Electronic device including bendable display

Abstract

The electronic device may include a glass cover, wherein the glass cover includes: first, second, and third flat portions accommodated in first, second, and third housing portions, respectively, and maintained to be substantially flat; a first non-flat portion positioned between the first flat portion and the second flat portion and having at least a portion accommodated in a first hinge housing portion; a second non-flat portion extending from the second flat portion in a direction opposite to the first non-flat portion and having at least a portion accommodated in one end of a second hinge housing portion; a third non-flat portion extending from the third flat portion in a direction toward the second non-flat portion and having at least a portion accommodated in the other end of the second hinge housing portion; and a fourth flat portion positioned between the second non-flat portion and the third non-flat portion and accommodated in the second hinge housing portion so as to remain substantially flat in a process in which the second housing portion and the third housing portion are bent.

Description

Electronic devices containing bendable displays

[0001] The disclosure relates to an electronic device including a bendable display.

[0002] Electronic devices are being developed in diverse forms, moving beyond the standard rectangular form to enhance portability and convenience. With technological advancements, demand is growing for electronic devices that incorporate bendable displays, which offer a wider screen for ease of use while still being convenient to carry.

[0003] However, the above-described content should not be construed as the applicant's recognition of the content described in this document as prior art, but should only be construed as technology (related art) related to the invention described in this document.

[0004] An electronic device (101, 201, 501) according to an embodiment comprises a bendable housing (202, 502), comprising a first housing portion (210, 510), a second housing portion (220, 520), a third housing portion (230, 530), a first hinge housing portion (215, 515) rotatably connecting the first housing portion (210, 510) and the second housing portion (220, 520) and having a first width, and a second hinge housing portion (225, 525) rotatably connecting the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530) and having a second width greater than the first width, and a display module (160, 460), wherein the bendable housing (202, 502) comprises the first housing portion (210, 510), the The display module (160, 460) may include a flexible display panel (460-1) accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (215, 515), the second housing portion (220, 520), the second hinge housing portion (225, 525), and the third housing portion (230, 530), and a glass cover (460-2) disposed on the flexible display panel (460-1). The glass cover (260, 460-2a, 460-2b, 560) comprises a first planar portion (261, 561) accommodated in the first housing portion (210, 510) and maintained substantially planar, a second planar portion (262, 562) accommodated in the second housing portion (220, 520) and maintained substantially planar, a third planar portion (263, 563) accommodated in the third housing portion (230, 530) and maintained substantially planar, and is positioned between the first planar portion (261, 561) and the second planar portion (262, 562), and the first housing portion (210, 510) and the second housing portion (220,A first non-planar portion (265, 565) at least partially accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (215, 515) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the first non-planar portion (265, 565), and a second non-planar portion (266-1, 566-1) extended from the second flat portion (262, 562) in a direction opposite to the first non-planar portion (265, 565) and at least partially accommodated in one end of the second hinge housing portion (225, 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530), and a second non-planar portion (266-1, 566-1) extended from the third flat portion (263, 563) in a direction toward the second non-planar portion (266-1, 566-1), and at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530). A third non-flat portion (266-2, 566-2) at least partially accommodated in the other end of the second hinge housing portion (225, 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the third housing portion (230, 530), and a fourth flat portion (266-3, 566-3) accommodated in the second hinge housing portion (225, 525) so as to be maintained substantially flat during the process of being relatively bent so that the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530) at least partially overlap each other, may be included.

[0005] An electronic device (101, 201, 501) according to an embodiment comprises a bendable housing (202, 502), comprising a first housing portion (210, 510), a second housing portion (220, 520), a third housing portion (230, 530), a first hinge housing portion (215, 515) rotatably connecting the first housing portion (210, 510) and the second housing portion (220, 520) and having a first width, and a second hinge housing portion (225, 525) rotatably connecting the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530) and having a second width greater than the first width, and a display module (160, 460), wherein the bendable housing (202, 502) comprises the first housing portion (210, 510), the The display module (160, 460) may include a flexible display panel (460-1) accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (215, 515), the second housing portion (220, 520), the second hinge housing portion (225, 525), and the third housing portion (230, 530), and a glass cover (260, 460-2a, 460-2b, 560) disposed on the flexible display panel (460-1). The glass cover (260, 460-2a, 460-2b, 560) comprises a first planar portion (261, 561) accommodated in the first housing portion (210, 510) and maintained substantially planar, a second planar portion (262, 562) accommodated in the second housing portion (220, 520) and maintained substantially planar, a third planar portion (263, 563) accommodated in the third housing portion (230, 530) and maintained substantially planar, and is positioned between the first planar portion (261, 561) and the second planar portion (262, 562), and the first housing portion (210, 510) and the second housing portion (220,A first non-planar portion (265, 565) at least partially accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (215, 515) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the first non-planar portion (265, 565), and a second non-planar portion (266-1, 566-1) extended from the second flat portion (262, 562) in a direction opposite to the first non-planar portion (265, 565) and at least partially accommodated in one end of the second hinge housing portion (225, 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530), and a second non-planar portion (266-1, 566-1) extended from the third flat portion (263, 563) in a direction toward the second non-planar portion (266-1, 566-1), and at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530). A third non-flat portion (266-2, 566-2) at least partially accommodated in the other end of the second hinge housing portion (225, 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the third housing portion (230, 530), and a fourth flat portion (266-3, 566-3) accommodated in the second hinge housing portion (225, 525) so as to be maintained substantially flat during the process of being relatively bent so that the second housing portion (220, 520) and the third housing portion (230, 530) at least partially overlap each other, may be included. The fourth flat portion (266-3, 566-3) may have a lower flexibility than the flexibility of the first uneven portion (265, 565), the second uneven portion (266-1, 566-1), and the third uneven portion (266-2, 566-2). The first uneven portion (265, 565), the second uneven portion (266-1, 566-1), and the third uneven portion (266-2,566-2) Each may include a recess (R1, R2-1, R2-2) formed along the thickness direction or a pattern area (P1, P2-1, P2-2) in which a pattern is formed along the length direction.

[0006] An electronic device (501) according to one embodiment comprises a bendable housing (502), comprising a first housing portion (510), a second housing portion (520), a third housing portion (530), a fourth housing portion (540), a first hinge housing portion (515) rotatably connecting the first housing portion (510) and the second housing portion (520) and having a first width, a second hinge housing portion (525) rotatably connecting the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530) and having a second width greater than the first width, and a third hinge housing portion (535) rotatably connecting the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540) and having a third width less than the second width, and a display module (160, 460), wherein the first housing The display module (160, 460) may include a flexible display panel (460-1) accommodated in the portion (510), the first hinge housing portion (515), the second housing portion (520), the second hinge housing portion (525), and the third housing portion (530), and a glass cover (560) disposed on the flexible display panel (460-1). The glass cover (560) comprises a first planar portion (561) accommodated in the first housing portion (510) and maintained substantially planar, a second planar portion (562) accommodated in the second housing portion (520) and maintained substantially planar, a third planar portion (563) accommodated in the third housing portion (530) and maintained substantially planar, and is positioned between the first planar portion (561) and the second planar portion (562).A first non-planar portion (565) at least partially accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (515) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the first housing portion (510) and the second housing portion (520), a second non-planar portion (566-1) extending from the second flat portion (562) in a direction opposite to the first non-planar portion (565) and at least partially accommodated in one end of the second hinge housing portion (525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530), a second hinge housing extending from the third flat portion (563) in a direction toward the second non-planar portion (566-1) and so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530) A third non-flat portion (566-2) at least partially accommodated in the other end of the portion (525), a fourth flat portion (566-3) accommodated in the second hinge housing portion (525) so as to be substantially flat during the process of relative bending so that the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530) at least partially overlap each other, a fifth flat portion (564) accommodated by the fourth housing portion (540) and maintained substantially flat, and a fourth non-flat portion (564) extending from the fifth flat portion (564) toward the third flat portion (563) and at least partially accommodated in the third hinge housing portion (535) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540). It may include a portion (567). The fourth flat portion (566-3) may include the first uneven portion (565),Each of the first non-flat portion (565), the second non-flat portion (566-1), the third non-flat portion (566-2), and the fourth non-flat portion (567) may have a lower flexibility than the flexibility of each of the second non-flat portion (566-1) and the third non-flat portion (566-2), and may include a recess formed along the thickness direction or a pattern area in which a pattern is formed along the length direction.

