Electronic device comprising connection member

Abstract

Disclosed in the present document is an electronic device comprising: a flexible display which is disposed in a housing and of which the visible area varies according to the sliding movement of a portion of the housing; a belt for connecting the movements of the flexible display; and a connection member for connecting the belt and the outermost layer of the flexible display, wherein the outermost layer of the flexible display is formed to surround at least a portion of the connection member.

Description

Electronic device including a connecting member

[0001] One embodiment of the present document relates to an electronic device including a connecting member.

[0002] Portable electronic devices such as smartphones can offer a variety of functions, including calling, based on a variety of applications. During this process, the device can display a screen corresponding to each function. Users may desire a wider screen to utilize these various functions. However, enlarging the display for screen display in typical portable electronic devices increases the overall size, potentially reducing portability. Accordingly, electronic devices that can increase screen size while maintaining portability are being developed.

[0003] An electronic device (or a portable electronic device, a portable communication device, or a portable electronic device having a communication function) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a housing (210, 220) forming at least one side of the electronic device; a flexible display (230) having a display panel (610) and a protective film (820) disposed outside the display panel (610), the display area of ​​which varies depending on the sliding movement of a portion of the housing (210, 220); a connecting member (710) disposed at one end of the display panel (610) and at least a portion of which is fixed to the protective film (820); and a belt (520) including one end (521) fixed to the connecting member (710) and the other end (522) fixed to the inside of the housing, wherein the protective film (820) extends beyond the display panel (610) and can wrap at least a portion of the connecting member (710).

[0004] An electronic device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first housing (210); a second housing (220) movably disposed with respect to the first housing (210); a flexible display (230) having a display panel (610) and a protective film (820) disposed outside the display panel (610), the display area of ​​which varies depending on the movement of the second housing (220); a connecting member disposed at one end of the display panel (610) and at least a portion of which is fixed to the protective film (820); and a belt including one end fixed to the connecting member (710) and the other end fixed to the interior of the housing, wherein the protective film (820) may be formed to extend beyond the display panel (610) and to have a portion bent in an area corresponding to the connecting member (710).

[0005] An electronic device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a housing (210, 220) forming at least one side of the electronic device; a flexible display (230) having a display panel (610) and a protective film (820) disposed outside the display panel (610), the display area of ​​which varies depending on sliding movement of a portion of the housing (210, 220); a connecting member (710) disposed at one end of the display panel (610) and at least a portion of which is fixed to the protective film (820); and a belt (520) including one end (521) fixed to the connecting member (710) and the other end (522) fixed to the inside of the housing, wherein the protective film (820) may extend beyond the display panel (610) toward the connecting member (710).

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device capable of performing the operations described herein.

[0007] FIG. 2a is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state, FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state, FIG. 2c is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state, and FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0008] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0009] Fig. 4a is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Fig. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0010] FIG. 5A is a rear view of an electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment including a belt assembly, viewed from one direction, and FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view showing the electronic device according to one embodiment taken along the line “A-A’” in FIG. 5A.

[0011] FIG. 6A is a rear view of an electronic device in a second state according to one embodiment including a belt assembly, viewed from one direction, and FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view showing the electronic device according to one embodiment taken along the line “B-B’” in FIG. 6A.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a connecting member included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a protective film included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 9A is a drawing showing an electronic device including a protective film combined with a connecting member according to one embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a drawing showing the electronic device taken along line “C-C’” in FIG. 9A.

[0015] FIG. 10A is a perspective view for explaining a fastening relationship of a support member and a connecting member of an electronic device according to one embodiment, FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken along line "D1-D1' in FIG. 10A, FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional view taken along line "D2-D2' in FIG. 10A, and FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view taken along line "D3-D3' in FIG. 10A.

[0016] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the connection relationship between a belt assembly and a connecting member of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an electronic device taken along line “E-E’” in FIG. 11.

[0018] FIG. 13 is a detailed drawing of a belt assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 14 is a drawing for explaining the behavior of an electronic device in response to an external impact in one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a protective film and a connecting member of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 16 is a drawing taken along the line “F-F’” in Figure 15.

[0022] FIG. 17 is a drawing for explaining a bonding process of a protective film and a connecting member of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line “G-G’” in Fig. 17.

[0024] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a state before coupling between a flexible display and a connecting member of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a state of coupling between a flexible display and a connecting member according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing a rigid member fixed to a protective film of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 22 is a drawing showing an electronic device including a rigid member according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIGS. 23A and 23B are drawings showing an electronic device according to one embodiment including an elastic member.

[0029] FIGS. 24A and 24B are drawings illustrating an electronic device including an elastic member according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIGS. 25A to 25G are drawings for explaining an assembly process of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0031] Hereinafter, various embodiments of this document are described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0032] One embodiment of the present invention described below provides an electronic device including a flexible display, a belt for linking the movement of the flexible display, and a connecting member connecting the belt and an outermost layer of the flexible display.

[0033] Other intended purposes according to various embodiments of the present invention will be mentioned as needed in the process of describing each embodiment.

[0034] An electronic device according to one embodiment may include a connecting member connected to an outermost layer (e.g., a protective film) of a flexible display, and a belt may pull the outermost layer through the connecting member.

[0035] An electronic device according to one embodiment may increase the binding force between layers within a flexible display by applying a binding force to a vulnerable layer (e.g., a flexible display) where delamination of the flexible display may occur.

[0036] An electronic device according to one embodiment can reduce or prevent the occurrence of defects in a flexible display that may occur when subjected to an external impact (e.g., a drop impact) by applying a restraining force in the opposite direction in which the display panel is to be opened.

[0037] An electronic device according to one embodiment can form a smooth screen while enabling a smooth and soft sliding motion, thereby expanding the screen in a sliding manner.

[0038] In addition, various purposes and effects provided by electronic devices according to various embodiments may be mentioned according to the embodiments of the detailed description.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device (100) capable of performing the operations described in this document.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device (100) may be one of various forms of electronic devices, such as a notebook (190), smartphones (191) having various form factors (e.g., a bar-type smartphone (191-1), a foldable-type smartphone (191-2), or a sliderable (or rollable) type smartphone (191-3)), a tablet (192), a cellular phone (not shown), a wearable-type device (193), and other similar computing devices (not shown). The components, their relationships, and their functions illustrated in FIG. 1 are exemplary only and do not limit the implementations described or claimed in this document. The electronic device (100) may be referred to as a mobile device, a user device, a multi-function device, a portable device, or a server.

[0041] The electronic device (100) may include components including at least one processor (110) (hereinafter referred to as processor (110)), at least one memory (120) (hereinafter referred to as memory (120)), at least one display (140) (hereinafter referred to as display (140)), at least one image sensor (150) (hereinafter referred to as image sensor (150)), at least one communication circuit (160) (hereinafter referred to as communication circuit (160)), and / or at least one sensor (170) (hereinafter referred to as sensor (170)). The above components are merely exemplary. For example, the electronic device (100) may include other components (e.g., power management integrated circuitry (PMIC), audio processing circuitry, an antenna, a rechargeable battery, or an input / output interface). For example, some components may be omitted from the electronic device (100). For example, some components may be integrated into one component.

[0042] The processor (110) may be implemented as one or more IC (integrated circuit (or circuitry)) chips and may perform various data processing. The processor (110) may include at least one electrical circuit and may individually or collectively perform distributed processing of instructions (or programs, data, etc.) stored in the memory (120). The processor (110) may include a processor assembly including one or more processing circuits. The processor (110) may include any processing circuit operative to control the performance and operations of one or more components (e.g., the memory (120), the display (140), the image sensor (150), the communication circuit (160), and / or the sensor (170)) of the electronic device (100). For example, the processor (110) (e.g., the application processor (AP)) may be implemented as a system on chip (SoC) (e.g., a single chip or a chipset). For example, the processor (110) may be implemented with multiple cores (or at least one core circuit), multiple chips, or multiple chipsets. For example, the processor (110) may include one or more processing circuits. For example, the processor (110) may include one or more processing circuits configured to individually and / or collectively perform various functions of the present disclosure. As a non-limiting example, at least a portion of the processor (110) may be included in a first chip of the electronic device (100), and at least another portion of the processor (110) may be included in a second chip of the electronic device (100) that is different from the first chip of the electronic device (100).

[0043] For example, the processor (110) may include a central processing unit (CPU) (111), a graphics processing unit (GPU) (112), a neural processing unit (NPU) (113), an image signal processor (ISP) (114), a display controller (115), a memory controller (116), a storage controller (117), a communication processor (CP) (118), and / or a sensor interface (119). These components of the processor (110) are merely exemplary. For example, the processor (110) may further include other components. For example, some components of the processor (110) may be omitted from the processor (110). For example, some components of the processor (110) may be included as separate components of the electronic device (100) outside the processor (110). For example, some components of the processor (110) (e.g., memory controller (116)) may be included within other components (e.g., at least a portion of memory (120), an interface (e.g., available for connection to at least one component of the electronic device (100)), a display (140) and / or an image sensor (150)).

[0044] The processor (110) may cause other components of the electronic device (100) to perform various operations by executing instructions stored in the memory (120). The CPU (111) (or central processing circuit) may be configured to control components of the processor (110) based on the execution of instructions stored in the memory (120) (e.g., volatile memory (121) and / or non-volatile memory (122)). The GPU (112) (or graphics processing circuit) may be configured to execute parallel operations (e.g., rendering). The NPU (113) (or neural processing circuit, or artificial intelligence (AI) chip) may be configured to execute operations for an artificial intelligence model (e.g., convolution computation). The ISP (114) (or image signal processing circuit) may be configured to process a raw image acquired through the image sensor (150) into a format suitable for a component within the electronic device (100) or a component of the processor (110). The display controller (115) (or display control circuit, or display processing unit (DPU)) may be configured to process an image acquired from the CPU (111), the GPU (112), the ISP (114), or the memory (120) (e.g., the volatile memory (121)) into a format suitable for the display (140). The memory controller (116) (or memory control circuit) may be configured to control reading data from the volatile memory (121) and writing data to the volatile memory (121). The storage controller (117) (or storage control circuit) may be configured to control reading data from the nonvolatile memory (122) and writing data to the nonvolatile memory (122).The CP (118) (communication processing circuit) may be configured to process data acquired from a component of the processor (110) into a format suitable for transmission to another electronic device via the communication circuit (160), or to process data acquired from another electronic device via the communication circuit (160) into a format suitable for processing by the component of the processor (110). For example, the communication circuit (160) may include one or more communication circuits. The sensor interface (119) (or sensing data processing circuit, sensor hub) may be configured to process data about the state of the electronic device (100) and / or the state of the surroundings of the electronic device (100), acquired via the sensor (170), into a format suitable for the component of the processor (110).

