Electronic device including structure for reducing damage to flexible display

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment may comprise: a first housing; a second housing which is movable with respect to the first housing; and a flexible display at least a part of which is deformable according to movement of the second housing and which includes a display panel and a plurality of layers disposed on the display panel. The plurality of layers may comprise: a first window which includes a first surface facing the display panel; and a second window which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window and includes a second surface facing the display panel. The characteristics of a first adhesive layer disposed on the first surface may be different from the characteristics of a second adhesive layer disposed on the second surface.

Description

An electronic device comprising a structure for reducing breakage of a flexible display

[0001] The various embodiments described below relate to electronic devices including structures for reducing breakage of flexible displays.

[0002] Electronic devices can be miniaturized to make them easier for users to carry. Despite this miniaturization, there is a growing need for electronic devices with display sizes that can be adjusted to display content, allowing users to access a variety of content. For example, an electronic device may include a flexible display whose size, exposed to the outside of the device, can be adjusted as the device operates. The electronic device may require a structure that reduces the risk of damage to the flexible display, which can be adjusted as the device operates.

[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 related to the present disclosure.

[0004] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a flexible display comprising a first housing, a second housing movable with respect to the first housing, and at least a portion of the second housing being deformable according to movement of the second housing, the flexible display comprising a display panel, and a plurality of layers disposed on the display panel. The plurality of layers may include a plurality of windows, the first window including a first side facing the display panel, and a second window including a second side facing the display panel and having a stiffness lower than a stiffness of the first window. The plurality of layers may include a plurality of adhesive layers, at least a portion of which is disposed between the plurality of windows, the adhesive layers comprising a first adhesive layer and a second adhesive layer. A characteristic of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window may be different from a characteristic of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window.

[0005] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a flexible display comprising a first housing, a second housing movable with respect to the first housing, and at least a portion of the second housing being deformable according to movement of the second housing, the flexible display comprising a display panel, and a plurality of layers disposed on the display panel. The plurality of layers may include a plurality of windows, the first window including a first side facing the display panel, and a second window including a second side facing the display panel and having a stiffness lower than a stiffness of the first window. The plurality of layers may include a plurality of adhesive layers, at least a portion of which is disposed between the plurality of windows, the adhesive layers including a first adhesive layer and a second adhesive layer. A thickness of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window may be greater than a thickness of the second adhesive layer disposed between the second side of the second window and a third side of the first window opposite the first side.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0007] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0008] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0009] Figure 2c is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0010] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0011] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0012] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0013] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2a.

[0015] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are partial cross-sectional views of a flexible display of an exemplary electronic device.

[0016] Figure 7a is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device.

[0017] FIG. 7b and FIG. 7c illustrate a portion of a flexible display of an exemplary electronic device.

[0018] Figure 8a is a partially exploded perspective view of an exemplary electronic device.

[0019] FIG. 8b is a plan view of a flexible display of an exemplary electronic device.

[0020] Figure 8c illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0022] 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)).

[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] For example, the display of the display module (160) may be flexible. For example, the display may include a display area that is exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (101), which provides at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, since the display has flexibility, at least a portion of the display may be rollable into the housing or slidable into the housing. For example, the size of the display area may change depending on the size of the at least a portion of the display that is rolled into the housing or slid into the housing. For example, the electronic device (101) including the display may be in a plurality of states, including a first state providing the display area having a first size and a second state providing the display area having a second size different from the first size. For example, the first state may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0045] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device (101) in a first state.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2A, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a housing (200) including a second housing (220) movable relative to the first housing (210) in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis or a second direction (262) parallel to the y-axis and opposite to the first direction (261), and a display (230) (e.g., the display).

[0047] For example, the electronic device (101) may be in the first state. For example, within the first state, the second housing (220) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) in a first direction (261) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, within the first state, the second housing (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing (210) in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261).

[0048] For example, within the first state, the display (230) may provide the display area having the smallest size. For example, within the first state, the display area may correspond to the area (230a). For example, although not shown in FIG. 2A, within the first state, an area of ​​the display (230) different from the area (230a), which is the display area (e.g., area (230b) of FIG. 2C), may be located within the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the area (e.g., area (230b) of FIG. 2C) may be covered by the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the area (e.g., area (230b) of FIG. 2C) may be rolled into the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the region (230a) may include a planar portion, unlike the region (e.g., region (230b) of FIG. 2C) that includes a curved portion. However, this is not limited thereto. For example, the region (230a) may also include a curved portion that extends from the planar portion and is positioned within an edge portion, within the first state.

[0049] For example, the first state may be referred to as a slide-in state or a closed state in that at least a portion of the second housing (220) is positioned within the first housing (210). For example, the first state may be referred to as a reduced state in that it provides the display area having the smallest size, but is not limited thereto.

[0050] For example, the first housing (210) may include a first image sensor (250-1) within the camera module (180) that is visually exposed through a portion of the area (230a) and faces in a third direction (263) parallel to the z-axis. For example, the camera module (180) may also be arranged to perform its function within the internal space of the electronic device without being visually exposed through a portion of the area (230a). For example, although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, the second housing (220) may include one or more second image sensors within the camera module (180) that are exposed through a portion of the second housing (220) and faces in a fourth direction (264) parallel to the z-axis and opposite to the third direction (263). For example, the one or more second image sensors may be exemplified through the description of FIG. 2B.

[0051] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 2B, within the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed within the second housing (220) may be positioned within a structure disposed within the first housing (210) for the one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, light from outside the electronic device (101) may be received by the one or more second image sensors (250-2) through the structure within the first state. For example, since the one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned within the structure within the first state, the one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the structure within the first state. For example, the structure may be implemented in various ways. For example, the structure may be an opening or a notch. For example, the structure may be an opening (212a) in a plate (212) of a first housing (210) that surrounds at least a portion of a second housing (220). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) included in the second housing (220) may be covered by the plate (212) of the first housing (210).

[0053] Referring again to FIG. 2a, the first state can be changed to the second state.

[0054] For example, the first state (or the second state) may change to the second state (or the first state) through one or more intermediate states between the first state and the second state.

[0055] For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) based on a predefined user input. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input to a physical button exposed through a portion of the first housing (210) or a portion of the second housing (220). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input to an executable object displayed within the display area. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input having a contact point on the display area and having a pressing strength greater than or equal to a reference strength. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a voice input received through a microphone of the electronic device (101). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to an external force applied to the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) to move the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input identified from an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds or a smart watch) connected to the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0056] The second state can be illustrated through the description of FIGS. 2c and 2d.

[0057] Figure 2c is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 2C, the electronic device (101) may be in the second state. For example, in the second state, the second housing (220) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) in a second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, in the second state, the second housing (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing (210) in the first direction (261) opposite to the second direction (262).

[0059] For example, within the second state, the display (230) may provide the display area having the largest size. For example, within the second state, the display area may correspond to an area (230c) including an area (230a) and an area (230b). For example, an area (230b) located within the first housing (210) within the first state may be exposed outside the first housing (210) within the second state. For example, within the second state, the area (230a) may include a planar portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the area (230a) may also include a curved portion extending from the planar portion and positioned within the edge portion. For example, within the second state, the area (230b) may include a planar portion among the planar portion and the curved portion, unlike the area (230a) within the first state. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the region (230b) may include a curved portion extending from the planar portion of the region (230b) and positioned within the edge portion.