[0007] The above and other aspects (201c), features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment when unfolded.

[0010] FIG. 2b is a rear view of an electronic device according to one embodiment when unfolded.

[0011] FIG. 2c is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment when viewed in a folded state.

[0012] FIG. 3a is a schematic diagram showing a bendable housing and a display module based on the unfolded state of the electronic device as in FIG. 2a.

[0013] Fig. 3b is a schematic diagram showing a glass cover based on a folded state of an electronic device such as Fig. 2c.

[0014] FIG. 3c is a drawing for explaining a bending angle of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a display module according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a recess formed therein according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4c is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a recess formed therein according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4d is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a display module according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4e is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a pattern area formed according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment when unfolded.

[0021] FIG. 5b is a drawing for explaining a bending angle of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 5c is a view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment when folded.

[0023] FIG. 5d is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to one embodiment, viewed in the +Y-axis direction in a folded state.

[0024] FIG. 5e is a schematic diagram showing a glass cover based on a folded state of an electronic device such as FIG. 5d.

[0025] FIG. 5f is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a recess formed therein according to one embodiment.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the description with reference to the attached drawings, identical components are assigned the same reference numerals regardless of the drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0027]

[0028] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0029] 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). According to 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)).

[0030] 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 calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculation, the processor (120) may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the command or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store the resulting 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 a secondary 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 may operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0031] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part 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.

[0032] 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).

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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. According to one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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).

[0041] A 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). According to 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). According to 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 selected at least one antenna. According to 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).

[0048] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., a bottom surface) 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 to a second surface (e.g., a top surface or a side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0049] 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)).

[0050] 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 on its own, 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.

[0051] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0052] 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 the component from other such components and do not limit the components in any other respect (201c) (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second) 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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., a bendable electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., the bendable 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.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057]

[0058] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment when viewed in an unfolded state, FIG. 2b is a rear view of an electronic device according to one embodiment when viewed in an unfolded state, and FIG. 2c is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment when viewed in a folded state.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 2C, an electronic device (201) according to an embodiment may have a shape that can be transformed depending on a usage state. For example, the electronic device (201) may be provided as a foldable type that can be folded or unfolded depending on a usage state. In an embodiment, the electronic device (201) may include a first housing portion (210), a second housing portion (220), a third housing portion (230), a display module (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1), a first hinge housing portion (215), and a second hinge housing portion (225).

[0060] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the surface of the display module (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) that is visually exposed to the outside is referred to as the front surface (201a) of the electronic device (201) (e.g., the surface facing the +Z-axis direction of FIG. 2a), the surface opposite to the front surface (201a) is referred to as the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (201) (e.g., the surface facing the -Z-axis direction of FIG. 2a), and the surface surrounding the internal space between the front surface (201a) and the rear surface (201b) is referred to as the side surface (201c) of the electronic device (201).

[0061] In one embodiment, a first housing portion (210), a second housing portion (220), and a third housing portion (230) may form an exterior of an electronic device (201). In one embodiment, the first housing portion (210) may include a first front surface (210a) and a first back surface (210b). In one embodiment, the second housing portion (220) may include a second front surface (220a) and a second back surface (220b). In one embodiment, the third housing portion (230) may include a third front surface (230a) and a third back surface (230b). In one embodiment, the first front surface (210a) of the first housing portion (210), the second front surface (220a) of the second housing portion (220), and the third front surface (230a) of the third housing portion (230) may form the front surface (201a) of the electronic device (201) based on the unfolded state of the electronic device (201) as in FIG. 2A. In one embodiment, the first rear surface (210b) of the first housing portion (210), the second rear surface (220b) of the second housing portion (220), and the third rear surface (230b) of the third housing portion (230) may form the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (201) based on the unfolded state of the electronic device (201) as in FIG. 2B.

[0062] In one embodiment, the first housing portion (210), the second housing portion (220), and the third housing portion (230) may each form a side surface (201c) that surrounds an internal space between the front surface (201a) and the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (201). In one embodiment, the front surface (201a) of the electronic device (201) may be formed so that most of the area is open so that the display module can be visually exposed to the outside. In one embodiment, the first housing portion (210), the second housing portion (220), and the third housing portion (230) may be rotatably connected by a hinge housing portion (215, 225) described below.

[0063] In one embodiment, the first housing portion (210) may include a first side member (241) forming a portion of a side surface (201c) of the electronic device (201). The second housing portion (220) may include a second side member (242) forming a portion of a side surface (201c) of the electronic device (201). The third housing portion (230) may include a third side member (243) forming a portion of a side surface (201c) of the electronic device (201).

[0064] In one embodiment, the first rear cover (251) can be disposed on the first rear surface (210b) of the first housing portion (210). At least a portion of the edges of the first rear cover (251) can be surrounded by the first housing portion (210). In one embodiment, the second rear cover (252) can be disposed on the second rear surface (220b) of the second housing portion (220). At least a portion of the edges of the second rear cover (252) can be surrounded by the second housing portion (220). In one embodiment, the third rear cover (253) can be disposed on the third rear surface (230b) of the third housing portion (230). At least a portion of the edges of the third rear cover (253) can be surrounded by the third housing portion (230). In one embodiment, the first rear cover (251) may be formed integrally with the first housing portion (210), the second rear cover (252) may be formed integrally with the second housing portion (220), and the third rear cover (253) may be formed integrally with the third housing portion (230).

[0065] In one embodiment, the first housing portion (210), the second housing portion (220), the third housing portion (230), the first rear cover (251), the second rear cover (252), and the third rear cover (253) may be coupled to each other to provide a space in which various components of the electronic device (201) (e.g., a printed circuit board, an antenna module (197) of FIG. 1, a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, or a battery (189) of FIG. 1) may be placed. In one embodiment, at least one component may be visually exposed on the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (201). For example, at least one component may be visually exposed through the second rear area (252a) of the second rear cover (252). Here, the component may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera module, and / or a flash. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the sub-display (270) may be visually exposed through the third rear area (253a) of the third rear cover (253).

[0066] In one embodiment, the first hinge housing portion (215) can rotatably connect the first housing portion (210) and the second housing portion (220). In one embodiment, the first hinge housing portion (215) allows the first housing portion (210) and the second housing portion (220) to relatively rotate about a first bending axis (A1) (e.g., an axis parallel to the Y-axis of FIG. 2A).

[0067] In one embodiment, the second hinge housing portion (225) can rotatably connect the second housing portion (220) and the third housing portion (230). In one embodiment, the second hinge housing portion (225) allows the second housing portion (220) and the third housing portion (230) to relatively rotate about two bending axes (e.g., the second bending axis (A2-1) and the third bending axis (A2-2)).

[0068] In one embodiment, the display module (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) may include an electronic device (201) including a display panel (e.g., a flexible display panel (460-1) of FIG. 4A) and a glass cover (260) disposed over the display panel to cover the display panel.

[0069] In one embodiment, the display panel may include a flexible display panel formed of a flexible material (e.g., the flexible display panel (460-1) of FIG. 4A). In one embodiment, the flexible display panel may have at least a portion thereof deformed into a flat or curved surface so that the shape thereof can change in response to a shape deformation of the electronic device (201) (e.g., an opening and closing operation of the electronic device (201) between an unfolded state (or open state) of FIG. 2A and a folded state (or closed state) of FIG. 2C). In one embodiment, the flexible display panel may be accommodated in a first housing portion (210), a first hinge housing portion (215), a second housing portion (220), a second hinge housing portion (225), and a third housing portion (230).

[0070] In one embodiment, the glass cover (260) may include a first flat portion (261) accommodated by the first housing portion (210), a second flat portion (262) accommodated by the second housing portion (220), a third flat portion (263) accommodated by the third housing portion (230), a first unflat portion (265) accommodated by the first hinge housing portion (215), a second unflat portion (266-1) accommodated by the second hinge housing portion (225), and a third unflat portion (266-2).

[0071] In one embodiment, the first flat portion (261) of the glass cover (260) can be received and / or supported by a first housing portion (210) disposed on a back surface of the first flat portion (261). In one embodiment, the second flat portion (262) of the glass cover (260) can be supported by a second housing portion (220) disposed on a back surface of the second flat portion (262). In one embodiment, the third flat portion (263) of the glass cover (260) can be supported by a third housing portion (230) disposed on a back surface of the third flat portion (263).

