ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Abstract

According to the proposed implementation of the invention, the electronic device may include a soft display unit, a support, and a damping unit. The soft display unit may have a first display area of ​​thickness 1 and a second display area of ​​thickness 2 that is thinner than the first. The support may support the soft display unit. At least part of the support may be positioned between the soft display unit and the battery. The support may have a first support area facing the second display area and of thickness 3. The damping unit may be attached to the first support area and the soft display unit. The support may have a second support area facing the second display area, extended from the first support area and of thickness 4 that is thinner than the third. The first damping unit may be positioned between the second display area and the second support area. This invention may have several other implementations.

Description

Electronic device including a flexible display and its structure

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a flexible display and a structure thereof.

[0002] An electronic device may include a flexible display. The flexible display may include a structure that allows the area where the screen is displayed to be flexibly transformed. The flexible display may be used in a shape other than a flat surface. For example, an electronic device including a flexible display may be implemented in a foldable form that can be folded or unfolded along at least one folding axis.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0004] An electronic device according to one embodiment may include a flexible display, a bracket, and a buffer member. The flexible display may include a first display area having a first thickness and a second display area having a second thickness thinner than the first thickness. The bracket may support the flexible display. The bracket may include a first support area facing the second display area and having a third thickness. The bracket may include a second support area extending from the first support area and having a fourth thickness thinner than the third thickness. The buffer member may be disposed between the second display area and the second support area.

[0005] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0006] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of the appearance of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an example of an appearance of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an example of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the structure of a second housing side of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the arrangement of internal components of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of arrangement of a bracket and a buffer member included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram illustrating examples of a laminated structure of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an example of a buffer member including a plurality of through holes according to one embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 11 is a conceptual drawing illustrating the structure of a through hole of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating an example of a laminated structure of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a laminated structure of a buffer member that can be applied when an opening is formed in a bracket according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device further including an auxiliary adhesive member according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating an area in which an auxiliary adhesive member is placed within an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of the first housing side according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a laminated structure of a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the 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)).

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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).

[0026] 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).

[0027] 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).

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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).

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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)).

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "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 include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0046] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0047] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0049] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of the appearance of an electronic device (101) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an example of the appearance of an electronic device (101) in a folded state according to one embodiment.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (200), a foldable portion (230) (e.g., a hinge and a hinge cover) disposed on a foldable portion of the foldable housing (200), and a flexible display (260) disposed within a space formed by the foldable housing (200). In this document, the side on which the flexible display (260) is disposed may be referred to as the front side of the electronic device (101). In this document, the side opposite to the front side may be referred to as the rear side. In this document, the side surrounding the space between the front side and the rear side may be referred to as the side surface of the electronic device (101).

[0052] In one embodiment, the foldable housing (200) may include a first housing structure (210) and a second housing structure (220). The first housing structure (210) may be referred to as a first housing. The second housing structure (220) may be referred to as a second housing. The first housing structure (210) may include a rear cover (290). The foldable housing (200) of the electronic device (101) is not limited to the shape and combination illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in one embodiment, the first housing structure (210) and the rear cover (290) may be formed integrally.

[0053] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) may be arranged on both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have a shape in which the side surfaces are symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). As described below, depending on the angle or distance between the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220), the state of the electronic device (101) may be referred to as a flat / open state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. In one embodiment, the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) may have an overall symmetrical shape, but some portions may have different shapes. Referring to FIG. 2, the first housing structure (210) may include a rear cover (290) in which at least one camera (280) is arranged. The second housing structure (220) may include a structure in which a display (205) is arranged on the rear.

[0054] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) may together form a shape that accommodates the flexible display (260). The rear cover (290) may be positioned on one side of the folding axis (A) at the rear of the electronic device (101). The periphery of the rear cover (290) may be wrapped by the housing structure (210).

[0055] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) may form a space in which components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a printed circuit board, a battery) may be placed. In one embodiment, one or more components or sensors may be placed or visually exposed on the back of the electronic device (101). For example, the lenses of at least one camera (280) may be visually exposed through the back cover (290).

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the folding portion (230) may be configured to be positioned between the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) and have an internal component (e.g., a hinge structure). In one embodiment, the folding portion (230) may be at least partially covered or exposed to the outside by the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) depending on the state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state).

[0057] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the folding portion (230) may not be exposed because it is covered by at least one of the first housing structure (210) or the second housing structure (220). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the folding portion (230) may be at least partially exposed to the outside between the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220). For example, when the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) are in an intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the folding portion (230) may be at least partially exposed to the outside between the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220). For example, the exposed area of ​​the fold (230) may be less than that in a fully folded state. In one embodiment, the exposed area of ​​the fold (230) may include a curved surface.

[0058] In one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may be placed in a space formed by the foldable housing (200). For example, at least a portion of the flexible display (260) may be placed along one side defined along the first housing structure (210) and one side defined along the second housing structure (220). The back of the electronic device (101) may include a back cover (290) and a display (205).

[0059] In one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may include a display in which at least some areas can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. The flexible display (260) may be divided into multiple areas depending on the structural function.

[0060] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2), a first surface on which the flexible display (260) is disposed on the first housing structure (210) side and a second surface on which the flexible display (260) is disposed on the second housing structure (220) side may form an angle of about 180 degrees. The area corresponding to the first housing structure (210) of the flexible display (260) and the area corresponding to the second housing structure (220) may face substantially the same direction. The direction in which the surface on which the flexible display (260) is disposed faces when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state may be referred to as the front direction of the electronic device (101).