[0060] For example, the second state may be referred to as a slide-out state or an open state in that at least a portion of the second housing (220) is positioned outside the first housing (210). For example, the second state may be referred to as an expanded state in that it provides the display area having the largest size. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0061] For example, the first image sensor (250-1) facing the third direction (263) may move together with the area (230a) according to the movement of the second housing (220) in the second direction (262) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, although not shown in FIG. 2c, one or more second image sensors (250-2) facing the fourth direction (264) may move according to the movement of the second housing (220) in the second direction (262) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, the relative positional relationship between one or more second image sensors (250-2) and the structure within the first housing (210) illustrated through the description of FIG. 2b may change according to the movement of one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the change in the above relative position relationship can be illustrated through Fig. 2d.

[0062] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device (101) in a second state.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 2d, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the structure (e.g., an opening or a notch) within the first housing (210) as illustrated in the description of FIG. 2b. For example, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the opening (212a) within the plate (212). For example, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the opening (212a) within the first state. One or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed by being positioned outside the opening (212a) within the second state. For example, since one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the structure within the second state, the relative positional relationship between one or more second image sensors (250-2) within the second state and the structure within the first housing (210) illustrated through the description of FIG. 2B may be different from the relative positional relationship within the first state.

[0064] For example, if the electronic device (101) does not include the above structure such as the opening (212a), one or more second image sensors (250-2) in the first state may not be exposed outside the housing, but in the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed outside the housing.

[0065] Although not shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the electronic device (101) may be in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state. For example, the size of the display area in the intermediate state may be larger than the size of the display area in the first state and smaller than the size of the display area in the second state. For example, the display area in the intermediate state may correspond to an area including a portion of area (230a) and area (230b). For example, in the intermediate state, a portion of area (230b) may be exposed, and another portion (or a remaining portion) of area (230b) may be covered by the first housing (210) or rolled into the first housing (210). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0066] Referring again to FIG. 1, the electronic device (101) may include structures for moving a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101) relative to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A). For example, the structures may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0067] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200) including a first housing (210) and a second housing (220), a display (230), and a driving unit (360).

[0069] For example, the first housing (210) may include a first housing cover (311), a plate (212), and a frame cover (313).

[0070] For example, the first housing cover (311) may at least partially form a side portion of an outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, the first housing cover (311) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the first housing cover (311) may include an opening (311a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the first housing cover (311) may include a surface that supports a plate (212). For example, the first housing cover (311) may be coupled with the plate (212). For example, the first housing cover (311) may include a frame cover (313). For example, the first housing cover (311) may be coupled with the frame cover (313).

[0071] For example, the plate (212) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the plate (212) may include an opening (212a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the plate (212) may be disposed on the surface of the first housing cover (311). For example, the opening (212a) may be aligned with the opening (311a) when viewed along the Z-axis.

[0072] For example, the frame cover (313) may be at least partially surrounded by the first housing cover (311).

[0073] For example, the frame cover (313) may be at least partially wrapped by the display (230). For example, although the frame cover (313) is at least partially wrapped by the display (230), the position of the frame cover (313) may be maintained independently of the movement of the display (230). For example, the frame cover (313) may be arranged in relation to at least some of the components of the display (230). For example, the frame cover (313) may include rails (313a) that provide (or guide) a path for movement of at least one component of the display (230).

[0074] For example, the frame cover (313) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the frame cover (313) may support a rechargeable battery (189). For example, the battery (189) may be supported through a recess or hole in a surface (313b) of the frame cover (313). For example, the frame cover (313) may be coupled with one end of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (325) on a surface of the frame cover (313). For example, although not explicitly shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , the other end of the FPCB (325) may be connected to the PCB (324) through at least one connector. For example, the PCB (324) may be electrically connected to another PCB (not shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b) that supplies power to the motor (361) via the FPCB (325).

[0075] For example, the frame cover (313) can be combined with at least one structure of the electronic device (101) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the frame cover (313) can fasten the motor (361) of the driving unit (360).

[0076] For example, the second housing (220) may include a front cover (321) and a slide cover (322).

[0077] For example, the front cover (321) may be at least partially wrapped by the display (230). For example, the front cover (321) may be coupled with at least a portion of an area (230a) of the display (230) that wraps the front cover (321), unlike the frame cover (313), such that the display (230) moves relative to the second housing (220) that moves relative to the first housing (210).

[0078] For example, the front cover (321) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the front cover (321) may be coupled with a printed circuit board (PCB) (324) that includes components of the electronic device (101). For example, the PCB (324) may include a processor (120) (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, the front cover (321) may include one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0079] For example, the front cover (321) can be combined with at least one structure of the electronic device (101) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the front cover (321) can fix the rack gear (363) of the driving unit (360).

[0080] For example, the front cover (321) can be combined with a slide cover (322).

[0081] For example, the slide cover (322) may be coupled with the front cover (321) to protect at least one component of the electronic device (101) coupled within the front cover (321) and / or at least one structure of the electronic device (101) coupled within the front cover (321). For example, the slide cover (322) may include a structure for the at least one component. For example, the slide cover (322) may include one or more openings (326) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the one or more openings (326) may be aligned with the one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed on the front cover (321) when viewed along the Z-axis. For example, the size of each of the one or more openings (326) may correspond to the size of each of the one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0082] For example, the display (230) may include a support member (331). For example, the support member (331) may include a plurality of bars. For example, the plurality of bars may be coupled to each other.

[0083] For example, the driving unit (360) may include a motor (361), a pinion gear (362), and a rack gear (363).

[0084] For example, the motor (361) may operate based on power from the battery (189). For example, the power may be provided to the motor (361) in response to the predefined user input.

[0085] For example, the pinion gear (362) can be coupled to the motor (361) via a shaft. For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated based on the motion of the motor (361) transmitted via the shaft.

[0086] For example, the rack gear (363) can be arranged in relation to the pinion gear (362). For example, teeth of the rack gear (363) can mesh with teeth of the pinion gear (362). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362). For example, the second housing (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) by the rack gear (363) that is moved according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362) due to the operation of the motor (361). For example, the first state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the first state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the second state) through the movement of the second housing (220) in the second direction (262). For example, the second state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the second state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the first state) through the movement of the second housing (220) in the first direction (261). For example, the change of the first state to the second state by the driving unit (360) and the change of the second state to the first state by the driving unit (360) can be exemplified through FIGS. 4A and 4B.

[0087] Fig. 4a is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Fig. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the predefined user input received within the first state (490). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the first rotational direction (411) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the first rotational direction (411). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) fixes the rack gear (363), the second housing (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with at least a portion of the area (230a) of the display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the display (230) can be moved at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, the display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the display (230) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) which is the second state.

[0089] For example, the area (230b) of the display (230) may be moved according to the movement of the display (230). For example, the area (230b) may be moved through the space between the first housing cover (311) and the frame cover (313) when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) according to the predefined user input. For example, the area (230b) in the state (495) may be exposed, unlike the area (230b) that is rolled into the space in the state (490).

[0090] For example, the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), so that the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495).

