Electronic device comprising display having display area

Abstract

This electronic device comprises: a housing including a first housing part and a second housing part configured to be rotatable with respect to the first housing part; and a display disposed in the housing. The display includes: a window; a display panel disposed under the window and including light-emitting elements configured to emit light to the outside through the window; and an opaque material disposed along an edge of the window. Some of the light-emitting elements, visually covered by the opaque material, among the light-emitting elements, may be configured to be deactivated.

Description

An electronic device comprising a display having a display area

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a display having a display area.

[0002] The multiple layers of a display may have attachment tolerances during the bonding process. To account for these tolerances, the display is designed with margins, and some of these margins may be obscured by the window's printing area.

[0003] An electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part and a second housing part configured to be rotatable relative to the first housing part, and a display disposed in the housing. The display may include a window. The display may include a display panel disposed below the window and including light-emitting elements configured to emit light to the outside through the window. The display may include an opaque material disposed along an edge of the window. Some of the light-emitting elements that are visually obscured by the opaque material may be configured to be deactivated.

[0004] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing and a display disposed in the housing. The display may include a window. The display may include a display panel disposed below the window and including a set of light-emitting elements configured to emit light to the outside through the window. The display may include a layer interposed between the window and the display panel. The display may include an opaque material disposed between the window and the layer along an edge of the window. The display panel may be configured to transmit light emitted from first light-emitting elements of the set of light-emitting elements spaced apart from the opaque material at a first viewing angle. The display panel may be configured to transmit light emitted from second light-emitting elements of the set of light-emitting elements, the second light-emitting elements being disposed along an edge of the first light-emitting elements adjacent to the opaque material, at a second viewing angle. The second viewing angle may be narrower than the first viewing angle.

[0005] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0006] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 1C is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a foldable electronic device and an upper layer stack structure of a foldable display according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of an edge portion of a display cut within a first state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an edge portion of a display in a second state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a camera and a display disposed in an opening of a display panel within a first state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a camera and a display disposed in an opening of a display panel within a second state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing the structure of an edge portion of a display configured to reduce light leakage according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an edge portion of a display according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a display module according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment, FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 1C is an exploded view of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, the electronic device (100) may include a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), and a foldable display (130). The electronic device (100) may be referred to as a foldable electronic device at the point where it folds around a folding axis (137).

[0020] The electronic device (100) may include a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), a hinge structure (160), a foldable display (130), a printed circuit board (150), a display (135), and / or a back plate (190). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may omit at least one of the components or additionally include other components.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first housing part (110) may form a portion of an outer surface of the electronic device (100). The first housing part (110) may include a first surface (111), a second surface (112) facing away from the first surface (111), and a first side surface (113) surrounding at least a portion of the first surface (111) and the second surface (112). In one embodiment, the first housing part (110) may provide a space defined by the first surface (111), the second surface (112), and the first side surface (113) as a space for arranging components of the electronic device (100).

[0022] In one embodiment, the second side (123) may be pivotally connected to the first side (113) via a hinge structure (160) disposed on a hinge cover (165). The hinge structure (160) may include a hinge module and hinge plates (166, 167). The hinge plates may include a first hinge plate (166) and a second hinge plate (167), and the first hinge plate (166) may be connected to the first housing part (110), and the second hinge plate (167) may be connected to the second housing part (120).

[0023] In one embodiment, the second housing part (120) may include a third face (121), a fourth face (122) facing and spaced from the third face (121), and a second side (123) surrounding at least a portion of the third face (121) and the fourth face (122). The second housing part (120) may provide a space defined by the third face (121), the fourth face (122), and the second side (123) as a space for arranging components of the electronic device (100).

[0024] In one embodiment, the foldable display (130) may include a window exposed to the outside. The window may protect the surface of the foldable display (130) and may be formed of a transparent material to transmit visual information provided from the foldable display (130) to the outside. The window may include a glass material such as ultra-thin glass (UTG) or a polymer material such as polyimide (PI).

[0025] In one embodiment, the foldable display (130) may form at least a portion of a first side (111) of the first housing part (110) (e.g., a front side of the first housing part (110)) and a third side (121) of the second housing part (120) (e.g., a front side of the second housing part (120)). The foldable display (130) may be disposed on the first side (111) of the first housing part (110) and the third side (121) of the second housing part (120) across a hinge structure (160) within a hinge cover (165). The foldable display (130) may be configured to bend within a folded state of the electronic device (100) by the hinge structure (160). The foldable display (130) may include a first display area (131), a second display area (132), and a third display area (133). For example, the foldable display (130) may include a first display area (131) disposed on a first surface (111) of a first housing part, a second display area (132) disposed on a third surface (121) of a second housing part, and a third display area (133) between the first display area (131) and the second display area (132). The foldable display (130) may be supported by a first support portion (170) of the first housing part (110) and a second support portion (180) of the second housing part (120).

[0026] According to one embodiment, the foldable display (130) may include an opening formed in a portion of the screen display area, or a supporting portion (e.g., a bracket) that supports the foldable display (130) may include a recess or an opening. The electronic device (100) may include at least one camera aligned with the recess or the opening. For example, the first display area (131) may further include at least one camera (136) that can acquire an image from the outside through a portion of the first display area (131). According to one embodiment, at least one camera (136) may be included on the rear surface of the foldable display (130) corresponding to the first display area (131) or the second display area (132) of the foldable display (130). For example, the at least one camera (136) may be disposed below the foldable display (130) and may be surrounded by the foldable display (130). At least one camera (136) may be an under-display camera (UDC) that is covered by the foldable display (130) and is not exposed to the outside. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the foldable display (130) may include an opening that exposes at least one camera (136) to the outside. In one embodiment, the camera (136) may acquire images of the external environment and / or external objects through the opening.

[0027] In one embodiment, the fourth side (122) of the second housing part (120) may further include at least one camera (134) and display (135) exposed through a portion of the fourth side (122).

[0028] In one embodiment, the hinge structure (160) may be configured to pivotally connect a first support portion (170) forming a first housing part (110) and a second support portion (180) forming a second housing part (120).

[0029] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may be in one of a folded state, an unfolded state, or an intermediate state. The folded state may be a state in which the first surface (111) of the first housing part (110) and the third surface (121) of the second housing part (120) face each other. In the folded state, the direction in which the first surface (111) faces and the direction in which the third surface (121) faces may be opposite to each other. The unfolded state may be a state in which the first surface (111) of the first housing part (110) and the third surface (121) of the second housing part (120) are substantially continuous planes. In the unfolded state, the direction in which the first surface (111) faces and the direction in which the third surface (121) faces may be the same. The intermediate state may be a state between the unfolded state and the folded state. In the intermediate state, the direction in which the first side (111) faces and the direction in which the third side (121) faces may be different.

