Flexible display and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; a display including a first display area, a second display area and a third area; a flexible lattice plate for supporting the second display area and the third area; and a multi-bar structure for supporting at least a portion of the flexible lattice plate corresponding to the third area of the display. Other various embodiments are possible.

Description

Flexible display and electronic device including the same

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to electronic devices, for example, flexible displays and electronic devices including the same.

[0002] Thanks to remarkable advancements in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, the proliferation and use of various electronic devices is rapidly increasing. In particular, recent electronic devices are being developed to enable portability and communication.

[0003] Electronic devices can refer to devices that perform specific functions based on the programs installed on them, such as home appliances, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, audio / video devices, desktop / laptop computers, or car navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as audio or video. As electronic device integration increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications become more widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal, can now be equipped with a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, or even functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are becoming smaller so that users can conveniently carry them.

[0004] As mobile communication services expand into the realm of multimedia services, the size of displays on electronic devices may increase in order for users to fully utilize multimedia services in addition to voice calls and text messages.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion configured to move relative to the first housing portion, a display including a first display area, a second display area, and a third area, a flexible lattice plate arranged to support the second display area and the third area of ​​the display, and a multi-bar structure arranged to support at least a portion of the flexible lattice plate corresponding to the third area of ​​the display, wherein another portion of the flexible lattice plate supporting the second display area of ​​the display may be composed of multiple lattice layers.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion configured to move relative to the first housing portion, a display including a first display area disposed in the second housing portion, a second display area extending from the first display area, and a third area extending from the second display area, a first lattice plate supporting the second display area and the third area, a second lattice plate configured to support a first portion of the first lattice plate corresponding to the second display area, a third lattice plate stacked on the second lattice plate, a fourth lattice plate stacked on the third lattice plate, and a multi-bar structure configured to support a second portion of the first lattice plate corresponding to the third area.

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

[0009] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which a second display area of ​​a display is housed inside an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a state in which a second display area of ​​a display is visually exposed to the outside of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6A is an exploded perspective view of a display assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6b is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6c is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7a is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8a is a rear view showing a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8b is a rear view showing a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE' of FIG. 8b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE' of FIG. 8b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a plan view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a portion of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a portion of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a stacking relationship of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a first buffer member of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a first buffer member of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a fixing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a support structure with a fixed member coupled thereto according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0040] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0041] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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).

[0045] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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.

[0055] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0056] 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.

[0057] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0058] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0059] 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)).

[0060] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0061] 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.

[0062] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0063] 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).

[0064] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a 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) through 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a second display area of ​​a display is housed within an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The second display area, which extends from the first display area, can be at least partially hidden within the electronic device in a different plane from the first display area.

[0068] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a second display area of ​​a display is visually exposed to the outside of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The second display area, which extends from the first display area, can be at least partially visible to the outside of the electronic device, substantially in the same plane as the first display area, based on movement of the second housing portion.

[0069] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate a structure in which a display (203) (e.g., a flexible display or a rollable display) expands in a longitudinal direction (e.g., +Y direction) when viewed from the front of an electronic device (101). However, the expansion direction of the display (203) is not limited to one direction (e.g., +Y direction). For example, the expansion direction of the display (203) may be designed to be expandable in an upward direction (+Y direction), a rightward direction (e.g., +X direction), a leftward direction (e.g., -X direction), and / or a downward direction (e.g., -Y direction).

[0070] The state illustrated in FIG. 2 may represent a state in which substantially the entire second display area is hidden within the electronic device, on a different plane from the first display area. For example, the state illustrated in FIG. 2 may be referred to as a slide-in state of the electronic device (101), or a state in which the second display area (A2) of the display (203) is closed.

[0071] The state illustrated in FIG. 3 may represent a state in which the area of ​​the second display area visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device is maximized on a substantially identical plane with the first display area. The state illustrated in FIG. 3 may be referred to as a slide-out state of the electronic device (101), or a state in which the second display area (A2) of the display (203) is open.

[0072] The embodiments of FIGS. 2 to 3 can be combined with the embodiment of FIG. 1 or the embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 24.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a housing (210). The housing (210) may include a first housing portion (201) and a second housing portion (202) that is arranged to be relatively movable with respect to the first housing portion (201). In one embodiment, the first housing portion (201) of the electronic device (101) may be interpreted as a structure in which the first housing portion (201) is arranged to be slidably movable with respect to the second housing portion (202). According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) may be arranged to be reciprocally movable for a predetermined distance in a direction shown with respect to the first housing portion (201), for example, in a direction indicated by arrow ① of FIG. 3. The first housing portion (201) may be referred to as a first housing, and the second housing portion may be referred to as a second housing (202).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (202), which may be referred to as a slide portion or slide housing, may be relatively movable with respect to the first housing portion (201). According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) may accommodate various electrical and electronic components, such as a circuit board or a battery. When the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state, the second housing portion (202) may be defined as a retracted position, and when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state, the second housing portion (202) may be defined as an extended position. For example, the second housing portion (202) may be configured to move between the retracted position and the extended position with respect to the first housing portion (201).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the slide-in state of the electronic device (101) (or the slide-out state of the electronic device (101)) may be changed to the slide-out state of the electronic device (101) (or the slide-in state of the electronic device (101)) based on a predefined user input. For example, the slide-in state of the electronic device (101) (or the slide-out state of the electronic device (101)) may be changed to the slide-out state (or the slide-in state of the electronic device (101)) in response to a user input to a physical button exposed through a portion of the first housing portion (201) or a portion of the second housing portion (202). For example, the slide-in state (or the slide-out state of the electronic device (101)) may be changed to the slide-out state (or the slide-in state of the electronic device (101)) in response to a touch input to an executable object displayed within a screen display area (e.g., the first display area (A1)). For example, the slide-in state (or the slide-out state of the electronic device (101)) may be changed to the slide-out state (or the slide-in state of the electronic device (101)) in response to a touch input having a contact point on the screen display area (e.g., the first display area (A1)) and a pressing strength greater than or equal to a reference strength. For example, the slide-in state (or the slide-out state of the electronic device (101)) may be changed to the slide-out state (or the slide-in state of the electronic device (101)) in response to a voice input received through a microphone of the electronic device (101). For example, the slide-in state (or the slide-out state of the electronic device (101)) may be changed to the slide-out state (or the slide-in state of the electronic device (101)) in response to an external force applied to the first housing portion (201) and / or the second housing portion (202) to move the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (201).For example, the slide-in state (or the slide-out state of the electronic device (101)) may be changed to the slide-out state (or the slide-in state of the electronic device (101)) in response to a user input identified from an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds or a smart watch) connected to the electronic device (101). However, the method for causing the slide-in / out operation of the electronic device (101) is not limited thereto.

[0076] In one embodiment, the first housing portion (201) can accommodate an actuator (e.g., a motor), a speaker, a SIM socket, and / or a sub-circuit board electrically connected to the main circuit board. The second housing portion (202) can accommodate a main circuit board equipped with electrical components such as an application processor (AP) or a communication processor (CP). In one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) can accommodate an actuator, a speaker, a SIM socket, and / or a sub-circuit board electrically connected to the main circuit board, and the first housing portion (201) can accommodate a main circuit board equipped with electrical components such as an application processor (AP) or a communication processor (CP). In one embodiment, the sub-circuit board and the main circuit board may be disposed in the first housing portion (201), or may be disposed in the second housing portion (202).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the first housing portion (201) may include a first cover member (211) (e.g., a main case). The first cover member (211) may include a first-first side wall (211a), a first-second side wall (211b) extending from the first-first side wall (211a), and a first-third side wall (211c) extending from the first-first side wall (211a) and being substantially parallel to the first-second side wall (211b). According to one embodiment, the first-second side wall (211b) and the first-third side wall (211c) may be formed to be substantially perpendicular to the first-first side wall (211a).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the first-first side wall (211a), the first-second side wall (211b), and the first-third side wall (211c) of the first cover member (211) may be formed in a shape in which one side (e.g., the front face) is open to accommodate (or surround) at least a portion of the second housing portion (202). For example, at least a portion of the second housing portion (202) may be surrounded by the first housing portion (201) and may slide in a direction parallel to the first surface (e.g., the first surface (F1) of FIG. 4), for example, in the direction of arrow ① of FIG. 3, while being guided by the first housing portion (201). According to one embodiment, the first-first side wall (211a), the first-second side wall (211b), and / or the first-third side wall (211c) of the first cover member (211) may be formed as an integral part. According to one embodiment, the first-first side wall (211a), the first-second side wall (211b), and / or the first-third side wall (211c) of the first cover member (211) may be formed as separate structures and then joined or assembled.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the first cover member (211) may be formed to surround at least a portion of the display (203). For example, at least a portion of the display (203) may be formed to surround by the first-first side wall (211a), the first-second side wall (211b), and / or the first-third side wall (211c) of the first cover member (211).