[0072] In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (265) is positioned between the first flat portion (261) and the second flat portion (262), and can be at least partially accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (215). In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (265) can rotatably connect the first flat portion (261) and the second flat portion (262). In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (265) can be at least partially bent depending on the relative bending motion of the first housing portion (210) and the second housing portion (220). For example, the first uneven portion (265) can be at least partially bent about the first bending axis (A1).

[0073] In one embodiment, the second uneven portion (266-1) can be connected to the second flat portion (262). In one embodiment, the second uneven portion (266-1) can extend from the second flat portion (262) in an opposite direction to the first uneven portion (265). In one embodiment, the second uneven portion (266-1) can be at least partially received at one end of the second hinge housing portion (225) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220) and the third housing portion (230). In one embodiment, the second uneven portion (266-1) can be at least partially bendable about a second bending axis (A2-1) that is parallel to the first bending axis (A1). In one embodiment, the second non-flat portion (266-1) may be supported by the second hinge housing portion (225).

[0074] In one embodiment, the third uneven portion (266-2) can be connected to the third flat portion (263). In one embodiment, the third uneven portion (266-2) can extend from the third flat portion (263) in a direction toward the second uneven portion (266-1). In one embodiment, the third uneven portion (266-2) can be at least partially received at the other end of the second hinge housing portion (225) so as to be at least partially bent according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220) and the third housing portion (230). In one embodiment, the third uneven portion (266-2) can be at least partially bent about a third bending axis (A2-2) that is parallel to the second bending axis (A2-1). In one embodiment, the third non-flat portion (266-2) may be supported by the second hinge housing portion (225).

[0075] In one embodiment, the fourth flat portion (266-3) of the glass cover (260) is positioned between the second unflat portion (266-1) and the third unflat portion (266-2) and can connect the second unflat portion (266-1) and the third unflat portion (266-2). In one embodiment, the fourth flat portion (266-3) is positioned between the second unflat portion (266-1) and the third unflat portion (266-2) and can be accommodated in the second hinge housing portion (225) so as to be maintained substantially flat during the process of relatively bending the second housing portion (220) and the third housing portion (230) so as to overlap each other at least partially. In one embodiment, the fourth flat portion (266-3) can connect the second non-flat portion (266-1) and the third non-flat portion (266-2) while maintaining a substantially flat shape regardless of a change in the state of the electronic device (201) (e.g., a change in state between the unfolded state of the electronic device (201) of FIG. 2A and the folded state of the electronic device (201) of FIG. 2C). In one embodiment, the fourth flat portion (266-3) can have a lower flexibility than the flexibility of each of the first non-flat portion (265), the second non-flat portion (266-1), and the third non-flat portion (266-2).

[0076] In one embodiment, the electronic device (201) may include a connection terminal (278) (e.g., connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the connection terminal (278) may be located at a side (201c). For example, when the electronic device (201) is viewed in one direction (e.g., in the +Y-axis direction), the connection terminal (278) may be located at the right side of the side (201c), and the audio output module (255) may be located at one side (e.g., left) with respect to the connection terminal (278).

[0077] In one embodiment, the electronic device (201) may include an audio output module (255) (e.g., the audio output module (155) of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the audio output module (255) may be located at a side (201c). In one embodiment, the audio output module (255) may include one or more holes.

[0078]

[0079] FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram showing a bendable housing and a display module based on an unfolded state of an electronic device such as FIG. 2A, FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram showing a glass cover based on a folded state of an electronic device such as FIG. 2C, and FIG. 3C is a drawing for explaining a bending angle of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3A to 3C, an electronic device (201) according to an embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIG. 2A) includes a first housing portion (210) (e.g., the first housing portion (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing portion (220) (e.g., the second housing portion (220) of FIG. 2A), a third housing portion (230) (e.g., the third housing portion (230) of FIG. 2A), a first hinge housing portion (215) rotatably connecting the first housing portion (210) and the second housing portion (220) (e.g., the first hinge housing portion (215) of FIG. 2A), a second hinge housing portion (225) rotatably connecting the second housing portion (220) and the third housing portion (230) (e.g., the second hinge housing portion (225) of FIG. 2A), and a display module (e.g., It may include a display module (160) of FIG. 1.

[0081] Hereinafter, the unfolded state and the folded state of the electronic device (201) according to one embodiment will be defined. In one embodiment, the electronic device (201) may have a form that is maximally unfolded in the unfolded state. For example, the unfolded state of the electronic device (201) may be a state in which the first flat portion (261), the second flat portion (262), and the third flat portion (263) of the glass cover (260) form one plane. In one embodiment, the electronic device (201) may have a form that is minimally folded in the folded state. For example, the folded state of the electronic device (201) may be a state in which the first flat portion (261) of the glass cover (260) faces the second flat portion (262), and the third flat portion (263) faces the second flat portion (262) with the first flat portion (261) interposed therebetween. In one embodiment, when the electronic device (201) performs a bending motion between an unfolded state and a folded state, the first flat portion (261) of the glass cover (260) may cover the second flat portion (262), the first flat portion (261) may cover the second flat portion (262), and the third flat portion (263) may cover the first flat portion (261). However, this is only one example, and the folded state and unfolded state of the electronic device (201) may have different definitions depending on the shape of the electronic device.

[0082] Hereinafter, when the electronic device (201) performs a bending motion between a folded state and an unfolded state, the size of the area where the bending motion occurs may be referred to as a bendable angle range. In one embodiment, based on the folded state, at least a portion of the electronic device (201), for example, a folded portion, may have a specific radius of curvature according to the bending state, based on a cross-section perpendicular to the bending axis (e.g., a first bending axis (A1) parallel to the Y-axis direction). In one embodiment, the radius of curvature and the bendable angle range of the electronic device (201) may be proportional.

[0083] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (201) performs a bending motion between a folded state and an unfolded state, each of the first non-flat portion (265), the second non-flat portion (266-1), and the third non-flat portion (266-2) of the glass cover (260) may be at least partially bent. In the folded state according to one embodiment, the first non-flat portion (265) of the glass cover (260) may have a first radius of curvature (C1), the second non-flat portion (266-1) may have a second radius of curvature (C2-1), and the third non-flat portion (266-2) may have a third radius of curvature (C2-2). In one embodiment, the first radius of curvature (C1) may be greater than the second radius of curvature (C2-1) and the third radius of curvature (C2-2). In one embodiment, the second radius of curvature (C2-1) and the third radius of curvature (C2-2) may be substantially equal.

[0084] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (201) performs a bending motion between a folded state and an unfolded state, the first flat portion (261) and the second flat portion (262) of the glass cover (260) can form a first bending angle (X1) with the first unflat portion (265) therebetween. In one embodiment, the second flat portion (262) and the fourth flat portion (266-3) can form a second bending angle (X2-1). In one embodiment, the third flat portion (263) and the fourth flat portion (266-3) can form a third bending angle (X2-2). In one embodiment, the first bending angle (X1) can have a minimum value (e.g., 0 degrees) based on a state in which the first flat portion (261) is maximally folded relative to the second flat portion (262). In one embodiment, the second bending angle (X2-1) may have a minimum value (e.g., about 90 degrees) based on a state in which the fourth flat portion (266-3) is maximally folded relative to the second flat portion (262). In one embodiment, the third bending angle (X2-2) may have a minimum value (e.g., about 70 degrees) based on a state in which the third flat portion (263) is maximally folded relative to the fourth flat portion (266-3). In one embodiment, the minimum value (e.g., about 0 degrees) of the first bending angle (X1) may be smaller than the minimum value (e.g., about 70 degrees) of the third bending angle (X2-2). In one embodiment, the minimum value (e.g., about 70 degrees) of the third bending angle (X2-2) may be smaller than the minimum value (e.g., about 90 degrees) of the second bending angle (X2-1). In one embodiment, a bending angle of about 70 degrees may mean, for example, 67 degrees to 73 degrees, for example, 69 degrees to 71 degrees, for example, 69.5 degrees to 70.5 degrees, for example, 69.9 degrees to 70.1 degrees.