[0030] In one embodiment, while the electronic device (100) is in a folded state, the hinge cover (165) surrounding the hinge structure (160) may be at least partially exposed between the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120). In another embodiment, while the electronic device (100) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (165) may be covered by the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120).

[0031] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can be folded about a folding axis (137) passing through the hinge cover (165) or the hinge structure (160). For example, the hinge structure (160) within the hinge cover (165) can be positioned between the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) of the electronic device (100) to enable the electronic device (100) to be bent, curved, or folded. For example, the first housing part (110) can be connected to the second housing part (120) through the hinge structure (160) positioned within the hinge cover (165) and can be rotated about the folding axis (137).

[0032] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can be folded such that the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) face each other by rotating about the folding axis (137). In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can be folded such that the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) cover or overlap each other.

[0033] The hinge structure (160) may include a hinge module and a hinge plate (166, 167). The hinge module may include a hinge gear (162) that enables the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) to pivot.

[0034] The first housing part (110) may include a first support part (170), and the second housing part (120) may include a second support part (180). The first support part (170) may be partially surrounded by the first side (113), and the second support part (180) may be partially surrounded by the second side (123). The first support part (170) may be formed integrally with the first side (113), and the second support part (180) may be formed integrally with the second side (123). According to one embodiment, the first support part (170) may be formed separately from the first side (113), and the second support part (180) may be formed separately from the second side (123). The first side (113) and the second side (123) may be formed of a metallic material, a non-metallic material, or a combination thereof. For example, the first side (113) may include a conductive portion (118) and a non-conductive portion (119). The conductive portion (118) may be used as a radiator of an antenna.

[0035] One side of the first support portion (170) can be coupled with the rear plate (190), and the other side of the first support portion (170) can be coupled with the foldable display (130). One side of the second support portion (180) can be coupled with the display (135), and the other side of the second support portion (180) can be coupled with the foldable display (130).

[0036] A printed circuit board (150) and a battery may be placed in the space between the surface formed by the first support portion (170) and the second support portion (180) and the surface formed by the display (135) and the rear plate (190). The printed circuit board (150) may be separated so that it may be placed in each of the first support portion (170) of the first housing part (110) and the second support portion (180) of the second housing part (120). Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device (100) may be placed on the printed circuit board (150).

[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an electronic device and an upper layer laminate structure of a display, according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of an edge portion of a display in a first state of the electronic device, according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an edge portion of a display in a second state of the electronic device, according to one embodiment.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electronic device (101) may be a foldable device having a folding axis in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the folding axis (137) of FIG. 2A) as illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C. The electronic device (101) may be replaced with an electronic device (291) that is a foldable device having a folding axis in the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, or may be replaced with an electronic device (292) that is a foldable device (or a multi-foldable device) having two or more folding axes, or may be replaced with an electronic device (293) that is a rollable device that slides into or out of the housing. The electronic device (101) may be replaced with an electronic device (291, 292) that is a foldable device and an electronic device (293) that is a rollable device, as well as an electronic device (294) that does not deform the housing or the display. The following descriptions exemplified for the electronic device (200) are merely exemplary, and the descriptions below can be applied to the electronic device (291), the electronic device (292), the electronic device (293), and the electronic device (294). For example, the light-emitting elements exemplified by the descriptions below can be included in the electronic device (291) with the display (130) rotated 90 degrees.

[0039] The electronic device (101) may include a housing (102). The housing (120) may include a first housing part (110) and a second housing part (120). The first housing part (110) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (120). The second housing part (120) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing part (110). The first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) may be coupled by a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (160) of FIG. 1C). The hinge structure (160) may rotatably couple the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120). The electronic device (101) may be referred to as a foldable electronic device in terms of being foldable and unfoldable.

[0040] The electronic device (101) may further include a display (130). The display (130) may change depending on the rotation of the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120). For example, the display (130) may be unfolded in an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) in which the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) face the same direction. The display (130) may be folded in a folded state of the electronic device (101) in which the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) face each other. The display (130) may change from a folded state (or unfolded state) to an unfolded state (or folded state) depending on the rotation of the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) by a hinge structure (160). The display (130) may be referred to as a foldable display in terms of its ability to be folded and unfolded.

[0041] The display (130) may include a display panel (210) and a window (220). The window (220) may transmit light emitted from the display panel (210) of the display (130) to the outside. The window (220) may be disposed on the display panel (210). The display (130) may transmit visual information to a user of the electronic device (101) by transmitting light emitted from the display panel (210) through the window (220). The window (220) may include a glass material (e.g., ultra-thin glass (UTG), glass) or a polymer material (e.g., polyimide (PI)). The window (220) may be at least partially transparent.

[0042] The display panel (210) may include light-emitting elements (211) configured to emit light to the outside of the electronic device (101) through a window (220). The light-emitting elements (211) may include a first light-emitting element (211a) configured to emit light of a first color (e.g., blue), a second light-emitting element (211b) configured to emit light of a second color (e.g., red), and a third light-emitting element (211c) configured to emit light of a third color (e.g., green). Each light-emitting element may correspond to a sub-pixel constituting a pixel. One pixel may be defined by sub-pixels corresponding to one first light-emitting element (211a), one second light-emitting element (211b), and two third light-emitting elements (211c). Although four sub-pixels are described as constituting one pixel, the present invention is not limited thereto, and one pixel may be defined by three sub-pixels corresponding to each color.

[0043] The display (130) may further include an opaque material (230) and a layer (240). The opaque material (230) may limit light emitted from light-emitting elements (211) of the display panel (210) from being transmitted to the outside. The opaque material (230) may be black ink. The opaque material (230) may be applied to one side of the window (220) facing the display panel (210). The opaque material (230) may be disposed on an edge portion of the window (220) on one side of the window (220). For example, the opaque material (230) may be disposed along an edge portion of the window (220) with a constant width.

[0044] The opaque material (230) can reduce the exposure of wires for driving the light-emitting elements (211) of the display panel (210) to the outside. The wires may be disposed in an area outside the area where the light-emitting elements (211) of the display panel (210) are disposed. For example, the wires may be disposed at an edge portion (313) of the substrate (301) of the display panel (210). The opaque material (230) may be disposed on some of the light-emitting elements (211) of the display panel (210). For example, among the light-emitting elements (211) of the display panel (210), light-emitting elements adjacent to the display panel (210) may be disposed under the opaque material (230). The light-emitting elements (211) may provide visual information through an area of ​​the window (220) that is not covered by the opaque material (230).