[0091] The motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the predefined user input received within the state (495). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the second rotational direction (412) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the second rotational direction (412). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) secures the rack gear (363), the second housing (220) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with at least a portion of the area (230a) of the display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the display (230) can be moved at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, the display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the display (230) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490).

[0092] For example, the area (230b) of the display (230) can be moved according to the movement of the display (230). For example, the area (230b) can be moved through the space between the first housing cover (311) and the frame cover (313) when the state (495) is changed to the state (490) according to the predefined user input. For example, the area (230b) in the state (490) can be rolled into the space, unlike the area (230b) that is exposed in the state (495).

[0093] For example, the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), so that the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490).

[0094] FIGS. 2A to 4B illustrate an electronic device (101) in which the height of the display area is changed and the width of the display area is maintained when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode, but this is for convenience of explanation. For example, the electronic device (101) may be implemented such that the height of the display area is maintained and the width of the display area is changed when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode.

[0095] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2a.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) movable with respect to the first housing (210), and a flexible display (510) at least partially deformable according to the movement of the second housing (220). The flexible display (510) may include a plurality of layers (530) and a plurality of other layers (520) including a display panel (521).

[0097] In one embodiment, a plurality of layers (530) may be disposed on a display panel (521). It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on" another element, this may mean that it is directly on the other element or that there may be intervening elements between them. For example, within this document, "B disposed on A" may refer to "B disposed over A." For example, within this document, "B disposed on A" may refer to "B faced away from A." For example, "a plurality of layers (530) disposed on a display panel (521)" may refer to "a plurality of layers (530) that are in contact with the display panel (521)." For example, “a plurality of layers (530) arranged on a display panel (521)” may refer to “a plurality of layers (530) facing the display panel (521) and spaced apart from the display panel (521).”

[0098] For example, the plurality of layers (530) may be disposed over the display panel (521). For example, the plurality of layers (530) may be disposed on the outer side of the electronic device (101) with respect to the display panel (521). For example, the plurality of layers (530) may at least partially overlap the display panel (521) when the flexible display (510) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the -z direction). For example, the plurality of layers (530) may cover the display panel (521). For example, the plurality of layers (530) may be disposed on the plurality of other layers (520) that include the display panel (521). For example, the plurality of layers (530) may be spaced apart from the display panel (521) in a direction toward the outside of the electronic device (101) (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, the display panel (521) may be arranged on the inner side of the electronic device (101) based on the plurality of layers (530). For example, the display panel (521) may be spaced apart from the plurality of layers (530) in a direction (e.g., +z direction) toward the internal space of the electronic device (101). For example, at least some of the plurality of layers (530) may form a surface of the flexible display (510) that is exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0099] For example, the plurality of other layers (520) including the display panel (521) may include at least one intervening layer (522) disposed between the plurality of layers (530) and the display panel (521). For example, at least a portion of the at least one intervening layer (522) may be in contact with one layer (e.g., the first adhesive layer (551)) of the plurality of layers (530) facing the display panel (521). For example, the at least one intervening layer (522) may include at least one adhesive layer to attach the plurality of layers (530) onto the plurality of other layers (520). For example, the at least one intervening layer (522) may include, but is not limited to, a polarizer. For example, the plurality of other layers (520) including the display panel (521) may include a base layer (523). The base layer (523) may be a layer facing the internal space of the electronic device (101) among the flexible display (510). For example, the plurality of other layers (520) may include at least one layer between the display panel (521) and the base layer (523). The at least one layer between the display panel (521) and the base layer (523) may include at least one adhesive layer. The base layer (523) may be, but is not limited to, a metal plate.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the plurality of layers (530) may include a plurality of windows (540), and a plurality of adhesive layers (550) at least partially disposed between the plurality of windows (540).

[0101] For example, the plurality of windows (540) may overlap each other at least partially when the flexible display (510) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the -z direction). For example, at least some of the plurality of windows (540) (e.g., the second window (542)) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, at least some of the plurality of windows (540) may include two or more layers depending on their function. For example, the plurality of adhesive layers (550) may attach the plurality of windows (540) to each other so that the plurality of windows (540) do not separate from the plurality of layers (530). For example, at least some of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) may be respectively disposed between the plurality of windows (540). Some of the remaining portions of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) may be placed on the plurality of other layers (520) of the flexible display (510) to attach the plurality of layers (530) to the plurality of other layers (520) (e.g., in the -z direction).

[0102] For example, the plurality of windows (540) may include a first window (541) and a second window (542) spaced apart from the first window (541). The plurality of adhesive layers (550) may include a first adhesive layer (551) and a second adhesive layer (552) spaced apart from the first adhesive layer (551). For example, the first adhesive layer (551) may be in contact with a plurality of other layers (520). The first adhesive layer (551) may attach the first window (541) onto the plurality of other layers (520). The first adhesive layer (551) may be disposed between the plurality of other layers (520) and the first window (541). For example, the first window (541) may be attached onto the first adhesive layer (551). The first window (541) may be disposed between the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552). For example, the second adhesive layer (552) may be attached onto the first window (541). The second adhesive layer (552) may attach the second window (542) onto the first window (541). The second adhesive layer (552) may be disposed between the first window (541) and the second window (542). For example, the second window (542) may be exposed to the outside of the flexible display (510). The second window (542) may be attached onto the second adhesive layer (552). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0103] The flexible display (510) may include a region (e.g., region (230b) of FIG. 2C, second region (512) of FIG. 8A) that is deformed along the second housing (220) that moves with respect to the first housing (210). Since at least a portion of the flexible display (510) is deformed, the electronic device (101) may be required to reduce peeling of the plurality of layers (530) included in the flexible display (510) due to the deformation of the flexible display (510). According to the requirement, the arrangement relationship between the plurality of windows (540) and the plurality of adhesive layers (550) included in the plurality of layers (530) may vary.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the properties (p1) of the first adhesive layer (551) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the first side (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540) may be different from the properties (p2) of the second adhesive layer (552) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the second side (542a) facing the display panel (521) of the second window (542) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540).

[0105] For example, the stiffness of the first window (541) may be greater than the stiffness of the second window (542). For example, the bending rigidity of the first window (541) may be greater than the bending rigidity of the second window (542). For example, the shear rigidity of the first window (541) may be greater than the shear rigidity of the second window (542). For example, the torsional rigidity of the first window (541) may be greater than the torsional rigidity of the second window (542). For example, the modulus of the first window (541) may be greater than the modulus of the second window (542). For example, the moment of inertia of area of ​​the first window (541) may be greater than the moment of inertia of area. For example, the bending moment of the first window (541) may be greater than the bending moment of the second window (542).

[0106] For example, in order to reinforce the rigidity against deformation of the flexible display (510), the bending rigidity of the first window (541) may be greater than the bending rigidity of each of the windows (540) excluding the first window (541). Since the rigidity of the first window (541) is relatively greater than the rigidity of each of the windows excluding the first window (541), the adhesive layers in contact with the first window (541) may be required to have a structure to reduce peeling due to deformation of the flexible display (510).