[0085] In one embodiment, since the glass cover (260) includes a fourth flat portion (266-3) having a substantially flat shape, the size of the empty space formed between the second flat portion (262) and the third flat portion (263) based on the folded state can be reduced. In this case, since the first flat portion (261) of the glass cover (260) is positioned in the space based on the folded state of the electronic device (201), when viewed in a direction parallel to the first bending axis (A1) (e.g., the Y-axis direction in FIG. 2C), the first length (L1) of the first flat portion (261) of the display module can be substantially the same as the second length (L2) of the second flat portion (262). Accordingly, when the electronic device (201) is folded, the size of the empty space required for the bending operation of the electronic device (201) is reduced, so that the first length (L1) (e.g., the length toward the +X-axis direction in FIG. 3b) of the first flat portion (261) of the display module facing the non-flat portion (e.g., the second non-flat portion (266-1)) in the folded state can be increased. When the electronic device has a structure as in FIGS. 3a to 3c, the size of the dead space inside the electronic device can be reduced, and accordingly, it can be made easier to mount additional internal components or to secure additional display areas.

[0086]

[0087] FIG. 4a is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a display module according to one embodiment, FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a recess formed according to one embodiment, FIG. 4c is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a recess formed according to one embodiment, FIG. 4d is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a display module according to one embodiment, and FIG. 4e is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a pattern area formed according to one embodiment.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 4A to 4E, in one embodiment, a display module (460) may include a flexible display panel (460-1), a glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b, ) covering the flexible display panel (460-1), one or more filling layers (460-3a, 460-3b) disposed on the glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b), and a polymer member (460-4) disposed on the surface of the filling layer (460-3a, 460-3b).

[0089] In one embodiment, the glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b) of the display module (460) is disposed on the front side of the flexible display panel (460-1) and can cover the flexible display panel (460-1). In one embodiment, the glass cover (460-2a) can protect the flexible display panel (460-1) from external impact.

[0090] In one embodiment, the filling layers (460-3a, 460-3b) may be disposed on the surface of the glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b). In one embodiment, the filling layers (460-3a, 460-3b) may be disposed on the surface of the glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b) so that the surface of the glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b) may form a flat plane. The filling layers (460-3a, 460-3b) may perform a function of planarizing the surface of the glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b). In one embodiment, the number of filling layers (460-3a, 460-3b) may be one or more. For example, a first filling layer (460-3a) may be placed between a glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b) and a flexible display panel (460-1), and a second filling layer (460-3b) may be placed between the glass cover (460-2a, 460-2b) and a polymer member (460-4) described later. In one embodiment, the material of the filling layer (460-3a, 460-3b) may include at least one of a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) material and an optical clear resin (OCR) material.

[0091] In one embodiment, the polymer member (460-4) is disposed on the surface of the filling layer (460-3a, 460-3b) and can prevent or reduce damage to the filling layer (460-3a, 460-3b) due to external impact. In one embodiment, the polymer member (460-4) can be formed of at least one material among plastic and reinforced glass.

[0092] In one embodiment, the glass cover (460-2a) may have different thicknesses in areas corresponding to the bending axes (A1, A2-1, A2-2) of the display module (460).

[0093] For example, the glass cover (460-2a) may include a first recess (R1) formed in a first non-flat portion (e.g., the first non-flat portion (265) of FIG. 2a) along a first bending axis (A1), a second recess (R2-1) formed in a second non-flat portion (e.g., the second non-flat portion (266-1) of FIG. 2a) along a second bending axis (A2-1), and a third recess (R2-2) formed in a third non-flat portion (e.g., the third non-flat portion (266-2) of FIG. 2a) along a third bending axis (A2-2).

[0094] Hereinafter, in describing the first recess (R1), the second recess (R2-1), and the third recess (R2-2), the length in the X-axis direction is referred to as width, and the length in the Z-axis direction is referred to as depth, based on a cross-section perpendicular to the first bending axis (A1) (e.g., the XZ plane of FIG. 4b).

[0095] In one embodiment, as the width and depth of the recess formed in the glass cover (460-2a) increase, the bending operation of the electronic device performed with respect to the bending axis located in the recess may become easier. For example, the minimum value of the bending angle formed with respect to the bending axis located in the recess may decrease (e.g., decrease from 30 degrees to 0 degrees), or the maximum value may increase (e.g., increase from 120 degrees to 150 degrees). In one embodiment, the width and depth of the recess formed in the glass cover (460-2a) may be inversely proportional to the minimum value of the bending angle formed with respect to the bending axis.

[0096] In one embodiment, a first recess (R1) formed in a first uneven portion may have a first width (RW1) and a first depth (RD1), a second recess (R2-1) formed in a second uneven portion may have a second width (RW2-1) and a second depth (RD2-1), and a third recess (R2-2) formed in a third uneven portion may have a third width (RW2-2) and a third depth (RD2-2).

[0097] In one embodiment, the first uneven portion in which the first recess (R1) is formed may have a first thickness (T1) based on the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction in FIG. 4b). In one embodiment, the second flat portion (e.g., the second flat portion (262) in FIG. 2a) between the first uneven portion and the second uneven portion may have a second thickness (T2). In one embodiment, the second uneven portion in which the second recess (R2-1) is formed may have a second thickness (T2-1). In one embodiment, the third uneven portion in which the third recess (R2-2) is formed may have a third thickness (T2-2). In one embodiment, a fourth flat portion (e.g., the fourth flat portion (266-3) of FIG. 2A) between the second uneven portion and the third uneven portion may have a fourth thickness (T2-3) and a second-third width (W2-3). In one embodiment, a third flat portion (e.g., the third flat portion (263) of FIG. 2A) may have a third thickness (T3).

[0098] In one embodiment, when the first recess (R1) is formed larger than the third recess (R2-2) and the third recess (R2-2) is formed larger than the second recess (R2-1), the stiffness of the first non-flat portion may be weaker than the stiffness of the third non-flat portion, and the stiffness of the third non-flat portion may be weaker than the stiffness of the second non-flat portion. For example, the first width (RW1) and the first depth (RD1) of the first recess (R1) may be longer than the third width (RW2-2) and the third depth (RD2-2) of the third recess (R2-2), respectively, and in this case, the minimum value (e.g., 0 degrees) of the first bending angle (e.g., the first bending angle (X1) of FIG. 3c) may be smaller than the minimum value (e.g., 70 degrees) of the third bending angle (e.g., the third bending angle (X2-2) of FIG. 3c). For example, the third width (RW2-2) and the third depth (RD2-2) of the third recess (R2-2) may be longer than the second width (RW2-1) and the second depth (RD2-1) of the second recess (R2-1), respectively, and in this case, the minimum value of the third bending angle (e.g., 70 degrees) may be smaller than the minimum value (e.g., 90 degrees) of the second bending angle (e.g., the second bending angle (X2-1) of FIG. 3C). For example, since the rigidity of a portion having a larger bendable angle range in a folded state is formed weaker, the stress acting on an uneven portion according to the folding of the display module (460) may be reduced.

[0099] In one embodiment, the width (W2-3) of the fourth flat portion may be smaller than the width (RW1) of the first recess (R1). In one embodiment, the width (W2-3) of the fourth flat portion may be larger than the width (RW2-2) of the third recess (R2-2). In one embodiment, the width (RW2-2) of the third recess (R2-2) may be larger than the width (RW2-1) of the second recess (R2-1).

[0100] In one embodiment, the thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion may be thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion (e.g., the second flat portion (262) of FIG. 2a). In one embodiment, the thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion (e.g., the second uneven portion (266-1) of FIG. 2a) may be thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion and the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3). In one embodiment, the thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion (266-2) may be thinner than the thickness (T3) of the third flat portion (e.g., the third flat portion (263) of FIG. 2a) and the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion (e.g., the fourth flat portion (266-3) of FIG. 2a). In one embodiment, the thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion may be thicker than the thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion (e.g., the first uneven portion (265) of FIG. 2a) and thinner than the thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 4c, in one embodiment, the second recess (R2-1) and the third recess (R2-2) may be formed to have substantially the same size. For example, the second width (RW2-1) of the second recess (R2-1) and the third width (RW2-2) of the third recess (R2-2) may be substantially the same, and the second depth (RD2-1) may be substantially the same as the third depth (RD2-2).

