protruding shape.

[0315] The second glass portion (2920) may be a different portion from the first glass portion (2910). The second glass portion (2920) may include at least a portion of the glass member (2900) other than the first glass portion (2910).

[0316] According to one embodiment, the thickness of the first glass portion (2910) may be formed to be relatively thicker than the thickness of the second glass portion (2920). For example, the thickness of the first glass portion (2910) may be thicker than the average thickness of the glass member (2900). The rigidity of the first glass portion (2910) may be relatively stronger than the rigidity of the second glass portion (2920). The difference in thickness between the first glass portion (2910) and the second glass portion (2920) may be formed by an etching process using a chemical substance, but the manufacturing method is not limited thereto.

[0317] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (2910) may be positioned to overlap at least a portion of an area where a protective cap (e.g., the protective cap (510) of FIG. 5) and a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 5) are in contact with each other, as shown in FIG. 5. By forming the first glass portion (2910) to be relatively thicker than the second glass portion (2920), even if a foreign substance is caught in the first location of FIG. 5 (e.g., the first location (D1) of FIG. 5), damage caused by the foreign substance can be effectively prevented or reduced.

[0318] According to one embodiment, the glass member (2900) may include a plurality of recesses (2940). The plurality of recesses (2940) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface of the glass member (2900). For example, the plurality of recesses (2940) may be formed inwardly from the outside (or from the edge) of the glass member (2900) on at least one side surface of the glass member (2900). The plurality of recesses (2940) may be formed near an edge corresponding to a flexible region (2900b) of the glass member (2900). For example, the plurality of recesses (2940) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface corresponding to the flexible region (2900b). The plurality of recesses (2940) may be formed by, but not limited to, a physical processing method, a laser processing method, or a chemical etching method.

[0319] In one embodiment, a plurality of recesses (2940) may be formed around the first glass portion (2910). For example, the first glass portion (2910) may have a comb-like shape due to the plurality of recesses (2940), but is not limited thereto.

[0320] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (2940) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. For example, the plurality of recesses (2940) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval along the longitudinal direction of the glass member (2900). Here, the longitudinal direction of the glass member (2900) may refer to the longitudinal direction of the second side (2902). Here, the predetermined interval may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the depth of the plurality of recesses (2940) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the width of the plurality of recesses (2940) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter.

[0321] Since each of the plurality of recesses (2940) is formed to have a small size of less than 1 millimeter, direct impact on the display panel can be prevented or reduced by the plurality of recesses (2940). For example, even if force is applied to the first glass portion (2910) in a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (2830) of FIG. 28a), the force is not directly applied to the display panel located below the first glass portion (2910), and the first glass portion (2910) having a roughly comb shape can protect the display panel.

[0322] According to one embodiment, the spacing between the plurality of recesses (2940) can also be variable within the flexible region (2900b).

[0323] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (2910) of the glass member (2900) has a shape roughly like a comb by a plurality of recesses (2940), thereby preventing or reducing breakage of the glass member (2900) due to the introduction of foreign substances. For example, even if foreign substances are introduced into the second position of FIG. 5 (e.g., the second position (D2) of FIG. 5), the probability of the foreign substances coming into contact with the side surface of the glass member (2900) can be reduced by reducing the side surface area of ​​the first glass portion (2910).

[0324] Even if a foreign substance comes into contact with the first glass portion (2910) of the glass member (2900) and a crack is generated on the side of the first glass portion (2910), the crack can be prevented or reduced from spreading to the entire area of ​​the glass member (2900) due to the structural feature of an approximately comb shape. Even if the flexible area (2900b) of the glass member (2900) is bent, the stress applied to the first glass portion (2910) can be relatively reduced because the first glass portion (2910) has an approximately comb shape. That is, since the stress applied to the first glass portion (2910) having a plurality of recesses (2940) formed is relatively smaller when bent compared to the glass having no plurality of recesses (2940) formed, the spread of the crack can be prevented or reduced.

[0325] According to one embodiment, the glass member (2900) may include a third glass portion (2930). The third glass portion (2930) may be positioned between the first glass portion (2910) and the second glass portion (2920). The third glass portion (2930) may be a portion that connects the first glass portion (2910) and the second glass portion (2920).