[0080] In one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) may include a second cover member (221) (e.g., a slide plate). The second cover member (221) may have a plate shape and include a first surface (e.g., the first surface (F1) of FIG. 4) that supports internal components. For example, the second cover member (221) may support at least a portion of the display (203) (e.g., the first display area (A1)). In one embodiment, the second cover member (221) may be referred to as a front cover.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the second cover member (221) may include a second-first side wall (221a), a second-second side wall (221b) extending from the second-first side wall (221a), and a second-third side wall (221c) extending from the second-first side wall (221a) and being substantially parallel to the second-second side wall (221b). According to one embodiment, the second-second side wall (221b) and the second-third side wall (221c) may be formed substantially perpendicular to the second-first side wall (221a).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) can form a slide-in state and a slide-out state of the electronic device (101) by moving in a first direction (e.g., direction ① of FIG. 3) parallel to the 2-2 side wall (221b) or the 2-3 side wall (221c). In the slide-in state of the electronic device (101), the second housing portion (202) can be positioned at a first distance from the 1-1 side wall (211a) of the first housing portion (201), and in the slide-out state of the electronic device (101), the second housing portion (202) can be positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the 1-1 side wall (211a) of the first housing portion (201). In one embodiment, in the slide-in state of the electronic device (101), the first housing portion (201) may be formed to surround a portion of the second-second side wall (221b) and the second-third side wall (221c).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have an intermediate state between the slide-in state (e.g., a fully closed state) of FIG. 2 and the slide-out state (e.g., a fully opened state) of FIG. 3. In the intermediate state of the electronic device (101), the distance between the first-first sidewall (211a) and the second-first sidewall (221a) may be shorter than the distance between the first-first sidewall (211a) and the second-first sidewall (221a) of the electronic device (101) in the fully opened state, and may be longer than the distance between the first-first sidewall (211a) and the second-first sidewall (221a) of the electronic device (101) in the fully closed state. According to one embodiment, as at least a portion of the display (203) slides in the intermediate state of the electronic device (101), an area exposed to the outside may vary. For example, in an intermediate state of the electronic device (101), the ratio of the width (e.g., length in the X direction) and the height (e.g., length in the Y direction) of the display (203) and / or the distance between the first-first side wall (211a) and the second-first side wall (221a) may be changed based on the slide movement of the electronic device (101).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a display (203), a key input device (245), a connector hole (243), an audio module (247a, 247b), or a camera module (249a, 249b). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include an indicator (e.g., an LED device) or various sensor modules.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the display (203) may be formed such that the size of a portion visible from the front side of the housing (210) changes based on the sliding movement of the second housing portion (202). According to one embodiment, the display (203) may include a first display area (A1) and a second display area (A2) configured to be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) based on the sliding movement of the second housing portion (202).

[0086] According to one embodiment, as the second housing portion (202) moves between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the first housing portion (201), the size of the display (203) viewed toward the exterior front face of the electronic device (101) can be varied. For example, when the second housing portion (202) is positioned in a retracted position relative to the first housing portion (201) (e.g., FIG. 2), the size (or area) of the display (203) viewed toward the exterior front face of the electronic device (101) can be substantially minimized. Additionally, when the second housing portion (202) is positioned in an extended position relative to the first housing portion (201) (e.g., FIG. 3), the size (or area) of the display (203) viewed toward the exterior front face of the electronic device (101) can be substantially maximized.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) may be disposed on the second housing portion (202). For example, the first display area (A1) may be disposed on the second cover member (221) of the second housing portion (202). According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) extends from the first display area (A1) and may be accommodated into the interior of the first housing portion (201) or visually exposed to the exterior of the electronic device (101) as the second housing portion (202) slides relative to the first housing portion (201). According to one embodiment, as the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state, the display (203) may extend in a downward direction (e.g., a -Y direction) of the electronic device (101). For example, in the slide-out state of the electronic device (101), the second display area (A2) can be visually exposed from below (e.g., in the -Y direction) of the display (203). According to one embodiment, as the electronic device (101) changes from the slide-in state to the slide-out state, the display (203) can be expanded in the upper direction (e.g., in the +Y direction) of the electronic device (101). For example, in the slide-out state of the electronic device (101), the second display area (A2) can be visually exposed from above (e.g., in the +Y direction) of the display (203).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) substantially moves along an area of ​​the first housing portion (201) (e.g., the guide rail (250) of FIG. 4) and may be accommodated in a space located inside the first housing portion (201) or exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) may move based on the sliding movement of the second housing portion (202) in the first direction (e.g., the direction indicated by arrow ①). For example, while the second housing portion (202) slides, a portion of the second display area (A2) may be deformed into a curved shape at a position corresponding to the curved surface (213a) of the first housing portion (201).

[0089] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state (e.g., when the second housing portion (202) slides to extend with respect to the first housing portion (201) when viewed from the top (e.g., in the +Z direction or toward the front of the electronic device) of the second cover member (221) (e.g., the front cover), the second display area (A2) may be gradually exposed to the outside of the first housing portion (201) to form substantially the same plane as the first display area (A1). According to one embodiment, the display (203) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer capable of detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen. According to one embodiment, regardless of the slide-in or slide-out state of the electronic device (101), a portion of the exposed second display area (A2) may be positioned on a portion of the first housing portion (e.g., the curved surface (213a) of FIG. 4), and a portion of the second display area (A2) may maintain a curved shape at a position corresponding to the curved surface (213a).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the key input device (245) may be located in an area of ​​the housing (210) (e.g., the first housing portion (201) and / or the second housing portion (202)). Depending on the appearance and usage state, the illustrated key input device (245) may be omitted, or the electronic device (101) may be designed to include additional key input device(s). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a key input device not illustrated, for example, a home key button, or a touch pad disposed around the home key button. According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the key input device (245) may be disposed on the first-first side wall (211a), the first-second side wall (211b), and / or the first-third side wall (211c) of the first housing portion (201). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the key input device (245) may be disposed on the second-first side wall (221a), the second-second side wall (221b), and / or the second-third side wall (221c) of the second housing portion (202).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the connector hole (243) may be omitted depending on the embodiment, and may accommodate a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of connector holes (243), and some of the plurality of connector holes (243) may function as connector holes for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector hole (243) is located in the second housing portion (202), but is not limited thereto, and the connector hole (243) or a connector hole not illustrated may be located in the first housing portion (201).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the audio module (247a, 247b) may include at least one speaker hole (247a) or at least one microphone hole (247b). One of the speaker holes (247a) may be provided as a receiver hole for voice calls, and the other may be provided as an external speaker hole. The electronic device (101) includes a microphone for acquiring sound, and the microphone may acquire sound from outside the electronic device (101) through the microphone hole (247b). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of microphones for detecting the direction of sound. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an audio module in which the speaker hole (247a) and the microphone hole (247b) are implemented as a single hole, or may include a speaker from which the speaker hole (247a) is excluded (e.g., a piezo speaker). According to one embodiment, the speaker hole (247a) and the microphone hole (247b) may be located in the first housing portion (201) and / or the second housing portion (202).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the camera modules (249a, 249b) may include a first camera module (249a) (e.g., a front camera) and a second camera module (249b) (e.g., a rear camera) (e.g., the second camera module (249b) of FIGS. 5A and 5B). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a wide-angle camera, a telephoto camera, or a macro camera, and may measure a distance to a subject by including an infrared projector and / or an infrared receiver, depending on the embodiment. The camera modules (249a, 249b) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The first camera module (249a) may be arranged to face the same direction as the display (203). For example, the first camera module (249a) may be disposed around the first display area (A1) or in an area overlapping with the display (203), and when disposed in an area overlapping with the display (203), may capture a subject by passing through the display (203). According to one embodiment, the first camera module (249a) may not be visually exposed to the screen display area (e.g., the first display area (A1)) and may include a hidden under-display camera (UDC). According to one embodiment, the second camera module (249b) may capture a subject from a direction opposite to the first display area (A1). According to one embodiment, the first camera module (249a) and / or the second camera module (249b) may be disposed on the second housing portion (202). According to one embodiment, the second camera modules (249b) may be formed in multiples to provide various arrangements. For example, a plurality of second camera modules (249b) may be arranged along a width direction (X-axis direction) that is substantially perpendicular to the slide movement direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101).According to one embodiment, the plurality of second camera modules (249b) may be arranged along the sliding movement direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101). As another example, the plurality of second camera modules (249b) may be arranged along N * M rows and columns like a matrix.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the second camera module (249b) is not visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state, and can capture the outside of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state. According to one embodiment, the second camera module (249b) can capture the outside of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state and / or a slide-out state. For example, at least a portion of the housing (210) (e.g., the first rear plate (215) and / or the second rear plate (225) of FIG. 4) is substantially transparent, and the second camera module (249b) can capture the outside of the electronic device (101) by passing through the first rear plate (215) and / or the second rear plate (225). According to one embodiment, the second camera module (249b) is visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) in the slide-in and slide-out states of the electronic device (101) and can capture the outside. For example, the first housing portion (201) (e.g., the first rear plate (215) of FIG. 4) may include an opening (201a) for the second camera module (249b).

[0095] According to one embodiment, an indicator (not shown) of the electronic device (101) may be disposed in the first housing portion (201) or the second housing portion (202), and may provide status information of the electronic device (101) as a visual signal by including a light-emitting diode. The sensor modules (261a, 261b) of the electronic device (101) may generate an electrical signal or a data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (101) or an external environmental state. The sensor modules (261a, 261b) may include a proximity sensor, a fingerprint sensor, and / or a biometric sensor (e.g., an iris / facial recognition sensor or an HRM sensor). In one embodiment, the sensor modules (261a, 261b) may further include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor. According to one embodiment, the sensor modules (261a, 261b) may be disposed in the first housing portion (201) and / or the second housing portion (202). For example, the sensor modules (261a, 261b) may include a first sensor module (261a) (e.g., a proximity sensor or a light sensor) disposed on the front side of the electronic device (101) and / or a second sensor module (261b) (e.g., a heart rate monitoring (HRM) sensor) disposed on the rear side of the electronic device (101).