[0045] The memory (120) may include one or more storage media (or one or more storage devices). For example, the memory (120) may include a memory assembly including one or more storage media. For example, the one or more storage media may include permanent memory (e.g., non-volatile memory (122)) such as a hard drive, flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), semi-permanent memory (e.g., volatile memory (121)) such as random access memory (RAM), any other suitable type of storage (or storage assembly), or any combination thereof. The memory (120) may include cache memory, which is one or more different types of memory used to temporarily store data for a function or feature of the electronic device (100). As a non-limiting example, the cache memory may be included within the processor (110). The memory (120) may be fixedly embedded within the electronic device (100) or incorporated into one or more suitable types of components (e.g., a subscriber identity module (SIM) card and / or a secure digital (SD) card) that may be repeatedly inserted into and removed from the electronic device (100).

[0046] For example, the memory (120) may store one or more software applications, such as an operating system (or system) software application, a firmware software application, a driver software application, a plug-in (e.g., add-in, add-on, and / or applet) software application, and / or any other suitable software applications. For example, the one or more software applications may include instructions executable by the processor (110). For example, the memory (120) may store instructions callable by an application programming interface (API). For example, the memory (120) may store instructions within a library.

[0047] The display (140) may be flexible. For example, the display (140) may include a display area that provides at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (100) and is visually exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (100). For example, since the display (140) has flexibility, at least a portion of the display (140) may be rollable into the housing or slidable into the housing. For example, the size of the display area may change depending on the size of the at least a portion of the display (140) that is rolled into the housing or slid into the housing. For example, the electronic device (100) including the display (140) may be in a plurality of states, including a first state that provides the display area having a first size and a second state that provides the display area having a second size different from the first size. For example, the first state can be exemplified through the descriptions of FIGS. 2a and 2b, and the second state can be exemplified through the descriptions of FIGS. 2c and 2d.

[0048] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device (100) in a first state.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2A, the electronic device (100) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) movable relative to the first housing (210) in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis or a second direction (262) parallel to the y-axis and opposite to the first direction (261), and a flexible display (230) (e.g., the display (140) of FIG. 1). Although the second housing (220) is described as being movable relative to the first housing (210), the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first housing (210) may be movable relative to the second housing (220). For example, depending on a change in the relative positional relationship between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), the size of the display area of ​​the flexible display (230) visually exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (100) may be changed.

[0050] For example, within the first state, the second housing (220) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) in a first direction (261) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, within the first state, the second housing (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing (210) in the second direction (262).

[0051] For example, within the first state, the flexible display (230) can provide a display area having the smallest size. For example, within the first state, the display area can correspond to the first region (230a). For example, although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, within the first state, an area of ​​the flexible display (230) other than the first region (230a), which is the display area, (e.g., the second region (230b) of FIG. 2C) can be arranged within the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the second region (230b) can be covered by the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the second region (230b) can be moved into the first housing (210). For example, at least a portion of the second region (230b) can be rolled into the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the first region (230a) may include a planar portion. For example, within the first state, a portion of the second region (230b) may include a curved portion. However, this is not limited thereto. For example, the first region (230a) may also include a curved portion extending from the planar portion within the first state.

[0052] For example, the first state may be referred to as a slide-in state in that at least a portion of the second housing (220) is positioned within the first housing (210) as the second housing (220) slides toward the first housing (210). For example, the first state may be referred to as a reduced state in that it provides the display area having the smallest size, but is not limited thereto.

[0053] For example, the second housing (220) may include a front camera (250-1) that obtains visual information through a portion of the first region (230a) and faces a third direction (263) parallel to the z-axis. For example, although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, the second housing (220) may include one or more rear cameras (e.g., rear cameras (250-2) of FIG. 2B) that are visually exposed through a portion of the second housing (220) and face a fourth direction (264) parallel to the z-axis and opposite to the third direction (263). For example, the one or more rear cameras (250-2) may be exemplified through the description of FIG. 2B.

[0054] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 2B, within the first state, one or more rear cameras (250-2) disposed within the second housing (220) may be positioned within a structure disposed within the first housing (210) for the one or more rear cameras (250-2). For example, since the one or more rear cameras (250-2) are positioned within the structure within the first state, the one or more rear cameras (250-2) may be visually exposed through the structure within the first state. The one or more rear cameras (250-2) may obtain visual information through the structure. For example, the structure may be implemented in various ways. For example, the structure may be an opening or a notch. For example, the structure may be an opening (212a) within a first plate (212) of the first housing (210) that surrounds at least a portion of the second housing (220). However, it is not limited to this.

[0056] Referring again to FIG. 1, the first state can be changed to the second state.

[0057] For example, the first state (or the second state) can be changed to the second state (or the first state) through one or more intermediate states between the first state and the second state.

[0058] For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) based on a defined user input. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input to a physical button visually exposed through a portion of the first housing (210) or a portion of the second housing (220). There is no limitation on the type of the user input. For example, the user input may include a user input through a touch screen within a display area of ​​the flexible display (230) or a user input through a microphone of the electronic device (100). For example, the state of the electronic device (100) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) by an external force applied to the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0059] The second state can be illustrated through the description of FIGS. 2c and 2d.

[0060] FIG. 2c is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device (100) in a second state.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2C, within the second state, the second housing (220) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) in the second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, within the second state, the second housing (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing (210) in the first direction (261).

[0062] For example, within the second state, the flexible display (230) may provide the display area having the largest size. For example, within the second state, the display area may correspond to an area (230c) including a first area (230a) and a second area (230b). For example, the second area (230b), which was included within the first housing (210) within the first state, may be visually exposed within the second state. For example, within the second state, the first area (230a) and the second area (230b) may include a flat portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first area (230a) and / or the second area (230b) may also include a curved portion extending from the flat portion and positioned within the edge portion.

[0063] For example, the second state may be referred to as a slide-out state in that at least a portion of the second housing (220) is positioned outside the first housing (210) according to the second housing (220) sliding from the first housing (210). For example, the second state may be referred to as an expanded state in that it provides the display area having the largest size. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0064] For example, the front camera (250-1) facing the third direction (263) may move together with the first region (230a) according to the movement of the second housing (220) in the first direction (261) when the state of the electronic device (100) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, although not shown in FIG. 2c, one or more rear cameras facing the fourth direction (264) (e.g., the rear cameras (250-2) of FIG. 2d) may move together with the second housing (220) according to the movement of the second housing (220) in the first direction (261) when the state of the electronic device (100) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, the relative positional relationship between one or more rear cameras (250-2) and the structure illustrated in the description of FIG. 2B may change according to the movement of one or more rear cameras (250-2). For example, the change in the relative positional relationship may be illustrated in FIG. 2D.

[0065] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device (100) in a second state.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 2D, within the second state, one or more rear cameras (250-2) may be positioned outside the structure. For example, within the second state, one or more rear cameras (250-2) may be positioned outside the opening (212a) in the first plate (212). For example, since one or more rear cameras (250-2) are positioned outside the opening (212a) within the second state, one or more rear cameras (250-2) may be visually exposed within the second state. One or more rear cameras (250-2) positioned outside the structure may acquire visual information. For example, since one or more rear cameras (250-2) are positioned outside the structure within the second state, the relative positional relationship between the one or more rear cameras (250-2) and the structure (e.g., the opening (212a)) within the second state may be different from the relative positional relationship between the one or more rear cameras (250-2) and the structure (e.g., the opening (212a)) within the first state (e.g., FIG. 2b).

[0067] Although not shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the electronic device (100) may be in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state. For example, the size of the display area in the intermediate state may be larger than the size of the display area in the first state and smaller than the size of the display area in the second state. For example, the display area in the intermediate state may correspond to an area including a portion of the first region (230a) and the second region (230b). For example, in the intermediate state, a portion of the second region (230b) may be visually exposed, and another portion (or a remaining portion) of the second region (230b) may be covered by the first housing (210) or moved into the first housing (210). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0068] The electronic device (100) may include structures for moving a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d) of the electronic device (100) relative to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d) of the electronic device (100). For example, the structures may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 3a and 3b.

[0069] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (100) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a flexible display (230), and a sliding driving unit (360).

[0071] For example, the first housing (210) may include a first cover (311), a first plate (212), and a frame (313).

[0072] For example, the first cover (311) may at least partially form a side portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (100). For example, the first cover (311) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the first cover (311) may include an opening (311a) for one or more rear cameras (250-2). For example, the first cover (311) may include a surface that supports the first plate (212). For example, the first cover (311) may be coupled with the first plate (212). For example, the first cover (311) may provide a space in which the frame (313) is mounted. For example, the first cover (311) may be coupled with the frame (313).

[0073] For example, the first plate (212) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the first plate (212) may include an opening (212a) for one or more rear cameras (250-2). For example, the first plate (212) may be disposed on the surface of the first cover (311). For example, the opening (212a) may be aligned with the opening (311a).

[0074] For example, the frame (313) may be at least partially surrounded by the first cover (311).

[0075] For example, the frame (313) can be at least partially wrapped by the flexible display (230). For example, although the frame (313) is at least partially wrapped by the flexible display (230), the position of the frame (313) can be maintained independently of the movement of the flexible display (230). For example, the frame (313) can be arranged with respect to at least some of the components of the flexible display (230). For example, the frame (313) can include rails (313a) that provide (or guide) a path of movement of at least one component of the flexible display (230).

[0076] For example, the frame (313) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (100). For example, the frame (313) may support a rechargeable battery (319). For example, the battery (319) may be supported through a recess or hole in a surface (313b) of the frame (313). For example, the frame (313) may secure one end of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (325) on the surface of the frame (313). One end of the FPCB (325) may be electrically connected to the motor (361). For example, although not explicitly shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , the other end of the FPCB (325) may be connected to the PCB (324) through at least one connector. For example, the PCB (324) may be electrically connected to another PCB (not shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b) that supplies power to the motor (361) via the FPCB (325).