[0061] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3), the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) may be arranged to face each other. The first side of the flexible display (260) arranged on the first housing structure (210) side and the second side arranged on the second housing structure (220) side may form a narrow angle (e.g., an angle of 0 degrees or more and 10 degrees or less) with each other. The first side and the second side may face each other diagonally. A portion of the flexible display (260) arranged between the first side and the second side may be deformed into a shape having a predetermined curvature.

[0062] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an intermediate state, the first housing structure (210) and the second housing structure (220) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. The first side of the flexible display (260) arranged on the first housing structure (210) side and the second side arranged on the second housing structure (220) side may form an angle that is larger than the angle formed when the flexible display (260) is in a folded state and smaller than the angle formed when the flexible display (260) is in an unfolded state. A portion of the flexible display (260) arranged between the first side and the second side may be deformed into a shape having a certain curvature. The curvature of the portion of the flexible display (260) in the intermediate state may be smaller than the curvature formed when the flexible display is in a folded state.

[0063] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an example of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0064] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (260), a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a battery (489), a foldable portion (230), at least one plate (235), a front camera (281), a rear camera (280), a speaker module (455), an antenna module (497), a display (205), and a rear cover (290).

[0065] In one embodiment, at least one plate (235) can be positioned at a position corresponding to an area where the flexible display (260) bends as the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded. The at least one plate (235) can move within the electronic device (101) as the angle between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) changes. The at least one plate (235) can be positioned to support the flexible display (260) in a state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., an unfolded state). At least a portion of the flexible display (260) can be fixed to the first housing (210), and at least a portion of the remainder can be fixed to the second housing (220).

[0066] In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a bracket (or frame) for arranging components of the electronic device (101). The bracket arranged on the side of the first housing (210) may be formed integrally with the first housing (210) or may be fixed to the first housing (210) as a separate component. Referring to FIG. 4, at least one camera (280), a front camera (281), a battery (489-1), and an antenna module (497) may be arranged on the rear surface of the electronic device (101) based on the bracket of the first housing (210). At least a portion of the at least one camera (280) may be optically exposed through the rear cover (290). The front camera (281) may be arranged to receive light through a transparently formed area (e.g., a hole area or a notch area) in the flexible display (260). Alternatively, the front camera (281) may include an under display camera (UDC) that receives light through the flexible display (260) without a separate transparent area on the flexible display (260). The battery (489-1) may store power and supply the stored power to at least one component included in the electronic device (101). The antenna module (497) may include at least one of at least one antenna or at least one radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) for performing communication. For example, the antenna module (497) may include at least one of a main antenna, a sub antenna, an antenna for performing ultra wide-band (UWB) communication, or an antenna for performing near field communication (NFC).Referring to FIG. 4, at least one camera (280), a front camera (281), a battery (489-1), and an antenna module (497) may be placed within a space at least partially surrounded by the first housing (210), the flexible display (260), and the rear cover (290).

[0067] In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a bracket (or frame) (221) for arranging components of the electronic device (101). The bracket arranged on the side of the second housing (220) may be formed integrally with the second housing (220) or may be fixed to the second housing (220) as a separate component. Referring to FIG. 4, a rear camera (282), a battery (489-2), a speaker module (455), an adhesive member (420), and a first buffer member (430) may be arranged based on the bracket (221) of the second housing (220). The rear camera (282) may be arranged to receive light through a transparently formed area (e.g., a hole area or a notch area) in the display (205). The rear camera (282) may include a UDC that receives light through the display (205). The battery (489-2) may store power and supply the stored power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). The speaker module (455) may include at least one speaker that outputs sound. For example, the speaker module (455) may include an upper speaker (455-1) that outputs sound through the upper portion of the electronic device (101) (e.g., an area adjacent to the rear camera (282) in the second housing (220). The speaker module (455) may include a lower speaker (455-2) that outputs sound through the lower portion (opposite the upper portion) of the electronic device (101). An adhesive member (420) may be attached to the flexible display (260) and the bracket (221) to form a waterproof area, which is a space between the flexible display (260) and the bracket (221) where liquid does not flow in from the outside. The adhesive member (420) may include, for example, a waterproof tape. The first buffer member (430) may include a material that alleviates the impact generated when the flexible display (260) collides with the bracket (221) made of a rigid material.For example, the first buffer member (430) may include at least one of a porous foam or an elastomer. Referring to FIG. 4, the rear camera (282), the battery (489-2), the speaker module (455), the adhesive member (420), and the first buffer member (430) may be placed within a space at least partially surrounded by the second housing (220), the display (205), and the flexible display (260).

[0068] In one embodiment, the folding member (230) may include a hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), a hinge cover positioned so that the hinge structure is not exposed to the outside, and at least one plate (235) connected to the hinge structure.

[0069] However, the components and arrangement of the components illustrated in FIG. 4 are for the purpose of explaining an example, and some components may be changed or moved in position. For example, although FIG. 4 illustrates that the front camera (281) is arranged on the first housing (210) side and the rear camera (282) is arranged on the second housing (220), the front camera (281) may be arranged on the second housing (220) side and the rear camera (282) may be arranged on the first housing (210) side.