[0096] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5A, and / or 5B, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 3) may include a housing (210), a first housing portion (201), a second housing portion (202), a display assembly (230), and a driving structure (240). The configuration of the first housing portion (201), the second housing portion (202), and the display assembly (230) of FIGS. 4, 5A, and / or 5B may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the housing (210), the first housing portion (201), the second housing portion (202), and the display (203) of FIGS. 2 and / or 3.

[0100] The embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 5b can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3, or the embodiments of FIGS. 6a to 24.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a first housing portion (201), or a second housing portion (202) movably coupled to the first housing portion (201).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the first housing portion (201) may include a first cover member (211) (e.g., the first cover member (211) of FIGS. 2 and 3), a frame (213), and a first rear plate (215).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the first cover member (211) can accommodate at least a portion of the frame (213) and accommodate a component (e.g., a battery (289)) positioned in the frame (213). According to one embodiment, the first cover member (211) can be formed to surround at least a portion of the second housing portion (202). According to one embodiment, the first cover member (211) can protect a component (e.g., a second circuit board (249) and the frame (213)) positioned in the first housing portion (201) from external impact. According to one embodiment, a second circuit board (249) electrically connected to an electrical component (e.g., an actuator, a speaker, a SIM socket, and / or the first circuit board (248)) can be connected to the first cover member (211).

[0104] According to one embodiment, an outer surface of the first cover member (211) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction of FIG. 4) may be at least partially covered by the first rear plate (215). For example, the outer surface of the first cover member (211) may be arranged to face the first rear plate (215). An antenna member (271) may be arranged on the outer surface of the first cover member (211). The antenna member (271) may be arranged between the first cover member (211) and the first rear plate (215).

[0105] According to one embodiment, a frame (213) and / or a battery (289) may be arranged on an inner surface of the first cover member (211) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIG. 4). The inner surface of the first cover member (211) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIG. 4) may face the frame (213) and / or the battery (289).

[0106] In one embodiment, as the antenna member (271) is disposed in the first housing portion (201) and / or the first cover member (211) and the first circuit board (248) is disposed in the second housing portion (202) and / or the second cover member (221), the first circuit board (248) can have a variable relative position to the antenna member (271). For example, when the second housing portion (202) is moved relative to the first housing portion (201), the first circuit board (248) can be moved relative to the antenna member (271).

[0107] In one embodiment, the frame (213) can be connected to the first cover member (211). For example, the frame (213) can be connected to the first cover member (211), and the second housing portion (202) can move relatively to the first cover member (211) and / or the frame (213). In one embodiment, the frame (213) can accommodate the battery (289). For example, the frame (213) can include a groove for accommodating the battery (289). The frame (213) can be connected to the battery cover (289a) and, together with the battery cover (289a), can surround at least a portion of the battery (289). In one embodiment, the frame (213) can include a curved portion (213a) that faces the display assembly (230).

[0108] In one embodiment, the first back plate (215) can substantially form at least a portion of the first housing portion (201) or the exterior of the electronic device (101). For example, the first back plate (215) can be coupled to an outer surface of the first cover member (211). In one embodiment, the first back plate (215) can provide a decorative effect on the exterior of the electronic device (101). The first back plate (215) can be manufactured using at least one of metal, glass, synthetic resin, or ceramic.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) may include a second cover member (221) (e.g., the second cover member (221) of FIGS. 2 and 3), a rear cover (223), and a second rear plate (225).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the second cover member (221) is connected to the first housing portion (201) through a guide rail (250) and can move linearly back and forth in one direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ① in FIG. 3) while being guided by the guide rail (250).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the second cover member (221) can support at least a portion of the display (231). For example, the second cover member (221) includes a first surface (F1), and a first display area (A1) of the display (231) can be substantially positioned on the first surface (F1) and maintained in a flat shape. According to one embodiment, the second cover member (221) can be formed of a metallic material and / or a non-metallic (e.g., polymer) material. According to one embodiment, a first circuit board (248) that accommodates electronic components (e.g., the processor (120) and / or the memory (130) of FIG. 1) can be connected to the second cover member (221). According to one embodiment, the second cover member (221) can protect components (e.g., the first circuit board (248) and the rear cover (223)) positioned in the second housing portion (202) from external impact.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the rear cover (223) can protect a component (e.g., a first circuit board (248)) located on the second cover member (221). For example, the rear cover (223) can be connected to the second cover member (221) and formed to surround at least a portion of the first circuit board (248). According to one embodiment, the rear cover (223) can include an antenna pattern (e.g., at least one antenna element (223a)) for communicating with an external electronic device. For example, the at least one antenna element (223a) can be disposed on an outer surface (e.g., one surface facing the -Z-axis direction) of the rear cover (223) when the rear cover (223) is formed of an injection-molded product of a dielectric material (e.g., an antenna carrier). For example, at least one antenna element (223a) may include an LDS (laser direct structuring) antenna pattern formed on the outer surface of the rear cover (223). For example, at least one antenna element (223a) may be formed in a manner that it is built in when the rear cover (223) is injected. For example, at least one antenna element (223a) may be configured to transmit or receive a wireless signal in a designated frequency band (e.g., a legacy band) by being electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) disposed on the first circuit board (248).

[0113] In one embodiment, the second back plate (225) can substantially form at least a portion of the second housing portion (202) or the exterior of the electronic device (101). For example, the second back plate (225) can be coupled to an outer surface of the second cover member (221). In one embodiment, the second back plate (225) can provide a decorative effect on the exterior of the electronic device (101). The second back plate (225) can be manufactured using at least one of metal, glass, synthetic resin, or ceramic.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the display assembly (230) may include a display (231) (e.g., display (203) of FIGS. 2 and / or 3) and a multi-bar structure (232) supporting the display (231). According to one embodiment, the display (231) may be referred to as a flexible display, a foldable display, and / or a rollable display. According to one embodiment, a first display area (A1) of the display (231) may be supported by a rigid body, and a second display area (A2) may be supported by a bendable structure. For example, the first display area (A1) may be supported by a first surface (F1) of the second cover member (221) or a plate (not shown). The second display area (A2) may be supported by the multi-bar structure (232).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the multi-bar structure (232) can be connected or attached to at least a portion of the display (231) (e.g., the second display area (A2)). According to one embodiment, as the second housing portion (202) slides, the multi-bar structure (232) can move with respect to the first housing portion (201). In the slide-in state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., FIG. 2), the multi-bar structure (232) can be mostly accommodated inside the first housing portion (201) and positioned between the first cover member (211) and the second cover member (221). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the multi-bar structure (232) can move in response to a curved surface (213a) positioned at the edge of the frame (213). According to one embodiment, the multi-bar structure (232) can be referred to as a display support member or support structure and can be in the form of a single bendable plate.

[0116] In one embodiment, the drive structure (240) can move the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (201). For example, the drive structure (240) can include an actuator (241) configured to generate a driving force for sliding movement of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (201). The drive structure (240) can include a gear (244) (e.g., a pinion) connected to the actuator (241) and a rack (242) configured to mesh with the gear. Referring to FIG. 4, components of the drive structure (240) (e.g., the actuator (241), the rack (242), and the gear (244)) are illustrated inverted within a P1 circle (e.g., facing in the -Z-axis direction).

[0117] In one embodiment, the housing in which the rack (242) is positioned and the housing in which the actuator (241) is positioned may be different. In one embodiment, the actuator (241) may be connected to the first housing portion (201), and the rack (242) may be connected to the second housing portion (202). In one embodiment, the actuator (241) may be connected to the second housing portion (202), and the rack (242) may be connected to the first housing portion (201).

[0118] In one embodiment, the actuator (241) may be controlled by a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1). For example, the processor (120) may include an actuator driver driving circuit and may transmit a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the actuator (241) to control the speed of the actuator (241) and / or the torque of the actuator (241). In one embodiment, the actuator (241) may be electrically connected to a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) located on a circuit board (e.g., the first circuit board (248) of FIG. 4) using a flexible printed circuit board.

[0119] In one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) can accommodate a first circuit board (248) (e.g., a main board). In one embodiment, a processor, a memory, and / or an interface can be mounted on the first circuit board (248). The processor can include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphics processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor. In various embodiments, the first circuit board (248) can include a radio frequency cable (FRC) of a flexible printed circuit board type. The first circuit board (248) can be disposed on at least a portion of the second cover member (221) and can be electrically connected to an antenna module (e.g., an antenna module (197) of FIG. 1) and a communication module (e.g., a communication module (190) of FIG. 1).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the first circuit board (248) can be moved together with the second housing portion (202) when the second housing portion (202) is moved relative to the first housing portion (201).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and / or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device (101) to an external electronic device, for example, and may include a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector.

[0123] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first circuit board (248) (e.g., a main circuit board) and a second circuit board (249) (e.g., a sub-circuit board) spaced apart from the first circuit board (248) within the first housing portion (201). The second circuit board (249) may be electrically connected to the first circuit board (248) via a flexible substrate. The second circuit board (249) may be electrically connected to electrical components disposed in an end region of the electronic device (101), such as a battery (289) or a speaker and / or a SIM socket, to transmit signals and power. In one embodiment, the second circuit board (249) may accommodate an antenna member (271) (e.g., a coil) or be connected to the antenna member (271). The antenna element (271) may include a multi-function coil (MFC) antenna including a wireless charging antenna for a wireless charging function, an NFC (near field communication) antenna for an NFC function, and / or an MST (magnetic secure transmission) antenna for performing an electronic payment function. For example, the battery (289) may receive power from an external electronic device using the antenna element (271) for wireless charging. As another example, the battery (289) may transmit power to an external electronic device using the antenna element (271) for wireless charging.