[0107] For example, the adhesion of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) having the greatest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) may be greater than the adhesion of the second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) facing the display panel (521) of the second window (542) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541). For example, the cohesion of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) of the first window (541) having the highest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) may be greater than the cohesion of the second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) of the second window (542) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541). For example, the peel strength between the first adhesive layer (551) in contact with the first surface (541a) of the first window (541) having the highest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) and the first surface (541a) may be greater than the peel strength between the second adhesive layer (552) in contact with the second surface (542a) of the second window (542) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541) and the second surface (542a). For example, the creep resistance of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) of the first window (541) having the highest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) may be greater than the creep resistance of the second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) of the second window (542) having lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541). Since the characteristic (p1) of the first adhesive layer (551) is different from the characteristic (p2) of the second adhesive layer (552), the flexible display (510) can reduce the peeling of layers around the first window (541) having relatively high rigidity due to deformation of the flexible display (510).It should be noted that the characteristics of each adhesive layer (e.g., the first adhesive layer (551), the second adhesive layer (552)) are different from each other, and thus the characteristics may include not only the cohesive strength, peel strength, and creep resistance mentioned above, but also thickness, and are not limited to the characteristics mentioned above.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) may be greater than the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552). For example, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) facing the inside of the electronic device (101) of the first window (541) having the greatest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) may be greater than the thickness of each of the remaining adhesive layers excluding the first adhesive layer (551) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550). For example, a distance corresponding to the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) between layers (e.g., the first window (541) and at least one intervening layer (522)) that are in contact with the first adhesive layer (551) formed by laminating the first adhesive layer (551) among a plurality of layers (530) may be greater than a distance corresponding to the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) between layers (e.g., the first window (541) and the second window (542)) that are in contact with the second adhesive layer (552) formed by laminating the second adhesive layer (552). For example, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) having the greatest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) may be the thickest among the plurality of adhesive layers (550). For example, the distance corresponding to the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) between the first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) having the greatest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) and the plurality of other layers (520) may be greater than the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) facing the display panel (521) of the second window (542).Since the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) is greater than the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552), the flexible display (510) can reduce the peeling of layers around the first window (541) having relatively high rigidity due to deformation of the flexible display (510).

[0109] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) can provide various user experiences to the user by including a flexible display (510) that is at least partially deformable along a second housing (220) that moves with respect to the first housing (210). The flexible display (510) has a characteristic (p1) of a first adhesive layer (551) disposed on a first surface (541a) of a first window (541) facing a display panel (521) having a relatively high rigidity, which is different from a characteristic (p2) of a second adhesive layer (552) disposed on a second surface (542a) of a second window (542) facing the display panel (521) having a lower rigidity than the first window (541), thereby reducing peeling of layers around the first window (541) due to deformation of the flexible display (510).

[0110] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are partial cross-sectional views of a flexible display of an exemplary electronic device.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) movable with respect to the first housing (210), and a flexible display (510) at least partially deformable according to the movement of the second housing (220). The flexible display (510) may include a display panel (521) and a plurality of layers (530) disposed on the display panel (521). The plurality of layers (530) may include a plurality of windows (540) and a plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed between the plurality of windows (540), respectively. The characteristic (p1) of the first adhesive layer (551) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540) may be different from the characteristic (p2) of the second adhesive layer (552) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the second surface (542a) facing the display panel (521) of the second window (542) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540). According to one embodiment, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) may be greater than the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552). According to one embodiment, the bending stiffness of the first window (541) may be greater than the bending stiffness of each of the remaining windows among the plurality of windows (540) excluding the first window (541).

[0112] Below, redundant descriptions of the configuration described in Fig. 5 are omitted.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the plurality of windows (540) may include at least one of acrylic, elastomer, glass, polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and optically clear resin (OCR). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Each of the plurality of windows (540) may include at least one of acrylic, elastomer, glass, polyimide, polyethylene, TPE, TPU, OCR, or a combination thereof, thereby reinforcing the rigidity of the flexible display (510) against deformation of the flexible display (510).

[0114] For example, a window having a modulus in the range of 1 GPa or more and 7 GPa or less may be a window including a film including at least one of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate. For example, a window having a modulus of 60 GPa or more may be a window including glass. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the first window (541) may include a first layer (610) having a modulus in the range of 1 GPa or more and 7 GPa or less, and may have a thickness (d3) in the range of 100 μm or more and 1 mm or less. The thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) may be positioned in the range of 50% or more and less than 100% of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541). For example, the first layer (610) may be a film layer including at least one of acrylic, elastomer, polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, TPE, TPU, and OCR. For example, the first window (541) may have a modulus in the range of 1 GPa or more and 7 GPa or less by including the first layer (610). For example, the first window (541) may be a window having the strongest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) by including the first layer (610). The thickness (d3) of the first window (541) may be located within a range of 100 μm or more and 1 mm or less. The thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) may have a thickness that is half or more of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541). The creep resistance of the first adhesive layer (551) at a temperature of 60 degrees may be located within a range of 20% or more of the creep resistance of the first window (541).The flexible display (510) can reduce peeling of layers around the first window (541) due to deformation of the flexible display (510), by including a first layer (610) having a modulus in the range of 1 Gpa or more and 7 Gpa or less, and a thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) being positioned in the range of 50% or more and less than 100% of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541).

[0116] Referring to FIG. 6A, the first window (541) may be positioned in a direction (e.g., +z direction) toward the inside of the electronic device (101) with respect to the second window (542). The second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned between a third side (541b) opposite to the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and a second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned within a range of 1% to 100% of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551). For example, the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned within a range of 30% to 100% of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551). For example, when the first window (541) includes a first layer (610) having a modulus within a range of 1 Gpa to 7 Gpa and a thickness (d3) within a range of 100 μm to 1 mm, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) on the first surface (541a) of the first window (541) may be positioned within a range of 50% to 100% of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541) in order to reduce delamination of layers around the first window (541). In this case, the second layer (620) of the first window (541) may be omitted. The second adhesive layer (552) disposed between the third side (541b) opposite to the first side (541a) of the first window (541) and the second window (542) having a stiffness lower than that of the first window (541) may have a thickness (d2) within a range of 70% or less of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) in order to reduce peeling of the second window (542). The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) may be located within a range of 1% or more and 95% or less of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551).

[0117] Referring to FIG. 6B, unlike FIG. 6A, the first window (541) may be positioned in a direction (e.g., -z direction) toward the outside of the electronic device (101) with respect to the second window (542). The second adhesive layer (552) may be disposed on the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The first adhesive layer (551) may be disposed between the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and the fourth side (542b) opposite the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned within a range of 1% to 100% of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551). For example, the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned within a range of 30% to 100% of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551). For example, when the first window (541) includes a first layer (610) having a modulus in the range of 1 Gpa or more and 7 Gpa or less and has a thickness (d3) in the range of 100 μm or more and 1 mm or less, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) between the first surface (541a) and the fourth surface (542b) may be positioned in the range of 50% or more and less than 100% of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541) in order to reduce delamination of layers around the first window (541). In this case, the second layer (620) of the first window (541) may be omitted. The second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) facing the display panel (521) of the second window (542) having a stiffness lower than that of the first window (541) may have a thickness (d2) within a range of 70% or less of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) in order to reduce peeling of the second window (542).The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) may be within a range of 1% to 95% of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the first window (541) may include a second layer (620) having a modulus in the range of 60 Gpa or more and 1000 Gpa or less, and may have a thickness (d3) in the range of 10 μm or more and 1 mm or less. For example, the modulus of the second layer (620) included in the first window (541) may be in the range of 60 Gpa or more and 100 Gpa or less, and the thickness (d3) of the first window (541) may be located in the range of 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less. In this case, the first layer (610) of the first window (541) may be omitted. The thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) may be located in the range of 70% or more and 350% or less of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541). For example, the second layer (620) may be a glass layer. For example, the first window (541) may have a modulus of 60 Gpa or more by including the second layer (620). For example, the first window (541) may be a window having the strongest rigidity among the plurality of windows (540) by including the second layer (620). The thickness (d3) of the first window (541) may be located within a range of 10 μm or more and 1 mm or less. For example, the thickness (d3) of the first window (541) may be located within a range of 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less. The thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) may have a thickness of 70% or more of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541). The creep resistance of the first adhesive layer (551) at a temperature of 60 degrees may be located within a range of 35% or more of the creep resistance of the first window (541).The flexible display (510) can reduce peeling of layers around the first window (541) due to deformation of the flexible display (510) by including a second layer (620) having a modulus in the range of 60 Gpa or more and 100 Gpa or less, and the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) is positioned in the range of 70% or more and 350% or less of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541).