[0070] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a cross-section of a flexible display (260) included in an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0071] A flexible display (260) according to one embodiment may include a first display area (520) having a thickness greater than or equal to a first thickness (d2) and a second display area (540) having a second thickness (d4) thinner than the first thickness (d2). For example, the first display area (520) may include an area in which a display driver circuit (display driver IC, DDI) (525) is arranged. The display driver circuit (525) may be connected to one end of a third display area (COP (chip on plastic) area) (510) of the flexible display (260). For example, the third display area (510) may include an area in which a circuit is formed on the flexible display (260). The flexible display (260) may further include a fourth display area (MFPCB (micro flexible printed circuit board) area) (530) extending from the first display area (520). At least one flexible printed circuit board may be placed in the fourth display area (530). However, FIG. 5 is intended to illustrate an example of a flexible display (260) having different thicknesses, and the specific configuration of the flexible display (260) may be changed within the scope of one embodiment.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may not have a uniform thickness because components necessary for display operation (e.g., display driving circuit (525)) must be mounted. The second display area (540) on which the components are not mounted may have a thickness (d4) that is thinner than the thicknesses (d1, d2, d3) of the other areas. The thicknesses (d1, d2, d3, d4) of the display areas may be, for example, 300 um or more and 2000 um or less. For example, among the thicknesses (d1, d2, d3, d4), the first thickness (d2) of the first display area (520) may be the thickest, and the second thickness (d4) of the second display area (540) may be the thinnest. The thickness (d1) of the third display area (510) may be similar to the thickness (d3) of the fourth display area (530).

[0073] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of a flexible display (260) may be mounted on a bracket (221) of an electronic device (101). Since the thickness of the flexible display (260) is not constant, a step corresponding to the thickness of the flexible display (260) may be formed on one side of the bracket (221) on which the flexible display (260) is mounted.

[0074] FIG. 6 is a conceptual drawing illustrating the structure of the second housing (220) side of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0075] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a battery (489-2), a flexible display (260), and a bracket (221) at least partially disposed between the flexible display (260) and the battery (489-2). An electronic device according to one embodiment may include an adhesive member (420) attached between the flexible display (260) and the bracket (221). The adhesive member (420) may have a first side attached to the flexible display (260). The adhesive member (420) may have a second side opposite to the first side attached to the bracket (221). A waterproof area (610) may be formed by the flexible display (260), the bracket (221), and the adhesive member (420) to prevent liquid from flowing in from the outside. A space outside the waterproof area (610) may be referred to as a non-waterproof area (620). The bracket (221) may be positioned across the waterproof area (610) and the non-waterproof area (620). However, the term “non-waterproof” is intended to refer to a space contrasting with the waterproof area (610), and the waterproof function may be implemented by a different structure for the non-waterproof area (620).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the bracket (221) may include a first support area (630) to which the adhesive member (420) is attached, and a second support area (640) to which the first buffer member (430) is disposed. Since the bracket (221) must be formed to have a thickness greater than the minimum thickness for maintaining rigidity, the third thickness of the first support area (630) where the adhesive member (420) is not disposed may be formed thicker than the fifth thickness (d7) of the third support area (650) where the display driving circuit (525) is disposed. If the portion of the bracket (221) disposed in the non-waterproof area (620) is entirely formed to have the third thickness, the weight of the bracket (221) may increase since the bracket (221) is made of a rigid material such as metal. In addition, if the bracket (221) is formed to have the third thickness, the space for increasing the thickness of the first buffer member (430) may decrease. In order to reduce the weight of the bracket (221) and secure a space for arranging the first buffer member (430), the second support area (640) may have a fourth thickness that is thinner than the third thickness. A step (645) may be formed between the first support area (630) and the second support area (640). The fourth thickness (d6) of the second support area (640) may be equal to or thinner than the fifth thickness (d7) of the third support area (650).

[0077] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may be disposed in the second support area (640). Since the fourth thickness (d6) of the second support area (640) is formed thinner than the third thickness (d5) of the first support area (630), the first buffer member (430) may be formed thicker by a height corresponding to the step (645). The first buffer member (430) may be formed of a material having a lighter specific weight (weight per unit volume) than the bracket (221).

[0078] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the arrangement of internal components of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0079] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include an adhesive member (420) disposed inside a second housing (220) and a plate (235) disposed on one side along a folding axis. The adhesive member (420) may be disposed inside the second housing (220). The adhesive member (420) may be disposed to surround an area where components that must be blocked from moisture (e.g., a display driving circuit (525)) are disposed to form a waterproof area (610).

[0080] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may be disposed between the adhesive member (420) and the plate (235). The first buffer member (430) may be disposed in a first direction (710) toward the folding portion (230) with respect to the adhesive member (420). The first buffer member (430) may be disposed in an area where the plate (235) is not disposed, thereby preventing the flexible display (260) from being damaged by colliding with a rigid structure (e.g., bracket (221)) inside the electronic device (101) due to an external impact. The first buffer member (430) may be disposed spaced apart from the plate (235).

[0081] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may be positioned such that the longitudinal direction of the first buffer member (430) is substantially parallel to the direction of the folding axis (A). The longitudinal direction of the first buffer member (430) may mean the direction in which the length of the first buffer member (430) is the longest.

[0082] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a second buffer member (700) disposed within an area surrounded by the adhesive member (420). The second buffer member (700) may be disposed in a second direction (720) opposite to the first direction (710) toward the folding portion (230) with respect to at least a portion of the adhesive member (420). The first buffer member (430) may be formed to be thicker than the second buffer member (700).

[0083] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may be positioned in an area corresponding to an area where the battery (489-2) is positioned. For example, one end (735) in the third direction (730) and one end (745) in the fourth direction (740) of the first buffer member (430) may be positioned in positions corresponding to positions where one end and the other end of the battery (489-2) are positioned.

[0084] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of arrangement of a bracket (221) and a first buffer member (430) included in an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment. Fig. 8 illustrates a cross-section CC' illustrated in Fig. 7.