[0124] In one embodiment, the battery (289) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (101), and may include a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. The battery (289) may be integrally disposed within the electronic device (101), or may be detachably disposed with the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (289) may be formed as a single integral battery or may include multiple detachable batteries. In one embodiment, the battery (289) may be positioned in the frame (213). For example, the battery (289) may be surrounded by the frame (213) and a battery cover (289a). In one embodiment, the battery (289) may be positioned within the second housing portion (202) and may slide together with the second housing portion (202).

[0125] In one embodiment, the guide rail (250) can guide the movement of the multi-bar structure (232). For example, the multi-bar structure (232) can slide along a slit (251) formed in the guide rail (250). In one embodiment, the guide rail (250) can be connected to the first housing portion (201). For example, the guide rail (250) can be connected to the first cover member (211) and / or the frame (213). In one embodiment, the slit (251) can be referred to as a groove or recess formed on the inner surface of the guide rail (250). Referring to FIG. 4, the guide rail (250) is illustrated enlarged within a P2 circle.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the guide rail (250) can provide force to the multi-bar structure (232) based on the actuation of the actuator (241).

[0127] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state, at least a portion of the second housing portion (202) can slide to be exposed to the outside from the first housing portion (201) through the driving of the actuator (241). For example, the gear (244) can rotate in the first rotational direction based on the driving of the actuator (241). As the rack (242) is fixed on the second cover member (221) of the second housing portion (202), the second housing portion (202) can slide to be exposed to the outside of the first housing portion (201) based on the sliding movement of the rack (242) toward the slide-out direction.

[0128] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state, the inner portion (252) of the guide rail (250) can provide force to the multi-bar structure (232). The multi-bar structure (232) provided with force moves along the slit (251) of the guide rail (250), and the second housing portion (202) can slide to expand with respect to the first housing portion (201). At least a portion of the display assembly (230) accommodated between the first cover member (211) and the frame (213) can expand toward the front.

[0129] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-out state to a slide-in state, at least a portion of the second housing portion (202) can slide to be inserted into the first housing portion (201) through the driving of the actuator (241). For example, the gear (244) can rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction based on the driving of the actuator (241). Since the rack (242) is fixed on the second cover member (221) of the second housing portion (202), the second housing portion (202) can slide to be inserted into the first housing portion (201) based on the sliding movement of the rack (242) toward the slide-in direction.

[0130] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-out state to a slide-in state, the outer portion (253) of the guide rail (250) can provide force to the bent multi-bar structure (232). The multi-bar structure (232) provided with force moves along the slit (251) of the guide rail (250), and at least a portion of the second housing portion (202) can slide so as to be accommodated in the first housing portion (201). At least a portion of the display assembly (230) can be accommodated between the first cover member (211) and the frame (213).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be configured to stop in a designated intermediate state between the slide-in state and the slide-out state by controlling the driving of the actuator (241) (free stop function). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be changed to the slide-in state, the intermediate state, or the slide-out state through a user's operation in a state where no driving force is provided to the actuator (241).

[0132] Referring to FIG. 5A, in the slide-in state of the electronic device (101), at least a portion of the second housing portion (202) may be arranged to be received in the first housing portion (201). As the second housing portion (202) is arranged to be received in the first housing portion (201), the overall size of the electronic device (101) may be reduced. In one embodiment, when the second housing portion (202) is received in the first housing portion (201), the size of the visually exposed display (231) may be minimized. For example, when the second housing portion (202) is completely received in the first housing portion (201), the first display area (A1) of the display (231) is visually exposed, and at least a portion (e.g., a portion facing the -Z axis) of the second display area (A2) may be arranged between the battery (289) and the first rear plate (215).

[0133] Referring to FIG. 5B, when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state, at least a portion of the second housing portion (202) may protrude from the first housing portion (201). As the second housing portion (202) protrudes from the first housing portion (201), the overall size of the electronic device (101) may increase. According to one embodiment, when the second housing portion (202) protrudes from the first housing portion (201), at least a portion of the second display area (A2) of the display (231) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) together with the first display area (A1).

[0134] FIG. 6A is an exploded perspective view of a display assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] FIG. 6b is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136] FIG. 6c is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] FIG. 7a is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0138] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] The embodiments of FIGS. 6A to 7B can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5B, or the embodiments of FIGS. 8A to 24.

[0140] Referring to FIGS. 6A to 7B, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 5B) may include a display assembly (300).

[0141] The configuration of the display assembly (300) of FIGS. 6a to 7b may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the display assembly (230) of FIGS. 4 to 5b.

[0142] Figure 6a is an exploded perspective view showing the display assembly (300) in an unfolded state.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the display assembly (300) may include a display (301) (e.g., display (231) of FIG. 4) or a support structure (303).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the display (301) may include a first display area (A1) (e.g., the first display area (A1) of FIGS. 4 to 5B), a second display area (A2) (e.g., the second display area (A2) of FIGS. 4 to 5B), and / or a third area (A3).

[0145] In one embodiment, the support structure (303) may be configured to support the display (301). For example, the support structure (303) may be configured to generally support at least a portion of the second display area (A2) and / or at least a portion of the third area (A3). For example, the support structure (303) may be configured to support a back surface of the second display area (A2) (e.g., a side facing the −Z direction in FIG. 6A) and a back surface of the third area (A3) (e.g., a side facing the −Z direction in FIG. 6A). Depending on the embodiment, the support structure (303) may also be defined and / or interpreted as supporting a portion of the first display area (A1), the entire second display area (A2), and the entire third area (A3).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the display (301) may include a first display area (A1), a second display area (A2), and / or a third area (A3). The second display area (A2) may be connected to the first display area (A1). The third area (A3) may be connected to the second display area (A2). The third area (A3) may be defined and / or referred to as a third display area. The third area (A3) may be defined and / or interpreted as at least a portion of the second display area (A2), but is not limited thereto.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) may extend from the first display area (A1). The second display area (A2) may be mostly exposed toward the front side of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state (e.g., FIG. 3 or FIG. 5b). The second display area (A2) may be at least partially accommodated within the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state (e.g., FIG. 2 or FIG. 5a).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the third area (A3) may extend from the second display area (A2). The third area (A3) may be mostly accommodated within the interior of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state (e.g., FIG. 2 or FIG. 5a). The third area (A3) may be at least partially visually exposed to the front side of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state (e.g., FIG. 3 or FIG. 5b).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the support structure (303) may include a flexible lattice plate (305), an adhesive member (350), a multi-bar structure (360) (e.g., the multi-bar structure (232) of FIGS. 4 to 5B), a head (370), or a buffer member (380).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the flexible lattice plate (305) may include a first lattice plate (310), a second lattice plate (320), a third lattice plate (330), and / or a fourth lattice plate (340).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the plurality of lattice plates (310, 320, 330, 340) may be defined and / or referred to as a plurality of support plates (310, 320, 330, 340) (plurality of support layers). The plurality of lattice plates (310, 320, 330, 340) may be defined and / or referred to as a plurality of lattice layers (310, 320, 330, 340) (plurality of lattice layers).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the first lattice plate (310) may have an overall panel shape. The first lattice plate (310) may be coupled to the back surface of the display (301). The first lattice plate (310) may be laminated on the back surface of the second display area (A2) and the back surface of the third area (A3).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the first lattice plate (310) may include a bendable material. For example, the first lattice plate (310) may include a material (e.g., metal) that can be changed into a shape corresponding to the shape of the second display area (A2) that is bent or unfolded and the shape of the third area (A3).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the first lattice plate (310) may include a first pattern (313) that facilitates changing the shape of the first lattice plate (310). The first pattern (313) may include holes, grooves, or slits formed in the first lattice plate (310) to facilitate folding of the first lattice plate (310). For example, the first pattern (313) may include elongated holes and / or elongated grooves.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the first lattice plate (310) may include a first portion (311) or a second portion (312). According to one embodiment, the first portion (311) may be arranged or configured to support a second display area (A2). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first portion (311) may support a portion of the back surface of the first display area (A1). The second portion (312) may be arranged or configured to support a third area (A3). The second portion (312) may extend from the first portion (311). The second portion (312) may be formed integrally with the first portion (311) or may be formed as a separate member from the first portion (311) and assembled with the first portion (311).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the second lattice plate (320) may be configured to support the second display area (A2) and the first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the second lattice plate (320) may have an overall panel shape. The second lattice plate (320) may be coupled to the back surface of the first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310). The second lattice plate (320) may be laminated on the back surface of the first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310).

[0158] In one embodiment, the second lattice plate (320) may include a bendable material. For example, the second lattice plate (320) may include a material (e.g., metal) that can be changed into a shape corresponding to the shape of the second display area (A2) that is bent or unfolded.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the second lattice plate (320) may include a second pattern (323) that facilitates changing the shape of the second lattice plate (320). The second pattern (323) may include holes, grooves, or slits formed in the second lattice plate (320) to facilitate folding of the second lattice plate (320). For example, the second pattern (323) may include elongated holes and / or elongated grooves.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the third lattice plate (330) may be configured to support the second display area (A2) and the second lattice plate (320).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the third lattice plate (330) may have an overall panel shape. The third lattice plate (330) may be coupled to the back surface of the second lattice plate (320). The third lattice plate (330) may be laminated on the back surface of the second lattice plate (320).