[0045] The opaque material (230) can define a display area of ​​the display. The display area can refer to an area in which light emitted from light-emitting elements (211) of the display panel (210) is transmitted to the outside to provide visual information. For example, the display area can be an area corresponding to an area of ​​the window (220) that is not covered by the opaque material (230). Some of the light-emitting elements (211) can be positioned outside the display area. When looking at the display (130), among the light-emitting elements (211) of the display panel (210), the light-emitting elements adjacent to the edge of the display panel (210) can overlap the opaque material (230). For example, the light-emitting elements adjacent to the edge of the display panel (210) can be visually covered by the opaque material (230). Among the light emitting elements (211), some light emitting elements that are visually covered by the opaque material may be set to be disabled, and other light emitting elements among the light emitting elements (211) may be set to be enabled. Some light emitting elements among the light emitting elements (211) that are covered by the opaque material (230) may be set to be disabled before delivery of the electronic device (101). In another example, some light emitting elements among the light emitting elements (211) that are covered by the opaque material (230) may be set to be disabled by the user. After assembling the electronic device (101) or after attaching the display (130) to the housing, the display area of ​​the display (130) may be adjusted to remove a portion that is visible in the form of a band displayed at the edge of the display area of ​​the display (130).

[0046] As a portion of the light emitting elements (211) is covered by the opaque material (230), the boundary of the enabled light emitting elements (211) may be adjacent to the boundary of the opaque material (230). For example, the visible portion of the display panel (210) may be substantially the same as the display area of ​​the display (130) (or the display panel (210)). The light emitting elements (211) within the visible portion of the display panel (210) may be activated, and the light emitting elements partially covered by the opaque material (230) of the display panel (210) may be activated. The light emitting elements (211) disposed at the boundary of the opaque material (230) of the display panel (210) may operate at substantially the same brightness or grayscale as the light emitting elements (211) within the visible portion of the display panel (210), or may be configured to operate at lower brightness or grayscale than the light emitting elements (211) within the visible portion of the display panel (210). The layer (240) may be placed between the display panel (210) and the window (220). The layer (240) may include a plurality of layers. The plurality of layers may include a polymer material. The plurality of layers may include a polarizing layer, a protective layer, and / or an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer may include an optical clear adhesive (OCA). The adhesive layer may be transparent so as to transmit light.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 3, the display panel (210) may include a substrate (301) and light-emitting elements (310) disposed on the substrate (301). The display panel (210) may include an area (AA) where the light-emitting elements (310) are disposed and an area (DS) where the light-emitting elements are not disposed. The area (AA) where the light-emitting elements (310) are disposed may be surrounded by the area (DS) where the light-emitting elements are not disposed. For example, the area (DS) where the light-emitting elements are not disposed may be located at an edge portion of the substrate (301) of the display panel (210). The display (130) may include an area (NA) covered by an opaque material (230) and an area (VA) that is visible and not covered by the opaque material (230). The light-emitting elements (310) may be disposed in a portion of the visible area (VA) and the hidden area (NA) of the display (130). For example, a portion (311) of the light emitting elements may be disposed in a portion of the obscured area (NA). A portion (311) of the light emitting elements disposed within the obscured area (NA) may be obscured by an opaque material (230). When the display (130) is viewed from above, a portion (311) of the light emitting elements may overlap the opaque material (230). Another portion (312) of the light emitting elements may be disposed in the visible area (VA). For example, a portion of the active area (AA) in which the light emitting elements are disposed may be disposed within the area (NA) obscured by the opaque material (230). When the display (130) is viewed from above, a portion (312) of the light emitting elements disposed within the visible area (VA) may not overlap the opaque material (230). For example, when viewing the display (130) from above, the edge of the area where another portion (312) of the light-emitting elements arranged within the visible area (VA) is arranged may be surrounded by an opaque material (230).

[0048] The display (130) of FIG. 3 may be included in an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (294) of FIG. 2). Since the display (130) included in the electronic device (294) is not deformed, some of the light-emitting elements (311) may be covered by the opaque material (230), and other parts (312) of the light-emitting elements may be exposed to the outside without being covered by the opaque material (230). Some of the light-emitting elements (311) disposed in the covered area (NA) may be configured to be disabled or inactivated. Other parts (312) of the light-emitting elements disposed in the visible area (VA) may be configured to be enabled or activated. Since the light-emitting elements (310) disposed in the display panel (210) are at least partially covered by the opaque material (230), the opaque material (230) and the active area of ​​the display (130) may not be separated from each other but may be in contact. By reducing the gap between the opaque material (230) and the active area of ​​the display (130), the area providing visual information through the display (130) may be the entire viewable area (VA). The electronic device (101, 291) according to one embodiment can increase the area providing visual information through the display (130) and reduce the inactive area of ​​the display (130), thereby reducing the size of the electronic device and improving aesthetics. When the area (DS) where the light-emitting elements (310) of the display panel (210) are not arranged is located within the area (AA) visible through the window (220), the area (DS) may be visible in the form of a black band at the edge of the viewable area. According to one embodiment, the area (DS) where the light-emitting elements (310) of the display panel (210) are not arranged may be located below the area (NA) covered by the opaque material (230), and thus may not be visible from the outside.Since the area (DS) where the light emitting elements (310) are not arranged is not visible, the display area of ​​the display (130) can be seamlessly connected to the area where the opaque material (230) is arranged.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 4, the light-emitting elements (310) of the display panel (210) may include a first set (411) of light-emitting elements, a second set (412) of light-emitting elements, and a third set (413) of light-emitting elements. The first set (411) of light-emitting elements may be disposed under an opaque material (230) within an unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291). The first set (411) of light-emitting elements may be a part (311) of the light-emitting elements of FIG. 3.

[0050] The display (130) including light-emitting elements (310) is formed of a plurality of layers and can be slidable depending on the state of the electronic device (100), which is a foldable electronic device. When the electronic device (100) is an infold type in which the display (130) is not exposed to the outside and is located inside the electronic device (100), as the electronic device (100) changes from a folded state to an unfolded state, the display (130) can be slidable in a direction (d1) toward the folding axis. As the electronic device (100) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the display (130) can be slidable in a direction (d2) away from the folding axis. In the infold type electronic device (101), FIG. 3 may represent an unfolded state of the electronic device, and FIG. 4 may represent a folded state of the electronic device. The second set (412) of light-emitting elements may be spaced apart from the light-emitting elements (411, 413) that are covered by the opaque material (230) within the folded state of the electronic device (101, 291). The second set (412) of light-emitting elements may be disposed beneath a portion of the layer (240) disposed between the window (220) and the display panel (21) that does not come into contact with the opaque material (230) within the folded state of the electronic device (101, 291).

[0051] The third set (413) of light-emitting elements can be arranged between the first set (411) of light-emitting elements and the second set (412) of light-emitting elements. The third set (413) of light-emitting elements can be visible to the outside or covered by the opaque material (230) depending on the state of the electronic device (101, 291). For example, the third set (413) of light-emitting elements can be arranged within a visible area (VA) that is not covered by the opaque material (230) within an unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291). Within a folded state of the electronic device (101, 291), it can be arranged below the opaque material (230). The second set (412) of light-emitting elements and the third set (413) of light-emitting elements can constitute another portion (312) of light-emitting elements arranged in the visible area (VA) of FIG. 3.