[0085] In one embodiment, the bracket (221) may include a region (820) extending from a region (810) to which the adhesive member (420) is attached. In one embodiment, by performing a thinning process on the extended region (820), the extended region (820) may form a second support region (640) having a thickness thinner than the thickness (d5) of the region (810) to which the adhesive member (420) is attached. For example, the third thickness (d5) may be 0.694 T or greater, and the fourth thickness (d6) may be 0.3 T or less.

[0086] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 8, the second support area (640) may include a recess that accommodates at least a portion of the first buffer member (430). By mounting the first buffer member (430) in the recess formed in the second support area (640), the thickness of the first buffer member (430) can be secured. The thicker the first buffer member (430), the more advantageous it is to secure a space for damping external impact.

[0087] In one embodiment, the bracket (221) may include a chamfer (815) structure formed at a position where there is a step between the second support area (640) and the first support area (630). The chamfer (815) structure may include a curved surface or an inclined surface. If the edge of the second support area (640) is formed sharply, the flexible display (260) may be damaged by colliding with the edge. The chamfer (815) structure formed at the edge of the second support area (640) may reduce the possibility of damage occurring even if the flexible display (260) comes into contact with it. A gap may be formed between the chamfer (815) and the buffer member (430) in consideration of an error occurring during the manufacturing process. For example, the buffer member (430) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the chamfer (815) by a distance corresponding to 0.2T.

[0088] In one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may include a lattice region (261) in which a grid pattern is formed. A layer including the lattice region (261) within the flexible display (260) may be referred to as a lattice layer. The lattice region (261) may be formed in a region including at least one folding axis (A) of the electronic device (101). The adhesive member (420) may be adhered to the lattice layer. The buffer member (430) may be positioned to face the lattice layer.

[0089] FIG. 9 is a conceptual drawing illustrating examples of a laminated structure of a buffer member (430) according to one embodiment.

[0090] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430-1) may be configured to include a plurality of layers (910, 920, 930). The plurality of layers (910, 920, 930) may include a top layer (910) and a foam layer (920). The top layer (910) may include a cover layer (911) facing the flexible display (260). The foam layer (920) may generate a sound when separated from the flexible display (260) when it directly comes into contact with the flexible display (260) due to the stickiness of its surface. In one embodiment, the cover layer (911) may be formed of a material that does not generate a sound when separated even when it comes into contact with the flexible display (260). In one embodiment, the cover layer (911) may be formed of a black material. The cover layer (911) may be attached to the foam layer (920) by the first adhesive layer (912). The foam layer (920) may include a material that attenuates impact when deformed by an external force. For example, the foam layer (920) may include a porous material such as a sponge. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the foam layer (920) may also be composed of other materials for attenuating impact.

[0091] In one embodiment, the foam layer (920) may occupy a majority of the thickness of the buffer member (430-1). For example, the thickness of the cover layer (911) may be 5 to 9 μm, the thickness of the first adhesive layer (912) may be 1 to 5 μm, the thickness of the foam layer (920) may be 100 to 500 μm, the thickness of the second adhesive layer (931) may be 1 to 5 μm, the thickness of the transparent layer (932) may be 1 to 4 μm, and the thickness of the third adhesive layer (933) may be 1 to 5 μm. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0092] In one embodiment, the foam layer (920) may be attached to the bracket (221) by the lower layer (930). The lower layer (930) may include a second adhesive layer (931), a transparent layer (932), and a third adhesive layer (933). The transparent layer (932) may be composed of a transparent material. The transparent layer (932) may be attached to the foam layer (920) by the second adhesive layer (931). The transparent layer (932) may be attached to the bracket (221) by the third adhesive layer (933).

[0093] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430-2) may include a plurality of layers (940, 950, 960, 970). The plurality of layers (940, 950, 960, 970) may include a top layer (940) and a foam layer (950). The top layer (910) may include a cover layer (941) that faces the flexible display (260). The foam layer (950) may generate a sound when separated from the flexible display (260) when it directly comes into contact with the flexible display (260) due to the stickiness of its surface. In one embodiment, the cover layer (941) may be made of a material that does not generate a sound when separated even when it comes into contact with the flexible display (260). In one embodiment, the cover layer (941) may be made of a black material. The cover layer (941) may be attached to the foam layer (950) by the first adhesive layer (942). The foam layer (950) may include a material that attenuates impact when deformed by an external force. For example, the foam layer (950) may include a porous material such as a sponge. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the foam layer (950) may also be composed of other materials for attenuating impact.

[0094] In one embodiment, the foam layer (950) may occupy most of the thickness of the buffer member (430-2). For example, the thickness of the cover layer (941) may be 5 to 9 μm, the thickness of the first adhesive layer (942) may be 1 to 5 μm, the thickness of the foam layer (950) may be 100 to 500 μm, the thickness of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer (961) may be 10 to 30 μm, the thickness of the PET layer (962) may be 5 to 17 μm, the thickness of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer (963) may be 10 to 22 μm, and the thickness of the masking layer (970) may be 5 to 15 μm. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0095] In one embodiment, the foam layer (950) may be attached to the bracket (221) by a bottom layer (960) and a masking layer (970). The bottom layer (960) may include a first pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer (961), a polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) layer (962), and a second pressure sensitive adhesive layer (963). The bottom layer (960) may be composed of a transparent material. The PET layer (962) may be attached to the foam layer (950) by the first pressure sensitive adhesive layer (961). The PET layer (962) may be attached to a masking layer (970) attached to the bracket (221) by the second pressure sensitive adhesive layer (963). The masking layer (970) may be composed of a colored material (e.g., white).

[0096] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an example of a buffer member (430) including a plurality of through holes (1010) according to one embodiment (e.g., buffer member (430) of FIG. 4, 6, 7 or 8, buffer member (430-1, 430-2) of FIG. 9 or 11).