[0162] In one embodiment, the third lattice plate (330) may include a bendable material. For example, the third lattice plate (330) may include a material (e.g., metal) that can be changed into a shape corresponding to the shape of the second display area (A2) that is bent or unfolded.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the third lattice plate (330) may include a third pattern (333) that facilitates changing the shape of the third lattice plate (330). The third pattern (333) may include holes, grooves, or slits formed in the third lattice plate (330) to facilitate folding of the third lattice plate (330). For example, the third pattern (333) may include elongated holes and / or elongated grooves.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the fourth lattice plate (340) may be configured to support the second display area (A2) and the third lattice plate (330).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the fourth lattice plate (340) may have an overall panel shape. The fourth lattice plate (340) may be coupled to the back surface of the third lattice plate (330). The first lattice plate (310) may be laminated on the back surface of the third lattice plate (330).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the fourth lattice plate (340) may include a bendable material. For example, the fourth lattice plate (340) may include a material (e.g., metal) that can be changed into a shape corresponding to the shape of the second display area (A2) that is bent or unfolded.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the fourth lattice plate (340) may include a fourth pattern (343) that facilitates changing the shape of the fourth lattice plate (340). The fourth pattern (343) may include holes, grooves, or slits formed in the fourth lattice plate (340) to facilitate folding of the fourth lattice plate (340). For example, the fourth pattern (343) may include elongated holes and / or elongated grooves.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the patterns (313, 323, 333, 343) of the lattice plates (310, 320, 330, 340) may be defined and / or referred to as lattice patterns.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the multi-bar structure (360) may include a plurality of bars. The plurality of bars may be spaced apart from each other at a specified interval. The multi-bar structure (360) may be configured to support the third region (A3). The multi-bar structure (360) may be configured to support the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310). The multi-bar structure (360) may be coupled to the back surface of the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310). The multi-bar structure (360) may be laminated on the back surface of the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the head (370) may include first heads (371) and / or second heads (372). The first heads (371) may be coupled to the first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310) and the fourth lattice plate (340). The first heads (371) may be inserted into a slit (e.g., the slit (251) of FIG. 4) of a guide rail (e.g., the guide rail (250) of FIG. 4). When the state of the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state, or when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-out state to a slide-in state, the first heads (371) associated with the second display area (A2) may move along the slit of the guide rail. The second heads (372) can be coupled to the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360). When the state of the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state, or when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-out state to a slide-in state, the second heads (372) associated with the third area (A3) can move along the slit of the guide rail.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the adhesive member (350) may be disposed between the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360). The multi-bar structure (360) may be adhered to the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) via the adhesive member (350). The adhesive member (350) may include, but is not limited to, a thermocompression tape and may include various adhesive materials. According to an embodiment, the adhesive member (350) may be omitted.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (380) may be disposed on the lattice plates (310, 320, 330, 340). For example, the buffer member (380) may be configured to support the second display area (A2) visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state. The buffer member (380) may include a sponge or tape. According to an embodiment, the buffer member (380) may be omitted.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (380) may include a first buffer member (381), a second buffer member (382), or a third buffer member (383). The first buffer member (381) may be disposed between the first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310) and the second lattice plate (320). The second buffer member (382) may be disposed between the second lattice plate (320) and the third lattice plate (330). The third buffer member (383) may be disposed between the third lattice plate (330) and the fourth lattice plate (340).

[0174] According to one embodiment, the multi-bar structure (360) may be arranged to support at least a portion (e.g., a second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310)) of the flexible lattice plate (305) corresponding to the third area (A3) of the display (301). The third area (A3) may be supported by the multi-bar structure (360) to enhance rigidity.

[0175] According to one embodiment, another portion of the flexible lattice plate (305) supporting the second display area (A2) of the display (301) may be composed of multiple lattice layers. The multiple lattice layers may include a first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310), a second lattice plate (320), a third lattice plate (330), and a fourth lattice plate (340).

[0176] FIG. 6b and FIG. 7a are cross-sectional views of the electronic device (101) in a slide-in state (e.g., FIG. 2 or FIG. 5a).

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 6B and 7A, a first display area (A1) of a display (301) may be supported by a first surface (F1) (e.g., the first surface (F1) of FIG. 4) of a second cover member (221) (e.g., the second cover member (221) of FIGS. 4 to 5B). The first display area (A1) may form a substantially flat surface when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state. The first display area (A1) may be exposed to the front side of the electronic device (101). For example, the first display area (A1) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0178] According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) can be visually exposed toward the front side (e.g., in the +Z direction in FIGS. 2, 4, 6B, 6C, 7A, and 7B) of the housing (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2, or the housing (210) of FIG. 4) when the second housing portion (e.g., the second housing portion (202) of FIGS. 2 to 5B) is positioned at a first position (e.g., in FIGS. 2A, 5A, 6B, or 7A) relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the first housing portion (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5B).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) may be supported by a flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) (e.g., the flexible lattice plate (305) of FIG. 6A). For example, the second display area (A2) may be supported by a portion of the flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) corresponding to the second display area (A2). The portion of the flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) corresponding to the second display area (A2) may include a first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310), a second lattice plate (e.g., the second lattice plate (320) of FIG. 5), a third lattice plate (e.g., the third lattice plate (330) of FIG. 5), and a fourth lattice plate (e.g., the fourth lattice plate (340) of FIG. 5).

[0180] According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) can be accommodated inside the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state. For example, the second display area (A2) supported by a portion of the flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) may not be visually exposed to the front side of the housing (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2 or the housing (210) of FIG. 4) when the second housing portion (e.g., the second housing portion (202) of FIGS. 2 to 5B) is positioned at a first position (e.g., FIG. 2A, FIG. 5A, FIG. 6B, or FIG. 7A) relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the first housing portion (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5B). At least a portion of the second display area (A2) can be deformed into a curved shape at a position corresponding to a curved surface (e.g., curved surface (213a) of FIG. 4) of a frame (e.g., frame (213) of FIG. 4). At least a portion of the flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) corresponding to the second display area (A2) can be deformed into a curved shape at a position corresponding to the curved surface of the frame.

[0181] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the second display area (A2) may be covered by the first-first side wall (211a) (e.g., the first-first side wall (211a) of FIGS. 2 to 3) of the first cover member (211) (e.g., the first cover member (211) of FIG. 4) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state. For example, the inner surface of the first-first side wall (211a) may face a curved surface formed by the second display area (A2) and may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the curved surface.

[0182] According to one embodiment, the third region (A3) may be supported by a flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) and a multi-bar structure (360, 3601). For example, the third region (A3) may be supported by at least a portion of the flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) corresponding to the third region (A3) (e.g., a second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310)) and the multi-bar structure (360, 3601).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the third region (A3) can be completely retracted into the interior of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in state. The third region (A3) can be supported by a portion of a flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) (e.g., a second portion (312) of the first plate (310)) and a multi-bar structure (360, 3601). The third region (A3) can form a substantially flat surface within the interior of the electronic device (101).

[0184] According to one embodiment, the third area (A3) may not be visually exposed to the front side of the housing (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2 or the housing (210) of FIG. 4) when the second housing portion (e.g., the second housing portion (202) of FIGS. 2 to 5B) is positioned in a first position (e.g., FIG. 2A, FIG. 5A, FIG. 6B, or FIG. 7A) relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the first housing portion (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5B). FIGS. 6C and 7B are cross-sectional views of the electronic device (101) in a slide-out state (e.g., FIG. 3 or FIG. 5B).

[0185] Referring to FIGS. 6C and 7B, the first display area (A1) can be visually exposed toward the front side (e.g., in the +Z direction in FIGS. 2, 4, 6B, 6C, 7A, and 7B) of the housing (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2, or the housing (210) of FIG. 4) when the second housing portion (e.g., the second housing portion (202) of FIGS. 2 to 5B) is positioned at a second position (e.g., in FIGS. 2B, 5B, 6C, or 7B) relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the first housing portion (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5B).

[0186] According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) can form a substantially flat surface when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state. The second display area (A2) can form a flat surface together with the first display area (e.g., the first display area (A1) of FIG. 6A). The second display area (A2) can be completely exposed to the front side of the electronic device (101). The second display area (A2) can be completely exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, a second display area (A2) supported by a portion of a flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) may be visually exposed toward the front side (e.g., in the +Z direction in FIGS. 2, 4, 6B, 6C, 7A, and 7B) of a housing (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2, or the housing (210) of FIG. 4) when the second housing portion (e.g., the second housing portion (202) of FIGS. 2 to 5B) is positioned at a second position (e.g., in FIGS. 2B, 5B, 6C, or 7B) relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the first housing portion (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5B).

[0187] According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) may be supported by a flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) (e.g., the flexible lattice plate (305) of FIG. 6A). For example, at least a portion of the flexible lattice plate (3051, 3052) corresponding to the second display area (A2) may form a substantially flat surface and support the second display area (A2) such that the second display area (A2) becomes flat.

[0188] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the third region (A3) can be deformed into a curved shape at a position corresponding to a curved surface (e.g., curved surface (213a) of FIG. 4) of a frame (e.g., frame (213) of FIG. 4). The second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) can be deformed into a curved shape at a position corresponding to the curved surface of the frame, and the multi-bar structure (360, 3601) can have a curved arrangement relationship at a position corresponding to the curved surface of the frame.