[0326] According to one embodiment, the third glass portion (2930) may be formed to be inclined from the second glass portion (2920) toward the first glass portion (2910). The third glass portion (2930) may be formed to be inclined downward from the first glass portion (2910) toward the second glass portion (2920). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and unlike the drawing, the third glass portion (2930) may also form a step according to the difference in thickness between the first glass portion (2910) and the second glass portion (2920).

[0327] According to one embodiment, the glass member (2900) may include first glass portions (1910, 2010, 2110, 2210) of various shapes or a plurality of recesses (2030, 2230) as described in FIGS. 19a to 22.

[0328] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device capable of being folded multiple times according to one embodiment.

[0329] Referring to FIG. 30, a multi-foldable foldable electronic device (3000) may include a first housing (3010), a second housing (3020), a third housing (3030), and a flexible display (3040). A multi-foldable foldable electronic device (3000) may refer to any device that folds a portion of a flexible display (3040) by having one housing rotate relative to another adjacent housing.

[0330] According to one embodiment, a receiving space may be provided within the first housing (3010), the second housing (3020), and / or the third housing (2030). The receiving space may accommodate a number of electronic components necessary for operation.

[0331] In one embodiment, the first housing (3010) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing (3020). In one embodiment, the second housing (3020) can be rotatably coupled to the third housing (3030). In one embodiment, the second housing (3020) can be positioned between the first housing (3010) and the third housing (3030).

[0332] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (3040) can be accommodated in a first housing (3010), a second housing (3020), and a third housing (3030). For example, the flexible display (3040) can be arranged to span the first housing (3010), the second housing (3020), and the third housing (3030). The flexible display (3040) can bend according to relative movement of the second housing (3020) with respect to the first housing (3010) and relative movement of the third housing (3030) with respect to the second housing (3020).

[0333] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (3040) may include a first folding axis (F1) and a second folding axis (F2). The first folding axis (F1) may refer to a folding axis of the flexible display (3040) that is bent by relative rotation of the second housing (3020) with respect to the first housing (3010). The second folding axis (F2) may refer to a folding axis of the flexible display (3040) that is bent by relative rotation of the third housing (3030) with respect to the second housing (3020).

[0334] According to one embodiment, in a flexible display (3040), a portion formed to be bent by a first folding axis (F1) or a second folding axis (F2) may be referred to as a flexible region.

[0335] According to one embodiment, the configuration of the flexible display (3040) may be substantially the same as or similar to the configuration of the flexible display of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4).

[0336] FIG. 31 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment.

[0337] The glass member (3100) illustrated in FIG. 31 may be a component of the flexible display of FIG. 30 (e.g., the flexible display (3040) of FIG. 30).

[0338] Referring to FIG. 31, the glass member (3100) may be configured to be at least partially deformable. For example, the glass member (3100) may include a first folding axis (F1) and a second folding axis (F2). Here, the first folding axis (F1) of the glass member (3100) may correspond to the first folding axis of FIG. 30 (e.g., the first folding axis (F1) of FIG. 30). Here, the second folding axis (F2) of the glass member (3100) may correspond to the second folding axis of FIG. 30 (e.g., the second folding axis (F2) of FIG. 30).

[0339] According to one embodiment, the glass member (3100) may include a first side (3101), a second side (3102) extending vertically from the first side (3101), a third side (3103) extending vertically from the second side (3102) and parallel to the first side (3101), and a fourth side (3104) extending vertically from the third side (3103) and parallel to the second side (3102).

[0340] According to one embodiment, the glass member (3100) may include a first glass portion (3110) and a second glass portion (3120).

[0341] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (3110) may include a portion adjacent to an edge of the glass member (3100). The first glass portion (3110) may include a region within a predetermined distance from the edge of the glass member (3100). For example, the first glass portion (3110) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge around the first folding axis (F1) or the second folding axis (F2). For example, the first glass portion (3110) may include a region within a predetermined distance from an edge of a bendable region among the edges of the glass member (3100). For example, the first glass portion (3110) may include a region within a predetermined distance from a portion of a side surface (e.g., the second side surface (3102) or the fourth side surface (3104)) of the glass member (3100). Here, the predetermined distance may be 1 mm or less, but is not limited thereto.

[0342] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (3110) may have a vertically symmetrical structure. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may have a shape that protrudes further toward at least one of the upper or lower sides. According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (3110) may have a shape that protrudes toward at least one of the upper or lower sides. For example, one of the upper or lower sides may have a non-protruding shape.

