Flexible display and electronic device comprising same

A flexible display system with a multi-bar and chain structure addresses the challenge of expanding screen size in electronic devices, offering enhanced usability and portability through adjustable display configurations.

WO2025159362A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-07-31SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/KR2024/021501
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-02-13
Filing Date
2024-12-30
Publication Date
2025-07-31

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing electronic devices face challenges in providing flexible and expandable display solutions that allow for increased screen size without compromising portability and ease of use.

Method used

A flexible display system with a multi-bar and chain structure that supports a bendable display region, allowing it to expand or retract within a housing, coupled with a guide rail and pivot pins for smooth movement and stability.

Benefits of technology

Enables a flexible display that can adjust its size and shape to maximize visibility while maintaining a compact form factor, enhancing user experience and functionality.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a housing, a flexible display, a multi-bar, a first link or a second link. The flexible display can include a first area, and a second area extending from the first area. The multi-bar can include a first bar, and a second bar spaced apart from the first bar. The multi-bar can support a rear surface of the second area. The first link can be coupled to the first bar so as to be rotatable with respect to a first axis. The second link can be connected to the second bar so as to be rotatable with respect to a second axis. The first link and the second link can be connected to each other so as to be rotatable with respect to a third axis.
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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-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing, a flexible display, a multi-bar, a first link, or a second link. The housing may include a first housing portion and a second housing portion configured to move between a first position and a second position relative to the first housing portion. The flexible display may include a first region and a second region extending from the first region. At least a portion of the second region may be configured to bend based on movement of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion. The multi-bar may include a first bar and a second bar spaced apart from the first bar. The multi-bar may be configured to support a rear surface of the second region. The first link may be rotatably coupled to the first bar about a first axis. The second link may be rotatably coupled to the second bar about a second axis. The first link and the second link may be rotatably connected to each other with respect to a third axis.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing, a flexible display, a multi-bar, a first link, a second link, or a pivot pin. The housing may be configured to move between a first position and a second position relative to the first housing portion. The flexible display may include a first region and a second region extending from the first region. At least a portion of the second region may be configured to bend based on movement of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion. The multi-bar may include a first bar and a second bar spaced apart from the first bar. The multi-bar may be configured to support a rear surface of the second region. The first link may include a first portion or a second portion. The first portion may be rotatably coupled to the first bar. The second portion may extend from the first portion. The second link may include a third portion or a fourth portion. The third portion may be rotatably coupled to the second bar. The fourth portion may extend from the third portion. The pivot pin may be coupled to the second portion of the first link and the fourth portion of the second link. The pivot pin may rotatably connect the first link and the second link with respect to each other.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a display, a multi-bar, or a chain structure. The multi-bar may include a plurality of bars configured to support the display. The chain structure may be connected to the multi-bar. The chain structure may include a plurality of links. The plurality of links may be configured to be inclined relative to each other or aligned in a straight line based on changes in the spacing between the plurality of bars.

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

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which a second area of ​​a display is housed inside an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a state in which a second area of ​​a display is visually exposed to the outside of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6A is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device including a multi-bar and chain structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6b is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device including a multi-bar and chain structure, viewed from a different direction than FIG. 6a, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a multi-bar and chain structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a chain structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8b is a drawing showing a chain structure viewed from a different direction than FIG. 8a, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8c is a drawing showing a chain structure viewed from a different direction than FIGS. 8a and 8b, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a chain structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement relationship of a plurality of bars supporting a portion of a second area forming a plane according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement relationship of a plurality of bars supporting a portion of a second region forming a curved surface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 12a is a perspective view showing a chain structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 12b is a perspective view showing a chain structure viewed from a different direction than FIG. 12a, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a chain structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a guide rail according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 15 is a plan view showing a multi-bar and guide rail according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a multi-bar cut along line CC' of FIG. 15 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a chain structure and a guide rail according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a second cover member and a multi-bar according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] 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.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0034] 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)).

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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).

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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)).

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a second region of a display (e.g., the second region (A2) of FIG. 3) is housed inside an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The second region, which extends from the first region, can be at least partially hidden inside the electronic device in a different plane from the first region.

[0063] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a second region of a display is visually exposed to the outside of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The second region, extending from the first region, can be visually visible, at least partially, to the outside of the electronic device, substantially in the same plane as the first region, based on movement of the second housing portion.

[0064] 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).

[0065] The state illustrated in FIG. 2 may represent a state in which substantially the entire second region is hidden within the electronic device, on a different plane from the first region. 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 region (A2) of the display (203) is closed.

[0066] The state illustrated in FIG. 3 may represent a state in which the second region, which is substantially on the same plane as the first region, has a maximized area visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device. For example, 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 region (A2) of the display (203) is open.

[0067] The embodiments of FIGS. 2 to 3 may be combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1 or the embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 18.

[0068] 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 (201), and the second housing portion (202) may be referred to as a second housing (202).

[0069] 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).

[0070] 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 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 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 part (201) and / or the second housing part (202) to move the second housing part (202) relative to the first housing part (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.

[0071] 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).

[0072] 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).

[0073] 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, 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.

[0074] 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).

[0075] 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 (e.g., the first area (A1)) of the display (203). In one embodiment, the second cover member (221) may be referred to as a front cover.

[0076] 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).

[0077] 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).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) may be configured to move between a first position (e.g., FIG. 2) and a second position (e.g., FIG. 3) relative to the first housing portion (201).

[0079] 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).

[0080] 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.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the display (203) may be configured to change the size of a portion that can be seen from the front side of the housing (210) based on the sliding movement of the second housing portion (202). According to one embodiment, the display (203) may include a first area (A1) and a second 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). The first area (A1) may be defined and / or referred to as the first portion, or the first display area. The second area (A2) may be defined and / or referred to as the second portion, or the second display area. Based on the movement of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (201), at least a portion of the second area (A2) may be configured to be bent.

[0082] 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.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the first area (A1) may be disposed on the second housing portion (202). For example, the first area (A1) may be disposed on the second cover member (221) of the second housing portion (202). According to one embodiment, the second area (A2) may extend from the first 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., in the -Y direction) of the electronic device (101). For example, in the slide-out state of the electronic device (101), the second area (A2) may 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 a slide-in state to a slide-out state, the display (203) may extend in an upward direction (e.g., +Y direction) of the electronic device (101). For example, in the slide-out state of the electronic device (101), the second area (A2) may be visually exposed from above (e.g., +Y direction) of the display (203).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the second region (A2) moves substantially under the guidance of a region of the first housing part (201) (e.g., the guide rail (250) of FIG. 4) and may be accommodated in a space located inside the first housing part (201) or exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the second region (A2) may move based on the sliding movement of the second housing part (202) in the first direction (e.g., the direction indicated by arrow ①). For example, while the second housing part (202) slides, a portion of the second region (A2) may be deformed into a curved shape at a position corresponding to the curved surface (213a) of the first housing part (201).