[0119] Referring to FIG. 6A, the first window (541) may be positioned in a direction (e.g., +z direction) toward the inside of the electronic device (101) with respect to the second window (542). The second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned between a third side (541b) opposite to the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and a second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned within a range of 30% to 100% of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551). For example, when the first window (541) includes a second layer (620) having a modulus in the range of 60 Gpa or more and 100 Gpa or less and has a thickness (d3) in the range of 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) on the first surface (541a) of the first window (541) may be positioned in the range of 70% or more and 350% or less of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541) in order to reduce delamination of layers around the first window (541). In this case, the first layer (610) of the first window (541) may be omitted. The second adhesive layer (552) disposed between the third side (541b) opposite to the first side (541a) of the first window (541) and the second window (542) having a stiffness lower than that of the first window (541) may have a thickness (d2) within a range of 70% or less of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) in order to reduce peeling of the second window (542). The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) may be located within a range of 1% or more and 95% or less of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 6B, unlike FIG. 6A, the first window (541) may be positioned in a direction (e.g., -z direction) toward the outside of the electronic device (101) with respect to the second window (542). The second adhesive layer (552) may be disposed on the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The first adhesive layer (551) may be disposed between the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and the fourth side (542b) opposite the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned within a range of 30% to 100% of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551). For example, when the first window (541) includes a second layer (620) having a modulus within a range of 60 GPa to 100 GPa and has a thickness (d3) within a range of 10 μm to 200 μm, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) between the first surface (541a) and the fourth surface (542b) may be positioned within a range of 70% to 350% of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541) in order to reduce delamination of layers around the first window (541). In this case, the first layer (610) of the first window (541) may be omitted. The second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541) may have a thickness (d2) within a range of 70% or less of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) in order to reduce peeling of the second window (542). The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) may be located within a range of 1% or more and 95% or less of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (552) may be disposed between a third side (541b) opposite to a first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and a second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) may be positioned within a range of 1% to 95% of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551).

[0122] According to the above-described embodiment, the flexible display (510) can reduce the peeling of layers around the first window (541) due to deformation of the flexible display (510) by having a property (p1) of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) different from the property (p2) of the second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541).

[0123] Figure 7a is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device. Figures 7b and 7c illustrate portions of a flexible display of the exemplary electronic device.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) movable with respect to the first housing (210), and a flexible display (510) at least partially deformable according to the movement of the second housing (220). The flexible display (510) may include a display panel (521) and a plurality of layers (530) disposed on the display panel (521). The plurality of layers (530) may include a plurality of windows (540), and a plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed between the plurality of windows (540), respectively. The characteristic (p1) of the first adhesive layer (551) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540) may be different from the characteristic (p2) of the second adhesive layer (552) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the second surface (542a) facing the display panel (521) of the second window (542) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540). According to one embodiment, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) may be greater than the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552). According to one embodiment, the bending stiffness of the first window (541) may be greater than the bending stiffness of each of the remaining windows among the plurality of windows (540) excluding the first window (541).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the width (w2) of the second window (542) may be greater than or equal to the width of each of the remaining layers (530) excluding the second window (542). The plurality of layers (530) may further include at least one step portion (710) disposed below the second window (542) and formed by at least some of the plurality of windows (540) and at least some of the plurality of adhesive layers (550). For example, the second window (542) of the plurality of windows (540) may be a window forming a surface of the flexible display (510) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The width (w2) of the second window (542) may be, for example, greater than the width (w1) of the first window (541), the width (w3) of the first adhesive layer (551), and the width (w4) of the second adhesive layer (552). Due to the difference in width between the second window (542) and each of the remaining layers among the plurality of layers (530) excluding the second window (542), the flexible display (510) may include at least one step portion (710).

[0126] For example, since the first window (541) has a width (w1) greater than the width (w3) of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) of the first window (541), the plurality of layers (530) may include a first step portion (711) between the first window (541) and the first adhesive layer (551). For example, since the second window (542) has a width (w2) greater than the width (w4) of the second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) of the second window (542), the plurality of layers (530) may include a second step portion (712) between the second window (542) and the second adhesive layer (552). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Since the plurality of layers (530) include at least one step portion (710) formed by at least some of the plurality of windows (540) and at least some of the plurality of adhesive layers (550), the flexible display (510) can reduce leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) from the plurality of layers (530) due to the deformation of the flexible display.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (552) may be disposed between the third side (541b) opposite the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521). The flexible display (510) may further include a coating member (720) that is in contact with at least a portion of the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552) to reduce leakage of adhesive material from the flexible display (510). For example, the coating member (720) may seal the plurality of adhesive layers (550) by being in contact with each of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) among the plurality of layers (530). For example, the coating member (720) may be positioned within a groove structure formed by at least one step portion (710), thereby coming into contact with each of the plurality of adhesive layers (550). For example, the coating member (720) may include a first coating member (721) coming into contact with the first step portion (711) and the first adhesive layer (551), and a second coating member (722) coming into contact with the second step portion (712) and the second adhesive layer (552). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The flexible display (510) may reduce leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) from the plurality of layers (530) due to the flexible display being deformed by including the coating member (720).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 7B, the plurality of layers (530) may include at least one step portion (710) formed between a second window (542) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) and the remaining layers (e.g., the first window (541), the first adhesive layer (551), and the second adhesive layer (552)) among the plurality of layers (530) excluding the second window (542). The coating member (720) may be positioned within a groove structure formed by the at least one step portion (710). For example, the coating member (720) may be disposed between a second surface (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521) and the plurality of other layers (520) including the display panel (521). For example, the width (w1) of the first window (541) may be smaller than the width (w2) of the second window (542). The width (w3) of the first adhesive layer (551) and the width (w4) of the second adhesive layer (552) may be substantially the same as the width (w1) of the first window (541), respectively. Since the width (w3) of the first adhesive layer (551) and the width (w4) of the second adhesive layer (552) are substantially the same as the width (w1) of the first window (541), the coating member (720) disposed on at least one step portion (710) may be in contact with the first window (541), the first adhesive layer (551), and the second adhesive layer (552). The coating member (720) can seal the first window (541) and the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552) that are joined to the first window (541) by coming into contact with the first window (541), the first adhesive layer (551), and the second adhesive layer (552). The coating member (720) can reduce the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552) from being separated from the plurality of layers (530) by the flexible display (510) that is deformed by sealing the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552).