[0077] For example, the frame (313) can be combined with at least one structure of the electronic device (100) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the frame (313) can fasten the motor (361) of the sliding drive unit (360).

[0078] For example, the second housing (220) may be movably engaged with the first housing (210). The second housing (220) may include a second cover (321) and a second plate (322).

[0079] For example, the second cover (321) may be at least partially wrapped by the flexible display (230). For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled to at least a portion of the first region (230a) of the flexible display (230) that wraps the second cover (321), unlike the frame (313), such that the flexible display (230) moves along with the second housing (220) as it moves relative to the first housing (210).

[0080] For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (100). For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled with a printed circuit board (PCB) (324) including components of the electronic device (100). For example, the PCB (324) may include a processor (110) (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, the second cover (321) may include one or more rear cameras (250-2).

[0081] For example, the second cover (321) can be combined with at least one structure of the electronic device (100) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the second cover (321) can fix the rack gear (363) (or linear gear) of the sliding drive unit (360).

[0082] For example, the motor (361) of the sliding drive unit (360) can be fixed to the second cover (321), and the rack gear (363) of the sliding drive unit (360) can be fixed to the frame (313).

[0083] For example, the second cover (321) can be combined with the second plate (322).

[0084] For example, the second plate (322) may be coupled with the second cover (321) to protect at least one component of the electronic device (100) coupled within the second cover (321) and / or at least one structure of the electronic device (100) coupled within the second cover (321). For example, the second plate (322) may include a structure for the at least one component. For example, the second plate (322) may include one or more openings (327, 328) for one or more rear cameras (250-2). For example, the one or more openings (327, 328) may be aligned with one or more rear cameras (250-2) disposed on the second cover (321). For example, the size of each of the one or more openings (327, 328) may correspond to the size of each of the one or more rear cameras (250-2).

[0085] For example, the flexible display (230) may include a support member (331). For example, the support member (331) may include a plurality of bars. For example, the plurality of bars may be coupled to each other. The support member (331) may support a second region (230b) of the flexible display (230).

[0086] For example, the sliding drive unit (360) may include a motor (361), a pinion gear (362) (or a circular gear), and a rack gear (363).

[0087] For example, the motor (361) may operate based on power from the battery (319). For example, the power may be provided to the motor (361) in response to the user input defined above.

[0088] For example, the pinion gear (362) can be coupled to the motor (361) via a shaft. For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated based on the motion of the motor (361) transmitted via the shaft.

[0089] For example, the rack gear (363) can be arranged in relation to the pinion gear (362). For example, teeth of the rack gear (363) can mesh with teeth of the pinion gear (362). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362). For example, the second housing (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) by the rack gear (363) that is moved according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362) due to the operation of the motor (361). For example, the first state of the electronic device (100) can be changed to a state different from the first state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the second state) through the movement of the second housing (220) in the first direction (261). For example, the second state of the electronic device (100) can be changed to a state different from the second state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the first state) through the movement of the second housing (220) in the second direction (262). For example, the change of the first state to the second state by the sliding driving unit (360) and the change of the second state to the first state by the sliding driving unit (360) can be exemplified through FIGS. 4A and 4B.

[0090] Fig. 4a is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Fig. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on defined user input received within the first state (490). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the first rotational direction (411) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the first rotational direction (411). For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing (220) secures the rack gear (363), the second housing (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled to at least a portion of the first region (230a) of the flexible display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the flexible display (230) can be moved in the first direction (261) at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, the flexible display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a) of FIG. 3B. For example, as the support member (331) is moved in the first direction (261) along the rails (313a), the flexible display (230) supported by the support member (331) can be moved in the first direction (261). For example, the shape of at least some of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the flexible display (230) may be changed when the first state (490) is changed to the second state (495).

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

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

[0094] The motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the defined user input received within the second state (495). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the second rotational direction (412) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the second rotational direction (412). For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing (220) secures the rack gear (363), the second housing (220) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled to at least a portion of the first region (230a) of the flexible display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the flexible display (230) can be moved at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). As the support member (331) is moved along the rails (313a) in the second direction (262), the flexible display (230) supported by the support member (331) can be moved in the second direction (262). For example, the flexible display (230) can be moved along the rails (e.g., the rails (313a) of FIG. 3B). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the flexible display (230) may be changed when the second state (495) is changed to the first state (490). The support member (331) may be moved with respect to the first housing (210). In the first state (490), the support member (331) housed inside the first housing (210) may be positioned between the first cover (311) and the frame (313).The flexible display (230) can be moved relative to the first housing (210) according to the movement of the support member (331).

[0095] For example, the second region (230b) of the flexible display (230) can be moved according to the movement of the flexible display (230). For example, the second region (230b) can be moved through the space between the first cover (311) and the frame (313) when the second state (495) is changed to the first state (490) according to the user input defined above. For example, the second region (230b) in the first state (490) can be rolled into the space, unlike the second region (230b) that is visually exposed in the second state (495).

[0096] For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the second state (495) is changed to the first state (490).

[0097] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B illustrate an electronic device (100) in which the height of the display area is changed and the width of the display area is maintained when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode, but this is for convenience of explanation. For example, the electronic device (100) may be implemented such that the height of the display area is maintained and the width of the display area is changed when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode.

[0098] FIG. 5A is a rear view of an electronic device in a first state according to an embodiment including a belt assembly, viewed from one direction. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view showing the electronic device in a second state according to an embodiment including a belt assembly, viewed from one direction. FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view showing the electronic device in a second state according to an embodiment including a belt assembly, viewed from one direction. FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, FIG. 6A, and FIG. 6B may be drawings of an electronic device according to an embodiment in which a portion of a first housing (e.g., a first plate) is omitted.

[0099] The electronic device (500) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B may be at least partially similar to at least one of the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 2A to 2D, the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 3A and 3B, and the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or may include other embodiments of the electronic device. The electronic device (500) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B is the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiment of any one of FIGS. 1 to 4B, and the same reference numerals in the drawings are given or omitted, and a detailed description thereof is also omitted.

[0100] The electronic device (500) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a sliding driving unit (360), a flexible display (230), a printed circuit board (324), a battery (319), and a belt assembly (510) (or a belt driving unit, a wrapping connector driving gear, a tension device), and a connecting member (710) (or a bracket, a link, a bridge).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the printed circuit board (324), the pinion gear (362) of the sliding drive unit (360), and the motor (361) may be disposed on the second cover (321) of the second housing (220). The battery (319) may be disposed on the frame (313) of the first housing (210). The battery (319), the flexible display (230), and the motor (361) of the sliding drive unit (360) may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (324) through an electrical connecting member such as an FPCB (e.g., the FPCB (325) of FIGS. 4A and 4B).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may vary in size (or area) of a visible area forming the front surface of the electronic device (500) in response to the sliding movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210). The flexible display (230) may increase or decrease in size of an area visually visible from the outside of the electronic device (500) based on the sliding movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210). The flexible display (230) may be formed as a multi-layered structure by overlapping a plurality of layers. The flexible display (230) may include at least a portion of a protective film (820), a display panel (610), and a support sheet (or lattice plate) (630).

[0103] The protective film (820) may be positioned outside the display panel (610). For example, the protective film (820) may be an outermost layer disposed at the outermost edge of the flexible display (230) so as to be visually visible on the outside of the electronic device (500). The protective film (820) may be disposed on the display panel (610). The protective film (820) may be formed to extend beyond at least one of the display panel (610) and the support sheet (630). One end of the protective film (820) facing the connecting member (710) may be formed to extend toward the connecting member (710) beyond at least one of the display panel (610) and the support sheet (630).

[0104] The display panel (610) is connected to one side (e.g., the back side) of the protective film (820) and can output a screen. The display panel (610) can be placed between the support sheet (630) and the protective film (820).

[0105] The support sheet (630) may be positioned inside the display panel (610). For example, the support sheet (630) may be an innermost layer disposed at the innermost side of the flexible display (230). The support sheet (630) may be connected to one side (e.g., the back side) of the display panel (610) and may support the display panel (610). The support sheet (630) may include a lattice structure in which at least a portion includes a slit.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the belt assembly (510) can smoothly transmit motion or force between the driving elements associated with the sliding of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210), thereby enabling smooth and seamless sliding. At least one belt assembly (510) can reduce the stress on the driving elements by smoothly and smoothly sliding the electronic device (500), thereby reducing or preventing damage thereto. At least one belt assembly (510) can reduce the phenomenon of a portion of the flexible display (230) being lifted due to the elasticity of the flexible display (230) in the second state of the electronic device (500), while allowing the flexible display (230) to be placed substantially flat.

[0107] According to one embodiment, one or more belt assemblies (510) may be provided. The belt assemblies (510) may be positioned between the flexible display (230) and the second cover (321) of the second housing (220).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the belt assembly (510) may include a belt (520) and a pulley member (or roller apparatus or rolling member) (530) corresponding to the belt (520).

[0109] The belt (520) may be positioned between the housing (210, 220) and the connecting member (710). The pulley member (530) may be positioned inside the second housing (220) corresponding to the belt (520). The belt (520) may include one end (or, first end) (521) positioned at one end of the belt (520) and the other end (or, second end) (522) positioned at the other end of the belt (520). For example, one end (521) of the belt (520) may be fixed to the connecting member (710), and the other end (522) of the belt (520) may be fixed inside the housing (210, 22). For example, one end (521) of the belt (520) may be fixed to the connecting member (710), and the other end (522) of the belt (520) may be fixed to the second housing (220) and / or the support member (331). The one end (521) of the belt (520) may be connected to the connecting member (710) in various ways, such as bolt fastening, welding, adhesive, and / or hook joint. The other end (522) of the belt (520) may be connected to the second housing (220) and / or the support member (331) in various ways, such as bolt fastening, welding, adhesive, and / or hook joint.

[0110] One end (521) and / or the other end (522) of the belt (520) may be formed to have a wider width than the remaining portion of the belt (520). By forming one end (521) and / or the other end (522) of the belt (520) to have a wider width than the remaining portion of the belt (520), the contact area with the connecting member (710), the second housing (220), and / or the supporting member (331) may be increased.