[0102] In one embodiment, the first recess (R1), the second recess (R2-1), and the third recess (R2-2) may be formed on either the first surface (460-21) of the glass cover (460-2a) facing the flexible display panel (460-1) or the second surface (460-22) opposite to the first surface (460-21). For example, the first recess (R1), the second recess (R2-1), and the third recess (R2-2) may all be formed on the first surface (460-21) of the glass cover (460-2a) or may be formed on the second surface (460-22). In one embodiment, the second recess (R2-1) may be formed in an opposite direction to the third recess (R2-2). For example, the second recess (R2-1) may be formed on the first surface (460-21) of the glass cover (460-2a), and the third recess (R2-2) may be formed on the second surface (460-22) of the glass cover (460-2a). Although not shown in the drawing, when the first recess (R1), the second recess (R2-1), and the third recess (R2-2) are formed on the first surface (460-21), the glass cover may further include one or more recesses that have substantially the same size as the recesses (R1, R2-1, R2-2) and are formed in the second surface (460-22) in an opposite direction. In one embodiment, the recesses (R1, R2-1, R2-2) formed in the glass cover (460-2a) may have various shapes (e.g., sawtooth shape, trapezoidal shape, rectangular shape, triangular shape, etc.).

[0103] In one embodiment, the glass cover (460-2b) may include one or more pattern areas in which a groove is formed in a lattice pattern in an area corresponding to the bending axis of the display module (460). In one embodiment, the pattern areas (P1, P2-1, P2-2) may include a first pattern area (P1) in which a first pattern is formed in a first uneven portion along a first bending axis (A1), a second pattern area (P2-1) in which a second pattern is formed in a second uneven portion along a second bending axis (A2-1), and a third pattern area (P2-2) in which a third pattern is formed in a third uneven portion along a third bending axis (A2-2). Hereinafter, in describing the first pattern region (P1), the second pattern region (P2-1), and the third pattern region (P2-2), the length in the X-axis direction is referred to as the width based on a cross-section perpendicular to the first bending axis (A1) (e.g., the XZ plane of FIG. 4c).

[0104] In one embodiment, as the width of the pattern region formed on the glass cover (460-2b) increases, the bending operation of the electronic device performed with respect to the bending axis located in the pattern region may become easier. For example, the minimum value of the bending angle formed with respect to the bending axis located in the pattern region may decrease, or the maximum value of the bending angle may increase. In one embodiment, the width of the pattern region formed on the glass cover (460-2b) may be inversely proportional to the minimum value of the bending angle formed with respect to the bending axis.

[0105] In one embodiment, the first pattern area (P1) may have a first pattern width (PW1), the second pattern area (P2-1) may have a second pattern width (PW2-1), and the third pattern area (P2-2) may have a third pattern width (PW2-2). In one embodiment, when the first pattern area (P1) is formed to be larger than the third pattern area (P2-2), and the third pattern area (P2-2) is formed to be larger than the second pattern area (P2-1), the stiffness of the first uneven portion may be weaker than the stiffness of the third uneven portion, and the stiffness of the third uneven portion may be weaker than the stiffness of the second uneven portion. For example, the first pattern width (PW1) of the first pattern area (P1) may be longer than the third pattern width (PW2-2) of the third pattern area (P2-2), in which case the minimum value of the first bending angle (e.g., 0 degrees) may be smaller than the minimum value of the third bending angle (e.g., 70 degrees). For example, the third pattern width (PW2-2) of the third pattern area (P2-2) may be longer than the second pattern width (PW2-1) of the second pattern area (P2-1), in which case the minimum value of the third bending angle (e.g., 70 degrees) may be smaller than the minimum value of the second bending angle (e.g., 90 degrees).

[0106] In one embodiment, each of the first pattern, the second pattern, and the third pattern formed in the pattern areas (P1, P2-1, P2-2) may include a slit formed through the glass cover (460-2b) in a direction from the first surface (460-21) toward the second surface (460-22) (e.g., the Z-axis direction in FIG. 4e). Although only the Z-axis direction pattern is illustrated in the drawing, in one embodiment, each of the first pattern, the second pattern, and the third pattern may also include an X-axis direction pattern.

[0107] In one embodiment, the spacing formed by the slits in the second pattern area (P2-1) and the spacing formed by the slits in the third pattern area (P2-2) may be substantially different. For example, the spacing in the X-axis direction of the second pattern and the spacing in the X-axis direction of the third pattern may be different. The spacing in the Y-axis direction of the third pattern and the spacing in the Y-axis direction of the third pattern may be different.

[0108] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment, FIG. 5B is a drawing for explaining a bending angle of an electronic device in an embodiment, FIG. 5C is a drawing of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment, FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment when viewed in the +Y-axis direction, FIG. 5E is a schematic diagram showing a glass cover based on a folded state of the electronic device as in FIG. 5D, and FIG. 5F is a cross-sectional view of a glass cover having a recess formed therein according to an embodiment.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 5A to 5D, an electronic device (501) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIG. 2A) may be provided in a bendable type. In one embodiment, the electronic device (501) may include a first housing portion (510) (e.g., the first housing portion (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing portion (520) (e.g., the second housing portion (220) of FIG. 2A), a third housing portion (530) (e.g., the third housing portion (230) of FIG. 2A), a fourth housing portion (540), a display module (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1), a first hinge housing portion (515) (e.g., the first hinge housing portion (215) of FIG. 2A), a second hinge housing portion (525) (e.g., the second hinge housing portion (225) of FIG. 2A), and a third hinge housing portion (535).

[0110] In one embodiment, the first housing portion (510), the second housing portion (520), the third housing portion (530), and the fourth housing portion (540) may form the exterior of the electronic device (501). In one embodiment, the first housing portion (510) and the second housing portion (520) may be rotatably connected by a first hinge housing portion (515), the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530) may be rotatably connected by a second hinge housing portion (525), and the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540) may be rotatably connected by a third hinge housing portion (535).

[0111] In one embodiment, the first hinge housing portion (515) can rotatably connect the first housing portion (510) and the second housing portion (520). In one embodiment, the first hinge housing portion (515) allows the first housing portion (510) and the second housing portion (520) to relatively rotate about the first bending axis (A1) (e.g., the first bending axis (A1) of FIG. 2A).

[0112] In one embodiment, the second hinge housing portion (525) can rotatably connect the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530). In one embodiment, the second hinge housing portion (525) allows the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530) to relatively rotate about a second bending axis (A2-1) (e.g., the second bending axis (A2-1) of FIG. 2A) and a third bending axis (A2-2) (e.g., the third bending axis (A2-2) of FIG. 2A).

[0113] In one embodiment, the third hinge housing portion (535) can rotatably connect the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540). In one embodiment, the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540) can relatively rotate about the fourth bending axis (A3) by the third hinge housing portion (535).

[0114] In one embodiment, the glass cover (560) includes a first flat portion (561) supported by a first housing portion (510) (e.g., the first flat portion (261) of FIG. 2a), a second flat portion (562) supported by a second housing portion (520) (e.g., the second flat portion (262) of FIG. 2a), a third flat portion (563) supported by a third housing portion (530) (e.g., the third flat portion (263) of FIG. 2a), a fourth flat portion (566-3) supported by a fourth housing portion (540) (e.g., the fourth flat portion (266-3) of FIG. 2a), a fifth flat portion (564) supported by a fourth housing portion (540), a first non-flat portion (565) supported by a first hinge housing portion (515) (e.g., the first non-flat portion (265) of FIG. 2a), and a second It may include a second non-flat portion (566-1) supported by a hinge housing portion (525) (e.g., the second non-flat portion (266-1) of FIG. 2a), a third non-flat portion (566-2) supported by a hinge housing portion (525) (e.g., the third non-flat portion (266-2) of FIG. 2a), and a fourth non-flat portion (567) supported by a third hinge housing portion (535).

[0115] In one embodiment, the first flat portion (561) of the glass cover (560) can be supported by the first housing portion (510) disposed on the back surface of the first flat portion (561). In one embodiment, the second flat portion (562) of the glass cover (560) can be supported by the second housing portion (520) disposed on the back surface of the second flat portion (562). In one embodiment, the third flat portion (563) of the glass cover (560) can be supported by the third housing portion (530) disposed on the back surface of the third flat portion (563). In one embodiment, the fifth flat portion (564) of the glass cover (560) can be supported by the fourth housing portion (540) disposed on the back surface of the fifth flat portion (564).

[0116] In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (565) of the glass cover (560) can be supported by the first hinge housing portion (515). In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (565) can rotatably connect the first flat portion (561) and the second flat portion (562). In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (565) can be at least partially bent about the first bending axis (A1).