[0343] The second glass portion (3120) may be a different portion from the first glass portion (3110). The second glass portion (3120) may include at least a portion of the glass member (3100) other than the first glass portion (3110).

[0344] According to one embodiment, the thickness of the first glass portion (3110) may be formed to be relatively thicker than the thickness of the second glass portion (3120). For example, the thickness of the first glass portion (3110) may be thicker than the average thickness of the glass member (3100). The rigidity of the first glass portion (3110) may be relatively stronger than the rigidity of the second glass portion (3120). The difference in thickness between the first glass portion (3110) and the second glass portion (3120) may be formed by an etching process using a chemical substance, but the manufacturing method is not limited thereto.

[0345] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (3110) may be positioned to overlap at least a portion of an area where a protective cap (e.g., the protective cap (510) of FIG. 5) and a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 5) are in contact, as shown in FIG. 5. By forming the first glass portion (3110) to be relatively thicker than the second glass portion (3120), even if a foreign substance is caught in the first location of FIG. 5 (e.g., the first location (D1) of FIG. 5), damage caused by the foreign substance can be effectively prevented or reduced.

[0346] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (3110) may include a first-first glass portion (3111) and a first-second glass portion (3112). The first-first glass portion (3111) may be disposed around the first folding axis (F1). The first-second glass portion (3112) may be disposed around the second folding axis (F2).

[0347] According to one embodiment, the second glass portion (3120) may include a second-first glass portion (3121) and a second-second glass portion (3122). The second-first glass portion (3121) may be disposed around the first folding axis (F1). The second-second glass portion (3122) may be disposed around the second folding axis (F2).

[0348] According to one embodiment, the glass member (3100) may include a plurality of recesses (3140). The plurality of recesses (3140) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface of the glass member (3100). For example, the plurality of recesses (3140) may be formed inwardly from the outside (or from the edge) of the glass member (3100) on at least one side surface of the glass member (3100). The plurality of recesses (3140) may be formed near an edge corresponding to a first folding axis (F1) or a second folding axis (F2) of the glass member (3100). For example, the plurality of recesses (3140) may be formed to be dug inwardly from an edge or side surface around the first folding axis (F1) or the second folding axis (F2). A plurality of recesses (3140) may be arranged adjacent to the first glass portion (3110). The plurality of recesses (3140) may be formed by, but are not limited to, a physical processing method, a laser processing method, or a chemical etching method.

[0349] In one embodiment, a plurality of recesses (3140) may be formed around the first glass portion (3110). For example, the first glass portion (3110) may have a comb-like shape due to the plurality of recesses (3140), but is not limited thereto.

[0350] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (3140) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. For example, the plurality of recesses (3140) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval along the longitudinal direction of the glass member (3100). Here, the longitudinal direction of the glass member (3100) may refer to the longitudinal direction of the second side (3102). Here, the predetermined interval may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the depth of the plurality of recesses (3140) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. For example, the width of the plurality of recesses (3140) may be, but is not limited to, 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter.

[0351] Since each of the plurality of recesses (3140) is formed to have a small size of less than 1 millimeter, direct impact on the display panel can be prevented or reduced by the plurality of recesses (3140). For example, even if force is applied to the first glass portion (3110) in a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (1200) of FIG. 12), the force is not directly applied to the display panel located below the first glass portion (3110), and the first glass portion (3110) having a roughly comb shape can protect the display panel.

[0352] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (3140) may include a first plurality of recesses (3141) and a second plurality of recesses (3142). The first plurality of recesses (3141) may be arranged around the first folding axis (F1). The second plurality of recesses (3142) may be arranged around the second folding axis (F2).

[0353] In one embodiment, the spacing between the first plurality of recesses (3141) and the spacing between the second plurality of recesses (3142) may be different. For example, the spacing between the first plurality of recesses (3141) may be narrower than the spacing between the second plurality of recesses (3142), but is not limited thereto.

[0354] According to one embodiment, the shape of the first plurality of recesses (3141) may be different from the shape of the second plurality of recesses (3142).

[0355] According to one embodiment, the first glass portion (3110) of the glass member (3100) has a shape roughly like a comb by having a plurality of recesses (3140), thereby preventing or reducing breakage of the glass member (3100) due to the introduction of foreign substances. For example, even if foreign substances are introduced into the second position of FIG. 5 (e.g., the second position (D2) of FIG. 5), the probability of the foreign substances coming into contact with the side surface of the glass member (3100) can be reduced by reducing the side surface area of ​​the first glass portion (3110).