[0129] Referring to FIG. 7C, unlike FIG. 7B, the plurality of layers (530) may include at least one step portion (710) formed between a second adhesive layer (552) attached to a second window (542) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) and the remaining layers (e.g., the first window (541), the first adhesive layer (551)) among the plurality of layers (530) excluding the second window (542) and the second adhesive layer (552). A portion of the coating member (720) may be disposed within a groove structure formed by the at least one step portion (710). The remaining portion of the coating member (720) may protrude from the groove structure formed by the at least one step portion (710) and thereby come into contact with the second adhesive layer (552). The remaining portion of the coating member (720) can seal the second adhesive layer (552) by coming into contact with the second adhesive layer (552). The portion of the coating member (720) can seal the first window (541) and the first adhesive layer (551) by coming into contact with the first window (541) and the first adhesive layer (551). For example, the width (w1) of the first window (541) may be smaller than the width of the second window (w2). The width (w2) of the second window (542) may be substantially the same as the width (w4) of the second adhesive layer (552) attached to the second window (542). The width (w1) of the first window (541) and the width (w3) of the first adhesive layer (551) interposed between the plurality of layers (530) may be substantially the same. A portion of the coating member (720) may be disposed on at least one step portion (710) formed by the second adhesive layer (552), the first window (541), and the first adhesive layer (551), thereby sealing the first window (541) and the first adhesive layer (551). The remaining portion of the coating member (720) may be in contact with the second adhesive layer (552), thereby sealing the second adhesive layer (552).The coating member (720) can reduce the separation of the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552) from the plurality of layers (530) by the flexible display (510) that is deformed by sealing the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the modulus of the coating member (720) may be greater than the modulus of each of the plurality of adhesive layers (550). The coating member (720) in contact with the plurality of adhesive layers (550) has a modulus greater than the modulus of each of the plurality of adhesive layers (550), thereby reducing leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) from the plurality of layers (530) due to the deformation of the flexible display.

[0131] According to the above-described embodiment, the flexible display (510) includes a coating member (720) that is in contact with at least one step portion (710) and / or a plurality of adhesive layers (550), thereby reducing leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) from the plurality of layers (530) due to the deformation of the flexible display.

[0132] Figure 8a is a partially exploded perspective view of an exemplary electronic device. Figure 8b is a plan view of a flexible display of the exemplary electronic device. Figure 8c illustrates a portion of the exemplary electronic device.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) movable with respect to the first housing (210), and a flexible display (510) at least partially deformable according to the movement of the second housing (220). The flexible display (510) may include a display panel (521) and a plurality of layers (530) disposed on the display panel (521). The plurality of layers (530) may include a plurality of windows (540), and a plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed between the plurality of windows (540), respectively. The characteristic (p1) of the first adhesive layer (551) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521) of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540) may be different from the characteristic (p2) of the second adhesive layer (552) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) disposed on the second surface (542a) facing the display panel (521) of the second window (542) having a lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540). According to one embodiment, the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) may be greater than the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552). According to one embodiment, the bending stiffness of the first window (541) may be greater than the bending stiffness of each of the remaining windows among the plurality of windows (540) excluding the first window (541).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (510) may further include a first region (511) (e.g., region (230a) of FIG. 2A) disposed on a second housing (220), and a second region (512) (e.g., region (230b) of FIG. 2C) at least partially retracted into the first housing (210) or exposed to the outside of the first housing (210) along the second housing (220) moving relative to the first housing (210). For example, referring to FIGS. 2A to 4B together, the second housing (220) may slide relative to the first housing (210) from a first state. By moving the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210), the second housing (220) can be configured to change the electronic device (101) from the first state to the second state or from the second state to the first state.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be configured to be movable in a first direction (261) and a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210). The first housing (210) may include at least one guide rail (810) that supports the flexible display (510) to guide deformation of the flexible display (510).

[0136] For example, when referring to FIGS. 2A to 4B together, the first region (511) may be disposed on the second housing (220) and exposed to the outside. Within the first state, the second region (512) may be disposed within the first housing (210). During the change from the first state to the second state, since the second housing (220) moves in the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210), the first region (511) may move in the first direction (261) along the second housing (220). Since the second region (512) extends from the first region (511), the second region (512) may be exposed to the outside by moving along the first region (511).

[0137] For example, within the second state, the second region (512) may be exposed to the outside. During the transition from the second state to the first state, since the second housing (220) moves in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210), the first region (511) may move along the second housing (220) in the second direction (262). Since the second region (512) extends from the first region (511), the second region (512) may be rolled into the first housing (210) by moving along the first region (511).

[0138] For example, although not shown, within an intermediate state between the first state and the second state, a portion of the second region (512) may be exposed to the outside. The remainder of the second region (512) may be disposed within the first housing (210). By allowing the second region (512) to be rolled into the first housing or deformed to be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101), the second region (512) may be configured to provide a plurality of states.

[0139] The first state may be referred to as a slide-in state or closed state in which the second region (512) is rolled into the first housing (210). The second state may be referred to as a slide-out state or open state in which the second region (512) is exposed to the outside.

[0140] For example, the guide rail (810) of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the rails (313a) of FIG. 3A) may guide the movement of the second region (512) of the flexible display (510). The electronic device (101) may further include a plurality of support bars (820) attached to an inner surface of the second region (512) facing the inside of the electronic device (101). The plurality of support bars (820) may partially surround the guide rail (810). For example, the guide rail (810) may partially surround the internal space of the electronic device (101) by partially contacting the plurality of support bars (820). For example, the plurality of support bars (820) may move along the second region (512) that moves according to the operation of the electronic device (101). The guide rail (810) can be moved in a first direction (261) or a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction along the plurality of support bars (820) that are moved by the movement of the second region (512). According to one embodiment, the guide rail (810) and the plurality of support bars (820) can be interlocked with each other. The electronic device (101) can reduce the disengagement of the second region (512) due to the operation of the electronic device (101) by including the guide rail (810) and the plurality of support bars (820) that are interlocked with each other.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the plurality of adhesive layers (550) may further include a third region (550a) configured to overlap at least one guide rail (810) when the flexible display (510) is viewed from above (e.g., in the Z-axis direction), and a fourth region (550b) in contact with the third region (550a). The modulus of the third region (550a) may be greater than the modulus of the fourth region (550b). According to one embodiment, the third region (550a) may extend in a direction parallel to the first direction (261) (e.g., the +y direction or the -y direction) within the flexible display (510).

[0142] For example, the third region (550a) may be a region supported by at least one guide rail (810). For example, the third region (550a) may be a region pressed by at least one guide rail (810). For example, the third region (550a) may be a region that is arranged along both periphery parts of the flexible display (510) that extend in a direction parallel to the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) among the plurality of adhesive layers (550) and face each other. For example, the fourth region (550b) may be a region that extends from the third region (550a). For example, the fourth region (550b) may be a region that is positioned on the inner side based on the two edge portions of the flexible display (510) that extend in a direction parallel to the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) and face each other.