[0189] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the third area (A3) may be covered by the first-first side wall (211a) of the first cover member (211) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state. For example, the inner surface of the first-first side wall (211a) may face a curved surface formed by the third area (A3) and may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the curved surface.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 6C, the third area (A3) may be at least partially exposed to the front side of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state. At least a portion of the third area (A3) visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) may form a substantially flat surface with the second display area (A2). The remainder of the third area (A3) may be accommodated within the electronic device (101).

[0191] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state (e.g., FIG. 3, FIG. 5B, or FIG. 6C), the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360) can support the third area (A3) so that the third area (A3) visually exposed toward the front side or to the outside of the electronic device (101) remains flat. For example, as a portion of the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) forms a substantially flat surface, the third area (A3) visually exposed toward the front side or to the outside of the electronic device (101) can remain flat.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 7b, the third area (A3) may not be visually exposed to the front side of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state.

[0193] According to one embodiment, when the state of the electronic device (101) is a slide-out state (e.g., FIG. 3, FIG. 5B, or FIG. 7B), the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (3601) can support the third area (A3) housed inside the electronic device (101). For example, the third area (A3) may not be visually exposed toward the front side (e.g., in the +Z direction in FIGS. 2, 4, 6b, 6c, 7a, and 7b) of the housing (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2, or the housing (210) of FIG. 4) when the second housing portion (e.g., the second housing portion (202) of FIGS. 2 to 5b) is positioned at a second position (e.g., in FIG. 2b, 5b, or 7b) relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the first housing portion (201) of FIGS. 2 to 5b).

[0194] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B , when the electronic device (101) is in a slide-out state or a slide-in state, the third area (A3) may not be visually exposed to the front side of the electronic device (101) or the housing. The third area (A3) may not have pixel elements. The first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) that can be visually exposed to the front side of the electronic device (101) or the housing may have pixel elements for visually providing a display screen (or a display image) to the user. According to an embodiment, the third area (A3) may include pixel elements, and in such a case, when the pixel elements of the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) are operated, the pixel elements of the third area (A3) may be controlled not to be operated.

[0195] FIG. 8a is a rear view showing a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0196] FIG. 8b is a rear view showing a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0197] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE' of FIG. 8b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0198] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0199] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE' of FIG. 8b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0200] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0201] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0203] The embodiments of FIGS. 8A to 14 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 7B or the embodiments of FIGS. 15 to 24.

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 8A to 14, the support structure (303) (e.g., the support structure (303) of FIGS. 6A to 6C) may include a first lattice plate (310), a second lattice plate (320), a third lattice plate (330), a fourth lattice plate (340), an adhesive member (350), a multi-bar structure (360), or a head (370).

[0205] The configuration of the first lattice plate (310), the second lattice plate (320), the third lattice plate (330), the fourth lattice plate (340), the adhesive member (350), the multi-bar structure (360), or the head (370) of FIGS. 8a to 14 may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the first lattice plate (310), the second lattice plate (320), the third lattice plate (330), the fourth lattice plate (340), the adhesive member (350), the multi-bar structure (360), or the head (370) of FIGS. 6a to 6c.

[0206] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the support structure (303) may include a plurality of regions (303a, 303b, 303c, 303d).

[0207] According to one embodiment, the plurality of regions (303a, 303b, 303c, 303d) may be bonding regions for bonding components of the support structure (303) to each other.

[0208] According to one embodiment, the first bonding region (303a) may be configured to bond a first lattice plate (310) and a first head (371) (e.g., the first head (371) of FIG. 6a), or to bond a multi-bar structure (360) (e.g., the multi-bar structure (360) of FIG. 6a) and a second head (372) (e.g., the second head (372) of FIG. 6a).

[0209] According to one embodiment, the first bonding area (303a) may be a welding area where the first lattice plate (310) and the first head (371) are welded. The first bonding area (303a) may be a welding area where the multi-bar structure (360) and the second head (372) are welded.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the second bonding region (303b) may be configured to bond the fourth lattice plate (340) and the first head (371). The second bonding region (303b) may be a welding region where the fourth lattice plate (340) and the first head (371) are welded.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive region (303b) may be located inside the first adhesive region (303a).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the third bonding region (303c) may include a first buffer member (e.g., the first buffer member (381) of FIG. 6A) that bonds a first portion of the first lattice plate (310) (e.g., the first portion (311) of FIG. 6A) and a second lattice plate (320), a second buffer member (e.g., the second buffer member (382) of FIG. 6A) that bonds the second lattice plate (320) and a third lattice plate (330), and a third buffer member (e.g., the third buffer member (383) of FIG. 6A) that bonds the third lattice plate (330) and a fourth lattice plate (340).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the third adhesive region (303c) may be located inside the second adhesive region (303b).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the fourth bonding region (303d) may include an bonding member (350) that bonds the second portion of the first lattice plate (310) (e.g., the second portion (312) of FIG. 6A) and the multi-bar structure (360).

[0215] According to one embodiment, the fourth adhesive region (303d) may be located inside the first adhesive region (303a).

[0216] Referring to FIG. 9, a second lattice plate (320), a third lattice plate (330), and a fourth lattice plate (340) can be sequentially stacked below (e.g., in the -Z direction) the first part (311) of the first lattice plate (310).

[0217] According to one embodiment, a multi-bar structure (360) may be placed below the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310).

[0218] According to one embodiment, the fourth lattice plate (340) may include a protruding portion (345) that protrudes downward (e.g., in the -Z direction) from at least a portion of the fourth lattice plate (340).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the protruding portion (345) may extend in the width direction of the fourth lattice plate (340) (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 6A). According to one embodiment, the protruding portion (345) may be defined and / or referred to as a bead. The protruding portion (345) may be configured to limit and / or reduce the display assembly (e.g., the display assembly (300) of FIG. 6A) from bending outwardly of the electronic device due to a repulsive force when the state of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 4 to 5B or FIGS. 6B to 6C) is variable.

[0220] Referring to FIG. 10, the first head (371) can be coupled to the fourth lattice plate (340). The second head (372) can be coupled to the multi-bar structure (360).

[0221] According to one embodiment, the first head (371) may include a first body portion (371a), a first extension portion (371b) extending from the first body portion (371a), and a first pole portion (371c) protruding from a portion of the first extension portion (371b).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the first body portion (371a) may be laminated on the first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310). The first coupling portion (341) of the fourth lattice plate (340) may be coupled to the first body portion (371a). The first coupling portion (341) may be formed to protrude from an edge of the fourth lattice plate (340) or may be defined as an edge of the fourth lattice plate (340), but is not limited thereto. The first coupling portion (341) may be welded to the first body portion (371a).

[0223] According to one embodiment, the first extension portion (371b) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first body portion (371a), but is not limited thereto.

[0224] According to one embodiment, the first pole portion (371c) may protrude from the side of the first extension portion (371b), but is not limited thereto. The first pole portion (371c) may be inserted into a slit (e.g., a slit (251) of FIG. 4) of a guide rail (e.g., a guide rail (250) of FIG. 4).

[0225] According to one embodiment, the second head (372) may include a second body portion (372a), a second extension portion (372b) extending from the second body portion (372a), and a second pole portion (372c) protruding from a portion of the second extension portion (372b).

[0226] According to one embodiment, the second body portion (372a) may be laminated to the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310). A second coupling portion (360a) of the multi-bar structure (360) may be coupled to the second body portion (372a). The second coupling portion (360a) may be defined by, but is not limited to, an edge of each bar of the multi-bar structure (360). The second coupling portion (360a) may be welded to the second body portion (372a).

[0227] According to one embodiment, the second extension portion (372b) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the second body portion (372a), but is not limited thereto.

[0228] According to one embodiment, the second pole portion (372c) may protrude from the side of the second extension portion (372b), but is not limited thereto. The second pole portion (372c) may be inserted into a slit (e.g., a slit (251) of FIG. 4) of a guide rail (e.g., a guide rail (250) of FIG. 4).

[0229] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the second lattice plate (320) may be at least partially positioned between the first lattice plate (310) and the third lattice plate (330).

[0230] According to one embodiment, the second lattice plate (320) may be arranged to surround the third lattice plate (330). The second lattice plate (320) may cover an edge of the third lattice plate (330). The second lattice plate (320) may include a cover portion (321) that extends from the edge of the second lattice plate (320) and surrounds an edge (331) of the third lattice plate (330). When the state of the electronic device changes, a repulsive force may be applied to the display assembly (e.g., the display assembly (300) of FIGS. 6A to 6C). Due to the repulsive force, the display assembly may be deformed so that a central portion (e.g., a central portion in the X-axis direction of FIG. 6A, FIG. 11, or FIG. 12) becomes relatively convex with respect to other portions. When the central portion of the first lattice plate (310) and the central portion of the second lattice plate (320) are convexly deformed, as shown in FIG. 12, the length of the second lattice plate (320) in the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIGS. 11 and 12) may be reduced. In this case, the cover portion (321) of the second lattice plate (320) may be caught on the edge (331) of the third lattice plate (330). Accordingly, the reduction in the length of the second lattice plate (320) in the width direction may be limited and / or reduced, and the convexity of the central portion of the second lattice plate (320) may be limited and / or reduced. Accordingly, the convexity of the central portion of the display assembly may be limited, reduced and / or alleviated.

[0231] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the support structure (303) with the fourth lattice plate (340) removed. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the support structure (303) with the fourth lattice plate (340) attached.