[0097] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may include through holes (1010) penetrating at least one of the plurality of layers of the buffer member (430). By forming the plurality of through holes (1010) in the buffer member (430), the weight of the buffer member (430) may be reduced while maintaining the buffering function of the buffer member (430). The plurality of through holes (1010) may be distributed and arranged along at least one layer of the buffer member (430).

[0098] Fig. 11 is a drawing conceptually illustrating the structure of a through hole of a buffer member (430) according to one embodiment.

[0099] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430-1) may include a through hole (1111) penetrating at least one of the foam layer (920) or the lower layer (930). In one embodiment, the buffer member (430-1) may also include a through hole (1112) penetrating all of the plurality of layers (910, 920, 930) of the buffer member (430-1). In an embodiment including a through hole (1112) penetrating all of the plurality of layers (910, 920, 930), when an adhesive flows from the first adhesive layer (912) or the lower layer (930) along the through hole (1112), the upper layer (910) may be adhered to the flexible display (260). The top layer (910) may be configured to cover the through hole (1111) to prevent the adhesive from moving between the top layer (910) and the flexible display (260).

[0100] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430-2) may include a through hole (1113) penetrating at least one of the foam layer (950), the bottom layer (960), or the masking layer (970). In one embodiment, the buffer member (430-2) may also include a through hole (1114) penetrating all of the plurality of layers (940, 950, 960) of the buffer member (430-2). In an embodiment including a through hole (1114) penetrating all of the plurality of layers (940, 950, 960), the top layer (940) may be adhered to the flexible display (260) when adhesive flows from the first adhesive layer (942) or the bottom layer (960) along the through hole (1114). The top layer (940) may also be configured to cover the through hole (1113) to prevent the adhesive from moving between the top layer (940) and the flexible display (260).

[0101] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating an example of a laminated structure of a buffer member (430) according to one embodiment.

[0102] A buffer member (430) according to one embodiment may include a region (1210) in which a through hole (1010) penetrating at least some layers is not formed and a region (1220) in which a through hole (1010) is formed. The region in which the through hole (1010) is not formed may include a non-woven fabric layer and a TTI layer for preventing sound generated at a contact surface that contacts the flexible display (160), a foam (sponge) layer that performs a buffering function, and a PC sheet having tape attached to both sides for attaching the foam layer to the bracket (221). In the region in which the through hole (1010) is formed, the foam and lower layer (1230) including the foam layer and the PC sheet having tape attached to both sides may be omitted.

[0103] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a laminated structure of a buffer member (430) that can be applied when an opening is formed in a bracket (221) according to one embodiment.

[0104] In one embodiment, if an opening exists in an area of ​​the bracket (221) facing the buffer member (430) (e.g., in the second support area (640), when the buffer member (430) is attached to the bracket (221) using an adhesive member, foreign substances may adhere to the adhesive member exposed through the opening. If an opening is formed in the bracket (221), a masking tape having one side formed of a non-adhesive material may be placed on the surface facing the bracket (221).

[0105] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device (101) further including an auxiliary adhesive member (1200) according to one embodiment. FIG. 15 is a view illustrating an area in which an auxiliary adhesive member (1200) is arranged within an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0106] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include an auxiliary adhesive member (1200) disposed at least partially between the buffer member (430) and the folding axis (A). The auxiliary adhesive member (1200) may be attached to the bracket (221) and the flexible display (260). The auxiliary adhesive member (1200) may attach the flexible display (260) to the bracket (221) (or at least one plate (235) of FIG. 4) in an area where the buffer member (430) is not disposed. The auxiliary adhesive member (1200) may include, for example, a double-sided tape or an adhesive applied to an area where the auxiliary adhesive member (1200) is disposed.

[0107] In one embodiment, the auxiliary adhesive member (1200) may include a single-sided tape. When the auxiliary adhesive member (1200) includes a single-sided tape, the auxiliary adhesive member (1200) may be attached to the bracket (221) (or at least one plate (235) of FIG. 4) to improve the quality of the surface of the flexible display (260) or serve as a buffer member to improve the durability of the flexible display (260).

[0108] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of the first housing (210) side of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0109] In one embodiment, a battery (489-1) may be placed between at least a portion of a flexible display (260) disposed on the first housing (210) side and a rear cover (290). The first housing (210) side may include a bracket (211) that supports components disposed on the first housing (210) side. Referring to FIG. 16, at least a portion of the bracket (211) may be placed between the battery (289-1) and the flexible display (260).

[0110] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a laminated structure of a flexible display (260) according to one embodiment.

[0111] In one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may be supported by a bracket (211) on the first housing side, a bracket (221) on the second housing side, and at least one plate (235).

[0112] In one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may include a protective layer (PL) (1701), ultra-thin glass (UTG) (1703), a damping layer (DL) (1705), a display panel (1707), a protective film (1708), a carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) layer (1710), and a copper (Cu) sheet (1715).

[0113] The protective layer (1701) may be configured to protect the ultra-thin tempered glass (1703) layer from direct external impact. The protective layer (1701) may be composed of a transparent polymer material. For example, the protective layer (1701) may include a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material. The protective layer (1701) may be attached to the ultra-thin tempered glass (1703) layer by an adhesive layer (1702).

[0114] The ultra-thin tempered glass (1703) layer can be configured to reinforce the rigidity of the flexible display (260). The ultra-thin tempered glass (1703) layer can protect the display panel (1707) of the flexible display (260) from external impact. The ultra-thin tempered glass (1703) layer can be attached to the buffer layer (1705) by the adhesive layer (1704).