[0085] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is changed 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 area (A2) may be gradually exposed to the outside of the first housing portion (201) to form substantially the same plane as the first 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 whether the electronic device (101) is in a slide-in or slide-out state, a portion of the exposed second 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 area (A2) may maintain a curved shape at a position corresponding to the curved surface (213a).

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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).

[0088] 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).

[0089] 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 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 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 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 module (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).As another example, a plurality of second camera modules (249b) may be arranged along the slide movement direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101). As another example, a plurality of second camera modules (249b) may be arranged along N * M rows and columns like a matrix.

[0090] 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).

[0091] 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).

[0092] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] 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.

[0096] The embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 5b may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3, or the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 18.

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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).

[0099] 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).

[0100] 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).

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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).

[0104] 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 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., a 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.

[0105] 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).

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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 (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 area (A1) of the display (231) may be supported by a rigid body, and a second area (A2) may be supported by a bendable structure. For example, the first area (A1) may be supported by a first surface (F1) of the second cover member (221) or a plate (not shown). The second area (A2) may be supported by the multi-bar (232).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the multi-bar (232) may be connected or attached to at least a portion (e.g., the second area (A2)) of the display (231). According to one embodiment, as the second housing portion (202) slides, the multi-bar (232) may 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 (232) may be mostly accommodated within 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 (232) may move in response to a curved surface (213a) positioned at the edge of the frame (213). According to one embodiment, the multi-bar (232) may be referred to as a display support member, a support structure, or a multi-bar structure. The multi-bar (232) may include a plurality of bars. According to an embodiment, the multi-bar (232) may be in the form of a single bendable plate.

[0109] 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).

[0110] 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).

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the guide rail (250) can guide the movement of the multi-bar (232). The guide rail (250) can include a first guide rail (250A) and a second guide rail (250B). The first guide rail (250A) can be arranged between the frame (213) and the first-second side wall of the first housing portion (201) (e.g., the first-second side wall (211b) of FIGS. 2 to 3). The second guide rail (250B) can be arranged between the frame (213) and the first-third side wall of the first housing portion (201) (e.g., the first-third side wall (211c) of FIGS. 2 to 3). The configuration of the second guide rail (250B) can be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the first guide rail (250A). The multi-bar (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 part (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) enlarged within the P2 circle is illustrated.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the guide rail (250) can provide force to the multi-bar (232) based on the driving of the actuator (241).

[0119] 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 so as to be visually exposed to the outside from the first housing portion (201) through the actuation of the actuator (241). For example, the gear (244) can rotate in the first rotational direction based on the actuation 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 so as to be visually exposed to the outside from the first housing portion (201) based on the slide movement of the rack (242) toward the slide-out direction.

[0120] 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 (232). The multi-bar (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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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 (232). The multi-bar (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).

[0123] 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).

[0124] 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 accommodated in the first housing portion (201). As the second housing portion (202) is arranged to be accommodated 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 accommodated 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 accommodated in the first housing portion (201), the first 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 area (A2) may be arranged between the battery (289) and the first rear plate (215).

[0125] 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 area (A2) of the display (231) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) together with the first area (A1).

[0126] Hereinafter, the multi-bar (300) supporting the second area of ​​the display and the chain structure (400) connected to the multi-bar (300) will be described with reference to the embodiments of FIGS. 6A to 18 as examples. The multi-bar (300) and the chain structure (400) of FIGS. 6A to 18 are described as structures applicable to an electronic device (101) in which a second housing portion is movable in a linear direction relative to a first housing portion, but are not limited thereto. For example, the multi-bar (300) and the chain structure (400) of FIGS. 6A to 18 may also be applicable to a foldable type electronic device in which a second housing portion is rotatably connected to a first housing portion.

[0127] The embodiments of FIGS. 6A and 6B can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5B, or the embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 18.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, 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 second housing portion (202), a multi-bar (300), a chain structure (400), or a guide rail (500).

[0129] The configuration of the second housing part (202), the display (231), the multi-bar (300), or the guide rail (500) of FIGS. 6A and 6B may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the second housing part (202), the display (231), the multi-bar (232), or the guide rail (250) of FIG. 4.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (202) may include a second cover member (221) (e.g., the second cover member (221) of FIG. 4).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the display (231) may include a first area (A1) (e.g., the first area (A1) of FIG. 4 ), or a second area (A2) extending from the first area (A1) (e.g., the second area (A2) of FIG. 4 ).

[0132] According to one embodiment, when the position of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the first housing portion (201) of FIG. 4) is a first position (e.g., a position in a slide-in state such as FIG. 2 or FIG. 5A) and a second position (e.g., a position in a slide-out state such as FIG. 3 or FIG. 5B), the first area (A1) may be visually visible toward the front side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., in the +Z direction of FIG. 6A). The first area (A1) may be supported by at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., the first surface (F1) of FIG. 4) of the second cover member (221).

[0133] According to one embodiment, when the position of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion is the first position, the second area (A2) can be stored or hidden inside the electronic device (101).

[0134] According to one embodiment, when the position of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion is the second position, at least a portion of the second area (A2) can be visually visible toward the front side of the electronic device (101) and can form a substantially flat surface together with the first area (A1).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the second region (A2) may be configured to be at least partially bent or unfolded based on movement of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion.

[0136] According to one embodiment, at least a portion (A21) of the second region (A2) may have a shape corresponding to a curved surface (e.g., curved surface (213a) of FIG. 4) of a frame (e.g., frame (213) of FIG. 4)) when passing through or being supported by the curved surface of the frame. For example, at least a portion (A21) of the second region (A2) may form a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface.

[0137] According to one embodiment, it may be supported by a multi-bar (300) configured to move while being guided by a guide rail (500). The multi-bar (300) may include a plurality of bars spaced apart from each other. The plurality of bars may have a length (e.g., a length in the X-axis direction of FIG. 6A) corresponding to the width of the second region (A2) (e.g., a width in the X-axis direction of FIG. 6A), but is not limited thereto.

[0138] According to one embodiment, one side of the plurality of bars of the multi-bar (300) (e.g., a portion facing the -X direction in FIG. 6A) may be guided by a first guide rail (500A) (e.g., the first guide rail (500A) in FIG. 4). The other side of the plurality of bars of the multi-bar (300) (e.g., a portion facing the +X direction in FIG. 6B) may be guided by a second guide rail (500B) (e.g., the second guide rail (500B) in FIG. 4).

[0139] According to one embodiment, a chain structure (400) may be connected to a plurality of bars of a multi-bar (300). The chain structure (400) may be coupled to the multi-bar (300). The chain structure (400) may be positioned at least partially between the multi-bar (300) and the guide rail (500).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the chain structure (400) can be configured to bend or unfold at least partially based on a change in the spacing between the plurality of bars of the multi-bar (300) when the spacing between the bars changes.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the chain structure (400) can be at least partially bent or unfolded based on a change in the positions of the plurality of bars of the multi-bar (300), for example, when the relative positions of the plurality of bars with respect to a particular portion of the electronic device (101) change.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the chain structure (400) can be at least partially bent or unfolded based on the movement of the plurality of bars of the multi-bar (300), for example, when the plurality of bars are moved by a sliding motion of the electronic device (101).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the chain structure (400) may be configured to attenuate or disperse an external force applied to the display (231). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0144] The embodiments of FIGS. 7A to 9 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6B or the embodiments of FIGS. 12 to 18.