[0111] The pulley member (530) may be configured to roll a predetermined section of the belt (520) according to the slide-in or slide-out movement of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). The pulley member (530) may be drivably connected to the belt (520) to guide the movement of the belt (520) and the movement direction of the belt (520) when the second housing (220) slides with respect to the first housing (210). One or more pulley members (530) may be provided and fixed to the frame (313). The pulley member (530) may be arranged to be spaced apart from at least one of the printed circuit board (324), the battery (319), and the sliding drive unit (360) when the rear of the electronic device (500) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the -z-axis direction). For example, the pulley member (530) may be positioned spaced apart from the battery (319) in a first direction (261). For example, the pulley member (530) may be positioned spaced apart from the printed circuit board (324) in a second direction.

[0112] A pulley member (530) may be disposed in the first housing (210) corresponding to the belt (520). The pulley member (530) may include a first pulley member (531) and a second pulley member (532) drivably connected to the belt (520). The first pulley member (531) and the second pulley member (532) may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. The first pulley member (531) and the second pulley member (532) may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the z-axis direction. The first pulley member (531) may be disposed closer to the connection member (710) than the second pulley member (532), and the second pulley member (532) may be disposed farther from the connection member (710) than the first pulley member (531).

[0113] The first poly member (531) can rotate about a first rotation axis (S1) that is parallel to the x-axis. The second pulley member (532) can rotate about a second rotation axis (S2) that is parallel to the first rotation axis (S1). When the second housing (220) slides relative to the first housing (210), the belt (520) can move while rotating the first pulley member (531) and the second pulley member (532).

[0114] According to one embodiment, in the first state or the second state of the electronic device (500), one end (521) of the belt (520) can provide a first tensile force (e.g., a first belt tension) to one side of the flexible display (230). In the first state or the second state of the electronic device (500), the other end (522) of the belt (520) can provide a second tensile force (e.g., a second belt tension) to the other side of the flexible display (230). In the first state or the second state of the electronic device (500), the first tensile force and the second tensile force can be provided so that a portion of the second region (230b) of the flexible display (230) that provides a screen can be maintained in a form smoothly connected to the first region (230a) of the flexible display (230) without being lifted. The first tensile force and the second tensile force may, for example, be substantially equal.

[0115] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) slides out relative to the first housing (210), a tension-side tension (or a tensile tension) may be applied to one end (521) of the belt (520) with respect to the pulley member (530), and a slack-side tension may be applied to the other end (522) of the belt (520). When the second housing (220) slides in, a slack-side tension may be applied to one end (521) of the belt (520) with respect to the pulley member (530), and a tensile tension may be applied to the other end (522) of the belt (520).

[0116] According to one embodiment, one end (521) of the belt (520) may be arranged substantially flat with respect to the protective film (820). One end (521) of the belt (520) may be arranged substantially flat with respect to the protective film (820) and in a direction parallel to the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). By being arranged substantially flat with respect to the protective film (820), one end (521) of the belt (520) may enable a smooth and seamless sliding motion of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210).

[0117] According to one embodiment, with respect to the pulley member (530), one end (521) of the belt (520) can pull one end of the flexible display (230) (e.g., the protective film (820)) in a first direction (261) (or, slide-in direction) via the connecting member (710). With respect to the pulley member (530), the other end (522) of the belt (520) can pull the other end of the flexible display (230) in the first direction (261).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the stress acting on the belt (520) may include a stress due to tension (tensile stress) or a stress due to bending (bending stress). The tensile stress may be, for example, proportional to the tensile force acting on the belt (520) and inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the belt (520). The bending stress acting on the belt (520) may be, for example, proportional to the modulus of elasticity (the degree of resistance to tension or compression) of the belt (520) and / or the thickness of the belt (520). For example, the position and diameter of at least one pulley member (530) included in the pulley member (530) may affect the bending stress acting on the belt (520). In order to prevent damage to the belt (520) during sliding movement of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210), the shape or material of the belt (520) may be selected in consideration of the tensile stress or the bending stress. For example, the belt (520) may include stainless steel and may be implemented in the form of a thin band. The belt (520) may be implemented using various other metallic or non-metallic materials.

[0119] According to one embodiment, in a first state of the electronic device (500), when the rear of the electronic device (500) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the -z-axis direction), one end (521) of the belt (520) and / or the connecting member (710) may not overlap with the battery (319). In a second state of the electronic device (500), when the rear of the electronic device (500) is viewed from above, one end (521) of the belt (520) and / or the connecting member (710) may overlap with the battery (319).

[0120] Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing a connecting member included in an electronic device according to one embodiment. In Fig. 7 <701> is a one-sided view of a connecting member according to one embodiment, viewed in one direction (e.g., along the z-axis direction); <702> is a cross-sectional view of a connecting member according to one embodiment, viewed in a different direction (e.g., along the -z axis) opposite to one direction.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 7, the connecting member (710) may have a designated first width (W1) and a first length (L1) longer than the first width (W1). The first length (L1) may be less than or equal to at least one of a plurality of bars included in a supporting member (e.g., the supporting member (331) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b).

[0122] The connecting member (710) may include a first side (710a), a second side (710b) facing in the opposite direction to the first side (710a), and a plurality of side surfaces (710c) formed between the first side (710a) and the second side (710b).

[0123] The connecting member (710) may include at least one opening (711, 712) formed in a portion of a side surface facing the -y-axis among the plurality of side surfaces (710c). The at least one opening (711, 712) may be formed so that a portion of the side surface facing the -y-axis among the plurality of side surfaces (710c) is opened in the -y-axis direction. The at least one opening (711, 712) may be formed so as to open toward one end of a display panel (e.g., the display panel (610) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B). The at least one opening (711, 712) may include a first opening (711) and a second opening (712) spaced apart from each other in the x-axis direction (or the longitudinal direction of the connecting member (710)).

[0124] The connecting member (710) may include at least one step portion (721, 722) for fastening to the supporting member. The at least one step portion (721, 722) may include a first step portion (721) and a second step portion (722) having a lower height than the first surface (710a). The first step portion (721) may be formed to correspond to the first opening (711). The first step portion (721) may be formed between the first surface (710a) and the first opening (711). The second step portion (722) may be formed to correspond to the second opening (712). The second step portion (722) may be formed between the first surface (710a) and the second opening (712).

[0125] The connecting member (710) may include a recessed groove-shaped seating portion (713) extending from the first surface (710a) toward the second surface (710b) (e.g., in the -z-axis direction). The seating portion (713) may be an area where one end of a belt (e.g., one end (521) of the belt (520) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b) is seated. The seating portion (713) may be arranged between the first opening (711) and the second opening (712).

[0126] Fig. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a protective film included in an electronic device according to one embodiment. Fig. 8 is a drawing illustrating a protective film before being combined with a connecting member (or before hemming processing).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 8, the protective film (820) may include a first protective region (821) and a second protective region (822) extending from the first protective region (821). The first protective region (821) may have an area corresponding to a display panel (e.g., the display panel (610) of FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B). The first protective region (821) may overlap at least a portion of the display panel (610). For example, the first protective region (821) may completely overlap the display panel (610).

[0128] The second protection area (822) may be formed to have a smaller area than the first protection area (821). For example, the second protection area (822) may have a second length (L2) smaller than the first protection area (821) and a second width (W2) smaller than the first protection area (821).

[0129] The second protection region (822) can be formed to have a surface area that can surround at least a portion of the connecting member (e.g., the connecting member (710) of FIG. 7). The second protection region (822) can be formed to have a surface area that can surround at least one of a first side (e.g., the first side (710a) of FIG. 7) and a second side (e.g., the second side (710b) of FIG. 7) of the connecting member. For example, the second protection region (822) can have a surface area that is at least twice as large as the connecting member. For example, the second protection region (822) can have a second width (W2) that is at least twice as large as a first width (e.g., the first width (W1) of FIG. 7) of the connecting member, and a second length (L2) that is equal to or similar to a first length (e.g., the first length (L1) of FIG. 7) of the connecting member.

[0130] The second protection area (822) may include at least one of a plurality of holes (823, 831, 832) and a plurality of openings (833, 834).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the second protection area (822) may include a mounting hole (823) corresponding to a mounting portion of the connecting member (e.g., a mounting portion (713) of the connecting member (710) of FIG. 7).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the second protection area (822) may include at least one fastening hole (831, 832) spaced apart with a fixing hole (823) therebetween. The at least one fastening hole (831, 832) may include a first fastening hole (831) and a second fastening hole (832) spaced apart with a fixing hole (823) therebetween. For example, a distance between the first fastening hole (831) and the fixing hole (823) may be different from a distance between the second fastening hole (832) and the fixing hole (823). A distance between the first fastening hole (831) and the fixing hole (823) may be shorter than a distance between the second fastening hole (832) and the fixing hole (823). For example, the distance between the first fastening hole (831) and the settling hole (823) may be the same as the distance between the second fastening hole (832) and the settling hole (823).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the second protection area (822) may include a first fastening opening (833) arranged in a line with the first fastening hole (831) and a second fastening opening (834) arranged in a line with the second fastening hole (832).

[0134] The first fastening opening (833) and the second fastening opening (834) may be formed by opening a portion of the second protection area (822) of the protective film (820). The first fastening opening (833) and the second fastening opening (834) may be formed by opening in opposite directions to the first opening (e.g., the first opening (711) of FIG. 7) and the second opening (e.g., the second opening (712) of FIG. 7) of the connecting member.

[0135] The first fastening opening (833) and / or the second fastening opening (834) may be positioned on one side with respect to an imaginary center line (CL) that is parallel to the x-axis direction (or, a direction perpendicular to the depth direction of the fixing hole (823), the length direction of the second protection area (822)), and the first fastening hole (831) and / or the second fastening hole (832) may be positioned on the other side with respect to the imaginary center line (CL). For example, the first fastening opening (833) may be positioned symmetrically with respect to the first fastening hole (831) with respect to the imaginary center line (CL). The second fastening opening (834) may be positioned symmetrically with respect to the second fastening hole (832) with respect to the imaginary center line (CL). For example, the center of the first fastening opening (833) may be positioned at the same distance as the center of the first fastening hole (831) with respect to the imaginary center line (CL). The center of the second fastening opening (834) may be located at the same distance from the center of the second fastening hole (832) based on an imaginary center line (CL) parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second protection area (822).