[0115] The buffer layer (1705) can absorb shock transmitted from the front of the display panel (1707) to prevent damage and / or malfunction of the display panel (1707). The buffer layer (1705) can be made of a transparent polymer material (e.g., PET material). The buffer layer (1705) can be attached to the display panel (1707) by an adhesive layer (1706).

[0116] The display panel (1707) may include an organic light emitting diode (OLED) layer that emits light, a circuit that transmits an electrical signal to control the OLED layer, and a sealing layer to protect the circuit. The display panel (1707) may further include a touch panel. The display panel (1707) may be formed of a flexible material that can be deformed by an external force.

[0117] The protective film (1708) can protect the display panel (1707) from impact transmitted from the back surface of the display panel (1707). The protective film (1708) can serve as a buffer between the display panel (1707) and the CFRP layer (1710). The protective film (1708) can protect components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board) from a force applied from the front surface of the flexible display (260). The protective film (1708) can be attached to the CFRP layer (1710) by an adhesive layer (1709).

[0118] The CFRP layer (1710) may include a region having a lattice structure in a region corresponding to a folding portion of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the folding portion (230) of FIG. 3). The lattice structure may enable the folding motion of the electronic device (101) and the flexible display (260). The CFRP layer (1710) may serve as a buffer between the display panel (1707) and the digitizer (1712). The CFRP layer (1710) may include various materials. For example, the CFRP layer (1710) may include plastic, carbon nanoparticles, and polyurethane.

[0119] The copper sheet (1715) can diffuse and dissipate heat generated from the flexible display (260). The copper sheet (1715) can prevent the magnetic field generated from the digitizer (1712) from propagating to the back surface of the flexible display (260).

[0120] However, the laminated structure of the flexible display (260) illustrated in FIG. 17 is only an example, and the flexible display (260) may be implemented to have a different laminated structure.

[0121] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display (260) may be placed on one side of the bracket (221). A battery (489-2) may be placed on the opposite side of the bracket (221). A cover display (205) may be placed on the outer side of the electronic device (101) in the direction in which the battery (489-2) is placed with respect to the bracket (221).

[0122] In one embodiment, the cover display (205) may include a flexible display panel arranged in a fixed form.

[0123] In one embodiment, the layers of the cover display (205) may be arranged so as to at least partially overlap the first display area (e.g., 520 of FIG. 5) and the second display area (e.g., 530 of FIG. 5) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded and the side on which the flexible display (260) is arranged is viewed. The layers of the cover display (205) may be arranged so as to at least partially overlap the adhesive member (e.g., 420 of FIG. 6), the first buffer member (e.g., 430 of FIG. 6), and the display driving circuit (e.g., 525 of FIG. 5) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded and the side on which the flexible display (260) is arranged is viewed.

[0124] The present disclosure is intended to provide an electronic device and a structure of the electronic device that reduces the weight of a structure.

[0125] The present disclosure provides an electronic device and a structure of the electronic device that can improve the durability of a flexible display included in the electronic device while reducing the weight of the structure.

[0126] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains from the description of this disclosure.

[0127] An electronic device according to one embodiment may include a flexible display (260), a bracket (221), and buffer members (430, 430-1, 430-2). The flexible display (260) may include a first display area (520) having a first thickness (d2) and a second display area (540) having a second thickness (d4) thinner than the first thickness (d2). The bracket (221) may support the flexible display (260). At least a portion of the bracket (221) may be disposed between the flexible display (260) and a battery (489-2). The bracket (221) may include a first support area (630) facing the second display area (540) and having a third thickness (d5). The buffer member (430) may be attached to the first support area (630) and the flexible display (260). The bracket (221) may include a second support area (640) facing the second display area (540), extending from the first support area, and having a fourth thickness (d6) thinner than the third thickness (d5). The buffer member (430) may be disposed between the second display area (540) and the second support area (640).

[0128] In one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may include a display driving integrated circuit disposed within the first display area (520).

[0129] In one embodiment, the second support area (640) may form a recess that accommodates at least a portion of the buffer member (430).

[0130] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may include a plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960). In one embodiment, a plurality of through holes (1010, 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114) may be formed on the buffer member (430) to penetrate at least some of the plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960) of the buffer member.

[0131] In one embodiment, the plurality of through holes (1111, 1113) may be formed to penetrate through some (920, 930, 950, 960) of the plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960) of the buffer member. The electronic device, wherein the plurality of layers include an upper layer (910, 940) facing the flexible display (260) and covering at least some of the plurality of through holes.

[0132] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may include a plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960). The plurality of layers may include a cover layer (911), a foam layer (920), a first adhesive layer (912), and a bottom layer (930). The cover layer (911) may be positioned to face the flexible display (260). The foam layer (920) may include a material that is deformable by an external force. The first adhesive layer (912) may adhere the cover layer (911) to a first surface of the foam layer (920). The bottom layer (930) may have one surface adhered to a second surface opposite the first surface of the foam layer (920), and the other surface adhered to the bracket (221).

[0133] In one embodiment, the bracket (221) may include a chamfer (815) structure positioned at a position where a step is formed between the first support area (630) and the second support area (640).

[0134] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may include a plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960). The plurality of layers may include a cover layer (941), a foam layer (950), an adhesive layer (942), a masking layer (970), a PET layer (962), a first PSA layer (961), and a second PSA layer (963). The cover layer (941) may be positioned to face the flexible display (260). The foam layer (950) may include a material that is deformable by an external force. The adhesive layer (942) may adhere the cover layer (941) to a first surface of the foam layer (950). The masking layer (970) may include a masking tape attached to the bracket (221). A PET layer (962) may be positioned between a foam layer (950) and a masking layer (970). A first PSA layer (961) may adhere the PET layer (962) to a second side of the foam layer (950) opposite the first side. A second PSA layer (963) may adhere the PET layer (962) to the masking layer (970).