[0356] Even if a foreign substance comes into contact with the first glass portion (3110) of the glass member (3100) and a crack occurs on the side of the first glass portion (3110), the crack can be prevented or reduced from spreading to the entire area of ​​the glass member (3100) due to the structural feature of an approximately comb shape. Even if the first folding axis (F1) or the second folding axis (F2) of the glass member (3100) is bent, the stress applied to the first glass portion (3110) can be relatively reduced because the first glass portion (3110) has an approximately comb shape. That is, since the stress applied to the first glass portion (3110) having a plurality of recesses (3140) formed is relatively smaller when bent compared to the glass having no plurality of recesses (3140), the spread of the crack can be prevented or reduced.

[0357] According to one embodiment, the glass member (3100) may include a third glass portion (3130). The third glass portion (3130) may be positioned between the first glass portion (3110) and the second glass portion (3120). The third glass portion (3130) may be a portion that connects the first glass portion (3110) and the second glass portion (3120).

[0358] According to one embodiment, the third glass portion (3130) may be formed to be inclined from the second glass portion (3120) toward the first glass portion (3110). The third glass portion (3130) may be formed to be inclined downward from the first glass portion (3110) toward the second glass portion (3120). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and unlike the drawing, the third glass portion (3130) may also form a step according to the thickness difference between the first glass portion (3110) and the second glass portion (3120).

[0359] According to one embodiment, the third glass portion (3130) may include a third-first glass portion (3131) and a third-second glass portion (3132). The third-first glass portion (3131) may be arranged around the first folding axis (F1). The third-second glass portion (3132) may be arranged around the second folding axis (F2).

[0360] According to one embodiment, the glass member (3100) may include first glass portions (1910, 2010, 2110, 2210) of various shapes or a plurality of recesses (2030, 2230) as described in FIGS. 19a to 22.

[0361] Fig. 32 is a drawing of a glass member according to one embodiment. Figs. 33a to 33c are cross-sectional views taken along line MM in Fig. 32.

[0362] The glass members (3200, 3200-1, 3200-2) illustrated in FIGS. 32 to 33c are intended to illustrate various structures for improving the bending performance of a flexible region (e.g., 3200b), and can be applied to the flexible regions of all of the aforementioned glass members.

[0363] The glass member (3200) illustrated in FIG. 32 may be included in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4). The glass member (3200) illustrated in FIG. 32 may have a configuration substantially identical to or similar to the glass member illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the glass member (420) of FIG. 4). Alternatively, the glass member (3200) illustrated in FIG. 32 may replace the glass member (e.g., the glass member (420) of FIG. 4) in the flexible display illustrated in FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible display (400) of FIG. 4).

[0364] Referring to FIG. 32, the glass member (3200) may include a non-flexible region (3200a) and a flexible region (3200b). Here, the non-flexible region (3200a) of the glass member (3200) may correspond to the non-flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the non-flexible region (400a) of FIG. 4). Here, the flexible region (3200b) of the glass member (3200) may correspond to the flexible region of FIG. 4 (e.g., the flexible region (400b) of FIG. 4).

[0365] According to one embodiment, the glass member (3200) may include a first side (3201), a second side (3202) extending vertically from the first side (3201), a third side (3203) extending vertically from the second side (3202) and parallel to the first side (3201), and a fourth side (3204) extending vertically from the third side (3203) and parallel to the second side (3202).

[0366] Figures 33a to 33c illustrate various shapes formed in the flexible region (3200b) of the glass member (3200).

[0367] Referring to FIG. 33a, the glass member (3200) may include a hole or slit (3210). The hole or slit (3210) may be formed in the flexible region (3200b). By forming the hole or slit (3210) in the flexible region (3200b), the bending performance of the glass member (3200) may be improved.

[0368] Referring to FIG. 33b, the glass member (3200-1) may include a groove (3220). The groove (3220) may be formed in the flexible region (3200b). By forming the groove (3220) in the flexible region (3200b), the thickness of the glass member (3200-1) in the flexible region (3200b) may be reduced. As a result, the repulsive force may be reduced, and the bending performance may be improved.