[0136] FIG. 9A is a drawing showing an electronic device including a protective film combined with a connecting member according to one embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a drawing showing the electronic device taken along the line “C-C’” in FIG. 9A. The electronic device (900) of FIGS. 9A and 9B is the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments of any one of FIGS. 1 to 8 described above, and the reference numbers in the drawings are given the same or omitted, and a detailed description thereof is also omitted.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B , a portion of the protective film (820) may be bent. The second protective region (822) of the protective film (820) may be bent by hemming. The second protective region (822) of the protective film (820) may be hemmed to be folded into the lower portion of the protective film (820), thereby rounding at least a portion of the second protective region (822). The second protective region (822) of the protective film (820) may be bent to surround at least a portion of the connecting member (710).

[0138] The second protection region (822) may include a first portion (822a) disposed on the first surface (710a) of the connecting member (710), a second portion (822b) disposed on the second surface (710b) of the connecting member (710), and a third portion (822c) disposed on the side surface (710c) of the connecting member (710). The first portion (822a) may be formed to extend from the first protection region (821) and surround the first surface (710a) of the connecting member (710). The second portion (822b) may be formed to face the first portion (822a) with the connecting member (710) interposed therebetween and surround the second surface (710b) of the connecting member (710). The third portion (822c) may be positioned between the first portion (822a) and the second portion (822b) to connect the first portion (822a) and the second portion (822b). The third portion (822c) may be formed to surround the side surface (710c) of the connecting member (710).

[0139] At least a portion of the first portion (822a), the second portion (822b), and the third portion (822c) of the second protection area (822) may be in close contact with the connecting member (710). For example, an adhesive member (not shown) may be placed between the second protection area (822) and the connecting member (710).

[0140] For example, among the first part (822a), the second part (822b), and the third part (822c), the first part (822a) and the second part (822b) may be disposed in close contact with the connecting member (710). At least a portion of the third part (822c) may be formed in a rounded shape (or curved shape) while being spaced apart from the side surface (710c) of the connecting member (710). For example, the first part (822a), the second part (822b), and the third part (822c) may be disposed in close contact with the connecting member (710). At least a portion of the third part (822c) may be formed along the shape of the side surface (710c) of the connecting member (710) while being in close contact with the side surface (710c) of the connecting member (710).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the protective film (820) may be bent such that the first opening (711) of the connecting member (710) and the first fastening hole (831) are aligned, the second opening (712) of the connecting member (710) and the second fastening hole (832) are aligned, and the mounting portion (713) of the connecting member (710) and the mounting hole (823) are aligned. The second protection area (822) of the protective film (820) may be bent such that the first fastening hole (831), the first opening (711), and the first fastening opening (833) overlap each other, and the second fastening hole (832), the second opening (712), and the second fastening opening (834) overlap each other. The first fastening opening (833) can overlap with the first opening (711) and the first fastening hole (831) when the second protection area (822) is bent based on an imaginary center line (CL) that is parallel to the x-axis direction (or, a direction perpendicular to the depth direction of the fixing hole (823), the longitudinal direction of the second protection area (822)). The second fastening opening (834) can overlap with the second opening (712) and the second fastening hole (832) when the second protection area (822) is bent based on an imaginary center line (CL) that is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second protection area (822).

[0142] A first fastening space (901) in the shape of a hole can be formed by overlapping the first fastening hole (831), the first opening (711), and the first fastening opening (833). A second fastening space (902) in the shape of a hole can be formed by overlapping the second fastening hole (832), the second opening (712), and the second fastening opening (834). A groove-shaped fastening space (903) can be formed in the protective film (820) and the connecting member (710) that are mutually connected by overlapping the mounting portion (713) and the mounting hole (823).

[0143] FIG. 10A is a perspective view for explaining the fastening relationship of a support member and a connecting member of an electronic device according to an embodiment, FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line "D1-D1' in FIG. 10A, FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional view taken along the line "D2-D2' in FIG. 10A, and FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line "D3-D3' in FIG. 10A. In the electronic devices (1000) of FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, the same reference numerals are given to or omitted from the drawings for configurations that are the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments of any one of FIGS. 1 to 9B described above, and detailed descriptions thereof are also omitted.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 10A to 10D , the support member (331) may be arranged to face the support sheet (630) of the flexible display (230). The support member (331) may include a plurality of bars (333) that are segmented from each other. At least a portion of the end bars (332) located at the outermost end of the plurality of bars (333) may be formed in a substantially plate shape (e.g., a square plate shape) and may have a specified rigidity. Since the end bars (332) support one end of the flexible display (230), they may be formed to have a higher rigidity than the other bars (333) included in the support member (331). For example, the end bars (332) may be formed to have a wider width than the other bars (333). The end bars (332) may be arranged adjacent to the connecting member (710).

[0145] The support member (331) may include a protrusion (1021) that is fastened to a step portion (721) of the connecting member (710). The step portion (721) is formed to be stepped toward the end bar (332) and / or the flexible display (230), and the protrusion (1021) may protrude from one end of the end bar (332) toward the connecting member (710). The protrusion (1021) may prevent or reduce tilt of the connecting member (710) and / or the protective film (820) attached to the connecting member (710) by engaging with the step portion (721). Movement of the connecting member (710) and / or the protective film (820) in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction (or in the longitudinal direction of the end bar) may be restricted. Tilt of the protective film (820) attached to the connecting member (710) may be prevented or reduced. For example, tilting of the protective film (820) can be prevented or reduced when tension is provided to the flexible display (230) through a belt (e.g., belt (520) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B) that is mounted in the mounting space (903).

[0146] The second protection area (822) of the protection film (820) may be formed to surround at least a portion of the connecting member (710). The second protection area (822) may be formed in an area excluding the first fastening space (901), the second fastening space (902), and the settling space (903).

[0147] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a connection relationship between a belt assembly and a connecting member of an electronic device according to an embodiment, FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the electronic device taken along the line "E-E'" in FIG. 11, and FIG. 13 is a drawing showing in detail the belt assembly of the electronic device according to an embodiment. In the electronic devices (1100) of FIGS. 11, 12, and 13, the same reference numbers are given to or omitted from the drawings for components that are the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments of any one of FIGS. 1 to 10d described above, and detailed descriptions thereof are also omitted.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 11, 12 and 13, the electronic device (1100) may include a flexible display (230), a connecting member (710), and a belt assembly (510).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the belt assembly (510) may include a belt (520) and a pulley member (530) corresponding to the belt (520).

[0150] The pulley member (530) may be fixed to the frame (313) of the first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 3A and 3B) corresponding to the belt (520). The pulley member (530) may be drivably connected to the belt (520) to guide the movement of the belt (520) and the movement direction of the belt (520) when the second housing (220) slides with respect to the first housing. One or more pulley members (530) may be provided and fixed to the frame (313). For example, the pulley member (530) may include a first pulley member (531) and a second pulley member (532). The first pulley member (531) may be arranged closer to one end (521) of the belt (520) than the second pulley member (532).

[0151] The belt (520) can be placed between the housing (210, 220) and the connecting member (710). The belt (520) is connected to the pulley member (530) and then is seated in the seating space (903), so that one end (521) of the belt (520) can be fixed to the connecting member (710). One end (521) of the belt (520) can be seated in the seating space (903) provided by the combination of the connecting member (710) and the second protection area (822) of the protection film (820).

[0152] According to one embodiment, at least one reinforcing member (1210) may be disposed between one end (521) of the belt (520) and the connecting member (710). An adhesive (1220) may be disposed between one end (521) of the belt (520) and the reinforcing member (1210) and / or between the connecting member (710) and the reinforcing member (1210).

[0153] Fig. 14 is a drawing for explaining the behavior of an electronic device in response to an external impact in one embodiment. The electronic device (1400) of Fig. 14 is identical to any of the preceding embodiments of Figs. 1 to 13 described above, or has a configuration that can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments. Reference numbers in the drawing are assigned the same number or are omitted, and a detailed description thereof is also omitted.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 14, an electronic device (1400) according to one embodiment may include a flexible display (230), a belt assembly (510) for linking the movement of the flexible display (230), and a connecting member (710) connected to the flexible display (230).

[0155] The flexible display (230) can be connected to the belt assembly (510) via a connecting member (710). A protective film (820) disposed at the outermost portion of the flexible display (230) can be connected to a belt (520) included in the belt assembly (510) via the connecting member (710).

[0156] Since the belt assembly (510) holds the protective film (820), which is the outermost layer of the flexible display (230), through the connecting member (710), even if an external impact (e.g., a drop impact) is applied to the electronic device, defects (e.g., a lifting phenomenon, a peeling phenomenon, a slip phenomenon) within the display panel (610) can be reduced or prevented.

[0157] For example, when the electronic device is dropped in the direction of the drop (1401) toward the ground with the first housing (210), micro-flow may occur in the display panel (610) in a direction parallel to the direction of the drop (1401). The belt (520) may pull the protective film (820) in the opposite direction (1402) to the direction of the drop (1401) through the connecting member (710). Since the belt (520) holds the protective film (820), which is the outermost layer of the flexible display (230), the belt (520) may also pull the layers inside the display panel (610) where peeling is about to occur in the opposite direction (1402) to the direction of the drop. The belt (520) may provide a force that restrains the display panel (610) in the opposite direction to the direction (1403) in which the layers inside the display panel (610) where peeling is about to occur are about to spread. Slippage of layers inside the display panel (610) can be minimized and / or prevented by the restraining force provided by the belt (520), thereby minimizing and / or preventing defects in the flexible display (230).

[0158] For comparison, if the belt is connected to the support sheet, which is the innermost layer of the display, and holds the support sheet, the belt (520) cannot provide a force to restrain the display panel (610) in the opposite direction of the direction (1403) in which the layers inside the display panel (610) are about to separate.

[0159] Table 1 is a table explaining the maximum stress of the comparative example and the embodiment. When the electronic device (1400) is dropped so that one of the corners touches the ground, it can be seen that the stress of the electronic device (1400) of the embodiment due to the drop impact is reduced by about 8% compared to the comparative example, as shown in Table 1. According to one embodiment, due to the stress reduction, defects of the flexible display that may occur when the electronic device is dropped can be minimized and / or prevented.