[0135] In one embodiment, the foam layer (950) may have a thickness of 220 μm or greater.

[0136] In one embodiment, the second display area (540) and the first support area (630) may further include an adhesive member (420) attached thereto.

[0137] In one embodiment, the adhesive member (420) can be adhered to an area that at least partially surrounds the first display area (520).

[0138] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may be positioned in a first direction (710) with respect to at least a portion of the adhesive member (420). The electronic device (101) may include another buffer member (700) positioned in a second direction (720) opposite to the first direction (710) with respect to at least a portion of the adhesive member (420).

[0139] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may be formed to have a thicker thickness than the other buffer members (700).

[0140] In one embodiment, the adhesive member (420) may include a waterproof tape.

[0141] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a second buffer member (700) disposed within a space sealed by the flexible display (260), the adhesive member (420), and the bracket (221). The first buffer member (430) may be formed to have a thickness thicker than the second buffer member (700).

[0142] In one embodiment, the bracket may include a third support area (650) facing the first display area (520) of the flexible display (260) and having a fifth thickness (d7). The fifth thickness (d7) may be thinner than the third thickness and thicker than the fourth thickness.

[0143] In one embodiment, the adhesive member (420) may include a waterproof tape.

[0144] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a folding portion (230) including a hinge structure disposed between the first housing and the second housing to rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) about at least one folding axis (A). The flexible display (260) may be disposed across the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the folding portion (230). The first display area (520) and the bracket (221) may be disposed within the second housing (220). The second support area may be disposed between the first support area and the hinge structure.

[0145] In one embodiment, the bracket (221) may include a third support area (650) facing the first display area (520) of the flexible display (260) and having a fifth thickness (d7). The fifth thickness may be thinner than the third thickness and thicker than the fourth thickness.

[0146] In one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may include a lattice region and a lattice layer disposed on a surface facing the bracket (221). The lattice region may include a pattern formed in an area including at least one folding axis (A). The adhesive member (420) may be attached to the lattice layer.

[0147] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include at least one of an auxiliary display (205) or a rear cover (290) disposed on an opposite side of the flexible display (260), and a battery (489) disposed between at least one of the auxiliary display (205) or the rear cover (290) and the bracket. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the surface of an area disposed on the second housing (220) side of the flexible display (260), an area where the battery (489) is disposed and an area where the buffer member (430) is disposed may at least partially overlap.

[0148] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include at least one plate (235) positioned at a position corresponding to an area in which the flexible display (260) bends as the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded. The buffer member (430) may be positioned spaced apart from the at least one plate.

[0149] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may be positioned between the adhesive member (420) and the at least one plate (235).

[0150] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) is disposed between the adhesive member (420) and the folding portion (230), and may be disposed along the direction of the folding axis (A).

[0151] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may include at least one opening formed to penetrate at least a portion of the buffer member.

[0152] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may include a first layer made of a first material, a second layer comprising a second material different from the first material and bonded to the first layer, and a third layer comprising a third material different from the second material and bonded to the second layer.

[0153] In one embodiment, the thickness of the second layer may be formed to be thicker than the thickness of the first layer and the thickness of the third layer.

[0154] In one embodiment, the buffer member (430) may include at least one hole penetrating at least one of the first layer, the second layer, or the third layer.

[0155] In one embodiment, the first layer may include an opaque layer and the third layer may include a transparent layer.

[0156] In one embodiment, the second layer may comprise a porous material.

[0157] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include at least one plate (235) connected to the folding portion (230) and supporting at least a portion of the flexible display (260) that deforms as the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) rotate relative to each other.

[0158] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may be positioned between the adhesive member (420) and the plate (235).

[0159] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a battery (489-2), a flexible display (260), a bracket (221), a first buffer member (430, 430-1, 430-2), and an adhesive member (420). At least a portion of the bracket (221) may be disposed between the flexible display (260) and the battery (489-2). The first buffer member (430, 430-1, 430-2) may be disposed between the bracket (221) and the flexible display (260). The adhesive member (420) may have a first surface attached to the flexible display (260). The bracket (221) may include a first support area (630) to which a second surface opposite the first surface of the adhesive member (420) is attached, and a second support area (640) to which the first buffer member is arranged. A step may be formed between the first support area (630) and the second support area (640).

[0160] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may include a plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960). The first buffer member (430) may be formed with a plurality of through holes (1010, 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114) penetrating at least some of the plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960) of the buffer member.

[0161] In one embodiment, the plurality of layers may include a top layer (910, 940) facing the flexible display (260) and covering at least some of the plurality of through holes.

[0162] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may include a plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960). The plurality of layers may include a cover layer (911), a foam layer (920), a first adhesive layer (912), and a bottom layer (30). The cover layer (11) may be arranged to face the flexible display (260). The foam layer (920) may be made of a material that is deformable by an external force. The first adhesive layer (912) may adhere the cover layer (911) to a first surface of the foam layer (920). The bottom layer (930) may have one surface adhered to a second surface opposite the first surface of the foam layer (920), and the other surface adhered to the bracket (221).