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14, a first lattice plate (310) may be welded to a front surface (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIG. 11) of a first body portion (e.g., a first body portion (371a) of FIG. 10) of a first head (371) to form a first bonding area (303a). A fourth lattice plate (340) may be welded to a rear surface (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction in FIG. 11) of the first body portion of the first head (371) to form a fourth bonding area (303d).

[0233] According to one embodiment, the edge of each bar of the multi-bar structure (360) may be welded to the rear of the second body portion (e.g., the second body portion (372a) of FIG. 10) of the second head (372).

[0234] FIG. 15 is a plan view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0235] FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a portion of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0236] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a portion of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0237] The embodiments of FIGS. 15 to 17 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 14, or the embodiments of FIGS. 18 to 24.

[0238] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, the first lattice plate (310) (e.g., the first lattice plate (310) of FIGS. 6A to 14) may include a first pattern (313) (e.g., the first pattern (313) of FIG. 6A).

[0239] The description of the first lattice plate (310) and the first pattern (313) described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17 as examples can be applied and / or understood in the same or similar manner to the second lattice plate (320), the second pattern (323), the third lattice plate (330), the third pattern (333), the fourth lattice plate (340), and the fourth pattern (343) described with reference to FIG. 6a as examples.

[0240] According to one embodiment, the first pattern (313) may include a plurality of holes. The plurality of holes of the first pattern (313) may be spaced apart from each other.

[0241] Referring to FIG. 15, at least one hole of the first pattern (313) of the first lattice plate (310) can form at least a part of an edge (310a) of the first lattice plate (310). At least one hole of the first pattern (313) of the first lattice plate (310) can be spaced apart from the edge (310a) of the first lattice plate (310). Between the edge (310a) of the first lattice plate (310) and the at least one hole, a part (313a) of the first lattice plate (310) can form a side surface of at least one hole. Since at least one hole of the first pattern (313) is surrounded by a part (313a) of the first lattice plate (310), the rigidity of the edge (310a) of the first lattice plate (310) can be improved.

[0242] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, any one hole of the first pattern (313) of the first lattice plate (310) may have a designated length (L1, L2) (e.g., a length in the X-axis direction of FIG. 6a). The designated length (L1, L2) may be defined by a portion (313b) of the first lattice plate (310). For example, both ends of any one hole may be defined by the portion (313b) of the first lattice plate (310). The designated length (L1, L2) may be designed in various ways depending on the thickness of the first lattice plate (310), the material of the first lattice plate (310), or the degree of deformation of the display assembly.

[0243] Taking Fig. 16 as an example, the designated length (L1) of one hole of the first pattern (313) may be about 5.0 mm to about 6.0 mm, but is not limited thereto. The designated length (L1) may be about 5.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0244] Taking Fig. 17 as an example, the designated length (L2) of one hole of the first pattern (313) may be about 7.8 mm to about 9.3 mm, but is not limited thereto. The designated length (L2) may be about 8.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0245] Referring to FIG. 16, any one hole of the first pattern (313) may be spaced apart from another adjacent hole by a specified distance (d) (e.g., the distance in the Y-axis direction of FIG. 6a). The specified distance (d) may be designed in various ways depending on the thickness of the first lattice plate (310), the material of the first lattice plate (310), or the degree of deformation of the display assembly. The specified distance (d) may be about 0.12 mm to about 0.15 mm, but is not limited thereto. The specified distance (d) may be about 0.12 mm to about 0.15 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0246] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a stacking relationship of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0247] The embodiment of FIG. 18 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 17, or the embodiments of FIGS. 19 to 24.

[0248] Referring to FIG. 18, a second lattice plate (320) (e.g., the second lattice plate (320) of FIGS. 6A to 14) may be laminated below (e.g., in the -Z direction) a first lattice plate (310) (e.g., the first lattice plate (310) of FIGS. 6A to 17). The first lattice plate (310) may include a first pattern (313) (e.g., the first pattern (313) of FIG. 6A), and the second lattice plate (320) may include a second pattern (323) (e.g., the second pattern (323) of FIG. 6A).

[0249] The description of the first lattice plate (310) and the second lattice plate (320) described with reference to FIG. 18 as an example can be applied and / or interpreted in the same and / or similar manner to the second lattice plate (320) and the third lattice plate (330), and can be applied and / or interpreted in the same and / or similar manner to the third lattice plate (330) and the fourth lattice plate (340).

[0250] According to one embodiment, the first pattern (313) may include a plurality of holes. The second pattern (323) may include a plurality of holes.

[0251] According to one embodiment, the first pattern (313) may not overlap with the first pattern (313) in the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIG. 18) of the support structure (e.g., the support structure (303) of FIG. 6A). Accordingly, the second display area (e.g., the second display area (A2) of FIGS. 6A to 6C) visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device may be supported flatly. For example, the second display area may be at least partially restricted and / or limited from sagging, as compared to a case where the first pattern (313) and the second pattern (323) overlap, since the first pattern (313) and the second pattern (323) do not overlap.

[0252] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a first buffer member of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0253] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a first buffer member of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0254] The embodiments of FIGS. 19 to 20 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 18, or the embodiments of FIGS. 21 to 24.

[0255] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a first buffer member (3811, 3812) (e.g., the first buffer member (381) of FIG. 6a) may be laminated on a first lattice plate (310) (e.g., the first lattice plate (310) of FIG. 6a).

[0256] Referring to FIG. 19, the first buffer member (3811) may have a shape and / or size corresponding to the first lattice plate (310) so as to completely cover the first lattice plate (310). When the first buffer member (3811) completely covers the first lattice plate (310), the first pattern of the first lattice plate (310) (e.g., the first pattern (313) of FIG. 6A) may not be exposed.

[0257] Referring to FIG. 20, the first buffer member (3812) may have a shape that does not correspond to the first lattice plate (310) and / or a size smaller than the size of the first lattice plate (310) so as to partially cover the first lattice plate (310). The first buffer member (3812) may be laminated only on a portion of the first lattice plate (310) that does not overlap with the first pattern (313).

[0258] The shape, size and / or arrangement position of the buffer members (3811, 3812) described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20 as examples are exemplary, and the buffer members (3811, 3812) are not limited thereto.

[0259] FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a fixing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0260] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0261] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a support structure with a fixed member coupled thereto according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0262] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0263] The embodiments of FIGS. 21 to 24 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 23.

[0264] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 24, the support structure (303) (e.g., the support structure (303) of FIGS. 6A to 14) may further include a block (390).

[0265] According to one embodiment, the block (390) may include a base portion (391), a first insert portion (392), a second insert portion (393), or a third insert portion (394). The block (390) may include, but is not limited to, an elastically deformable material (e.g., rubber).

[0266] According to one embodiment, the base portion (391) may be formed to extend in one direction. The base portion (391) may have a size and / or length that allows the insert portions (392, 393, 394) to be positioned so as to be spaced apart from each other.

[0267] According to one embodiment, the first insertion portion (392) may protrude or extend from one side of the base portion (391). The second insertion portion (393) may protrude or extend from one side of the base portion (391). The third insertion portion (394) may protrude or extend from one side of the base portion (391). The first insertion portion (392) may be positioned between the second insertion portion (393) and the third insertion portion (394).

[0268] According to one embodiment, the block (390) can couple the first head (371) and the second support plate (320).

[0269] According to one embodiment, a third lattice plate (330) (e.g., the third lattice plate (330) of FIG. 6A) disposed between a fourth lattice plate (340) (e.g., the fourth lattice plate (340) of FIG. 6A) and a second lattice plate (320) (e.g., the second lattice plate (320) of FIG. 6A) may include a first receiving portion (337). The first receiving portion (337) may be disposed adjacent to an edge of the third lattice plate (330). The first receiving portion (337) may include a hole or a groove. A second insertion portion (393) of a block (390) may be inserted into the first receiving portion (337).

[0270] According to one embodiment, the first head (371) (e.g., the first head (371) of FIG. 6a) may include a recessed seating portion (376). The seating portion (376) may be formed in a first body portion of the first head (371) (e.g., the first body portion (371a) of FIG. 10).

[0271] According to one embodiment, the first head (371) may include a second receiving portion (377). The second receiving portion (377) may include a hole or groove formed in the seating portion (376). A third insertion portion (394) may be inserted into the second receiving portion (377).

[0272] According to one embodiment, when the block (390) is fastened to the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371), the base portion (391) may be positioned between the second lattice plate (320) and the first head (371). When the block (390) is fastened to the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371), the first insertion portion (392) may be positioned between an edge of the third lattice plate (330) and an edge of the first head (371). For example, the first insertion portion (392) may be positioned between the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371). When the block (390) is fastened to the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371), the second insertion portion (393) can be inserted into the first receiving portion (337), and the third insertion portion (394) can be inserted into the second receiving portion (377).

[0273] When the state of the electronic device is variable, a repulsive force may be applied to the display assembly (e.g., the display assembly (300) of FIGS. 6A to 6C). Due to the repulsive force, the display assembly may be deformed so that the central portion (e.g., the central portion in the X-axis direction of FIG. 6 or FIG. 24) becomes relatively convex with respect to other portions. When the central portion of the first lattice plate (310) and the central portion of the third lattice plate (330) become convex, the length of the third lattice plate (330) may be reduced in the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 24). In this case, as the block (390) is fixed to the first head (371) and the third lattice plate (330), the first receiving portion (337) of the third lattice plate (330) may be caught on the second insertion portion (393) of the block (390). Accordingly, the third lattice plate (330) may be limited and / or reduced in its width direction, and the convexity of the central portion of the third lattice plate (330) may be limited and / or reduced. Accordingly, the convexity of the central portion of the display assembly may be limited, reduced and / or alleviated.