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 6B) may include a multi-bar (300), a chain structure (400), or a guide rail (500). The configuration of the multi-bar (300) or the guide rail (500) of FIG. 7 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the multi-bar (300) or the guide rail (500) of FIGS. 6A to 6B. The configuration of the chain structure (400) of FIGS. 7 to 9 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the chain structure (400) of FIGS. 6A to 6B.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 7, the multi-bar (300) may include a plurality of bars (301, 302, 301a, 302a).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the plurality of bars (301, 302, 301a, 302a) may be configured to support a second area (e.g., the second area (A2) of FIGS. 6A-6B) of a display (e.g., the display (231) of FIGS. 6A-6B).

[0148] According to one embodiment, some (301, 302) of the plurality of bars (301, 302, 301a, 302a) may be configured to support a portion of a second region forming a plane. The bars (301, 302) configured to support a portion of the second region forming a plane may be arranged or positioned in parallel.

[0149] In one embodiment, some (301a, 302a) of the plurality of bars (301, 302, 301a, 302a) may be configured to support a portion of a second region forming a curved surface. The bars (301a, 302a) configured to support a portion of the second region forming the curved surface may be arranged or positioned in the shape of a curve or a surface.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the first bar (301) may include a first base portion (311) connected or attached to a back surface of the second region. The first base portion (311) may be configured to support the second region. The first bar (301) may include a first pole (321). The first pole (321) may be connected to the first base portion (311) and may be moved along a guide path (501) of a guide rail (500) (e.g., a slit (251) of FIG. 4). The description of the components (311, 321) of the first bar (301) may be applied or understood in the same or similar manner to the remaining bars (302, 301a, 302a).

[0151] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, two adjacent bars among a plurality of bars (301, 302, 301a, 302a) are described as examples, but the explanation thereof can be applied or understood in the same or similar manner to the remaining bars.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the multi-bar (300) may include a first bar (301, 301a) and a second bar (302, 302a) spaced apart from the first bar (301). The second bar (302, 302a) may be the bar that is arranged closest to the first bar (301, 301a).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the first bar (301, 301a) and the second bar (302, 302a) can be connected through a chain structure (400).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) may be spaced apart by a first distance when supporting a portion of the second area (A2) forming a plane.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the first bar (301a) and the second bar (302a) may be spaced apart by a second distance when supporting a portion (e.g., a portion (A21) of the second area (e.g., the second area (A2) of FIGS. 6A and 6B) forming a curved surface. The second distance may be smaller than the first distance. For example, as the multi-bar (300) supports the back surface of the second area (e.g., the second area (A2) of FIGS. 6A and 6B), the second area may be disposed on the outside of the multi-bar (300). When a portion of the second region forms a curved surface, the second gap between the first bar (301a) and the second bar (302a) supporting a portion of the second region (e.g., a portion (A21) of the second region in FIGS. 6A and 6B) may be smaller than the first gap between the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) supporting a portion of the second region when the portion of the second region forms a plane.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the chain structure (400) may be arranged such that a plurality of components are sequentially connected. Based on the change in the spacing between the first bar (301, 301a) and the second bar (302, 302a), some components of the chain structure (400) may be aligned to be inclined relative to each other or aligned to be positioned on a straight line relative to each other.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the chain structure (400) may include a first link (401), a second link (402), or a pivot pin (403).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the first link (401) may include a first opening (411). A first pole (e.g., the first pole (321) of FIG. 7, FIG. 10, or FIG. 11) of a first bar (e.g., the first bar (301) of FIG. 7, FIG. 10, or FIG. 10) may be inserted into the first opening (411). As the first pole is inserted into the first opening (411), the first link (401) may be rotatably connected to the first pole. "The first link (401) being rotatably connected to the first pole" may be defined as "the first link (401) being rotatably connected to the first bar about a first axis (e.g., the first pole)." In some embodiments, the first bar may include a first opening, and a first link (401) including a first pole may be rotatably connected to the first opening of the first bar.

[0159] In one embodiment, the second link (402) may include a second opening (412). A second pole (e.g., the second pole (322) of FIG. 10 or FIG. 11) of a second bar (e.g., the second bar (302) of FIG. 7, FIG. 10, or FIG. 11) may be inserted into the second opening (412). As the second pole is inserted into the second opening (412), the second link (402) may be rotatably connected to the second pole. "The second link (402) is rotatably connected to the second pole" may be defined as "the second link (402) is rotatably connected to the second bar about a second axis (e.g., the second pole). In some embodiments, the second bar may include a second opening, and the second link (402) including the second pole may be rotatably connected to the second opening of the second bar.

[0160] In one embodiment, the pivot pin (403) may be connected to the first link (401) and the second link (402). The first link (401) and the second link (402) may be connected via the pivot pin (403) and may be rotatably connected with respect to each other about the pivot pin (403). "The first link (401) and the second link (402) being rotatably connected with respect to each other about the pivot pin (403)" may be defined as "the first link (401) and the second link (402) being rotatably connected with respect to each other about a third axis (e.g., the pivot pin (403))." The pivot pin (403) may be a separate member from the first link (401) and the second link (402). Depending on the embodiment, the pivot pin (403) may be formed integrally with the first link (401) or may be formed integrally with the second link (402).

[0161] According to one embodiment, an operation in which the first link (401) rotates about a first axis may be defined as a first rotation operation, an operation in which the second link (402) rotates about a second axis may be defined as a second rotation operation, and an operation in which the first link (401) and the second link (402) rotate about a third axis may be defined as a third rotation operation. The first rotation operation, the second rotation operation, and the third rotation operation may be operations that are interlocked with each other. For example, based on the first rotation operation, the second rotation operation, and the third rotation operation, a distance between the first axis and the second axis may change. Additionally, based on the first rotation operation, the second rotation operation, and the third rotation operation, a vertical distance between the third axis and the second area of ​​the display may change.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 8c, the first link (401) may include a first portion (401a) and a second portion (401b). The second portion (401b) may be formed integrally with the first portion (401a), but is not limited thereto and may be manufactured as a separate member and assembled with the first portion (401a). The second portion (401b) may be disposed to be stepped relative to the first portion (401a). The first opening (411) may be formed in the first portion (401a).