[0143] For example, at least one guide rail (810) may include a first guide rail (811) and a second guide rail (812) facing the first guide rail (811). The flexible display (510) may further include a first side region (513) configured to overlap with the first guide rail (811) according to movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) in a first direction (261) and a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261), and a second side region (514) configured to overlap with the second guide rail (812). The third region (550a) may be a part of a plurality of layers (530) included in the first side region (513) and the fourth side region (514). The fourth region (550b) may be the remaining portion of the plurality of layers (530) extending from the third side region (513) to the fourth side region (514).

[0144] For example, the stiffness of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the stiffness of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the stiffness of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the stiffness of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the hardness of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the hardness of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the hardness of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the hardness of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the creep resistance of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the creep resistance of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the creep resistance of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the creep resistance of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the fourth region (550b). For example, the modulus of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the modulus of the first adhesive layer (551) included in the fourth region (550). For example, the modulus of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the modulus of the second adhesive layer (552) included in the fourth region (550). For example, the adhesive material included in the third region (550a) may be composed of substantially the same material as the adhesive material included in the fourth region (550b).The bonding density between the components included in the adhesive material included in the third region (550a) may be greater than the connection density between the components included in the adhesive material included in the fourth region (550b). Since the modulus of the third region (550a) is greater than the modulus of the fourth region (550b), the plurality of adhesive layers (550) can reduce the leakage of the adhesive material from the edge of the flexible display (510) and reduce the peeling of the plurality of layers (530) of the flexible display (510).

[0145] According to the above-described embodiment, the flexible display (510) includes a plurality of adhesive layers (550) including a third region (550a) having a relatively high modulus, thereby reducing the leakage of adhesive material from the edge of the flexible display (510) and reducing the peeling of the plurality of layers (530) of the flexible display (510).

[0146] According to the above-described embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a first housing (e.g., first housing (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) movable with respect to the first housing, and a flexible display (e.g., display (230) of FIG. 2A, flexible display (510) of FIG. 5) including a display panel (e.g., display panel (521) of FIG. 5), and a plurality of layers (e.g., a plurality of layers (530) of FIG. 5) disposed on the display panel, at least a portion of which is deformable according to movement of the second housing. The plurality of layers may include a first window (e.g., a first window (541) of FIG. 5) including a first side facing the display panel (e.g., a first side (541a) of FIG. 5)), and a second window (e.g., a second window (542) of FIG. 5) including a second side facing the display panel (e.g., a second side (542a) of FIG. 5) having a lower stiffness than the stiffness of the first window. The plurality of layers may include a plurality of adhesive layers (e.g., a plurality of adhesive layers (550) of FIG. 5) at least partially disposed between the plurality of windows and including a first adhesive layer (e.g., a first adhesive layer (551) of FIG. 5) and a second adhesive layer (e.g., a second adhesive layer (552) of FIG. 5). The characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first surface (e.g., p1 in FIG. 5) may be different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second surface (e.g., p2 in FIG. 5). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may provide a variety of user experiences to the user by including the flexible display, at least a portion of which is deformable.The flexible display can reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display by having characteristics of a first adhesive layer disposed on the first surface of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, different from characteristics of a second adhesive layer disposed on the second surface of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment can have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0147] According to one embodiment, one of the characteristics of the first adhesive layer, which is a thickness of the first adhesive layer (e.g., d1 in FIG. 5), may be greater than one of the characteristics of the second adhesive layer, which is a thickness of the second adhesive layer (e.g., d2 in FIG. 5). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display can reduce the layers around the first window from being peeled off due to deformation of the flexible display, since the characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, are different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the first window may include a first layer (e.g., the first layer (610) of FIG. 6A) having a modulus in a range of 1 GPa or more and 7 GPa or less, and may have a thickness in a range of 100 μm or more and 1 mm or less (e.g., d3 of FIG. 6A). The thickness of the first adhesive layer may be positioned in a range of 50% or more and less than 100% of the thickness of the first window. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display, since the characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, are different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer may be disposed between a third side (e.g., the third side (541b) of FIG. 5) of the first window, which is opposite to the first side facing the display panel, and the second side of the second window, which is facing the display panel. The thickness of the second adhesive layer may be positioned within a range of 30% to 100% of the thickness of the first adhesive layer. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display, since the characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, are different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the first window may include a second layer (e.g., the second layer (620) of FIG. 6A) having a modulus in a range of 60 GPa to 100 GPa and a thickness in a range of 10 μm to 200 μm. The thickness of the first adhesive layer may be positioned in a range of 70% to 350% of the thickness of the first window. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display, since the characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, are different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer may be disposed between a third side of the first window, which is opposite to the first side facing the display panel, and the second side of the second window, which is facing the display panel. The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer may be located within a range of 1% to 95% of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display, since the characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, are different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0152] In one embodiment, the plurality of windows may include at least one of acrylic, elastomer, glass, polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and optically clear resin (OCR). In the above-mentioned embodiment, the plurality of windows may be configured to reinforce the rigidity of the flexible display against deformation of the flexible display. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the width of the second window (e.g., w2 in FIG. 7A) may be greater than or equal to the width of each of the remaining layers excluding the second window among the plurality of layers. The plurality of layers may further include at least one step portion (e.g., at least one step portion 710 in FIG. 7A) disposed below the second window and formed by at least some of the plurality of windows and at least some of the plurality of adhesive layers. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the plurality of layers may reduce leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers from the plurality of layers due to deformation of the flexible display by including the at least one step portion. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer may be disposed between a third side of the first window, which is opposite to the first side facing the display panel, and the second side of the second window, which is facing the display panel. The flexible display may further include a coating member (e.g., a coating member (720) of FIG. 7A) in contact with at least a portion of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer to reduce leakage of an adhesive material from the flexible display. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers from the plurality of layers due to deformation of the flexible display by including the coating member. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the modulus of the coating member may be greater than the modulus of each of the plurality of adhesive layers. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display can reduce the plurality of adhesive layers from leaking out from the plurality of layers due to deformation of the flexible display because the modulus of the coating member is greater than the modulus of each of the plurality of adhesive layers. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the bending rigidity of the first window may be greater than the bending rigidity of each of the remaining windows excluding the first window among the plurality of windows. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display can reduce the peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display by having different characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first surface of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, and the second adhesive layer disposed on the second surface of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the flexible display may further include a first region (e.g., region (230a) of FIG. 2A, first region (511) of FIG. 8A) disposed on the second housing, and a second region (e.g., region (230b) of FIG. 2C, second region (512) of FIG. 8A) that is rolled into the first housing along the second housing moving relative to the first housing or exposed to the outside of the first housing. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may provide a variety of user experiences to the user by including the deformable second region. The above-mentioned embodiment may have a variety of effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the second housing may be configured to be movable in a first direction (e.g., the first direction (261) of FIG. 2A) and a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the second direction (262) of FIG. 2A) with respect to the first housing. The first housing may include at least one guide rail (e.g., at least one guide rail (810) of FIG. 8A) that supports the flexible display to guide deformation of the flexible display. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may provide a variety of user experiences to the user by including a second housing that is movable in the first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the first housing. The electronic device may reduce the detachment of the flexible display from the first housing by including the at least one guide rail. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the plurality of adhesive layers may further include a third region (e.g., the third region (550a) of FIG. 8B) overlapping with the at least one guide rail when the flexible display is viewed from above, and a fourth region (e.g., the fourth region (550b) of FIG. 8B) in contact with the third region. The modulus of the third region may be greater than the modulus of the fourth region. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the plurality of adhesive layers may reduce leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers from the plurality of layers due to deformation of the flexible display by including the third region having a relatively high modulus. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the third region may extend in a direction parallel to the first direction within the flexible display. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the plurality of adhesive layers may include the third region having a relatively high modulus, thereby reducing leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers from the plurality of layers due to deformation of the flexible display. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects, including the above-mentioned effects.

