Electronic device comprising flexible display

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed in the present document may comprise: a first housing; a second housing; a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; and a flexible display supported via the first housing and the second housing. The flexible display may comprise: a transparent window layer; a display panel disposed under the transparent window layer; a support plate disposed under the display panel; and a bending portion extending from the display panel to the rear surface of the support plate. The electronic device may comprise: an injection hole positioned in a first direction with respect to one end of the bending portion and formed in the second housing; a discharge hole positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction, with respect to the other end opposite to the one end of the bending portion and formed in the second housing; and a first molding member injected through the injection hole and surrounding at least a portion of the bending portion. Other various embodiments are also possible.

Description

Electronic devices including flexible displays

[0001] One embodiment disclosed in this document relates to an electronic device including a flexible display.

[0002] Electronic devices are becoming increasingly slimmer, more rigid, and more aesthetically pleasing, while simultaneously being developed to differentiate their functional elements. Electronic devices are evolving beyond their standard rectangular form, taking on increasingly diverse shapes. Electronic devices may have transformable structures that enable portability and large-screen displays. For example, as part of this transformable structure, electronic devices may include foldable housings that fold or unfold relative to one another.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] A foldable electronic device may include a hinge device (e.g., a hinge assembly, a hinge structure, or a hinge module), and a first housing and a second housing that are foldably connected to each other in opposite directions through the hinge device. The foldable electronic device may be operated in an in-folding manner and / or an out-folding manner by allowing the first housing to rotate with respect to the second housing through the hinge device in a range of 0 degrees to 360 degrees. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display that is arranged to be at least partially supported by the first housing and the second housing in an unfolded state. The flexible display may include a plurality of layers (e.g., a transparent window layer, a POL, a polymer layer, or at least one functional layer) arranged on an upper surface and / or a lower surface with respect to a display panel.

[0005] Meanwhile, in order to make the foldable electronic device slimmer, a protective cover (e.g., a decorative cover or a protective frame) that prevents the edges (e.g., the edges) of the flexible display from being visible from the outside may be omitted. For example, in an electronic device without a protective cover, the flexible display may be positioned so that its edges are visible from the outside while being supported by the first housing and the second housing.

[0006] In such cases, the edge portion including the bending portion (e.g., COP (chip on panel or chip on plastic)) extending from the display panel of the flexible display is vulnerable to external impact, which may cause malfunction due to breakage. In addition, static electricity introduced into the space between the housings and the display panel may be induced along the bending portion (ESD, electrostatic discharge), which may electrically damage the display panel. In addition, foreign substances or moisture introduced between the housings and the flexible display may be vulnerable to waterproofing as they may enter between the multiple layers of the flexible display.

[0007] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device including a flexible display can be provided that can help improve durability against external impact by providing a protective structure for a bending portion of a display panel.

[0008] Various embodiments may provide an electronic device including a flexible display having a waterproof structure applied thereto for protection from external moisture or foreign substances.

[0009] Various embodiments may provide an electronic device including a flexible display having a protective structure (e.g., a first molding member and / or a second molding member) for improving durability against external impact and improving surface quality considering the amount of slip of the flexible display when folding.

[0010] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0011] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document belongs from the description below.

[0012] An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document may include a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display supported by the first housing and the second housing. The flexible display may include a transparent window layer, a display panel disposed below the transparent window layer, a support plate disposed below the display panel, and a bending portion extending from the display panel to a rear surface of the support plate. The electronic device may include an injection hole formed in the second housing and positioned in a first direction with respect to one end of the bending portion, an exhaust hole formed in the second housing and positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the other end of the bending portion, and a first molding member injected through the injection hole to surround at least a portion of the bending portion.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display supported by the first housing and the second housing. The flexible display may include a transparent window layer, a display panel disposed below the transparent window layer, a support plate disposed below the display panel, and a bending portion extending from the display panel to a rear surface of the support plate. The electronic device may include an injection hole formed at an edge of the second housing and positioned adjacent to an end of the bending portion, and a first molding member injected through the injection hole to surround at least a portion of the bending portion.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a first molding member for protecting a bending portion of a flexible display, which is disposed at a first edge including a bending portion of the flexible display, except for a space between a transparent window layer of the flexible display and the flexible display, or a second molding member having a molding modulus lower than that of the first molding member may be filled in the space, thereby helping to improve the durability of the bending portion and the surface quality of the flexible display. In addition, through the first molding member and / or the second molding member, an improved protection structure against ESD may be provided, and penetration of external foreign substances and / or moisture may be suppressed.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be configured such that a molding liquid forming a first molding member may be filled into a space between a side surface of the housing (e.g., the first housing and / or the second housing) and a first edge of a flexible display through an injection hole formed in a housing (e.g., the first housing and / or the second housing). In one embodiment, the injection hole may be formed adjacent to both ends of a bending portion of the flexible display. Therefore, without using a separate jig having an injection hole formed therein for injecting the molding liquid, the molding liquid may be injected into the space between the side surface of the housing and the first edge of the flexible display while the flexible display is assembled into the housings.