[0163] In one embodiment, the second link (402) may include a third portion (402a) and a fourth portion (402b). The fourth portion (402b) may be formed integrally with the third portion (402a), but is not limited thereto and may be manufactured as a separate member and assembled with the third portion (402a). The fourth portion (402b) may be disposed to be stepped relative to the third portion (402a). The second opening (412) may be formed in the third portion (402a).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the second portion (401b) of the first link (401) may at least partially overlap with the fourth portion (402b) of the second link (402). The second portion (401b) may face the fourth portion (402b). A pivot pin (403) may be coupled to the second portion (401b) and the fourth portion (402b).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the first portion (401a) of the first link (401) may be positioned on the same plane as, but is not limited to, the fourth portion (402b) of the second link (402). The second portion (401b) of the first link (401) may be positioned on the same plane as, but is not limited to, the third portion (402b) of the second link (402).

[0166] Referring to FIG. 9, the chain structure (400) may include a first link (401), a second link (402) rotatably connected to the first link (401), a first link (401') rotatably connected to the second link (402), or a second link (402') rotatably connected to the first link (401'). For example, the chain structure (400) may have a configuration relationship in which the first links (401, 401') and the second links (402, 402') are repeatedly and alternately arranged.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the first link (401) and the second link (402) may be rotatably connected via a pivot pin (403). For example, the chain structure (400) may include a third opening (404) formed by overlapping an opening formed in a second portion of the first link (401) (e.g., the second portion (401b) of FIG. 8C) and an opening formed in a fourth portion of the second link (402) (e.g., the fourth portion (402b) of FIG. 8C). A pivot pin (403) may be inserted into the third opening (404).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the pivot pin (403) may include a pin (431), a first cover (432), or a second cover (433). The pin (431) may be inserted into the third opening (404). The first cover (432) may be formed at one end of the pin (431). The diameter or size of the first cover (432) may be larger than the diameter or size of the third opening (404) to prevent the pivot pin (403) from being dislodged or separated from the third opening (404). The first cover (432) may face the fourth portion (402b) of the second link (402). The second cover (433) may be formed at the other end of the pin (431). The diameter or size of the second cover (433) may be larger than the diameter or size of the third opening (404) to prevent the pivot pin (403) from being dislodged or separated from the third opening (430). The second cover (433) may face the second portion (401b) of the first link (401). The pivot pin (403) may include a rivet, and the first cover (432) or the second cover (433) may be formed through a post-process (e.g., a hammer process) while the pin (431) of the pivot pin (403) is inserted into the third opening (404), but is not limited thereto.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the third portion (402a) of the second link (402) may overlap with the first portion of the first link (401'). The chain structure (400) may include a fourth opening (405) formed by overlapping the second opening formed in the third portion (402a) of the second link (402) and the first opening formed in the first portion of the first link (401'). A pole of one bar of the multi-bar may be inserted into the fourth opening (405).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the first portion (401a) of the first link (401) may be positioned substantially coplanar with, but is not limited to, the fourth portion (402b) of the second link (402). The second portion (401b) of the first link (401) may be positioned substantially coplanar with, but is not limited to, the third portion (402a) of the second link (402).

[0171] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 8, or the embodiments of FIGS. 12a to 18.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 6B) may include a multi-bar (300), a chain structure (400), or a guide rail (500).

[0173] The configuration of the multi-bar (300) or chain structure (400) of FIGS. 10 and 11 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the multi-bar (300) or chain structure (400) of FIGS. 6A to 9. The configuration of the guide rail (500) of FIGS. 10 and 11 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the guide rail (500) of FIGS. 6A to 6B.

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the multi-bar (300) may include a first bar (301), a second bar (302), or a third bar (303). The second bar (302) may be positioned between the first bar (301) and the third bar (303).

[0175] According to one embodiment, the first bar (301) may include a first base portion (311) (e.g., the first base portion (311) of FIG. 7) or a first pole (321) (e.g., the first pole (321) of FIG. 7). The description of the first base portion (311) described with reference to FIG. 7 as an example may be applied and / or similarly applied to the second base portion (312) of the second bar (302) or the third base portion (313) of the third bar (303). The description of the first pole (321) described with reference to FIG. 7 as an example may be applied and / or similarly applied to the second pole (322) of the second bar (302) or the third pole (323) of the third bar (303).

[0176] Referring to FIG. 10, when a part of a second area of ​​a display (e.g., the second area (A2) of FIGS. 6A to 6B) forms a plane, bars (301, 302, 303) supporting at least a part of the second area are illustrated. Referring to FIG. 11, when a part of a second area of ​​a display (e.g., the second area (A2) of FIGS. 6A to 6B) forms a curved surface (e.g., a part (A21) of the second area of ​​FIGS. 6A and 6B) are illustrated, bars (301, 302, 303) supporting a part of the second area are illustrated.

[0177] Referring to FIG. 10, when a part of the second area of ​​the display forms a plane, the first pole (321) of the first bar (301) and the second pole (322) of the second bar (302) can be spaced apart by a first gap (L1).

[0178] In one embodiment, the first link (401) may be rotatably connected to the first pole (321) and may be positioned or aligned substantially in a straight line with the second link (402). For example, the angle formed by the first link (401) and the second link (402) may be substantially 180 degrees.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 11, when a portion of the second area of ​​the display forms a curved surface, the first pole (321) of the first bar (301) and the second pole (322) of the second bar (302) may be spaced apart by a second gap (L2). The second gap (L2) may be smaller than the first gap (L1).

[0180] According to one embodiment, when a part of the second area of ​​the display forms a curved surface, the spacing between bars of the multi-bar (300) corresponding to the curved surface may be smaller than the spacing between bars of the multi-bar (300) corresponding to the plane when a part of the second area of ​​the display forms a plane.

[0181] In one embodiment, as the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) become relatively closer, the gap between the first pole (321) and the second pole (322) may become closer. The first link (401) may be rotatably connected to the first pole (321), the second link (402) may be rotatably connected to the second pole (322), and the first link (401) and the second link (402) may be rotatably connected via a pivot pin (403). The first link (401) and the second link (402) may be arranged or aligned to be inclined with respect to each other, thereby responding to the relatively closer gap between the first pole (321) and the second pole (322).

[0182] In one embodiment, as the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) become relatively closer, the degree of inclination of the first link (401) and the second link (402) may increase. In one embodiment, as the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) become relatively farther apart, the degree of inclination of the first link (401) and the second link (402) may decrease, or the first link (401) and the second link (402) may be arranged substantially in a straight line.

[0183] According to one embodiment, when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are arranged to be inclined, the angle formed by the first link (401) and the second link (402) may be less than 180 degrees. When the first link (401) and the second link (402) are arranged to be inclined, the vertical distance between the pivot pin (403) and the second region may be closer than the vertical distance between the pivot pin (403) and the second region when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are arranged in a straight line. In some embodiments, when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are arranged to be inclined, the vertical distance between the pivot pin (403) and the second region (e.g., vertical distances V2 and V3 in FIG. 11) may be longer than the vertical distance between the pivot pin (403) and the second region (e.g., vertical distance V1 in FIG. 10) when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are arranged in a straight line. When the first link (401) and the second link (402) are inclined to have a first angle, the vertical distance between the pivot pin (403) and the second region (e.g., the vertical distance (V3) in FIG. 11) may be greater than the vertical distance between the pivot pin (403) and the second region (e.g., the vertical distance (V2) in FIG. 11) when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are inclined to have a second angle that is smaller than the first angle.