[0163] In one embodiment, the first buffer member (430) may include a plurality of layers (910, 920, 930, 940, 950, 960). The plurality of layers may include a cover layer (941), a foam layer (950), an adhesive layer (942), a masking layer (970), a PET layer, a first PSA layer (961), and a second PSA layer (963). The cover layer (941) may be positioned to face the flexible display (260). The foam layer (950) may be formed of a material that is deformable by an external force. The adhesive layer (942) may adhere the cover layer (941) to one surface of the foam layer (950). The masking layer (970) may be attached to the bracket (221). A PET layer (962) may be positioned between a foam layer (950) and a masking layer (970). A first PSA layer (961) may adhere the PET layer (962) to a second side opposite the first side of the foam layer (950). A second PSA layer (963) may adhere the PET layer (962) to the masking layer (970).

[0164] Electronic devices and their structures according to various embodiments can provide electronic devices with reduced weight.

[0165] Electronic devices and their structures according to various embodiments can improve the durability of a flexible display included in the electronic device.

[0166] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0167] The methods according to the embodiments described in the claims or specification of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0168] When implemented in software, a computer-readable storage medium storing one or more programs (software modules) may be provided. The one or more programs stored in the computer-readable storage medium are configured for execution by one or more processors within an electronic device. The one or more programs include instructions that cause the electronic device to execute methods according to embodiments described in the claims or specification of the present disclosure.

[0169] These programs (software modules, software) may be stored in a random access memory, a non-volatile memory including a flash memory, a read only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), a magnetic disc storage device, a compact disc ROM (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disc (DVD) or other forms of optical storage, a magnetic cassette, or a memory formed by a combination of some or all of these. In addition, each configuration memory may be included in multiple numbers.

[0170] Additionally, the program may be stored on an attachable storage device that is accessible via a communication network such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide LAN (WLAN), or a storage area network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure via an external port. Additionally, a separate storage device on the communication network may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, components included in the disclosure are expressed in the singular or plural form, depending on the specific embodiment presented. However, the singular or plural expressions are selected to suit the presented situation for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited to singular or plural components. Components expressed in the plural form may be composed of singular elements, or components expressed in the singular form may be composed of plural elements.

[0172] Additionally, in the present disclosure, “comprising at least one of a, b, or c” may mean “comprising only a, including only b, including only c, or including a combination of two or more (including a and b, including b and c, including a and c, or including all of a, b, and c).

[0173] While the detailed description of this disclosure has described specific embodiments, it should be understood that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined not only by the scope of the claims described below, but also by equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A flexible display comprising a first display area having a first thickness and a second display area having a second thickness thinner than the first thickness; A bracket supporting the above flexible display, the bracket comprising: a first support area facing the second display area and having a third thickness, and a second support area facing the second display area and extending from the first support area and having a fourth thickness thinner than the third thickness; and An electronic device comprising a buffer member disposed between the second display area and the second support area.

2. In claim 1, An electronic device, wherein the flexible display comprises a display driving integrated circuit disposed within the first display area.

3. In either claim 1 or 2, An electronic device wherein the second support region forms a recess that accommodates at least a portion of the buffer member.

4. In any one of the claims set forth above, The above buffer member comprises a plurality of layers, An electronic device, wherein a plurality of through holes are formed in the buffer member, penetrating at least some of the plurality of layers of the buffer member.

5. In claim 4, The above plurality of through holes are formed to penetrate some of the plurality of layers of the buffer member, An electronic device, wherein the plurality of layers include a top layer facing the flexible display and covering at least a portion of the plurality of through holes.

6. In any one of the claims set forth above, The above buffer member comprises a plurality of layers, The above multiple layers are: A cover layer facing the above flexible display, A foam layer that is deformed by external force; A first adhesive layer that adheres the cover layer to the first surface of the foam layer; An electronic device comprising a bottom layer, one side of which is adhered to a second side of the foam layer opposite the first side, and the other side of which is adhered to the bracket.

7. An electronic device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bracket has a chamfer structure formed at a position where a step is formed between the first support area and the second support area.

8. In any one of the claims set forth above, The above buffer member comprises a plurality of layers, The above multiple layers are: A cover layer facing the above flexible display, Foam layer deformed by external force An adhesive layer that adheres the cover layer to the first surface of the foam layer; Masking layer attached to the above bracket A polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layer positioned between the foam layer and the masking layer; a first pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer that adheres the PET layer to a second side of the foam layer opposite the first side, and An electronic device comprising a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer that adheres the PET layer to the masking layer.

9. An electronic device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an adhesive member attached to the second display area and the first support area.

10. In claim 9, the buffer member is arranged in the first direction with respect to at least a portion of the adhesive member, An electronic device, wherein the electronic device further includes another buffer member arranged in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to at least a portion of the adhesive member.

11. An electronic device according to claim 10, wherein the buffer member is formed to have a thickness thicker than the other buffer member.

12. In any one of the claims set forth above, An electronic device wherein the adhesive material comprises a waterproof tape.

13. In any one of the aforementioned claims, the electronic device, 1st housing; Second Housing; Further comprising a folding portion including a hinge structure disposed between the first housing and the second housing and rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing about at least one folding axis (A); The flexible display is arranged across the first housing, the second housing and the folding portion, The first display area and the bracket are positioned within the second housing, and An electronic device, wherein the second support area is located between the first support area and the hinge structure.

14. In any one of the claims set forth above, The above brackets are, A third support area facing the first display area of ​​the flexible display and having a fifth thickness, An electronic device wherein the fifth thickness is thinner than the third thickness and thicker than the fourth thickness.

15. In claim 13, The above flexible display includes a lattice layer including a lattice region and arranged on a surface facing the bracket, The lattice region includes a pattern formed in a region including at least one folding axis, An electronic device, wherein the adhesive member is attached to the lattice layer.

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