[0117] In one embodiment, the fourth uneven portion (567) of the glass cover (560) can be supported by the third hinge housing portion (535). In one embodiment, the fourth uneven portion (567) can rotatably connect the third flat portion (563) and the fifth flat portion (564). In one embodiment, the fourth uneven portion (567) can be at least partially bent about the fourth bending axis (A3).

[0118] In one embodiment, the second non-flat portion (566-1) and the third non-flat portion (566-2) of the glass cover (560) can be supported by the second hinge housing portion (525). In one embodiment, the second non-flat portion (566-1) and the third non-flat portion (566-2) can rotatably connect the second flat portion (562) and the third flat portion (563). In one embodiment, the second non-flat portion (566-1) and the third non-flat portion (566-2) can be at least partially bent about the second bending axis (A2-1) and / or the third bending axis (A2-2).

[0119] In one embodiment, the fourth flat portion (566-3) of the glass cover (560) is positioned between the second uneven portion (566-1) and the third uneven portion (566-2), and can connect the second uneven portion (566-1) and the third uneven portion (566-2).

[0120] In one embodiment, the second uneven portion (566-1) can be connected to the second flat portion (562). In one embodiment, the second uneven portion (566-1) can connect the second flat portion (562) and the fourth flat portion (566-3). In one embodiment, the second uneven portion (566-1) can be at least partially bent about a second bending axis (A2-1) that is parallel to the first bending axis (A1).

[0121] In one embodiment, the third uneven portion (566-2) can be connected to the third flat portion (563). In one embodiment, the third uneven portion (566-2) can connect the third flat portion (563) and the fourth flat portion (566-3). In one embodiment, the third uneven portion (566-2) can be at least partially bent about a third bending axis (A2-2) that is parallel to the second bending axis (A2-1). In one embodiment, both the second uneven portion (566-1) and the third uneven portion (566-2) can be supported by the second hinge housing portion (525).

[0122] Hereinafter, the unfolded state and the folded state of the electronic device (501) according to one embodiment are defined. In one embodiment, the electronic device (501) may have a maximum size in the unfolded state. For example, based on the unfolded state of the electronic device (501), the glass cover (560) may form one plane. For example, in the unfolded state, the first flat portion (561), the second flat portion (562), the third flat portion (563), and the fifth flat portion (564) of the glass cover (560) may form one plane. In one embodiment, the electronic device (501) may have a minimum size in the folded state. For example, based on the folded state of the electronic device (501), the first flat portion (561) and the second flat portion (562) of the glass cover (560) may face each other, the third flat portion (563) and the fifth flat portion (564) may face each other, and the second flat portion (562) and the third flat portion (563) may face each other with the first flat portion (561) and the fifth flat portion (564) interposed therebetween. In one embodiment, when the electronic device (501) performs a bending motion between an unfolded state and a folded state, the first flat portion (561) of the glass cover (560) covers the second flat portion (562), the fifth flat portion (564) covers the third flat portion (563), and the second flat portion (562) and the third flat portion (563) may face each other with the first flat portion (561) and the fifth flat portion (564) interposed therebetween. However, this is merely an example, and the folded state and unfolded state of the electronic device (501) may be defined differently depending on various factors.

[0123] In a folded state according to one embodiment, a first non-flat portion (565) of the glass cover (560) may have a first radius of curvature (e.g., the first radius of curvature (C1) of FIG. 3B), a second non-flat portion (566-1) may have a second radius of curvature (e.g., the second radius of curvature (C2-1) of FIG. 3B), a third non-flat portion (566-2) may have a third radius of curvature (e.g., the third radius of curvature (C2-2) of FIG. 3B), and a fourth non-flat portion (567) may have a fourth radius of curvature. In one embodiment, the first radius of curvature and the fourth radius of curvature may be substantially the same. In one embodiment, the second radius of curvature and the third radius of curvature may be substantially the same. In one embodiment, the second radius of curvature may be smaller than the first radius of curvature.

[0124] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (501) performs a bending motion between a folded state and an unfolded state, the first flat portion (561) and the second flat portion (562) of the glass cover (560) can form a first bending angle (Y1) (e.g., the first bending angle (X1) of FIG. 3C) with the first uneven portion (565) therebetween. In one embodiment, the second flat portion (562) and the fourth flat portion (566-3) can form a second bending angle (Y2-1) (e.g., the second bending angle (X2-1) of FIG. 3C) with the second uneven portion (566-1) therebetween. In one embodiment, the third flat portion (563) and the fourth flat portion (566-3) can form a third bending angle (Y2-2) (e.g., the third bending angle (X2-2) of FIG. 3C) with the third uneven portion (566-2) therebetween. In one embodiment, the third flat portion (563) and the fifth flat portion (564) can form a fourth bending angle (Y3) with the fourth uneven portion (567) therebetween. In one embodiment, the first bending angle (Y1) can have a minimum value (e.g., 0 degrees) based on a state in which the first flat portion (561) is maximally folded relative to the second flat portion (562). In one embodiment, the second bending angle (Y2-1) may have a minimum value (e.g., 90 degrees) based on a state in which the fourth flat portion (566-3) is maximally folded relative to the second flat portion (562). In one embodiment, the third bending angle (Y2-2) may have a minimum value (e.g., 70 degrees) based on a state in which the third flat portion (563) is maximally folded relative to the fourth flat portion (566-3). In one embodiment, the fourth bending angle (Y3) may have a minimum value (e.g., 0 degrees) based on a state in which the fifth flat portion (564) is maximally folded relative to the third flat portion (563). In one embodiment, the minimum value (e.g., 0 degrees) of the first bending angle (Y1) may be smaller than the minimum value (e.g., 70 degrees) of the third bending angle (Y2-2).In one embodiment, the minimum value (e.g., 70 degrees) of the third bending angle (Y2-2) may be less than the minimum value (e.g., 90 degrees) of the second bending angle (Y2-1). In one embodiment, the minimum value (e.g., 0 degrees) of the fourth bending angle (Y3) may be substantially equal to the minimum value (e.g., 0 degrees) of the first bending angle (Y1).

[0125] In one embodiment, the glass cover (560) (e.g., the glass cover (460-2a) of FIG. 4a) may have different thicknesses in areas corresponding to the bending axes (A1, A2-1, A2-2, A3) of the display module (e.g., the display module (460) of FIG. 4a). For example, the glass cover (560) includes a first recess (R1) (e.g., the first recess (R1) of FIG. 4a) formed in a first non-flat portion (565) (e.g., the first non-flat portion (265) of FIG. 2a) along a first bending axis (A1), a second recess (R2-1) (e.g., the second recess (R2-1) of FIG. 4a) formed in a second non-flat portion (566-1) (e.g., the second non-flat portion (266-1) of FIG. 2a) along a second bending axis (A2-1), a third recess (R2-2) (e.g., the third recess (R2-2) of FIG. 4a) formed in a third non-flat portion (566-2) (e.g., the third non-flat portion (266-2) of FIG. 2a) along a third bending axis (A2-2), and a fourth It may include a fourth recess (R3) formed in the fourth uneven portion (567) along the bending axis (A3).

[0126] In one embodiment, the first recess (R1) may have a first width (RW1) and a first depth (RD1), the second recess (R2-1) may have a second width (RW2-1) and a second depth (RD2-1), the third recess (R2-2) may have a third width (RW2-2) and a third depth (RD2-2), and the fourth recess (R3) may have a fourth width (RW3) and a fourth depth (RD3). In one embodiment, the fourth width (RW3) and the fourth depth (RD3) of the fourth recess (R3) may be substantially equal to the first width (RW1) and the first depth (RD1) of the first recess (R1), respectively.

[0127] In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (565) may have a first thickness (T1), the second flat portion (562) may have a second thickness (T2), the second uneven portion (566-1) may have a second thickness (T2-1), the third uneven portion (566-2) may have a third thickness (T2-2), and the fifth flat portion (564) may have a thickness (T3).

[0128] In one embodiment, the thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion (565) may be thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion (562). In one embodiment, the thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion (566-1) may be thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion (562) and the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion (566-3). In one embodiment, the thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion (566-2) may be thinner than the thickness (T3) of the fifth flat portion (564) and the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion. In one embodiment, the thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion (566-2) may be thicker than the thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion (565) and thinner than the thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion (566-1).