[0184] According to one embodiment, when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are inclined to have a first angle, a vertical distance (e.g., vertical distance (H3) in FIG. 11) between an imaginary line passing through the centers of the first pole (321) and the second pole (322) and the pivot pin (403) may be smaller than a vertical distance (e.g., vertical distance (H2) in FIG. 11) between an imaginary line passing through the centers of the first pole (321) and the second pole (322) and the pivot pin (403) when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are inclined to have a second angle smaller than the first angle.

[0185] In one embodiment, "the first link (401) and the second link (402) are rotated so that the pivot pin (403) approaches the second region" may be defined as the first link (401) and the second link (402) being rotated or tilted in a positive direction with respect to the multi-bar (300). "the first link (401) and the second link (402) are rotated so that the pivot pin (403) moves away from the second region" may be defined as the first link (401) and the second link (402) being rotated or tilted in a reverse direction with respect to the multi-bar (300). The electronic device may include a guide portion (e.g., the first guide portion (504) of FIG. 16) that adjusts the rotational or tilting state of the chain structure (400) so that a portion of the second region exposed to the front side of the electronic device remains flat. The electronic device may include a guide portion (e.g., the second guide portion (506) of FIG. 16) that adjusts the rotation or tilting state of the chain structure (400) so that a part of the second area accommodated inside the electronic device forms a smooth curved surface.

[0186] The embodiments of FIGS. 12a and 12b can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 11, or the embodiments of FIGS. 13 to 18.

[0187] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, the chain structure (400) (e.g., the chain structure (400) of FIGS. 6A to 11) may include a first link (401), a second link (402), or a pivot pin (403).

[0188] The configuration of the first link (401), the second link (402), or the pivot pin (403) of FIGS. 12a and 12b may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the first link (401), the second link (402), or the pivot pin (403) of FIGS. 8a to 11.

[0189] According to one embodiment, the first link (401) may include a first portion (401a), a second portion (401b), or a first stopper (401c). The second link (402) may include a third portion (402a), a fourth portion (402b), or a second stopper (402c). The first stopper (401c) may be formed on the second portion (401b), but is not limited thereto. The second stopper (402c) may be formed on the fourth portion (402b), but is not limited thereto.

[0190] In one embodiment, the first stopper (401c) and the second stopper (402c) may be configured to limit the rotational direction of the first link (401) and the second link (402). For example, when the pivot pin (403) is close to the second region and the first link (401) and the second link (402) are arranged to be inclined, the first stopper (401c) and the second stopper (402c) may be spaced apart from each other. For example, when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are arranged on a straight line, the first stopper (401c) and the second stopper (402c) may be arranged to face each other or be adjacent to each other. When the pivot pin (403) is positioned away from the second region and the first link (401) and the second link (402) are inclined, the first stopper (401c) and the second stopper (402c) come into contact and the rotational direction of the first link (401) and the second link (402) can be restricted. For example, when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are aligned in a straight line, the first stopper (401c) and the second stopper (402c) may allow the first link (401) and the second link (402) to rotate in a forward direction, but may not allow the first link (401) and the second link (402) to rotate in a reverse direction. For example, when the first link (401) and the second link (402) are aligned in a straight line, the first stopper (401c) and the second stopper (402c) can allow the first link (401) to rotate counterclockwise with respect to the pivot pin (403), and can allow the second link (402) to rotate clockwise. The chain structure (400) can control, guide, or limit the direction and angle of rotation of the first link (401) and the second link (402) through the first stopper (401c) and the second stopper (402c).

[0191] The embodiment of FIG. 13 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 12b, or the embodiments of FIGS. 14 to 18.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 13, the chain structure (400) (e.g., the chain structure (400) of FIGS. 6A to 12B) may include a first link (4011), a second link (4021), or a pivot pin (4031).

[0193] The configuration of the first link (4011), the second link (4021), or the pivot pin (4031) of FIG. 13 may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the first link (401), the second link (402), or the pivot pin (403) of FIGS. 8A to 12B.

[0194] In one embodiment, the first link (4011) may include a first opening (4111) rotatably coupled to a first pole of the first bar. The second link (4021) may include a second opening (4121) rotatably coupled to a second pole of the second bar.

[0195] According to one embodiment, the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) may be rotatably connected via a pivot pin (4031).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the first link (4011) may include a stopper (4012). The stopper (4012) may be formed to protrude from a portion of the first link (4011), but is not limited thereto.

[0197] In one embodiment, the stopper (4012) may be configured to limit the rotational direction of the first link (4011) and the second link (4021). For example, when the pivot pin (4031) is close to the second region and the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) are arranged at an angle, the stopper (4012) may allow the end portion (4021a, 4021b) of the second link (4021) to rotate about the pivot pin (4031). For example, when the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) are arranged on a straight line, the stopper (4012) may be arranged to face or be adjacent to the end portion (4021a, 4021b) of the second link (4021). When the pivot pin (4031) is positioned away from the second region and the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) are inclined, the stopper (4012) comes into contact with the end portion (4021a, 4021b) of the second link (4021), and the rotational direction of the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) can be restricted. A portion (4021a) of the end portion (4021a, 4021b) of the second link (4021) can include a planar plane, and the remaining portion (4021b) of the end portion (4021, 4021b) of the second link (4021) can include a curved surface. Since the second link (4021) includes a plane and a curved surface, when the plane (4021a) of the second link (4021) faces the stopper (4012), the second link (4021) may be rotated in one direction (e.g., clockwise in FIG. 13) with respect to the first link (4011) and may not be rotated in another direction (e.g., counterclockwise in FIG. 13) with respect to the second link (4011). For example, when the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) are aligned in a straight line, the stopper (4012) may allow the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) to be rotated in a forward direction, but may not allow the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) to be rotated in a reverse direction.For example, when the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) are aligned in a straight line, the stopper (4012) can allow the first link (4011) to rotate counterclockwise about the pivot pin (4031) and can allow the second link (4021) to rotate clockwise. The chain structure (400) can control, guide, or limit the direction and angle of rotation of the first link (4011) and the second link (4021) through the stopper (4012).

[0198] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 17, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 6b) may include a multi-bar (300), a chain structure (400), or a guide rail (500).

[0199] The configuration of the multi-bar (300) or chain structure (400) of FIGS. 14 to 17 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the multi-bar (300) or chain structure (400) of FIGS. 6a to 13. The configuration of the guide rail (500) of FIGS. 14 to 17 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the guide rail (500) of FIGS. 6a to 6b.

[0200] Referring to FIG. 14, the guide rail (500) may include an inner portion (502) (e.g., the inner portion (252) of FIG. 4), an outer portion (503) (e.g., the outer portion (253) of FIG. 4), or a guide path (501) (e.g., the slit (251) of FIG. 4).