[0052] Within an intermediate state between the unfolded and folded states of the electronic device, some of the light emitting elements of the third set (413) of light emitting elements are obscured by the opaque material (230), and other light emitting elements of the third set (413) of light emitting elements are visible through areas where the opaque material (230) is not disposed.

[0053] In the folded state of the electronic device (100), when the display (130) is of the outfold type located outside the electronic device (100), as the electronic device (100) changes from the unfolded state to the folded state, the display (130) may slip in a direction (d2) away from the folding axis. As the electronic device (100) changes from the folded state to the unfolded state, the display (130) may slip in a direction (d2) toward the folding axis. In the outfold type electronic device (101), FIG. 3 may represent a folded state of the electronic device, and FIG. 4 may represent an unfolded state of the electronic device.

[0054] The second set (412) of light-emitting elements may be spaced apart from the light-emitting elements (411, 413) that are covered by the opaque material (230) within the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291). The second set (412) of light-emitting elements may be disposed beneath a portion of the layer (240) disposed between the window (220) and the display panel (210) that does not come into contact with the opaque material (230) within the folded state of the electronic device (101, 291).

[0055] In the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291) of the outfold type, the third set (413) of light-emitting elements can be arranged between the first set (411) of light-emitting elements and the second set (412) of light-emitting elements. The third set (413) of light-emitting elements can be visible to the outside or covered by an opaque material (230) depending on the state of the electronic device (101, 291). For example, the third set (413) of light-emitting elements can be arranged in a visible area (VA) that is not covered by the opaque material (230) in the folded state of the electronic device (101, 291) of the outfold type. In the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), it can be arranged under the opaque material (230). The second set of light emitting elements (412) and the third set of light emitting elements (413) may constitute another part (312) of the light emitting elements arranged in the area (VA) shown in FIG. 3.

[0056] A processor (e.g., processor (920) of FIG. 9) within an electronic device (101, 291) may include at least one processor or processing circuit. The at least one processor or processing circuit may, independently or collectively, cause light-emitting elements (310) covered by an opaque material (230) to be disabled or inactivated, and cause light-emitting elements (310) within an area visible to the outside through a window (220) in which no opaque material (230) is disposed to be enabled or activated. The processor or processing circuit may include a display driving circuit that drives or controls the display (130).

[0057] In the unfolded state of the infold type electronic device (101, 291) (or in the folded state of the outfold type electronic device (101, 291)), the second set (412) of light emitting elements and the third set (413) of light emitting elements can be enabled. In the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291) (or in the folded state of the outfold type electronic device (101, 291)), the first set (411) of light emitting elements can be disabled or deactivated. In the folded state of the electronic device (101, 291) (or in the unfolded state of the outfold type electronic device (101, 291)), all of the light emitting elements (310) can be deactivated. Within an intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), a first set (411) of light-emitting elements may be deactivated and a second set (412) of light-emitting elements may be activated. Within an intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), some light-emitting elements of a third set (413) of light-emitting elements covered by an opaque material (230) may be deactivated and other light-emitting elements of the third set (413) of light-emitting elements visible through an area where no opaque material (230) is disposed may be activated.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the first set of light-emitting elements (411) can be deactivated or disabled regardless of the state of the electronic device. The second set of light-emitting elements can be activated within the unfolded state and intermediate state of the infold type electronic device, and deactivated within the folded state of the electronic device.

[0059] The electronic device (101, 291) according to the above-described embodiment can maintain a constant display area of ​​the display by changing the active area of ​​the display according to changes in the state of the electronic device. Even when the state of the electronic device changes, the electronic device can provide a uniform image or content.

[0060] FIG. 5 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a camera and a display positioned in an opening of a display panel within a first state of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a camera and a display positioned in an opening of a display panel within a second state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the electronic device (101, 291) may further include a camera (590) (or optical sensor) disposed under the display (130). The camera (590) may be disposed under the window (220). The layer (240) and the display panel (210) included in the display (130) may include openings (210a, 240a) for the camera (590). The optical axis of the camera (590) may be aligned with the openings (210a, 240a). Part of the lens of the camera (590) may be inserted into the openings (210a, 240a), or the lenses of the camera (590) may be disposed under the openings (210a, 240a).

[0062] The apertures (210a, 240a) may provide an optical path for transmitting light from the outside of the electronic device (101) to the camera (590). The apertures (210a, 240a) may be referred to as light-transmitting portions in terms of the path through which light is transmitted. The camera (590) may obtain light from the outside of the electronic device (101, 291) through the apertures (210a, 240a).

[0063] The display (130) may further include an opaque material (530) disposed along the edges of the openings (210a, 240a). For example, the opaque material (530) may be interposed between the window (220) and the layer (240) along the edges of the openings (240a) formed in the layer (240).

[0064] The display (130) may be configured to deactivate a light-emitting element (310) disposed under an opaque material (530).

[0065] In the unfolded state of the infold type electronic device (101) of FIG. 5, the light emitting elements (511a, 511b) arranged under the opaque material (530) may be different from the light emitting elements (611a, 611b) arranged under the opaque material (530) in the folded state of the infold type electronic device (101) of FIG. 6.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 5, the display panel (210) may include a portion (519) where light-emitting elements are not arranged on a substrate (e.g., substrate (301) of FIG. 3) under the opaque material (530). The opaque material (530) arranged along the edge of the opening (240a) may cover some of the light-emitting elements (511a, 511b) and the portion (519) among the light-emitting elements (310). The portion (519) may have wiring arranged for the light-emitting elements (511a, 511b) adjacent to the opening (240a). The wiring arranged in the portion (519) may be covered by the opaque material (530).

[0067] The light-emitting elements (511a, 511b) disposed under the opaque material (530) and the light-emitting elements (501) disposed under the opaque material (230) (e.g., some of the light-emitting elements (311) of FIG. 3) can be deactivated. The number of light-emitting elements disposed under the opaque material (530) and the opaque material (230) can be changed according to a change in the state of the electronic device (101, 291).

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, for example, in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), the number of light-emitting elements disposed under the opaque material (530) and the opaque material (230) may be, for example, three. The display (130) may be formed of a plurality of layers and may slip depending on the state change of the electronic device (101, 291), which is a foldable electronic device. In the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), at the edge portion of the display panel (210), the light-emitting elements (501) covered by the opaque material (230) may be, for example, arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, three in number. In the folded state of the electronic device (101, 291), at the edge portion of the display panel (210), the light-emitting elements (601) covered by the opaque material (230) may be, for example, arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, six in number. As the electronic device (101, 291) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the number of light-emitting elements covered by the opaque material (230) may increase due to slipping in a direction (d2) away from the folding axis (137) of the display (130).