[0369] Referring to FIG. 33c, the glass member (3200-2) may include a first groove portion (3230) and a second groove portion (3240). The first groove portion (3230) and the second groove portion (3240) may each be disposed in a flexible area of ​​the glass member (3200-2). The first groove portion (3230) may be formed, for example, on an upper surface of the glass member (3200-2) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z1 direction). The second groove portion (3240) may be formed, for example, on a lower surface of the glass member (3200-2) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z1 direction). The first groove portion (3230) and the second groove portion (3240) may be formed to overlap each other vertically. By forming the first groove (3230) and the second groove (3240), the bending performance in the flexible area (3200b) of the glass member (3200-2) can be improved.

[0370] An electronic device (200, 2800, 3000) according to one embodiment may include a first housing (210, 2810, 3010), a second housing (220, 2820, 3020) coupled to the first housing (210, 2810, 3010) so as to be movable or rotatable, and a flexible display (230, 2830, 3040) accommodated in the first housing (210, 2810, 3010) and the second housing (220, 2820, 3020) and configured to be deformable at least in part. The flexible display (230, 2830, 3040) may include a deformable display panel (430) and a glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) positioned on the deformable display panel (430) and configured to be deformable. The glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) may include a plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) formed from the outside to the inside of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) on at least one side.

[0371] According to one embodiment, the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) may include a first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) positioned between the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) and having a first thickness, and a second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) positioned inwardly of the plane of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) from the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and having a second thickness different from the first thickness. For example, the second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) may be located further from the edge of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) than the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110).

[0372] In one embodiment, the first thickness may be relatively thicker than the second thickness.

[0373] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000, 2900, 3100) may include a third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) extending between the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110) and the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120). The third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) may be configured to gradually become thinner from the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110) to the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120). For example, the third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) may be formed to become gradually thinner as it moves away from the edge of the glass member (1000, 2900, 3100).

[0374] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230, 2030, 2240) may further include a first adhesive member (P1) adhered to the periphery of the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and a second adhesive member (P2) adhered to one surface of the second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) and having a different modulus value from the first adhesive member (P1).

[0375] According to one embodiment, the modulus value of the first adhesive member (P1) may be relatively greater than the modulus value of the second adhesive member (P2).

[0376] According to one embodiment, when the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) is in a bent state, the tensile stress of the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) may be relatively smaller than the tensile stress of the bent portion of the second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120).

[0377] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may be formed to have a width that varies inward from one side of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100).

[0378] In one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may have substantially the same width.

[0379] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may have a width (L1) of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers.

[0380] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may have a depth (L2) of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers.

[0381] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may be spaced apart from each other by a spacing (L3) of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers.

[0382] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may be configured so as not to vertically penetrate the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100).

[0383] According to one embodiment, the flexible display may further include a printed layer (440) arranged along an edge thereof. The plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may be arranged to overlap the printed layer (440) in a vertical manner.

[0384] A flexible display according to one embodiment may include a deformable display panel (430) and a glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) positioned on the deformable display panel (430) and configured to be deformable. The glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) may include a plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) formed inward from the outside (or from the edge) of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) on at least one side.

[0385] According to one embodiment, the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) may include a first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) positioned between the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) and having a first thickness, and a second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) positioned inwardly of the plane of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) than the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and having a second thickness that is relatively thinner than the first thickness. For example, the second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) may be located further from the edge of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) than the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110).

[0386] According to one embodiment, the glass member (1000, 2900, 3100) includes a third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) extending between the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110) and the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120), and the third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) may be configured to gradually become thinner from the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110) to the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120).

[0387] According to one embodiment, the flexible display may further include a first adhesive member (P1) adhered to the periphery of the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and a second adhesive member (P2) adhered to one surface of the second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) and having a modulus value relatively greater than that of the first adhesive member (P1).

[0388] According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may have a width of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers, a depth of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers, and be spaced apart from each other by a spacing of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers.

[0389] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230, 2030, 2240) further includes a printed layer (440) arranged along an edge of the flexible display (230, 2030, 2240), and the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) may be arranged to overlap the printed layer (440) in a vertical manner.

[0390] The terminology used herein is merely used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. For example, a singular element should be understood to include plural elements unless the context clearly indicates only a singular element. As used herein, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" can each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the listed items. The terms "include," "have," "comprise," and the like used in this disclosure are intended only to specify the presence of a feature, component, part, or combination thereof described in this disclosure, and the use of these terms does not exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, parts, or combinations thereof. The expressions "first," "second," and the like used in this disclosure can modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another and do not limit the components.