[0160] Comparative example: Maximum stress: 225 MPa207 MPa

[0161] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a protective film and a connecting member of an electronic device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a drawing taken along the line "F-F'" in FIG. 15. In FIG. 15 <1501> is a drawing showing the state before the connecting member is attached to the protective film. <1502> is a drawing showing the back of the display with the connecting member attached to the protective film, <1503> is a drawing showing the front of a display with a connecting member attached to a protective film. The electronic device (1500) of FIGS. 15 and 16 is the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiment of any one of the preceding embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 14 described above, and the reference numbers of the drawings are given the same or omitted, and a detailed description thereof is also omitted.

[0162] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the protective film (820) may include a first protective region (821) and a second protective region (822) extending from the first protective region (821). The first protective region (821) may overlap with the display panel (610) and the support sheet (630) when the protective film (820) is viewed from above. The second protective region (822) may not overlap with the display panel (610) and the support sheet (630) when the protective film (820) is viewed from above.

[0163] By attaching a connecting member (710) to at least one surface of the second protection area (822) of the protection film (820), the protection film (820) can be connected to a belt assembly (e.g., the belt assembly (510) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B) through the connecting member (710). The connecting member (710) can be attached to one surface of the second protection area (822) of the protection film (820). For example, the first surface (710a) of the connecting member (710) can be attached to the second protection area (822) of the protection film (820) in a direction parallel to the thickness direction of the display panel (610).

[0164] The protective film (820), which is the outermost layer of the display, is connected to the belt assembly through the connecting member (710), thereby reducing or preventing the risk of damage to the display panel (610) due to external impact.

[0165] FIG. 17 is a drawing for explaining a process of combining a protective film and a plurality of connecting members of an electronic device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line “G-G’” in FIG. 17. The electronic devices (1800) of FIGS. 17 and 18 are identical to the preceding embodiments of any one of FIGS. 1 to 14 described above, or their configurations that can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments are given the same reference numbers in the drawings or are omitted, and detailed descriptions thereof are also omitted.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the electronic device (1800) may include a protective film (820) and a connecting member (1700).

[0167] The protective film (820) may include a first protective region (821) and a second protective region (822) extending from the first protective region (821). The first protective region (821) of the protective film (820) may be disposed on the display panel (610), and the display panel (610) may be disposed on the support sheet (630).

[0168] The connecting member (1700) may include a plurality of connecting members (1710, 1720). For example, the connecting member (1700) may include a first connecting member (1710) and a second connecting member (1720). The first connecting member (1710) may be fixed on a second protection area (822) of a protective film (820). The first connecting member (1710) may include a through hole (1711) that exposes the second protection area (822). The first connecting member (1710) may be formed in a ring shape surrounding the through hole (1711). The first connecting member (1710) may be disposed on the protective film (820) so as to expose one end of the second protection area (822) through the through hole (1711). The second connecting member (1720) may be fixed on the first connecting member (1710). A second connecting member (1720) can be assembled on the first connecting member (1710) such that a second protective area (822) of the protective film (820) is disposed between the first connecting member (1710) and the second connecting member (1720).

[0169] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a state before coupling between a flexible display and a connecting member of an electronic device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a coupling state between a flexible display and a connecting member according to one embodiment. In FIG. 19 <1901> is a plan view showing the flexible display before the connecting member is attached. <1902> Is <1901> This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line "H1-H1'" in Fig. 20. <2001> is a plan view showing a flexible display with a connecting member attached, and in FIG. 20 <2002> Is <2001> This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line "H2-H2'" in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20. The electronic device (2000) of FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 is the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiment of any one of the preceding embodiments of FIG. 1 to FIG. 18 described above, and the same reference numbers in the drawings are given or omitted, and the detailed description thereof is also omitted.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 19, a protective film (820) may be placed on the upper portion of the display panel (610), and a support sheet (630) may be placed on the lower portion of the display panel (610). The protective film (820) may be positioned on the outer side of the display panel (610). The support sheet (630) may be positioned on the inner side of the display panel (610).

[0171] The protective film (820) may include a first protective region (821) and a second protective region (822) extending from the first protective region (821). The first protective region (821) overlaps the display panel (610), and the second protective region (822) may extend to an area other than the display panel (610).

[0172] The support sheet (630) may include a base region (631) and an extension region (632) extending from the base region (631). The extension direction of the extension region (632) of the support sheet (630) may be substantially the same as the extension direction of the second protection region (822) of the protection film (820). The extension length of the extension region (632) of the support sheet (630) may be shorter than the extension length of the second protection region (822) of the protection film (820).

[0173] A slit region (633) may be arranged between the base region (631) and the extension region (632). The base region (631) may overlap with the first protection region (821) of the protection film (820), and the extension region (632) may overlap with at least a portion of the second protection region (822).

[0174] Referring to FIG. 20, the second protection region (822) of the protective film (820) may be formed to wrap a portion of the connecting member (710) through hemming processing. For example, the second protection region (822) of the protective film (820) may be disposed on a portion of the connecting member (710) and fixed to the portion of the connecting member (710). The extension region (632) of the support sheet (630) may be formed to be disposed on the remaining portion of the connecting member (710) and fixed to the remaining portion of the connecting member (710). For example, the second protection region (822) of the protective film (820) may be formed to wrap a portion of the first side (710a), the side surface (710c), and the second side (710b) of the connecting member (710). The extension region (632) of the support sheet (630) may be formed to wrap at least a portion of the remaining second side (710b).

[0175] The protective film (820) and the support sheet (630) can be connected to a pulley member (e.g., the pulley member (530) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B) through a connecting member (710). When the state of the electronic device changes, when the pulley member pulls the belt (e.g., the belt (520) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B) in one direction (2003), the force pulling the belt can be directly transmitted to the protective film (820), which is the outermost layer of the display, through the connecting member (710). The force pulling the belt of the pulley member can be transmitted to the support sheet (630) through the connecting member (710). Due to the lattice pattern of the support sheet (630), the force pulling the belt can be indirectly transmitted to the support sheet (630) through the connecting member (710).

[0176] The belt can be connected to the protective film (820), which is the outermost layer of the flexible display (230), and the support sheet (630), which is the innermost layer, through the connecting member (710). The belt (520) can pull the protective film (820) and the support sheet (630) in the opposite direction (1402) to the dropping direction (1401) through the connecting member (710). Since the belt (520) holds the protective film (820), which is the outermost layer of the flexible display (230), and the support sheet (630), which is the innermost layer, the belt (520) can also pull the layers inside the display panel (610) where peeling is likely to occur, in the opposite direction (1402) to the dropping direction. The belt (520) can provide a force that restrains the display panel (610) in the opposite direction (1403) of the direction in which the layers inside the display panel (610) are about to separate from each other. Slippage of the layers inside the display panel (610) can be minimized and / or prevented by the restraining force provided by the belt (520), thereby minimizing and / or preventing defects in the flexible display (230).

[0177] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing a rigid member fixed to a protective film of an electronic device according to an embodiment, and FIG. 22 is a drawing showing an electronic device including a rigid member according to an embodiment. In the electronic device (2100) of FIG. 21 and FIG. 22, the same reference numbers are given to or omitted from the drawings for components that are the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments of any one of FIG. 1 to FIG. 20 described above, and detailed descriptions thereof are also omitted.

[0178] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, a rigid member (2110) may be placed on the periphery of the protective film (820). The rigid member (2110) may be placed on at least a portion of the edge of the first protective region (821) of the protective film (820), thereby reinforcing the rigidity of the protective film (820). The rigid member (2110) may be formed of a material similar to or identical to that of the protective film (820).

[0179] The rigid member (2110) can be formed along at least a portion of an edge of the first protection region (821). When the protection film (820) is viewed from above, the rigid member (2110) can overlap at least a portion of an edge of the first protection region (821) of the protection film (820). For example, the rigid member (2110) can include a first rigid region (2111) disposed between the first protection region (821) and the second protection region (822), a second rigid region (2112) extending from one side of the first rigid region (2111), and a third rigid region (2113) extending from the other side of the first rigid region (2111).

[0180] According to one embodiment, the second rigid region (2112) and the third rigid region (2113) may be formed to correspond to the support member (331). The second rigid region (2112) and the third rigid region (2113) may be formed on the support member (331) and overlap with the support member (331).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the second rigid region (2112) and the third rigid region (2113) may be formed to correspond to a metal plate of the display formed in an area other than the support member (331) as well as the support member (e.g., the metal plate (2510) of FIG. 25A). The second rigid region (2112) and the third rigid region (2113) may be formed on the support member (331) and the metal plate to overlap with the support member (331) and the metal plate.

[0182] FIGS. 23A and 23B are drawings illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment including an elastic member. The electronic device (2300) of FIGS. 23A and 23B is identical to or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments of any one of FIGS. 1 to 22 described above, and reference numbers in the drawings are given the same reference numbers or are omitted, and detailed descriptions thereof are also omitted.

[0183] Referring to FIGS. 23A and 23B , the electronic device (2300) may include a belt assembly (2301) disposed between the second housing (220) and the flexible display (230). The belt assembly (2301) may include a belt (2320), an elastic member (2310) disposed within the belt (2320), and a pulley (2330) corresponding to the belt (2320) (e.g., the pulley member (530) of FIGS. 5A , 5B , 6A and 6B ).

[0184] A belt (2320) may be placed between the second housing (220) and the flexible display (230). One end (2311) of the belt (2320) may be fixed to a connecting member (710) attached to a protective film (820). One end (2311) of the belt (2320) may be connected to a protective film (820) forming the outermost surface of the flexible display (230) via the connecting member (710). The other end (2321) of the belt (2320) may be fixed to a second cover of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second cover (321) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B).

[0185] The belt (2320) can be divided into a plurality of parts. The belt (2320) can be divided into a plurality of first sub-belts (2321) and second sub-belts (2322).

[0186] An elastic member (2310) may be disposed between a plurality of divided belts (2320). The elastic member (2310) may be disposed between the first sub-belt (2321) and the second sub-belt (2322) to connect the first sub-belt (2321) and the second sub-belt (2322). The elastic member (2310) may be tensioned or compressed in the longitudinal direction of the belt (2320). The elastic member (2310) may be disposed between the first sub-belt (2321) and the second sub-belt (2322) to reduce tension reduction of the belt (2320).