[0069] As the electronic device (101, 291) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the number of light emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) arranged along the edge of the opening (240a) may vary depending on the distance from the folding axis (137).

[0070] Referring to FIG. 5, among the light emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) arranged along the edge of the opening (240a) in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), three light emitting elements (511a) arranged under the opaque material (530) close to the folding axis (137) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (137), for example. Among the light emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) arranged along the edge of the opening (240a) in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), three light emitting elements (511b) arranged under the opaque material (530) relatively far from the folding axis (137) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (137), for example.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 6, among the light emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) at the edge of the display panel (210), one light emitting element (611b) disposed under a portion of the opaque material (530) relatively far from the folding axis (137) may be disposed in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (137).

[0072] As the electronic device (101, 291) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the number of light-emitting elements covered by a portion of the opaque material (530) due to slipping of the display (130) may change.

[0073] For example, at the edge of the display panel (210), among the light emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530), four light emitting elements (611a) arranged under a portion of the opaque material (530) relatively close to the folding axis (137) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (137). As the electronic device (101, 291) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the number of light emitting elements covered by a portion of the opaque material (530) may increase due to slipping of the display (130).

[0074] Among the light emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) arranged around the opening (240a) of the layer (240) of the display (130), one light emitting element (611b) arranged under another part of the opaque material (530) relatively far from the folding axis (137) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (137). As the electronic device (101, 291) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the number of light emitting elements covered by another part of the opaque material (530) due to slipping of the display (130) may decrease.

[0075] The amount of slip of the display (130) may increase as it moves away from the folding axis (137). For example, as the electronic device (101, 291) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the number of light-emitting elements covered by the opaque material (230) arranged along the edge of the window (220) may change significantly. As the electronic device (101, 291) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the number of light-emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) arranged along the edge of the opening (240a) of the layer (240) may change relatively small.

[0076] Depending on the slip of the display (130), among the light-emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) arranged along the opening (240a) of the layer (240), some (611-1) may not be covered by the opaque material (530) in the unfolded state of the electronic device. Depending on the slip of the display (130), among the light-emitting elements covered by the opaque material (530) arranged along the opening (240a) of the layer (240), some (611-2) of the light-emitting elements adjacent to some (611-1) may be covered by the opaque material (530) in the unfolded state of the electronic device.

[0077] A processor (e.g., processor (920) of FIG. 9) within the electronic device (101, 291) may include at least one processor or processing circuit. The at least one processor or processing circuit may, independently or collectively, cause light-emitting elements (310) of the display (130) to be deactivated that are covered by an opaque material (230, 530). For example, in an unfolded state of the electronic device, light-emitting elements (511a, 511b) disposed under the opaque material (530) and light-emitting elements (501) disposed under the opaque material (230) may be deactivated. In a folded state of the electronic device, light-emitting elements (611a, 611b) disposed under the opaque material (530) and light-emitting elements (601) disposed under the opaque material (230) within the slipped display may be deactivated. Within the intermediate state of the electronic device, depending on the slip of the display (130), some of the light-emitting elements (611-1) adjacent to the other part (611-2) of the light-emitting elements that are covered by the opaque material (530) arranged along the opening (240a) of the layer (240) may be configured to be inactivated.

[0078] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) has been described based on an infold type foldable electronic device that is folded inwardly of the display (130), but is not limited thereto, and may also be applied to an outfold type foldable electronic device in which the display (130) is exposed to the outside within the folded state of the electronic device (101). For example, FIG. 5 illustrates a display within a folded state of an outfold type foldable electronic device, and FIG. 6 may illustrate a display within an unfolded state of an outfold type foldable electronic device. For example, as the electronic device (101, 291) changes from a folded state to an unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), the number of light-emitting elements covered by the opaque material (230) may decrease due to slipping in a direction (d1) approaching the folding axis (137) of the display (130).

[0079] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a structure of an edge portion of a display configured to reduce light leakage according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an edge portion of a display according to one embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the display (130) panel may further include a masking layer (830) including a black matrix (831) to adjust a viewing angle of light emitted from light-emitting elements adjacent to the opaque material (230) so as to reduce light leakage from the light-emitting elements through the opaque material (230). The masking layer (830) may include a light-transmitting portion (812) configured to transmit light from the light-emitting elements (310) at a first viewing angle limited by a portion of the black matrix (831) and a second light-transmitting portion (832) configured to transmit light at a second viewing angle limited by a portion of the opaque material. The first viewing angle of light transmitted through the first light-transmitting portion (812) may be wider than the second viewing angle of light transmitted through the second light-transmitting portion (832). The second light-transmitting portion (832) may be positioned along the edge of the area where the first light-transmitting portion (812) is positioned. For example, the second light-transmitting portion (832) may be positioned at the edge of the display panel (210), and the first light-transmitting portion (812) may be surrounded by the second light-transmitting portion (832).

[0081] The light-emitting elements (310) may be configured within the light-emitting layer (810) to emit light to the outside of the display (130). The first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802) adjacent to the first light-emitting elements (801) that are covered by the opaque material (230) disposed in the window (220) of the display (130) may be partially covered by the black matrix (831) of the masking layer (830) within the display panel (210) to provide a narrow viewing angle. The black matrix (831) disposed on the first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802) may limit the angle of light emitted from the first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802). For example, light emitted from the first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802) can be transmitted to the outside through a light-transmitting portion (832) defined by a black matrix (831). The light-transmitting portion (832) between the black matrices (831) can correspond to light-emitting elements (801, 802) arranged in the first region (701a) and the second region (701b). The first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802) can be light-emitting elements that provide different colors. Each of the light-emitting elements (801, 802) can correspond to a sub-pixel.

[0082] The first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802) may be light-emitting elements that provide the same color. The first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802) are illustrated as being divided by a partition wall (805), but are not limited thereto. The partition wall between the first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802) may be omitted and visually distinguished by a black matrix (831). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a partition wall (805) may be added within the first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802).

[0083] The third light-emitting elements (803) covered by the second light-emitting elements (802) may not be covered by the black matrix (831) of the masking layer (830). Light emitted from the third light-emitting elements (803) may be transmitted to the outside through the light-transmitting portion (812). The path of the light emitted from the third light-emitting elements (803) may not be restricted by the black matrix (831), unlike the light emitted from the first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802). The third light-emitting elements (803) that are not obstructed by the black matrix (831) may provide a relatively wider viewing angle of light than the viewing angle of light emitted from the first light-emitting elements (801) and the second light-emitting elements (802).