[0201] In one embodiment, the guide path (501) may include a slit, an opening, a groove, or a recess formed in the guide rail (500). The guide path (501) may be configured to guide the movement of at least a portion of the multi-bar (300) (e.g., the poles (321, 322, 323) of FIGS. 10 to 11). The multi-bar (300) may be moved along the guide path (501). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the multi-bar (300) (e.g., the poles (321, 322, 323) of FIGS. 10 to 11) may be at least partially mounted in or accommodated in the guide path (501).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the guide path (501) may include a first path (5011), a second path (5012), or a third path (5013).

[0203] According to one embodiment, the poles (e.g., poles (321, 322, 333) of FIGS. 10-11) of a "multi-bar configured to support a second region (e.g., a second region (A2) of FIGS. 6A-6B) of a display (e.g., a display (231) of FIGS. 6A-6B)" can move along a guide path (501). For example, any one pole can pass through the guide path (501) in the order of a third path (5013), a second path (5012), and a first path (5011) when the second housing portion moves from a first position to a second position relative to the first housing portion. For example, one pole may pass through the guide path (501) in the order of a first path (5011), a second path (5012), and a third path (5013) when the second housing portion moves from a second position to a first position relative to the first housing portion. In one embodiment, the first path (5011) and the third path (5013) may be straight paths. The second path (5012) may be a curved path.

[0204] According to one embodiment, a portion of the second region may be moved from a state stored inside the electronic device to a state exposed toward the front side of the electronic device. Alternatively, a portion of the second region may be moved from a state exposed toward the front side of the electronic device to a state stored inside the electronic device. A portion of the second region exposed toward the front side of the electronic device may be supported by bars of a multi-bar (300) arranged in a first path (5011). A portion of the second region stored inside the electronic device may be supported by bars of a multi-bar (300) arranged in a third path (5013). A portion of the second region forming a curved surface may be supported by bars of a multi-bar (300) arranged in a second path (5012).

[0205] According to one embodiment, the guide rail (500) may include a first guide portion (504) extending along a first path (501) or a third guide portion (505) extending along a third path (5013). The first guide portion (504) and the third guide portion (504) may guide a portion of the chain structure (400) to be arranged substantially in a straight line. A detailed description thereof will be provided below.

[0206] Referring to FIG. 15, one side of the bars of the multi-bar (300) (e.g., a portion facing the -X direction of FIG. 15) may be connected to a first guide rail (500A) (e.g., the first guide rail (500A) of FIG. 6a), and the other side of the bars of the multi-bar (300) (e.g., a portion facing the +X direction of FIG. 15) may be connected to a second guide rail (500B) (e.g., the second guide rail (500B) of FIG. 6a).

[0207] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a multi-bar cut along line CC' of FIG. 15 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0208] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, some of the bars of the multi-bar (300) may be positioned on a first path (e.g., the first path (5011) of FIG. 14). The bars positioned on the first path may be arranged in parallel. The links of the chain structure (400) corresponding to the bars positioned on the first path may be arranged in a straight line.

[0209] In one embodiment, some of the bars of the multi-bar (300) may be positioned on a second path (e.g., the second path (5012) of FIG. 14). The bars positioned on the second path may be arranged to form a curve. The links of the chain structure (400) corresponding to the bars positioned on the second path may be arranged to be inclined with respect to each other.

[0210] Although not shown, some of the bars of the multi-bar (300) may be positioned on a third path (e.g., the third path (5013) of FIG. 14). The bars positioned on the third path may be arranged in parallel. The links of the chain structure (400) corresponding to the bars positioned on the third path may be arranged in a straight line.

[0211] In one embodiment, as the spacing between bars located in the second path is formed smaller than the spacing between bars located in the first path, the links corresponding to the bars located in the second path may be arranged at an angle relative to each other and correspond to a decreasing spacing. As the spacing between bars located in the first path is formed larger than the spacing between bars located in the second path, the links corresponding to the bars located in the first path may be arranged in a straight line and correspond to an increasing spacing.

[0212] According to one embodiment, when the links corresponding to the bars located in the second path are arranged to be inclined with respect to each other, a portion (400A) of the links may contact a first base portion (311) of a first bar (301) of the multi-bar (300). Accordingly, the degree of inclination or rotation of the portion (400A) of the links may be limited. The first bar (301) of the multi-bar (300) may include a groove (316) for adjusting the degree of inclination or rotation of the portion (400A) of the links. The groove (316) may be formed in the first base portion (311) of the first bar (301). The second bar (302) adjacent to the first bar (301) of the multi-bar (300) may also include a groove (326) formed in the second base portion (312).

[0213] According to one embodiment, when a portion (400A) of the links comes into contact with the first base portion (311) or the groove (316), the links may be deformed to become more inclined, or the first bar (301) and the second bar may be restricted from coming closer together.

[0214] In one embodiment, the chain structure (400) may be configured to reduce or limit external forces applied to the display. For example, when an external impact is applied to the electronic device, a portion of the second region exposed to the outside of the electronic device may be subjected to force in a direction toward being retracted into the inside of the electronic device. In such a case, when a portion of the second region of the display enters the second path, the portion of the second region may be deformed into a curved surface in a short period of time, and excessive stress may be applied. The chain structure (400) may be connected to bars of the multi-bar (300) to disperse the stress or external force applied to a portion of the second region.

[0215] According to one embodiment, the first guide portion (504) may protrude (e.g., in the +X direction of FIG. 16) from the inner surface of the guide rail (500) (e.g., the surface facing the frame (213) of FIG. 4) toward the frame. The first guide portion (504) may extend along the first path. The first guide portion (504) may guide the links of the chain structure (400) entering the first path from the second path to be deformed into a straight line. Accordingly, as the bars of the multi-bar (300) supporting a portion of the second region exposed to the front side of the electronic device are arranged in parallel, a portion of the second region may be maintained in a flat state. In addition, the first guide portion (504) may restrict the links of the chain structure (400) from rotating in a forward direction or the links of the chain structure (400) from tilting, thereby allowing a portion of the second region to be maintained in a flat state even when an external impact is applied.

[0216] According to one embodiment, the third guide portion (505) may protrude from the inner surface of the guide rail (500) (e.g., the surface facing the frame (213) of FIG. 4). The third guide portion (505) may extend along the third path. The third guide portion (505) may guide the links of the chain structure (400) entering the third path from the second path to be deformed into a straight line.

[0217] According to one embodiment, the guide rail (500) may include a second guide portion (506) and a fourth guide portion (507). The second guide portion (506) may be formed in a first path (e.g., the first path (5011) of FIG. 14) among the guide paths (501). The fourth guide portion (507) may be formed in a third path (e.g., the third path (5013) of FIG. 14) among the guide paths (501). The second guide portion (506) may protrude from at least a portion of a side surface defining the first path. The fourth guide portion (507) may protrude from at least a portion of a side surface defining the third path.