[0391] The expression "configured to" used in the present disclosure can be appropriately used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "capable of," "designed to," "modified to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only something "specially designed" in terms of hardware. Instead, in some situations, the expression "a device configured to" may mean that the device is "capable of" doing something together with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "a device configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C" may mean a dedicated device for performing the corresponding operations, or a general-purpose device that can perform various operations including the corresponding operations.

[0392] Meanwhile, the terms “upper side,” “lower side,” and “front-rear direction” used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0393] Although the foregoing description in this disclosure has focused on specific embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to such specific embodiments, but rather encompasses various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the various embodiments.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, 1st housing (210, 2810, 3010); A second housing (220, 2820, 3020) movably or rotatably coupled to the first housing (210, 2810, 3010); and A flexible display (230, 2830, 3040) is accommodated in the first housing (210, 2810, 3010) and the second housing (220, 2820, 3020) and configured to be deformable at least in part, The above flexible display (230, 2830, 3040) a deformable display panel (430); and It includes a glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) positioned on the above-mentioned deformable display panel (430) and configured to be deformable, An electronic device, wherein the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) includes a plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) formed from the outside to the inside of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) on at least one side.

2. In paragraph 1, The above glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) is An electronic device comprising a first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) positioned between the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) and having a first thickness, and a second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) positioned in a plane inner direction of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) relative to the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and having a second thickness different from the first thickness.

3. In paragraph 2, An electronic device wherein the first thickness is relatively thicker than the second thickness.

4. In paragraph 2 or 3, The above glass member (1000, 2900, 3100) is A third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) extending between the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110) and the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120), An electronic device, wherein the third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) is configured to gradually become thinner as it approaches the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120) from the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110).

5. In one of the clauses 2 to 4, The above flexible display (230, 2030, 2240) It further includes a first adhesive member (P1) adhered around the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and a second adhesive member (P2) adhered to one surface of the second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) and having a different modulus value from the first adhesive member (P1). An electronic device, wherein the modulus value of the first adhesive member (P1) is relatively greater than the modulus value of the second adhesive member (P2).

6. In one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) are An electronic device formed so that the width varies inwardly from one side of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100).

7. In one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) are having a width (L1) of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers, having a depth (L2) of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers, Electronic devices spaced apart with a spacing (L3) of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers.

8. In one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) are An electronic device configured so as not to penetrate the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) vertically.

9. In one of paragraphs 1 to 8, Further comprising a printed layer (440) arranged along the edge of the flexible display, The above plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) are An electronic device arranged to overlap the above printing layer (440) above and below.

10. In flexible displays, a deformable display panel (430); and It includes a glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) positioned on the above-mentioned deformable display panel (430) and configured to be deformable, A flexible display, wherein the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) includes a plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) formed from the outside to the inside of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) on at least one side.

11. In paragraph 10, The above glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) is A flexible display comprising: a first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) positioned between the plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) and having a first thickness; and a second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) positioned in a plane inner direction of the glass member (800, 1000, 2900, 3100) less than the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and having a second thickness that is relatively thinner than the first thickness.

12. In paragraph 11, The above glass member (1000, 2900, 3100) is A third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) extending between the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110) and the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120), A flexible display, wherein the third glass portion (1030, 2930, 3130) is configured to gradually become thinner from the first glass portion (1010, 2910, 3110) to the second glass portion (1020, 2920, 3120).

13. In paragraph 11 or 12, Further comprising a first adhesive member (P1) adhered around the first glass portion (810, 1010, 2910, 3110) and a second adhesive member (P2) adhered to one surface of the second glass portion (820, 1020, 2920, 3120) and having a modulus value relatively greater than that of the first adhesive member (P1). Flexible display.

14. In one of the clauses 10 to 13, The above plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) are having a width of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers, having a depth of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers, A flexible display, spaced apart from each other by a distance of 1 micrometer to 1000 micrometers.

15. In one of paragraphs 10 to 14, The above flexible display (230, 2030, 2240) It further includes a printing layer (440) arranged along the edge of the flexible display (230, 2030, 2240), The above plurality of recesses (830, 1040, 2940, 3140) are A flexible display arranged to overlap the above printing layer (440) above and below.

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