[0084] In the unfolded state of the electronic device (101, 291), the first light-emitting elements (801) in the first region (701a) may be covered by an opaque material (230) disposed in the window (220). Some of the second light-emitting elements (802) in the second region (701b) may be covered by an opaque material (230) disposed in the window (220) in the intermediate state or folded state of the electronic device (101, 291) depending on a change in the state of the electronic device (101, 291). Some of the second light-emitting elements (802) covered by the opaque material (230) may be deactivated depending on a change in the state of the electronic device (101, 291).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the masking layer (830) may further include a black matrix (831) disposed in the first region (701a) and the second region (701b) to limit the viewing angle of some of the third light-emitting elements (803) configured to provide a wide viewing angle within the third region (702). The black matrix and the light-transmitting portion disposed in the third region (702) may be identical or similar to the black matrix (831) and the second light-transmitting portion (832). Within the third region (702), the second light-transmitting portion (832) disposed to provide a narrow viewing angle may be alternately disposed with the first light-transmitting portion (812). The third region (702) in which the first light-transmitting portion (812) and the second light-transmitting portion (832) are alternately arranged can be configured to optionally provide a wide viewing angle or a narrow viewing angle.

[0086] The display of FIGS. 7 to 8 can be applied to the display (130) of FIGS. 3 to 6.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the display (130) can be seamlessly connected to the printing area of ​​the window (220) on which the opaque material (230) is printed, so that the active area (AA) of the display (130) and the area (NA) covered by the opaque material (230) of the window (220) overlap, thereby improving the aesthetics.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the display (130) can maintain the ratio of the entire screen by adjusting the activation or deactivation state of the light-emitting elements when the pixels are overlapped with an opaque material due to the slip of the display (130) in a foldable electronic device or a rollable electronic device in which the state of the electronic device changes.

[0089] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document pertains.

[0090] According to the above-described embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101, 291) of FIG. 2) may include a housing (e.g., housing (102) of FIG. 2) including a first housing part (e.g., first housing part (110) of FIG. 2) and a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (120) of FIG. 2) configured to be rotatable relative to the first housing part. The electronic device may include a display (e.g., display (130) of FIG. 2) disposed in the housing.

[0091] The display may include a window (e.g., window (220) of FIG. 3). The display may include a display panel (e.g., display panel (210) of FIG. 3). The display panel may include light-emitting elements (e.g., light-emitting elements (310) of FIG. 3) disposed below the window and configured to emit light to the outside through the window. The display may include an opaque material (e.g., opaque material (230) of FIG. 3). The opaque material may be disposed along an edge of the window. Some of the light-emitting elements that are visually obscured by the opaque material may be configured to be deactivated.

[0092] The light emitting elements may include a first set of light emitting elements (e.g., a first set (411) of light emitting elements in FIG. 4) disposed below the opaque material in an unfolded state of the electronic device. The light emitting elements may include a second set of light emitting elements (e.g., a second set (412) of light emitting elements in FIG. 4) spaced apart from the light emitting elements covered by the opaque material in a folded state of the electronic device. The light emitting elements may include a third set of light emitting elements (e.g., a third set (413) of light emitting elements in FIG. 4) disposed between the first set of light emitting elements and the second set of light emitting elements.

[0093] In one embodiment, when the electronic device is in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, some of the light emitting elements of the third set of light emitting elements may be obscured by the opaque material. Some of the obscured light emitting elements of the third set of light emitting elements may be configured to be deactivated.

[0094] In one embodiment, other light emitting elements of the set of third light emitting elements can be configured to be activated.

[0095] In one embodiment, the first set of light-emitting elements may be configured to be deactivated regardless of the state of the electronic device. The second set of light-emitting elements may be configured to be activated regardless of the state of the electronic device.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the display panel may further include a substrate (e.g., substrate (301) of FIG. 3) that supports the light-emitting elements. An outer portion of the substrate spaced apart from a portion of the substrate on which the light-emitting elements are arranged may be covered by the opaque material.

[0097] The display panel may further include a masking layer (e.g., the masking layer (830) of FIG. 8) disposed on the light-emitting layer including the light-emitting elements and including a black matrix and light-transmitting portions corresponding to the light-emitting elements.

[0098] In one embodiment, the masking layer may include a first light-transmitting portion (e.g., the first light-transmitting portion (812) of FIG. 8) configured to transmit light from the light-emitting elements at a first viewing angle. The masking layer may include a second light-transmitting portion (e.g., the second light-transmitting portion (832) of FIG. 8) configured to transmit light from the light-emitting elements at a second viewing angle limited by the black matrix. The second viewing angle may be narrower than the first viewing angle.

[0099] The second light-transmitting portion may be arranged along the edge of the area where the first light-transmitting portion is arranged.

[0100] The masking layer may include a third light-transmitting portion arranged alternately with the first light-transmitting portion and configured to transmit light from the light-emitting elements at a second viewing angle limited by the black matrix.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a camera (e.g., camera (590) of FIG. 5) positioned below the window. The camera may be configured to receive light from outside the electronic device through a light-transmitting portion of the display panel corresponding to the camera.

[0102] The display may further include another opaque material disposed between the window and the layer along an edge corresponding to the light-transmitting portion of the display panel.

[0103] Some other light emitting elements disposed beneath the other opaque material may be configured to be inactive.

[0104] The light emitting elements disposed under the other opaque material can be changed depending on the folded state of the electronic device, the unfolded state of the electronic device, or an intermediate state of the electronic device.

[0105] According to one embodiment, among the other light-emitting elements disposed under the other opaque material within the folded state of the electronic device, some may not be covered by the other opaque material within the intermediate state of the electronic device, and among the light-emitting elements disposed next to the other light-emitting elements, some may be covered by the other opaque material within the intermediate state of the electronic device.

[0106] In one embodiment, some of the other light-emitting elements that are not obscured by the other opaque material may be configured to be activated. Some of the light-emitting elements adjacent to the other light-emitting elements that are obscured by the other opaque material may be configured to be deactivated.

[0107] In one embodiment, the color of the opaque material may be different from the color of the other opaque material.

[0108] In one embodiment, the opaque material may have a chromatic color.

[0109] According to the above-described embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101, 291) of FIG. 2) may include a housing (e.g., housing (102) of FIG. 2) including a first housing part (e.g., first housing part (110) of FIG. 2) and a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (120) of FIG. 2) configured to be rotatable relative to the first housing part. The electronic device may include a display (e.g., display (130) of FIG. 2) disposed in the housing.

[0110] The display may include a window (e.g., window (220) of FIG. 3). The display may include a display panel (e.g., display panel (210) of FIG. 3). The display panel may include light-emitting elements (e.g., light-emitting elements (310) of FIG. 3) disposed below the window and configured to emit light to the outside through the window. The display may include a layer (e.g., layer (240) of FIG. 3) interposed between the window and the display panel. The display may include an opaque material (e.g., opaque material (230) of FIG. 3). The opaque material may be disposed along an edge of the window. Some of the light-emitting elements that are visually obscured by the opaque material may be configured to be deactivated.