[0187] According to one embodiment, the position, number, and shape of the elastic member (2310) are not limited to the embodiments of FIGS. 23a and 23b and may be varied.

[0188] FIGS. 24A and 24B are drawings showing an electronic device including an elastic member according to an embodiment. The electronic device (2400) of FIGS. 24A and 24B is identical to or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments of any one of the preceding embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 23B, and reference numbers in the drawings are given the same reference numbers or are omitted, and detailed descriptions thereof are also omitted.

[0189] Referring to FIGS. 24A and 24B , the electronic device (2400) may include a plurality of belt assemblies (2401, 2402). The plurality of belt assemblies (2401, 2402) may include a first belt assembly (2401) (e.g., belt assembly (510) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B) and a second belt assembly (2402) arranged in parallel with the first belt assembly (2401). The first belt assembly (2401) may include a first belt (2450) and a first pulley (2460) corresponding to the first belt (2450) (e.g., pulley member (530) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B). The second belt assembly (2402) may include a second belt (2420) connected in parallel with the first belt (2450), an elastic member (2410) disposed within the second belt (2420), and a second pulley (2430) corresponding to the second belt (2420).

[0190] A first belt (2450) may be placed between the second housing (220) and the flexible display (230). One end (2451) of the first belt (2450) may be connected to a protective film (820) forming the outermost layer of the flexible display (230). One end (2451) of the first belt (2450) may be fixed to a connecting member (710) attached to the protective film (820). One end (2451) of the first belt (2450) may be connected to the protective film (820) of the flexible display (230) via the connecting member (710). The other end (2452) of the first belt (2450) can be fixed to the second cover of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second cover (321) of FIGS. 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b).

[0191] A second belt (2420) may be placed between the second housing (220) and the flexible display (230). One end (2411) of the second belt (2420) may be connected to a support sheet (e.g., support sheet (630) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B) forming the innermost layer (or innermost surface) of the flexible display (230). The other end (2412) of the second belt (2420) may be fixed to a second cover of the second housing (220).

[0192] The second belt (2420) can be divided into a plurality of parts. The second belt (2420) can be divided into a plurality of first sub-belts (2421) and second sub-belts (2422).

[0193] An elastic member (2410) may be disposed between the second belts (2420) that are divided into multiple pieces. The elastic member (2410) may be disposed between the first sub-belt (2421) and the second sub-belt (2422) to connect the first sub-belt (2421) and the second sub-belt (2422). The elastic member (2410) may be tensioned or compressed in the longitudinal direction of the belt (2320). The elastic member (2410) may be disposed between the first sub-belt (2421) and the second sub-belt (2422) to reduce tension reduction of the second belt (2420).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the position, number, and shape of the elastic member (2410) are not limited to the embodiments of FIGS. 24A and 24B and may be variously changed. For example, the elastic member (2410) may be placed inside the first belt (2450). The first belt (2450) may be divided into a plurality of pieces, and the elastic member (2410) may be placed between the divided first belts (2450) to connect the divided first belts (2450). For example, the elastic member (2410) may be placed inside the first belt (2450) and the second belt (2420). The first belt (2450) may be divided into a plurality of pieces, and the elastic member (2410) may be placed between the divided first belts (2450) to connect the divided first belts (2450). The second belt (2420) is divided into a plurality of pieces, and the elastic member (2410) can be placed between the plurality of divided second belts (2420) to connect the plurality of divided second belts (2420).

[0195] FIGS. 25A to 25G are drawings for explaining an assembly process of an electronic device according to an embodiment. The assembly process of an electronic device according to an embodiment will be explained using the embodiments of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B as examples. The assembly process of an electronic device according to an embodiment is not limited to the embodiments of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, but is also applicable to the embodiments of FIGS. 9A to 24B and can be variously modified.

[0196] Referring to Figure 25a, <2501> is a drawing showing the state before the connecting member is attached to the protective film. <2502> is a drawing showing a state in which a connecting member is attached to a protective film, <2503> is a drawing showing the back of a display panel on which a hemmed protective film is formed. <2503> This is a drawing showing the front of a display panel on which a hemmed protective film is formed.

[0197] According to one embodiment, a protective film (820) including a first protective region (821) and a second protective region (822) may be provided. The first protective region (821) of the protective film (820) may be arranged to correspond to a metal plate (2510) and / or a support sheet (630). The metal plate (2510) may be arranged on the rear surface of the flexible display (230). The metal plate (2510) may be arranged in the first region (230a) of the flexible display (230), and the support sheet (630) may be arranged in the second region (230b) of the display. The second protective region (822) of the protective film (820) may extend to the first protective region (821) so as not to correspond to the metal plate (2510) and / or the support sheet (630). The second protection area (822) of the protection film (820) may include a first fastening opening (833), a second fastening opening (834), a first fastening hole (831), a second fastening hole (832), and a fixing hole (823).

[0198] A connecting member (710) having a mounting portion (e.g., mounting portion (713) of FIG. 7), a first opening (711), and a second opening (712) may be provided. The first opening (711) may be formed at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole (831), and the second opening (712) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second fastening hole (832).

[0199] For example, the connecting member (710) may be attached to a portion of the second protective area (822) of the protective film (820) so as to be positioned on one end of the display panel.

[0200] For example, the connecting member (710) may be attached to a portion of the second protection area (822) of the protective film (820) such that the fixing portion of the connecting member (710) is aligned with the fixing hole (823) of the protective film (820), the first opening (711) of the connecting member (710) is aligned with the first fastening hole (831) of the protective film (820), and the second opening (712) of the connecting member (710) is aligned with the second fastening hole (832) of the protective film (820).

[0201] The second protection area (822) of the protective film (820) can be bent toward the support sheet (630) by hemming processing. By bending the protective film (820), the first fastening hole (831), the first opening (711), and the first fastening opening (833) can overlap with each other, thereby forming a first fastening space (901) in the shape of a hole. By bending the protective film (820), the second fastening hole (832), the second opening (712), and the second fastening opening (834) can overlap with each other, thereby forming a second fastening space (902) in the shape of a hole. By bending the protective film (820), the mounting portion (713) and the mounting hole (823) can overlap with each other, thereby forming a groove-shaped mounting space (903) in the mutually connected protective film (820) and the connecting member (710).

[0202] Referring to FIG. 25b, a support member (331) including a plurality of bars can be combined with a flexible display (230) including a hemmed protective film (820). The support member (331) can be placed in an area corresponding to the support sheet (630) of the flexible display (230). The support member (331) can be placed in an area not corresponding to the metal plate (2510) of the flexible display (230).

[0203] Referring to FIG. 25c, the support member (331) can be assembled to the second housing (220). After the belt (520) is aligned on the second housing (220), the belt (520) can be assembled to the second housing (220). The other end (522) of the belt (520) can be assembled to the second housing (220). At least a portion of the remaining area of ​​the belt (520) excluding one end (521) of the belt (520) can be fixed to the second cover (321) of the second housing (220).

[0204] Referring to FIG. 25d, a printed circuit board (324), a pinion gear (362), and a motor (361) may be assembled into the second housing (220). The printed circuit board (324) may be placed in a portion of the remaining area of ​​the second cover (321) of the second housing (220) excluding the area where the belt (520) is placed.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 25e, a battery (319) may be mounted on a frame (313) of a first housing (210). The frame (313) of the first housing on which the battery (319) is mounted may be assembled to a second housing (220). A rack gear (363) may be fixed to a second cover (321) of the second housing (220). The rack gear (363) may be arranged to mesh with a pinion gear (362) fixed to the second housing (220).

[0206] Referring to FIG. 25F, the flexible display (230) can be bent toward the battery (319). By bending the flexible display (230), the first protection area (821) of the protection film (820) can be positioned to face the front side (e.g., the side facing the -z axis) of the electronic device, and the second protection area (822) of the protection film (820) can be positioned to face the back side (e.g., the side facing the +z axis) of the electronic device.

[0207] Rails (313a) for guiding the movement of the support member (331) and / or the flexible display (230) may be mounted on the second housing (220). Each of the rails (313a) may be mounted on both sides of the second housing (220). As the support member (331) moves along the rails (313a), the flexible display (230) may move along the rails (313a) by the support member (331).

[0208] Referring to FIG. 25g, a portion of the belt (520) may be assembled to the connecting member (710) by bending toward the connecting member (710). For example, when one end (521) of the belt (520) is seated in a groove-shaped seating space (903) formed by overlapping the seating hole of the protective film (820) and the seating portion of the connecting member, the belt (520) may be assembled to the connecting member (710). The belt (520) may be connected to a pulley member (530) that guides the movement of the belt (520) and the movement direction of the belt (520).

[0209] Meanwhile, the electronic devices described above are not limited to the embodiments described in each drawing, and the electronic devices described in each drawing may be applied in combination with each other. For example, at least one embodiment among the embodiments of FIGS. 15 to 24b may be applied in combination with the embodiments of FIGS. 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b. In addition, the position, number, and shape of the connecting member (710) described in each drawing are not limited to the above-described examples and may be variously changed. In addition, the number and shape of at least one of the sliding drive units and belt assemblies described in each drawing are not limited to the above-described examples and may be variously changed.

[0210] As described above, an electronic device according to at least one embodiment among various embodiments comprises: a housing (210, 220) forming at least one side of the electronic device; a flexible display (230) including a display panel (610) and a protective film (820) disposed outside the display panel (610), the display area of ​​which varies depending on the sliding movement of a portion of the housing (210, 220); a connecting member (710) disposed at one end of the display panel (610) and at least a portion of which is fixed to the protective film (820); and a belt (520) including one end (521) fixed to the connecting member (710) and the other end (522) fixed to the inside of the housing, wherein the protective film (820) extends beyond the display panel (610) and can wrap at least a portion of the connecting member (710).

[0211] According to at least one embodiment among various embodiments, an electronic device comprises: a first housing (210); a second housing (220) movably disposed with respect to the first housing (210); a flexible display (230) including a display panel (610) and a protective film (820) disposed outside the display panel (610), the flexible display having a viewable area that varies depending on the movement of the second housing (220); a connecting member disposed at one end of the display panel (610) and at least a portion of which is fixed to the protective film (820); and a belt including one end fixed to the connecting member (710) and the other end fixed to the inside of the housing, wherein the protective film (820) may be formed to extend beyond the display panel (610) and to have a portion bent in an area corresponding to the connecting member (710).