[0129]

[0130] An electronic device (101; 201; 501) according to one embodiment comprises a bendable housing (202; 502), comprising: a first housing portion (210; 510); a second housing portion (220; 520); a third housing portion (230; 530); a first hinge housing portion (215; 515) rotatably connecting the first housing portion (210; 510) and the second housing portion (220; 520) and having a first width; and a second hinge housing portion (225; 525) rotatably connecting the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530) and having a second width greater than the first width; And the display module (160;460) may include a flexible display panel (460-1) accommodated in the first housing portion (210;510), the first hinge housing portion (215;515), the second housing portion (220;520), the second hinge housing portion (225;525), and the third housing portion (230;530); and a glass cover (460-2) disposed on the flexible display panel (460-1). The glass cover (260;460-2a;460-2b;560) comprises: a first planar portion (261;561) accommodated in the first housing portion (210;510) and maintained substantially planar; A second flat portion (262; 562) accommodated in the second housing portion (220; 520) and maintained substantially flat; A third flat portion (263; 563) accommodated in the third housing portion (230; 530) and maintained substantially flat; A third flat portion (263; 563) positioned between the first flat portion (261; 561) and the second flat portion (262; 562), and positioned between the first housing portion (210; 510) and the second housing portion (220;A first non-planar portion (265; 565) at least partially accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (215; 515) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530); and a second non-planar portion (266-1; 566-1) extending from the second flat portion (262; 562) in a direction opposite to the first non-planar portion (265; 565) and at least partially accommodated in one end of the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530). A third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2) extending in a direction from the third flat portion (263; 563) toward the second non-flat portion (266-1; 566-1) and at least a portion of which is received at the other end of the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530); And it may include a fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3) accommodated in the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be maintained substantially flat during the process of being relatively bent so that the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530) overlap each other at least partially, and positioned between the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1) and the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2);

[0131] In one embodiment, the fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3) may have a lower flexibility than the flexibility of each of the first uneven portion (265; 565), the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1), and the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2).

[0132] In one embodiment, the bendable angle range of the third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2) may be greater than the bendable angle range of the second non-flat portion (266-1; 566-1).

[0133] In one embodiment, the bendable angle range of the third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2) may be smaller than the bendable angle range of the first non-flat portion (265; 565).

[0134] In one embodiment, the width (RW2-2;PW2-2) of the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) may be smaller than the width (RW1;PW1) of the first uneven portion (265;565) and larger than the width (RW2-1;PW2-1) of the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1).

[0135] In one embodiment, the width (W2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3) may be greater than the width (RW2-1; PW2-1) of the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1) and the width (RW2-2; PW2-2) of the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2).

[0136] In one embodiment, the width (W2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3) may be smaller than the width (RW1; PW1) of the first uneven portion (265; 565).

[0137] In one embodiment, each of the first uneven portion (265; 565), the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1), and the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2) includes a recess (R1; R2-1; R2-2) formed along the thickness direction, and the thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion (265; 565) is thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion (262; 562), the thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1) is thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion (262; 562) and the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3), and the thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2) is The thickness (T3) of the third flat portion (263;563) may be thinner than the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3;566-3), and the thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) may be thicker than the thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion (265;565) and thinner than the thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1).

[0138] In one embodiment, the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) includes a first surface (460-21) facing the flexible display panel (460-1) and a second surface (460-22) opposite to the first surface (460-21), and the recesses (R1; R2-1; R2-2) can all be formed on one of the first surface (460-21) and the second surface (460-22).

[0139] In one embodiment, the first uneven portion (265; 565) may include a first pattern area (P1) in which a first pattern is formed along the longitudinal direction, the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1) may include a second pattern area (P2-1) in which a second pattern is formed along the longitudinal direction, and the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2) may include a third pattern area (P2-2) in which a third pattern is formed along the longitudinal direction.

[0140] In one embodiment, the width (PW2-2) of the third pattern area (P2-2) may be wider than the width (PW2-1) of the second pattern area (P2-1).

[0141] In one embodiment, the width (PW1) of the first pattern area (P1) may be wider than the width (PW2-1) of the second pattern area (P2-1) and the width (PW2-2) of the third pattern area (P2-2).

[0142] In one embodiment, the display module (160; 460) may further include a polymer member (460-4) disposed on the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560); and a filling layer (460-3a; 460-3b) disposed between the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) and the polymer member to fill at least a portion of the first non-flat portion (265; 565), the second non-flat portion (266-1; 566-1), and the third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2).

[0143] In one embodiment, the bendable housing (502) may further include a fourth housing portion (540); and a third hinged housing portion (535) rotatably connecting the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540) and having a third width smaller than the second width, and the glass cover (560) may further include a fifth flat portion (564) received by the fourth housing portion (540) and maintained substantially flat; and a fourth unflat portion (567) extending from the fifth flat portion (564) in a direction toward the third flat portion (563) and at least partially received by the third hinged housing portion (535) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540).

[0144] In one embodiment, the fourth non-flat portion (567) may include a recess formed along the thickness direction or a pattern area in which a pattern is formed along the length direction.

[0145] An electronic device (101; 201; 501) according to one embodiment comprises a bendable housing (202; 502), comprising: a first housing portion (210; 510); a second housing portion (220; 520); a third housing portion (230; 530); a first hinge housing portion (215; 515) rotatably connecting the first housing portion (210; 510) and the second housing portion (220; 520) and having a first width; and a second hinge housing portion (225; 525) rotatably connecting the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530) and having a second width greater than the first width; And the display module (160;460) may include a flexible display panel (460-1) accommodated in the first housing part (210;510), the first hinge housing part (215;515), the second housing part (220;520), the second hinge housing part (225;525), and the third housing part (230;530); and a glass cover (260;460-2a;460-2b;560) disposed on the flexible display panel (460-1). The glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) comprises: a first planar portion (261; 561) accommodated in the first housing portion (210; 510) and maintained substantially planar; a second planar portion (262; 562) accommodated in the second housing portion (220; 520) and maintained substantially planar; a third planar portion (263; 563) accommodated in the third housing portion (230; 530) and maintained substantially planar; and is positioned between the first planar portion (261; 561) and the second planar portion (262; 562), and the first housing portion (210; 510) and the second housing portion (220;A first non-planar portion (265; 565) at least partially accommodated in the first hinge housing portion (215; 515) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530); and a second non-planar portion (266-1; 566-1) extending from the second flat portion (262; 562) in a direction opposite to the first non-planar portion (265; 565) and at least partially accommodated in one end of the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530). A third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2) extending in a direction from the third flat portion (263; 563) toward the second non-flat portion (266-1; 566-1) and at least a portion of which is received at the other end of the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530); And it may include a fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3) accommodated in the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be maintained substantially flat during the process of relatively bending the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530) so as to overlap each other at least partially, and positioned between the second unflat portion (266-1; 566-1) and the third unflat portion (266-2; 566-2). The fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3) may have a lower flexibility than the flexibility of each of the first unflat portion (265; 565), the second unflat portion (266-1; 566-1), and the third unflat portion (266-2; 566-2). The first uneven portion (265; 565), the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1), the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) Each may include a recess (R1; R2-1; R2-2) formed along the thickness direction or a pattern area (P1; P2-1; P2-2) in which a pattern is formed along the length direction.;

[0146] In one embodiment, the bendable angle range of the third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2) may be greater than the bendable angle range of the second non-flat portion (266-1; 566-1), and the bendable angle range of the third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2) may be less than the bendable angle range of the first non-flat portion (265; 565).

[0147] In one embodiment, the pattern area (P1; P2-1; P2-2) may include a slit formed between a first surface (460-21) of the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) facing the flexible display panel (460-1) and a second surface (460-22) of the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) facing the first surface (460-21).

[0148] In one embodiment, the display module (160; 460) may further include a polymer member (460-4) disposed on the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560); and a filling layer (460-3a; 460-3b) filled within the slit to fill at least a portion of the first non-flat portion (265; 565), the second non-flat portion (266-1; 566-1), and the third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2).