[0111] The display panel may be configured to transmit light emitted from first light-emitting elements spaced from the opaque material among the set of light-emitting elements within a first viewing angle range, and may be configured to transmit light emitted from second light-emitting elements adjacent to the opaque material among the set of light-emitting elements within a second viewing angle.

[0112] In one embodiment, the second viewing angle may be narrower than the first viewing angle.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the display panel may further include a masking layer (e.g., masking layer (830) of FIG. 8) disposed on the light-emitting layer including the set of light-emitting elements.

[0114] The masking layer may include a black matrix (e.g., a black matrix (831) of FIG. 8) disposed on the light-emitting layer. The masking layer may include a first light-transmitting portion (e.g., a first light-transmitting portion (812) of FIG. 8) configured to transmit light from the first light-emitting elements at the first viewing angle. The masking layer may include a second light-transmitting portion (e.g., a second light-transmitting portion (832) of FIG. 8) configured to transmit light from the second light-emitting elements at a second viewing angle limited by the black matrix.

[0115] In one embodiment, the masking layer may include a third light-transmitting portion arranged alternately with the first light-transmitting portion and configured to transmit light from the light-emitting elements at a second viewing angle limited by a portion of the black matrix.

[0116] In one embodiment, some of the light emitting elements among the set of light emitting elements that are visually obscured by the opaque material may be configured to be inactivated.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the electronic device further comprises a camera disposed below the window, wherein the camera is configured to obtain light from outside the electronic device through a light-transmitting portion of the display panel corresponding to the camera.

[0118] The display panel may further include another opaque material disposed between the window and the layer along an edge corresponding to the light-transmitting portion, and other light-emitting elements disposed under the other opaque material may be configured to be deactivated.

[0119] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0120] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an electronic device (901) within a network environment (900) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 9, in the network environment (900), the electronic device (901) may communicate with the electronic device (902) via a first network (998) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (904) or the server (908) via a second network (999) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (901) may communicate with the electronic device (904) via the server (908). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (901) may include a processor (920), a memory (930), an input module (950), an audio output module (955), a display module (960), an audio module (970), a sensor module (976), an interface (977), a connection terminal (978), a haptic module (979), a camera module (980), a power management module (988), a battery (989), a communication module (990), a subscriber identification module (996), or an antenna module (997). In some embodiments, the electronic device (901) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (978)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (976), the camera module (980), or the antenna module (997)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (960)).

[0121] The processor (920) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (940)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (901) connected to the processor (920) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (920) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (976) or a communication module (990)) in a volatile memory (932), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (932), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (934). According to one embodiment, the processor (920) may include a main processor (921) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (923) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (921). For example, when the electronic device (901) includes the main processor (921) and the auxiliary processor (923), the auxiliary processor (923) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (921) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (923) may be implemented separately from the main processor (921) or as a part thereof.

[0122] The auxiliary processor (923) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (960), a sensor module (976), or a communication module (990)) of the electronic device (901), for example, on behalf of the main processor (921) while the main processor (921) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (921) while the main processor (921) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (923) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (980) or a communication module (990)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (923) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (901) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (908)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0123] The memory (930) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (920) or the sensor module (976)) of the electronic device (901). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (940)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (930) can include a volatile memory (932) or a non-volatile memory (934).

[0124] The program (940) may be stored as software in the memory (930) and may include, for example, an operating system (942), middleware (944), or an application (946).

[0125] The input module (950) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (901) (e.g., a processor (920)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (901). The input module (950) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0126] The audio output module (955) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (901). The audio output module (955) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0127] The display module (960) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (901). The display module (960) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (960) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0128] The audio module (970) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (970) can acquire sound through the input module (950), output sound through the sound output module (955), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (902)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (901).

[0129] The sensor module (976) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (901) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (976) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0130] The interface (977) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (901) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (902)). In one embodiment, the interface (977) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0131] The connection terminal (978) may include a connector through which the electronic device (901) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (902)). In one embodiment, the connection terminal (978) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0132] The haptic module (979) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (979) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0133] The camera module (980) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (980) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0134] The power management module (988) can manage the power supplied to the electronic device (901). According to one embodiment, the power management module (988) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0135] A battery (989) may power at least one component of the electronic device (901). In one embodiment, the battery (989) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0136] The communication module (990) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (901) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (902), electronic device (904), or server (908)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (990) may operate independently from the processor (920) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (990) may include a wireless communication module (992) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (994) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with an external electronic device (904) via a first network (998) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (999) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (992) may use subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (996) to verify or authenticate the electronic device (901) within a communication network such as the first network (998) or the second network (999).

[0137] The wireless communication module (992) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency communications (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (992) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (992) may support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (992) may support various requirements specified in the electronic device (901), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (904)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (999)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (992) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0138] The antenna module (997) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (997) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (997) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (998) or the second network (999), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (990). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (990) and the external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (997).

[0139] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (997) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high frequency band.