[0212] According to at least one embodiment among various embodiments, an electronic device comprises: a housing (210, 220) forming at least one side of the electronic device; a flexible display (230) including a display panel (610) and a protective film (820) disposed outside the display panel (610), the display area of ​​which varies depending on sliding movement of a portion of the housing (210, 220); a connecting member (710) disposed at one end of the display panel (610) and at least a portion of which is fixed to the protective film (820); and a belt (520) including one end (521) fixed to the connecting member (710) and the other end (522) fixed to the inside of the housing, wherein the protective film (820) may extend beyond the display panel (610) toward the connecting member (710).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the protective film (820) may be placed on the outermost side of the flexible display (230).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the protective film (820) may be partially bent in an area corresponding to the connecting member (710).

[0215] According to one embodiment, the protective film (820) may include a first protective area (821) corresponding to the display panel (610) and a second protective area (822) extending from the first protective area (821) toward the connecting member (710).

[0216] According to one embodiment, the second protection area (822) may be formed to surround a first side (710a) of the connecting member (710), a second side (710b) facing in an opposite direction to the first side (710a), and a side (710c) disposed between the first side (710a) and the second side (710b).

[0217] According to one embodiment, the second protection area (822) may include a first portion (822a) extending from the first protection area (821), a second portion (822b) facing the first portion (822a) with the connecting member (710) interposed therebetween, and a third portion (822c) having a curved shape disposed between the first portion (822a) and the second portion (822b).

[0218] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may further include a support member (331) that supports at least a portion of the flexible display (230) and includes a plurality of bars (333).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the protective film (820) may include at least one fastening hole (831, 832) and at least one fastening opening (833, 834).

[0220] According to one embodiment, the connecting member (710) may include at least one opening (711, 712) that overlaps with the at least one fastening hole (831, 832) and the at least one fastening opening (833, 834) to form at least one fastening space (901, 902); and a step portion (721) that is formed stepwise toward an end bar (332) adjacent to the connecting member (710) among the plurality of bars (333).

[0221] According to one embodiment, the end bar (332) may include a protrusion (1021) that engages with the step portion (721) via the fastening space (901, 902).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the connecting member (710) may include a home-shaped mounting portion (713).

[0223] According to one embodiment, the protective film (820) may include a mounting hole (823) that overlaps the mounting portion (713) to form a mounting space (903).

[0224] According to one embodiment, one end (521) of the belt (520) can be seated in the seating space (903).

[0225] According to one embodiment, the connecting member (1700) may include a first connecting member (1710) including a through hole (1711) exposing a portion of a second protective area (822) of the protective film (820); and a second connecting member (1720) coupled to the first connecting member (1710) with the second protective area (822) of the protective film (820) interposed therebetween.

[0226] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may further include a support sheet (630) positioned inside the display panel (610).

[0227] According to one embodiment, the support sheet (630) may include a base region (631) and an extension region (632) extending from the base region (631) and fixed to the connecting member (710).

[0228] According to one embodiment, the extension region (632) may extend in the same direction as the second protection region (822).

[0229] According to one embodiment, the extension length of the extension area (632) may be shorter than the extension length of the second protection area (822).

[0230] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a rigid member (2110) disposed along at least a portion of an edge of the first protection area (821).

[0231] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a support member (331) that supports at least a portion of the flexible display (230) and includes a plurality of bars (333).

[0232] According to one embodiment, the rigid member (2110) may be arranged to correspond to the support member (331).

[0233] According to one embodiment, the belt (2320) may include at least one elastic member (2310) disposed between the first end (2311) and the second end (2312).

[0234] According to one embodiment, a second belt (2420) may be further included that is arranged parallel to the belt (520, 2450).

[0235] According to one embodiment, the second belt (2420) may include one end (2411) fixed to the support sheet (630) of the flexible display (230), the other end (2412) fixed to the inside of the housing (220), and at least one elastic member (2410) disposed between the one end (2411) and the other end (2412).

[0236] The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technology described in this document to a specific embodiment, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or substitutes of the embodiment. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components. The singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, expressions such as "A or B," "at least one of A and / or B," "A, B, or C," or "at least one of A, B, and / or C" can include all possible combinations of the items listed together. Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second," may modify the corresponding components regardless of order or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another, but do not limit the corresponding components. When it is said that a component (e.g., a first component) is “(functionally or communicatively) connected” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), the component may be directly connected to the other component, or may be connected via another component (e.g., a third component).

[0237] In this document, "adapted to or configured to" may be used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "capable of," "modified to," "made to," "capable of," or "designed to," for example, hardware-wise or software-wise. In some contexts, the phrase "a device configured to" may mean that the device is "capable of" doing something together with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "a processor configured (or adapted) to perform A, B, and C" may mean a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing those operations, or a general-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or AP) that can perform those operations by executing one or more programs stored in a memory device (e.g., a memory).

[0238] The term "module" as used in this document includes a unit composed of 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 thereof that performs one or more functions. A "module" may be implemented mechanically or electronically, and may include, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chip, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or programmable logic device, known or to be developed in the future, that performs certain operations.

[0239] At least a part of a device (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or a method (e.g., operations) according to various embodiments may be implemented as instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., memory) in the form of a program module. When the instructions are executed by a processor (e.g., a processor), the processor may perform a function corresponding to the instructions. The computer-readable recording medium may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic medium (e.g., a magnetic tape), an optical recording medium (e.g., a CD-ROM, a DVD, a magneto-optical medium (e.g., a floptical disk), an internal memory, etc. The instructions may include a code generated by a compiler or a code executable by an interpreter.

[0240] Each component (e.g., a module or a program module) according to various embodiments may be composed of one or more entities, and some of the aforementioned sub-components may be omitted, or other sub-components may be further included. Alternatively or additionally, some components (e.g., a module or a program module) may be integrated into a single entity, which may perform the same or similar functions as those performed by each of the respective components prior to integration. Operations performed by modules, program modules, or other components according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A housing (210, 220) forming at least one side of the electronic device; A flexible display (230) having a display panel (610) and a protective film (820) positioned outside the display panel (610), the area of ​​which is visible to the outside changing according to the sliding movement of the housing (210, 220); A connecting member (710, 1700) disposed on one end of the display panel (610) and at least a portion of which is fixed to the protective film (820); and A belt (520, 2320, 2450) is provided, which includes one end (521) fixed to the above connecting member (710, 1700) and the other end (522) fixed to the inside of the housing. An electronic device in which the above protective film (820) extends beyond the display panel (610) and wraps at least a portion of the connecting member (710).

2. In paragraph 1, The above protective film (820) is an electronic device placed on the outermost side of the flexible display (230).

3. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which the above protective film (820) is partially bent in an area corresponding to the above connecting member (710).

4. In paragraph 1, The above protective film (820) A first protection area (821) corresponding to the above display panel (610); An electronic device comprising a second protection area (822) extending from the first protection area (821) toward the connecting member (710, 1700).

5. In paragraph 4, An electronic device in which the second protection area (822) is formed to surround a first surface (710a) of the connecting member (710), a second surface (710b) facing in the opposite direction to the first surface (710a), and a side surface (710c) disposed between the first surface (710a) and the second surface (710b).

6. In paragraph 4, The above second protection area (822) A first portion (822a) extending from the first protection area (821), A second part (822b) facing the first part (822a) and the connecting member (710) therebetween; An electronic device comprising a third portion (822c) having a curved shape positioned between the first portion (822a) and the second portion (822b).

7. In paragraph 1, paragraph 2, paragraph 3 or paragraph 4, It further includes a support member (331) that supports at least a portion of the above flexible display (230) and includes a plurality of bars (333), The above protective film (820) is comprising at least one fastening hole (831, 832) and at least one fastening opening (833, 834), The above connecting member (710, 1700) is At least one opening (711, 712) overlapping with at least one fastening hole (831, 832) and at least one fastening opening (833, 834) to form at least one fastening space (901, 902); and It includes a step portion (721) formed stepwise toward the end bar (332) adjacent to the connecting member (710) among the plurality of bars (333), An electronic device in which the end bar (332) includes a protrusion (1021) that engages with the step portion (721) via the fastening space (901, 902).

8. In paragraph 1, paragraph 2, paragraph 3 or paragraph 4, The above connecting member (710) includes a home-shaped mounting portion (713), The above protective film (820) includes a mounting hole (823) that overlaps with the mounting portion (713) to form a mounting space (903). An electronic device in which one end (521) of the above belt (520) is mounted in the above mounting space (903).

9. In paragraph 4, paragraph 5 or paragraph 6, The above connecting member (1700) A first connecting member (1710) including a through hole (1711) exposing a portion of a second protective area (822) of the protective film (820); An electronic device including a second connecting member (1720) coupled to the first connecting member (1710) with a second protective area (822) of the protective film (820) interposed therebetween.

10. In paragraph 4, paragraph 5 or paragraph 6, The above flexible display (230) It further includes a support sheet (630) positioned inside the above display panel (610), The above support sheet (630) An electronic device comprising a base region (631) and an extension region (632) extending from the base region (631) and fixed to the connecting member (710).

11. In paragraph 10, The above extension area (632) extends in the same direction as the second protection area (822), An electronic device in which the extension length of the above extension area (632) is shorter than the extension length of the above second protection area (822).

12. In paragraph 4, paragraph 5 or paragraph 6, An electronic device further comprising a rigid member (2110) disposed along at least a portion of an edge of the first protection area (821).

13. In paragraph 12, It further includes a support member (331) that supports at least a portion of the above flexible display (230) and includes a plurality of bars (333), An electronic device in which the above rigid member (2110) is arranged to correspond to the above support member (331).

14. In paragraph 1, paragraph 2, paragraph 3 or paragraph 4, The above belt (2320) An electronic device comprising at least one elastic member (2310) disposed between the first end (2311) and the second end (2312).

15. In paragraph 1, paragraph 2, paragraph 3 or paragraph 4, It further includes a second belt (2420) arranged parallel to the above belt (520, 2450), The above second belt (2420) An electronic device comprising one end (2411) fixed to a support sheet (630) of the flexible display (230), the other end (2412) fixed to the inside of the housing (220), and at least one elastic member (2410) disposed between the one end (2411) and the other end (2412).

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