[0218] According to one embodiment, the second guide portion (506) can induce a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the second path from the first path (e.g., the first path (5011) of FIG. 14) to tilt with respect to one another. For example, the second guide portion (506) can include a first inclined surface (5061) that induces a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the second path from the first path to be transformed from a straight line to an inclined shape with respect to one another. The first inclined surface (5061) can induce the chain structure (400) entering the second path from the first path to rotate or tilt in a positive direction. Accordingly, when the second region or multi-bar (300) is transformed from a flat surface to a curved surface, the second guide portion (506) can assist the second region or multi-bar (300) to move smoothly on the second path. The first inclined surface (5061) can be inclined relative to the direction in which the second housing portion moves relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the Y-axis direction in FIG. 17).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the second guide portion (506) can induce a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the first path from the second path (e.g., the second path (5012) of FIG. 14) to be deformed into a straight line shape. For example, the second guide portion (506) can include a second inclined surface (5062) that induces a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the first path from the second path to be deformed from a shape inclined with respect to each other into a straight line shape. The second inclined surface (5062) can be inclined with respect to a direction in which the second housing portion moves with respect to the first housing portion (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 17).

[0220] According to one embodiment, the inclined direction of the first inclined surface (5061) may be different from the inclined direction of the second inclined surface (5062).

[0221] According to one embodiment, the fourth guide portion (507) can induce a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the second path from the third path (e.g., the third path (5013) of FIG. 14) to tilt with respect to one another. For example, the fourth guide portion (507) can include a third inclined surface (5071) that induces a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the second path from the third path to be transformed from a straight line to an inclined shape with respect to one another. The third inclined surface (5071) can induce the chain structure (400) entering the second path from the third path to rotate or tilt in a positive direction. Accordingly, when the second region or the multi-bar (300) is transformed from a flat surface to a curved surface, the fourth guide portion (507) can assist the second region or the multi-bar (300) to move smoothly on the second path. The third inclined surface (5071) can be inclined relative to the direction in which the second housing portion moves relative to the first housing portion (e.g., the Y-axis direction in FIG. 17).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the fourth guide portion (507) can induce a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the third path from the second path (e.g., the second path (5012) of FIG. 14) to be deformed into a straight line. For example, the fourth guide portion (507) can include a fourth inclined surface (5072) that induces a portion of the chain structure (400) entering the third path from the second path to be deformed from a shape inclined with respect to each other into a straight line. The fourth inclined surface (5072) can be inclined with respect to a direction in which the second housing portion moves with respect to the first housing portion (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 17).

[0223] In one embodiment, the inclined direction of the third inclined surface (5071) may be different from the inclined direction of the fourth inclined surface (5072).

[0224] Referring to FIG. 18, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 6B) may include a second cover member (221), a multi-bar (300), or a chain structure (400).

[0225] The embodiment of FIG. 18 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 17.

[0226] The configuration of the second cover member (221) of Fig. 18 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the second cover member (221) of Figs. 6a and 6b. The configuration of the multi-bar (300) or chain structure (400) of Fig. 18 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the multi-bar (300) or chain structure (400) of Figs. 6a to 17.

[0227] According to one embodiment, the multi-bar (300) may include a plurality of bars. The plurality of bars may have substantially the same or similar shapes or structures.

[0228] According to one embodiment, the bar (304) adjacent to the first side (F1) of the second cover member (221) (e.g., the first side (F1) of FIG. 4) may include a base portion (314), a pole (324), an extension portion (334), or a side wall portion (344). The configurations of the remaining bars may be substantially the same as those of the bar (304).

[0229] According to one embodiment, the extension portion (334) may extend from the base portion (314). A pole (324) may be formed in the extension portion (334). The pole (324) may protrude from the extension portion (334) and may have a pin shape. The side wall portion (344) may cover or surround an edge (e.g., an edge facing the X-axis direction in FIGS. 6A to 6B) of a second area (e.g., the second area (A2) in FIGS. 6A to 6B) of a display (e.g., the display (231) in FIGS. 6A to 6B).

[0230] According to one embodiment, the bar (304) may be connected to the second cover member (221) via a connecting link (450) of the chain structure (400). One end of the connecting link (450) may be rotatably connected to a protruding portion (2211) formed on the second cover member (221). The other end of the connecting link (450) may be rotatably connected to a pole (324) of the bar (304).

[0231] According to one embodiment, a cover portion (2211a) may be formed by performing a post-process (e.g., hammering process) on the protruding portion (2211) while one end of the connecting link (450) is inserted into the protruding portion (2211). The cover portion (2211a) may have a diameter larger than the opening formed in one end of the connecting link (450). Accordingly, the connecting link (450) inserted into the protruding portion (2211) may be restricted and / or reduced from being separated from the protruding portion (2211).

[0232] Electronic devices, including displays, may face limitations in implementing screens larger than the size of the electronic device due to the fixed display structure. Therefore, electronic devices incorporating rollable displays are being studied.

[0233] An electronic device including a rollable display may have an area of ​​the display area of ​​the display and / or a portion of the electronic device that may expand or contract when a sliding motion is implemented. The rollable display may have at least one portion that may bend or unfold based on the sliding motion of the electronic device.

[0234] The deformable part of the rollable display may be subject to excessive stress or external force because it requires rapid deformation when a large impact is applied to the electronic device.

[0235] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a multi-bar supporting a deformable portion of a flexible display and an electronic device including the same can be provided.

[0236] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device including a chain structure capable of dispersing and / or reducing an external force or stress applied to a deformable portion of a flexible display can be provided.

[0237] 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.

[0238] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device including a multi-bar and chain structure capable of dispersing and / or reducing stress applied to a flexible display when a momentary force is applied to the flexible display can be provided.

[0239] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device including a chain structure whose shape is deformed based on a change in the spacing between a plurality of bars of a multi-bar can be provided.

[0240] 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.

[0241] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a housing (210), a flexible display (231), a multi-bar (300), a first link (401), or a second link (402). The housing (210) may include a first housing portion (201) and a second housing portion (202) configured to move between a first position and a second position relative to the first housing portion (201). The flexible display (231) may include a first area (A1) and a second area (A2) extending from the first area (A1). At least a portion of the second area (A2) may be configured to bend based on movement of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (201). The multi-bar (300) may include a first bar (301) and a second bar (302) spaced apart from the first bar (301). The multi-bar (300) may be configured to support the back surface of the second area (A2). The first link (401) may be rotatably coupled to the first bar (301) with respect to a first axis. The second link (402) may be rotatably connected to the second bar (302) with respect to a second axis. The first link (401) and the second link (402) may be rotatably connected to each other with respect to a third axis.

[0242] According to one embodiment, when a portion of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a plane, the first link (401) and the second link (402) can be aligned on a straight line. When a portion of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a curved surface, the first link (401) and the second link (402) can be aligned to be inclined with respect to each other.

[0243] According to one embodiment, the first axis may be defined by a first pole (321) included in the first bar (301). The second axis may be defined by a second pole (322) included in the second bar (302).