[0161] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a flexible display comprising a first housing, a second housing movable with respect to the first housing, and at least a portion of which is deformable according to movement of the second housing, a display panel, and a plurality of layers disposed on the display panel. The plurality of layers may include a plurality of windows, including a first window including a first side facing the display panel, and a second window including a second side facing the display panel and having a stiffness lower than a stiffness of the first window. The plurality of layers may include a plurality of adhesive layers, at least a portion of which is disposed between the plurality of windows, the adhesive layers including a first adhesive layer and a second adhesive layer. A thickness of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side may be greater than a thickness of the second adhesive layer disposed between a second side of the second window facing the display panel and a third side of the first window opposite the first side. In accordance with the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may provide a variety of user experiences to a user by including the flexible display, at least a portion of which is deformable. The flexible display can reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display by having characteristics of a first adhesive layer disposed on the first surface of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, different from characteristics of a second adhesive layer disposed on the second surface of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment can have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the first window may include a first layer having a modulus in a range of 1 Gpa or more and 7 Gpa or less, and may have a thickness in a range of 100 μm or more and 1 mm or less. The thickness of the first adhesive layer may be located in a range of 50% or more and less than 100% of the thickness of the first window. The thickness of the second adhesive layer may be located in a range of 30% or more and less than 100% of the thickness of the first adhesive layer. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display, since the characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, are different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the first window may include a second layer having a modulus in a range of 60 Gpa to 100 Gpa and a thickness in a range of 10 μm to 200 μm. The thickness of the first adhesive layer may be located in a range of 70% to 350% of the thickness of the first window. The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer may be located in a range of 1% to 95% of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display, since the characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first side of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, are different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer disposed on the second side of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the flexible display may further include a coating member that is in contact with at least a portion of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer to reduce leakage of the adhesive material from the flexible display. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display may reduce leakage of the plurality of adhesive layers from the plurality of layers due to deformation of the flexible display by including the coating member. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the bending rigidity of the first window may be greater than the bending rigidity of each of the remaining windows excluding the first window among the plurality of windows. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the flexible display can reduce the peeling of layers around the first window due to deformation of the flexible display by having different characteristics of the first adhesive layer disposed on the first surface of the first window, which has relatively high rigidity, and the second adhesive layer disposed on the second surface of the second window, which has lower rigidity than the rigidity of the first window. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0166] 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, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0167] 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 component (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.

[0168] 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).

[0169] 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.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0171] 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.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), First housing (210); A second housing (220) movable relative to the first housing (210); and A flexible display (230; 510) including a display panel (521) and a plurality of layers (530) arranged on the display panel (521), at least a part of which is deformable according to the movement of the second housing (220); The above multiple layers (530) are, A plurality of windows (540) including a first window (541) having a first surface (541a) facing the display panel (521), and a second window (542) having a second surface (542a) facing the display panel (521) and having a stiffness lower than that of the first window (541); and A plurality of adhesive layers (550) including at least some of the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552) are disposed between the plurality of windows (540); The properties of the first adhesive layer (551) disposed on the first surface (541a) of the first window (541) are as follows: Different from the characteristics of the second adhesive layer (552) disposed on the second surface (542a) of the second window (542), Electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, The thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551), which is one of the characteristics of the first adhesive layer (551), One of the above characteristics of the second adhesive layer (552) is greater than the thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552). Electronic device (101).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above first window (541) is A first layer (610) having a modulus within a range of 1 Gpa or more and 7 Gpa or less, and a thickness (d3) within a range of 100 ㎛ or more and 1 mm or less, The thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) is Located within a range of 50% or more and less than 100% of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541). Electronic device (101).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above second adhesive layer (552) is It is arranged between the third side (541b) opposite to the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521), The thickness (d2) of the second adhesive layer (552) is Located within a range of 30% to 100% of the thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551). Electronic device (101).

5. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above first window (541) is A second layer (620) having a modulus within a range of 60 Gpa or more and 100 Gpa or less, and having a thickness (d3) within a range of 10 ㎛ or more and 200 ㎛ or less, The thickness (d1) of the first adhesive layer (551) is Located within a range of 70% to 350% of the thickness (d3) of the first window (541). Electronic device (101).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above second adhesive layer (552) is It is arranged between the third side (541b) opposite to the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521), The adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer (552) is Located within a range of 1% to 95% of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer (551). Electronic device (101).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above plurality of windows (540) are, Further comprising at least one of acrylic, elastomer, glass, polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and optically clear resin (OCR). Electronic device (101).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The width (w2) of the above second window (542) is The width of each of the remaining layers (530) except for the second window (542) is greater than or equal to the width of each of the remaining layers (530). The above multiple layers (530) are, Further comprising at least one step portion (710) formed by at least some of the plurality of windows (540) and at least some of the plurality of adhesive layers (550) and positioned below the second window (542); Electronic device (101).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above second adhesive layer (552) is It is arranged between the third side (541b) opposite to the first side (541a) of the first window (541) facing the display panel (521) and the second side (542a) of the second window (542) facing the display panel (521), The above flexible display (230; 510) is In order to reduce leakage of adhesive material from the flexible display (230; 510), a coating member (720) in contact with at least a portion of the first adhesive layer (551) and the second adhesive layer (552) is further included. Electronic device (101).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The modulus of the above coating member (720) is A modulus greater than that of each of the above multiple adhesive layers (550), Electronic device (101).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The bending stiffness of the above first window (541) is The bending stiffness of each of the remaining windows, excluding the first window (541) among the plurality of windows (540), is greater than that of the plurality of windows (540). Electronic device (101).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above flexible display (230; 510) is A first area (230a; 511) arranged on the second housing (220); and Further comprising a second region (230b; 512) that is at least partially rolled into the first housing (210) or exposed to the outside of the first housing (210) along the second housing (220) moving relative to the first housing (210); Electronic device (101).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The second housing (220) is It is configured to be movable in a first direction (261) and a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210). The above first housing (210) is, Including at least one guide rail (810) supporting the flexible display (230; 510) to guide deformation of the flexible display (230; 510); Electronic device (101).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above multiple adhesive layers (550) are, When viewing the flexible display (230; 510) from above, a third area (550a) configured to overlap with at least one guide rail (810); and Further including a fourth region (550b) in contact with the third region (550a); The modulus of the third region (550a) is greater than the modulus of the fourth region (550b) above, Electronic device (101).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The third area (550a) above is Extending in a direction parallel to the first direction (261) within the flexible display (230; 510), Electronic device (101).

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