[0274] An electronic device including a rollable display may, when the state of the electronic device changes from a slide-in state to a slide-out state or from a slide-out state to a slide-in state, unfold or roll at least a portion of the rollable display, thereby expanding or contracting the size of the display visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device. The electronic device including a rollable display may include a multi-bar structure including a plurality of bars for supporting a portion of the rollable display that is to be rolled or unfolded. The plurality of bars may be arranged to form a curved surface when the rollable display is rolled. When the plurality of bars are arranged to form a curved surface, the distance between one bar and an adjacent bar may decrease. When the plurality of bars are arranged to form a flat surface, the distance between one bar and an adjacent bar may increase. As the distance between the plurality of bars with respect to each other changes in this way, the plurality of bars may be required to have a minimum distance specified based on the time when they form a flat surface. Due to such gaps, the display visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device may have an uneven surface area of ​​the display, which may result in poor display quality, as the gaps are empty space.

[0275] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device having a display visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device supported by a multi-plate, thereby improving the quality of the display, can be provided.

[0276] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0277] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a flexible display and an electronic device including the same can be provided in which the phenomenon of a central portion of the display becoming convex is improved or alleviated.

[0278] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0279] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a housing (210) including a first housing portion (201) and a second housing portion (202) configured to move relative to the first housing portion (201).

[0280] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a display (301) including a first display area (A1), a second display area (A2), and a third area (A3).

[0281] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible lattice plate (305) arranged to support the second display area (A2) and the third area (A3) of the display (301).

[0282] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a multi-bar structure (360) arranged to support at least a portion of the flexible lattice plate (305) corresponding to the third area (A3) of the display (301).

[0283] According to one embodiment, another portion of the flexible lattice plate (305) supporting the second display area (A2) of the display (301) may be composed of multiple lattice layers.

[0284] According to one embodiment, each of the multiple lattice layers may include a lattice pattern (313, 323, 333, 343) including elongated holes and / or elongated grooves.

[0285] According to one embodiment, the second display area (A2) may extend from the first display area (A1) and be connected to the first display area (A1).

[0286] According to one embodiment, the third area (A3) may extend from the second display area (A2) and be connected to the second display area (A2).

[0287] According to one embodiment, the third area (A3) of the display (301) may be free of pixel elements.

[0288] According to one embodiment, when the second housing portion (202) is positioned at the first position relative to the first housing portion (201), the second display area (A2) of the display (301) corresponding to the multiple lattice layers may not be visually exposed to the front side of the housing (210).

[0289] According to one embodiment, when the second housing portion (202) is positioned at a second position different from the first position with respect to the first housing portion (201), the second display area (A2) of the display (301) corresponding to the multiple lattice layers can be visually exposed toward the front side of the housing (210).

[0290] According to one embodiment, when the second housing portion (202) is positioned at the first position or the second position with respect to the first housing portion (201), the third area (A3) corresponding to the multi-bar structure (360) may not be visually exposed to the front side of the housing (210).

[0291] According to one embodiment, when the second housing portion (202) is positioned at the first position or the second position with respect to the first housing portion (201), the first display area (A1) can be visually exposed toward the front side of the housing (210).

[0292] According to one embodiment, the flexible lattice plate (305) may include a first lattice plate (310) including a first portion (311) arranged to support the second display area (A2) and a second portion (312) arranged to support the third area (A3) and supported by the multi-bar structure (360).

[0293] According to one embodiment, the flexible lattice plate (305) may include a second lattice plate (320) laminated on the first lattice plate (310), a third lattice plate (330) laminated on the second lattice plate (320), and a fourth lattice plate (340) laminated on the third lattice plate (330).

[0294] According to one embodiment, the second lattice plate (320) may include a cover portion (321) that surrounds an edge of the third lattice plate (330).

[0295] According to one embodiment, the first lattice plate (310) may include a first pattern (313) including at least one hole or groove, and the second lattice plate (320) may include a second pattern (323) including at least one hole or groove.

[0296] According to one embodiment, the first pattern (313) may not overlap with the second pattern (323).

[0297] According to one embodiment, the fourth lattice plate (340) includes a protruding portion (345), and the protruding portion (345) may protrude more than other portions of the fourth lattice plate (340).

[0298] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first head (371) coupled to the first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310) and the fourth lattice plate (340).

[0299] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second head (372) coupled to the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360).

[0300] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a block (390) coupled to the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371).

[0301] According to one embodiment, the block (390) may include a first insertion portion (392) inserted between the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371).

[0302] According to one embodiment, the block (390) may include a second insertion portion (393) inserted into a first receiving portion (337) formed in the third lattice plate (330).

[0303] According to one embodiment, the block (390) may include a third insertion portion (394) inserted into a second receiving portion (377) formed in the first head (371).

[0304] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a buffer member (380) disposed between the multiple lattice layers.

[0305] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include an adhesive member (350) disposed between the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360).

[0306] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a housing (210) including a first housing portion (201) and a second housing portion (202) configured to move relative to the first housing portion (201).

[0307] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a display (301) including a first display area (A1) disposed in the second housing portion (202), a second display area (A2) extending from the first display area (A1), and a third area (A3) extending from the second display area (A2).

[0308] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first lattice plate (310) configured to support the second display area (A2) and the third area (A3), a second lattice plate (320) configured to support a first portion (311) of the first lattice plate (310) corresponding to the second display area (A2), a third lattice plate (330) laminated on the second lattice plate (320), and a fourth lattice plate (340) laminated on the third lattice plate (330).

[0309] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a multi-bar structure (360) that supports a second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) corresponding to the third area (A3).

[0310] According to one embodiment, each of the first lattice plate (310), the second lattice plate (320), the third lattice plate (330), and the fourth lattice plate (340) may include a pattern (313, 323, 333, 343) including at least one hole or groove.

[0311] According to one embodiment, the second lattice plate (320) may include a cover portion (321) that surrounds an edge of the third lattice plate (330).

[0312] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include an adhesive member (350) disposed between the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360).

[0313] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first buffer member (381) disposed between the first lattice plate (310) and the second lattice plate (320), a second buffer member (382) disposed between the second lattice plate (320) and the third lattice plate (330), and a third buffer member (383) disposed between the third lattice plate (330) and the fourth lattice plate (340).

[0314] Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), A housing (210) comprising a first housing portion (201) and a second housing portion (202) configured to move relative to the first housing portion (201); A display (301) including a first display area (A1), a second display area (A2), and a third area (A3); A flexible lattice plate (305) arranged to support the second display area (A2) and the third area (A3) of the display (301); and A multi-bar structure (360) is included that is arranged to support at least a portion of the flexible lattice plate (305) corresponding to the third area (A3) of the display (301). An electronic device in which another portion of the flexible lattice plate (305) supporting the second display area (A2) of the display (301) is composed of multiple lattice layers.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device, wherein each of the above multi-lattice layers comprises a lattice pattern (313, 323, 333, 343) including elongated holes and / or elongated grooves.

3. In either of paragraphs 1 and 2, An electronic device having no pixel elements in the third area (A3) of the display (301).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, When the second housing part (202) is positioned at the first position with respect to the first housing part (201), the second display area (A2) of the display (301) corresponding to the multiple lattice layers is not visually exposed to the front side of the housing (210). An electronic device in which the second display area (A2) of the display (301) corresponding to the multiple lattice layers is visually exposed to the front side of the housing (201) when the second housing portion (202) is positioned at a second position different from the first position with respect to the first housing portion (201).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, When the second housing part (202) is positioned at the first position or the second position with respect to the first housing part (201), the third area (A3) corresponding to the multi-bar structure (360) is not visually exposed to the front side of the housing (210). When the second housing part (202) is positioned at the first position or the second position with respect to the first housing part (201), the first display area (A1) is an electronic device visually exposed to the front side of the housing (210).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above flexible lattice plate (305) is A first lattice plate (310) including a first part (311) arranged to support the second display area (A2) and a second part (312) arranged to support the third area (A3) and supported by the multi-bar structure (360); A second lattice plate (320) laminated on the first lattice plate (310); A third lattice plate (330) laminated on the second lattice plate (320); and An electronic device including a fourth lattice plate (340) laminated on the third lattice plate (330).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An electronic device in which the second lattice plate (320) includes a cover portion (321) that surrounds the edge of the third lattice plate (330).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The first lattice plate (310) includes a first pattern (313) including at least one hole or groove, The second lattice plate (320) is an electronic device including a second pattern (323) including at least one hole or groove.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, An electronic device in which the first pattern (313) does not overlap with the second pattern (323).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above fourth lattice plate (340) includes a protruding portion (345), The above protruding portion (345) is an electronic device that protrudes more than other portions of the fourth lattice plate (340).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, A first head (371) coupled to the first part (311) of the first lattice plate (310) and the fourth lattice plate (340); and An electronic device further comprising a second head (372) coupled to the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, An electronic device further comprising a block (390) coupled to the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above block (390) is, A first insertion portion (392) inserted between the third lattice plate (330) and the first head (371); A second insertion portion (393) inserted into the first receiving portion (337) formed on the third lattice plate (330); and An electronic device including a third insertion portion (394) inserted into a second receiving portion (377) formed in the first head (371).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, An electronic device further comprising a buffer member (380) disposed between the multiple lattice layers.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, An electronic device further comprising an adhesive member (350) disposed between the second portion (312) of the first lattice plate (310) and the multi-bar structure (360).

Images