[0244] In one embodiment, the third axis may be spaced apart from the first axis and the second axis. The third axis may be defined by a pivot pin (403) that rotatably connects the first link (401) and the second link (402) with respect to each other.

[0245] According to one embodiment, when the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart by a first distance, the vertical distance between the third axis and the second region (A2) may be greater than the vertical distance between the third axis and the second region (A2) when the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart by a second distance that is smaller than the first distance.

[0246] According to one embodiment, when a portion of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a plane, the first axis and the second axis may be spaced apart by the first interval. When a portion of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a curved surface, the first axis and the second axis may be spaced apart by the second interval.

[0247] According to one embodiment, the first link (401) may include a first portion (401a) rotatably connected to the first axis, and a second portion (401b) extending from the first portion (401a). The second link (402) may include a third portion (402a) rotatably connected to the second axis, and a fourth portion (402b) extending from the third portion (402a). The second portion (401b) and the fourth portion (402b) may be rotatably connected to the third axis.

[0248] According to one embodiment, the second portion (401b) may be arranged to be stepped relative to the first portion (401a). The fourth portion (402b) may be arranged to be stepped relative to the third portion (402a).

[0249] According to one embodiment, the fourth portion (402b) may overlap with the second portion (401b).

[0250] According to one embodiment, the first portion (401a) may be positioned on the same plane as the fourth portion (402b). The second portion (401b) may be positioned on the same plane as the third portion (402a).

[0251] According to one embodiment, the first link (401) may include a stopper (401c, 4013) configured to limit the direction in which the second link (402) rotates with respect to the first link (401).

[0252] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a guide rail (500) configured to guide movement of the multi-bar (300).

[0253] According to one embodiment, the guide rail (500) may include a first guide portion (504) or a second guide portion (506). The first guide portion (504) may be configured to guide the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) to be aligned along a straight line. The second guide portion (506) may be configured to guide the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) to be inclined with respect to each other.

[0254] According to one embodiment, the first link (401) and the second link (402) may be configured to distribute stress applied to the second area (A2).

[0255] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first bar (301) or the second bar (302) may include a recessed groove (316).

[0256] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a housing (210), a flexible display (231), a multi-bar (300), a first link (401), a second link (402), or a pivot pin (403). The housing (210) may be configured to have a first housing portion (201) and to move between a first position and a second position relative to the first housing portion (201). The flexible display (231) may include a first area (A1) and a second area (A2) extending from the first area (A1). At least a portion of the second area (A2) may be configured to bend based on movement of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (201). The multi-bar (300) may include a first bar (301) and a second bar (302) spaced apart from the first bar (301). The multi-bar (300) may be configured to support the back surface of the second area (A2). The first link (401) may include a first portion (401a) or a second portion (401b). The first portion (401a) may be rotatably coupled to the first bar (301). The second portion (401b) may extend from the first portion (401a). The second link (402) may include a third portion (402a) or a fourth portion (402b). The third portion (402a) may be rotatably coupled to the second bar (302). The fourth portion (402b) may extend from the third portion (402a). The pivot pin (403) may be coupled to the second portion (401b) of the first link (401) and the fourth portion (402b) of the second link (402). The pivot pin (403) may rotatably connect the first link (401) and the second link (402) with respect to each other.

[0257] According to one embodiment, the second portion (401b) may be arranged to be stepped relative to the first portion (401a). The fourth portion (402b) may be arranged to be stepped relative to the third portion (402a).

[0258] According to one embodiment, the fourth portion (402b) may overlap with the second portion (401b).

[0259] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a display (231), a multi-bar (300), or a chain structure (400). The multi-bar (300) may include a plurality of bars (301, 302) configured to support the display (231). The chain structure (400) may be connected to the multi-bar (300). The chain structure (400) may include a plurality of links (401, 402). The plurality of links (401, 402) may be configured to be inclined with respect to each other or aligned in a straight line based on changes in the spacing between the plurality of bars (301, 302).

[0260] According to one embodiment, the multi-bar (300) may be configured to support the back surface of a portion (A2) of the display (231) that is configured to be bent or unfolded.

[0261] 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 between a first position and a second position relative to the first housing portion (201); A flexible display (231) comprising a first area (A1) and a second area (A2) extending from the first area (A1), wherein at least a portion of the second area (A2) is configured to be bent based on movement of the second housing portion (202) relative to the first housing portion (201); A multi-bar (300) comprising a first bar (301) and a second bar (302) spaced apart from the first bar (301), and configured to support the back surface of the second area (A2); A first link (401) rotatably coupled to the first bar (301) with respect to the first axis; and A second link (402) is included that is rotatably connected to the second bar (302) based on the second axis, The first link (401) and the second link (402) are an electronic device that are rotatably connected to each other with respect to a third axis.

2. In paragraph 1, When a part of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a plane, the first link (401) and the second link (402) are aligned on a straight line, An electronic device in which the first link (401) and the second link (402) are aligned to be inclined with respect to each other when a portion of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a curved surface.

3. In either of paragraphs 1 and 2, The above first axis is defined by the first pole (321) included in the first bar (301), The second axis is an electronic device defined by a second pole (322) included in the second bar (302).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An electronic device wherein the third axis is defined by a pivot pin (403) that is spaced apart from the first axis and the second axis and rotatably connects the first link (401) and the second link (402) with respect to each other.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, An electronic device in which a vertical distance between the third axis and the second region (A2) when the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart by a first interval is greater than a vertical distance between the third axis and the second region (A2) when the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart by a second interval that is smaller than the first interval.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, When a part of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a plane, the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart by the first interval, An electronic device in which the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart by the second interval when a portion of the second area (A2) supported by the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) forms a curved surface.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above first link (401) is, It comprises a first part (401a) rotatably connected to the first axis, and a second part (401b) extending from the first part (401a), The above second link (402) is, It includes a third part (402a) rotatably connected to the second axis, and a fourth part (402b) extending from the third part (402a), The second part (401b) and the fourth part (402b) are electronic devices rotatably connected to the third axis.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The second part (401b) is disposed to be stepped relative to the first part (401a), The above fourth part (402b) is an electronic device arranged to be stepped relative to the above third part (402a).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The fourth part (402b) is an electronic device overlapping with the second part (401b).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The first part (401a) is positioned on the same plane as the fourth part (402b), The second part (401b) is an electronic device positioned on the same plane as the third part (402a).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, An electronic device in which the first link (401) includes a stopper (401c, 4013) configured to limit the direction in which the second link (402) rotates with respect to the first link (401).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, An electronic device further comprising a guide rail (500) configured to guide movement of the multi-bar (300).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above guide rail (500) is A first guide portion (504) configured to guide the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) to be aligned in a straight line; and An electronic device comprising a second guide portion (506) configured to guide the first bar (301) and the second bar (302) to be inclined with respect to each other.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The first link (401) and the second link (402) are an electronic device configured to distribute stress applied to the second area (A2).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, An electronic device, wherein at least one of the first bar (301) or the second bar (302) includes a recessed groove (316).

Citation Information

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