[0140] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0141] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (901) and an external electronic device (904) via a server (908) connected to a second network (999). Each of the external electronic devices (902 or 904) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (901). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (901) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (902, 904, or 908). For example, when the electronic device (901) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (901) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (901). The electronic device (901) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (901) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (904) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (908) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (904) or the server (908) may be included in the second network (999).The electronic device (901) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0142] FIG. 10 is a block diagram (1000) of a display module (960) according to various embodiments.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 10, the display module (960) may include a display (1010) and a display driver IC (DDI) (1030) for controlling the display (1010). The DDI (1030) may include an interface module (1031), a memory (1033) (e.g., a buffer memory), an image processing module (1035), or a mapping module (1037). The DDI (1030) may receive, for example, image information including image data or an image control signal corresponding to a command for controlling the image data, from another component of the electronic device 901 through the interface module (1031). For example, according to one embodiment, image information may be received from a processor (920) (e.g., a main processor (921) (e.g., an application processor)) or an auxiliary processor (923) (e.g., a graphics processing unit) that operates independently of the function of the main processor (921). The DDI (1030) may communicate with a touch circuit (1050) or a sensor module (976) through the interface module (1031). In addition, the DDI (1030) may store at least some of the received image information in the memory (1033), for example, on a frame basis. The image processing module (1035) may, for example, perform preprocessing or postprocessing (e.g., resolution, brightness, or size adjustment) on at least some of the image data based on at least a characteristic of the image data or a characteristic of the display (1010). The mapping module (1037) may generate a voltage value or a current value corresponding to the image data that has been preprocessed or postprocessed through the image processing module (935). According to one embodiment, the generation of voltage values ​​or current values ​​may be performed at least in part based on properties of the pixels of the display (1010), for example, the arrangement of the pixels (RGB stripe or pentile structure), or the size of each of the sub-pixels.At least some pixels of the display (1010) may be driven based at least in part on, for example, the voltage value or current value, so that visual information (e.g., text, an image, or an icon) corresponding to the image data may be displayed through the display (1010).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the display module (960) may further include a touch circuit (1050). The touch circuit (1050) may include a touch sensor (1051) and a touch sensor IC (1053) for controlling the same. The touch sensor IC (1053) may control the touch sensor (1051) to detect, for example, a touch input or a hovering input for a specific location of the display (1010). For example, the touch sensor IC (1053) may detect a touch input or a hovering input by measuring a change in a signal (e.g., voltage, light quantity, resistance, or charge quantity) for a specific location of the display (1010). The touch sensor IC (1053) may provide information (e.g., location, area, pressure, or time) regarding the detected touch input or hovering input to the processor (920). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the touch circuit (1050) (e.g., touch sensor IC (1053)) may be included as part of the display driver IC (1030), or as part of the display (1010), or as part of another component (e.g., auxiliary processor (923)) disposed external to the display module (960).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the display module (960) may further include at least one sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, a pressure sensor, or an illuminance sensor) of the sensor module (976), or a control circuit therefor. In this case, the at least one sensor or the control circuit therefor may be embedded in a part of the display module (960) (e.g., the display (1010) or the DDI (1030)) or a part of the touch circuit (1050). For example, when the sensor module (976) embedded in the display module (960) includes a biometric sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor), the biometric sensor may obtain biometric information (e.g., a fingerprint image) associated with a touch input through a part of the display (1010). For another example, if the sensor module (976) embedded in the display module (960) includes a pressure sensor, the pressure sensor may obtain pressure information associated with a touch input through a portion or the entire area of ​​the display (1010). According to one embodiment, the touch sensor (1051) or the sensor module (976) may be disposed between pixels of a pixel layer of the display (1010), or above or below the pixel layer.

[0146] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0147] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0148] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0149] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (940)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (936) or an external memory (938)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (901)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (920)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (901)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0151] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101; 291), A housing (102) including a first housing part (110) and a second housing part (120) configured to be rotatable relative to the first housing part (110); and Includes a display (130) placed in the above housing (102); The above display (130) is Windows (220); A display panel (210) including light-emitting elements (310) arranged under the window (220) and configured to emit light to the outside through the window (220); and including an opaque material (230) arranged along the edge of the above window (220); Among the above light emitting elements (310), some light emitting elements (311; 411; 413) that are visually obscured by the opaque material (230) are configured to be disabled, Electronic devices (101; 291).

2. In paragraph 1, The above light emitting elements (310) are A first set (411) of light-emitting elements arranged under the opaque material (230) within the unfolded state of the electronic device (101; 291); a second set (412) of light-emitting elements spaced apart from the light-emitting elements (411, 413) covered by the opaque material within the folded state of the electronic device (101; 291); and A third set (413) of light emitting elements disposed between the first set (411) of light emitting elements and the second set (412) of light emitting elements, Electronic devices (101; 291).

3. In paragraph 2, The electronic device (101; 291) is in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, Some of the light emitting elements of the third set (413) of the light emitting elements are covered by the opaque material (230), Some of the light emitting elements among the third set (413) of the above-mentioned light emitting elements are, is configured to be disabled, The other light emitting elements of the third set (413) of the above light emitting elements are, configured to be activated, Electronic devices (101; 291).

4. In paragraph 2 or 3, The first set (411) of the above light emitting elements, It is configured to be deactivated regardless of the state of the electronic device (101; 291), The second set (412) of the above light emitting elements, configured to be activated regardless of the state of the electronic device (101; 291), Electronic devices (101; 291).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above display panel (210) is Further comprising a substrate (301) on which the above light emitting elements (310) are arranged; The outer portion (313) of the substrate spaced apart from the portion of the substrate where the light-emitting elements (310) are arranged, Covered by the above opaque material (230), Electronic devices (101; 291).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above display panel (210) is A masking layer (830) is further included, which is disposed on a light-emitting layer (810) including the light-emitting elements (310) and includes a black matrix (831) and light-transmitting portions (812, 832) corresponding to the light-emitting elements (310). Electronic devices (101; 291).

7. In paragraph 6, The above masking layer (830) is A first light-transmitting portion (812) configured to transmit light from the light-emitting elements at a first viewing angle; and a second light transmitting portion (832) configured to transmit light from the light emitting elements at a second viewing angle limited by the black matrix; The second viewing angle is narrower than the first viewing angle, The second light-transmitting portion (832) is arranged along the edge of the area where the first light-transmitting portion (812) is arranged. Electronic devices (101; 291).

8. In paragraph 7, The above masking layer (830) is A third light-transmitting portion arranged alternately with the first light-transmitting portion (812) and configured to transmit light from the light-emitting elements at a second viewing angle limited by the black matrix; Electronic devices (101; 291).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, Further comprising a camera (590) positioned below the above window (220); The above camera (590) is configured to receive light from the outside of the electronic device (101; 291) through the light transmitting portion (240a) of the display (130) corresponding to the camera. Electronic devices (101; 291).

10. In paragraph 9, The above display (130) is Further comprising another opaque material (530) disposed between the window (220) and the layer along the edge corresponding to the light transmitting portion (240a) of the display panel (210), Some other light emitting elements (511a, 511b, 611a, 611b) placed under the other opaque material (530) are, configured to be disabled, Electronic devices (101; 291).

11. In paragraph 10, The light emitting elements (511a, 511b, 611a, 611b) placed under the other opaque material (530) are Depending on the folded state of the electronic device (101; 291), the unfolded state of the electronic device (101; 291), or the intermediate state of the electronic device (101; 291), Electronic devices (101; 291).

12. In paragraph 10 or 11, Among the other light-emitting elements disposed under the other opaque material (530) within the folded state of the electronic device (101; 291), some are not covered by the other opaque material (530) within the intermediate state of the electronic device (101; 291). Among the light emitting elements arranged next to the other light emitting elements, some are covered by the other opaque material within the intermediate state of the electronic device (101; 291). Electronic devices (101; 291).

13. In paragraph 12, Some of the other light-emitting elements that are not covered by the other opaque material (530) are configured to be activated, Some of the light emitting elements adjacent to the other light emitting element covered by the other opaque material (530) are configured to be inactivated. Electronic devices (101; 291).

14. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 13, The color of the above opaque material (230) is Different from the color of the other opaque material (530) above, Electronic devices (101; 291).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above opaque material (230) is Having chromatic colors Electronic devices (101; 291).

Images