[0149] An electronic device (501) according to one embodiment comprises a bendable housing (502), comprising: a first housing portion (510); a second housing portion (520); a third housing portion (530); a fourth housing portion (540); a first hinge housing portion (515) rotatably connecting the first housing portion (510) and the second housing portion (520) and having a first width; a second hinge housing portion (525) rotatably connecting the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530) and having a second width greater than the first width; and a third hinge housing portion (535) rotatably connecting the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540) and having a third width less than the second width; And the display module (160;460) may include a flexible display panel (460-1) accommodated in the first housing portion (510), the first hinge housing portion (515), the second housing portion (520), the second hinge housing portion (525), and the third housing portion (530); and a glass cover (560) disposed on the flexible display panel (460-1). The glass cover (560) may include a first planar portion (561) accommodated in the first housing portion (510) and maintained substantially planar; a second planar portion (562) accommodated in the second housing portion (520) and maintained substantially planar; a third planar portion (563) accommodated in the third housing portion (530) and maintained substantially planar;A first non-planar portion (565) positioned between the first flat portion (561) and the second flat portion (562), at least a portion of which is received in the first hinge housing portion (515) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the first housing portion (510) and the second housing portion (520); A second non-planar portion (566-1) extending from the second flat portion (562) in a direction opposite to the first non-planar portion (565), and at least a portion of which is received in one end of the second hinge housing portion (525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530); A third uneven portion (566-2) extending from the third flat portion (563) in a direction toward the second uneven portion (566-1) and at least partially received at the other end of the second hinge housing portion (525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530); A fourth flat portion (566-3) positioned between the second uneven portion (566-1) and the third uneven portion (566-2) and received in the second hinge housing portion (525) so as to be maintained substantially flat during the process of the second housing portion (520) and the third housing portion (530) being relatively bent so as to at least partially overlap each other; A fifth flat portion (564) received by the fourth housing portion (540) and maintained substantially flat;And it may include a fourth uneven portion (567) that extends in a direction from the fifth flat portion (564) toward the third flat portion (563) and is at least partially accommodated in the third hinge housing portion (535) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540). The fourth flat portion (566-3) has a lower flexibility than the flexibility of each of the first uneven portion (565), the second uneven portion (566-1), and the third uneven portion (566-2), and each of the first uneven portion (565), the second uneven portion (566-1), the third uneven portion (566-2), and the fourth uneven portion (567) may include a recess formed along a thickness direction or a pattern region in which a pattern is formed along a length direction.;

[0150] In one embodiment, the width of the second pattern region may be substantially different from the width of the third pattern.

[0151] In one embodiment, the second pattern region includes a fourth pattern and a fifth pattern formed substantially parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction, the third pattern region includes a sixth pattern and a seventh pattern formed substantially parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction, and a first interval between the fourth pattern and the fifth pattern may be substantially different from a second interval between the sixth pattern and the seventh pattern.

[0152] In one embodiment, the second pattern region includes a fourth pattern and a fifth pattern formed to face the same direction while being spaced apart in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the third pattern region includes a sixth pattern and a seventh pattern formed to face the same direction while being spaced apart in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and a first interval between the fourth pattern and the fifth pattern may be substantially different from a second interval between the sixth pattern and the seventh pattern.

Claims

1. In electronic devices (101; 201; 501), As a bendable housing (202;502), First housing part (210;510); Second housing part (220;520); Third housing section (230;530); A first hinge housing part (215;515) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210;510) and the second housing part (220;520) and has a first width; and The bendable housing (202;502) including a second hinged housing portion (225;525) that rotatably connects the second housing portion (220;520) and the third housing portion (230;530) and has a second width greater than the first width; and As a display module (160;460), A flexible display panel (460-1) accommodated in the first housing portion (210;510), the first hinge housing portion (215;515), the second housing portion (220;520), the second hinge housing portion (225;525), and the third housing portion (230;530); and Including the display module (160;460) including a glass cover (460-2) placed on the flexible display panel (460-1), The above glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) is A first planar portion (261; 561) accommodated in the first housing portion (210; 510) and maintained substantially planar; A second flat portion (262; 562) accommodated in the second housing portion (220; 520) and maintained substantially flat; A third flat portion (263;563) accommodated in the third housing portion (230;530) and maintained substantially flat; A first non-planar portion (265;565) positioned between the first flat portion (261;561) and the second flat portion (262;562), and at least partly received in the first hinge housing portion (215;515) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the first housing portion (210;510) and the second housing portion (220;520); and A second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1) extending from the second flat portion (262; 562) in a direction opposite to the first uneven portion (265; 565) and at least partly received at one end of the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530); A third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2) extending in a direction from the third flat portion (263; 563) toward the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1), and at least a portion of which is received at the other end of the second hinge housing portion (225; 525) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the second housing portion (220; 520) and the third housing portion (230; 530); and An electronic device (101;201;501) including a fourth flat portion (266-3;566-3) accommodated in the second hinge housing portion (225;525) so as to be substantially flat during a process in which the second housing portion (220;520) and the third housing portion (230;530) are relatively bent so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with each other, and is positioned between the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1) and the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2).

2. In paragraph 1, The above fourth flat portion (266-3; 566-3) is An electronic device (101;201;501) having lower flexibility than the flexibility of each of the first uneven portion (265;565), the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1), and the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, An electronic device (101;201;501) in which the bendable angle range of the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) is greater than the bendable angle range of the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An electronic device (101;201;501), wherein the bendable angle range of the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) is smaller than the bendable angle range of the first uneven portion (265;565).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The width (RW2-2; PW2-2) of the third non-flat portion (266-2; 566-2) is smaller than the width (RW1;PW1) of the first uneven portion (265;565), An electronic device (101;201;501) having a width (RW2-1;PW2-1) greater than that of the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, An electronic device (101;201;501), wherein the width (W2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3;566-3) is larger than the width (RW2-1;PW2-1) of the second unflat portion (266-1;566-1) and the width (RW2-2;PW2-2) of the third unflat portion (266-2;566-2).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An electronic device (101;201;501) wherein the width (W2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3;566-3) is smaller than the width (RW1;PW1) of the first uneven portion (265;565).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, Each of the first uneven portion (265;565), the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1), and the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) includes a recess (R1;R2-1;R2-2) formed along the thickness direction, The thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion (265;565) is thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion (262;562). The thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1) is thinner than the thickness (T2) of the second flat portion (262;562) and the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3;566-3). The thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) is thinner than the thickness (T3) of the third flat portion (263;563) and the thickness (T2-3) of the fourth flat portion (266-3;566-3). An electronic device (101;201;501), wherein the thickness (T2-2) of the third uneven portion (266-2;566-2) is thicker than the thickness (T1) of the first uneven portion (265;565) and thinner than the thickness (T2-1) of the second uneven portion (266-1;566-1).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) includes a first side (460-21) facing the flexible display panel (460-1) and a second side (460-22) opposite to the first side (460-21). An electronic device (101; 201; 501), wherein the above recesses (R1; R2-1; R2-2) are all formed on one of the first surface (460-21) and the second surface (460-22).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above first uneven portion (265; 565) includes a first pattern area (P1) in which a first pattern is formed along the longitudinal direction, The above second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1) includes a second pattern area (P2-1) in which a second pattern is formed along the longitudinal direction, An electronic device (101; 201; 501), wherein the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2) includes a third pattern area (P2-2) in which a third pattern is formed along the longitudinal direction.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, An electronic device (101; 201; 501) wherein the width (PW2-2) of the third pattern area (P2-2) is wider than the width (PW2-1) of the second pattern area (P2-1).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, An electronic device (101; 201; 501), wherein the width (PW1) of the first pattern area (P1) is wider than the width (PW2-1) of the second pattern area (P2-1) and the width (PW2-2) of the third pattern area (P2-2).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above display module (160;460) A polymer member (460-4) placed on the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560); and An electronic device (101; 201; 501) further comprising a filling layer (460-3a; 460-3b) disposed between the glass cover (260; 460-2a; 460-2b; 560) and the polymer member to fill at least a portion of the first uneven portion (265; 565), the second uneven portion (266-1; 566-1) and the third uneven portion (266-2; 566-2).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above bendable housing (502) is 4th housing part (540); and The third housing part (530) and the fourth housing part (540) are rotatably connected, and further include a third hinge housing part (535) having a third width smaller than the second width. The above glass cover (560) is A fifth flat portion (564) accommodated by the fourth housing portion (540) and maintained substantially flat; and An electronic device (501) further comprising a fourth unflat portion (567) extending from the fifth flat portion (564) in a direction toward the third flat portion (563) and at least partially accommodated in the third hinge housing portion (535) so as to be at least partially bendable according to the relative bending motion of the third housing portion (530) and the fourth housing portion (540).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above fourth uneven portion (567) is an electronic device (501) including a recess formed along the thickness direction or a pattern area in which a pattern is formed along the length direction.

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