[0016] In addition, various effects may be provided, either directly or indirectly, through this document.

[0017] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0018] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0019] FIGS. 1A and 1B are front and rear views of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 2A and 2B are front and rear views of a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 5A is a plan view of a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 5b is a rear view of a flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 7 is a front view of a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 8A is a front view of a first housing and a second housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 8b is a rear view of the second housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is an enlarged view of an injection hole formed in the second housing.

[0029] FIG. 8c is a front view of the second housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is an enlarged view of an injection hole formed in the second housing.

[0030] FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams illustrating a process for applying a first molding member to a bending portion in a state where a flexible display is assembled to a first housing and a second housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] In the following description, one embodiment of the present document is described with reference to the attached drawings. It should be understood that the embodiments and terminology used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0033] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of the noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0034] FIGS. 1A and 1B are front and rear views of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 2A and 2B are front and rear views of a folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1A to 2B, the electronic device (200) may include a pair of housings (210, 220) (e.g., a foldable housing structure) that are rotatably coupled about a folding axis (F) through at least one hinge device (e.g., a hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3) (e.g., a hinge module, a hinge assembly, or a hinge structure) so as to be foldable with respect to one another, a first display (230) (e.g., a flexible display, a foldable display, or a main display) disposed through the pair of housings (210, 220), and / or a second display (300) (e.g., a sub-display) disposed through the second housing (220). In one embodiment, at least a portion of at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3) may be positioned so as to be invisible from the outside through the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and may be positioned so as to be invisible from the outside through a hinge housing (310) (e.g., hinge cover) that covers the foldable portion when unfolded. In this document, the surface on which the first display (230) is positioned may be defined as the front surface of the electronic device (200), and the surface opposite the front surface may be defined as the back surface of the electronic device (200). In addition, the surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the back surface may be defined as the side surface of the electronic device (200).

[0036] In one embodiment, a pair of housings (210, 220) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220) that are foldably arranged relative to each other via at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge devices (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3). In one embodiment, the pair of housings (210, 220) are not limited to the shapes and combinations illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 2B and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. In one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are arranged on opposite sides with respect to a folding axis (F), have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (F), and can be folded to match each other. In some embodiments, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be folded asymmetrically with respect to the folding axis (F). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may have different angles or distances relative to each other depending on whether the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be connected to at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3) in an unfolded state of the electronic device (200), and may include a first side member (213) arranged to face the front of the electronic device (200), a second side member (212) facing in an opposite direction to the first side member (211), and / or a first side member (213) surrounding at least a portion of a first space (2101) between the first side member (211) and the second side member (212). In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be connected to at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3) in an unfolded state of the electronic device (200), and may include a third surface (221) arranged to face the front of the electronic device (200), a fourth surface (222) facing in an opposite direction to the third surface (221), and / or a second side member (223) surrounding at least a portion of a second space (2201) between the third surface (221) and the fourth surface (222). In one embodiment, the first surface (211) may face substantially the same direction as the third surface (221) in an unfolded state, and may at least partially face the third surface (221) in a folded state. In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a recess (201) formed to accommodate a first display (230) through a structural combination of a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). In one embodiment, the recess (201) may have substantially the same size as the first display (230). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first protective frame (213a) (e.g., a first decorative member) that is combined with a first side member (213) and overlaps an edge of the first display (230) when the first display (230) is viewed from above, thereby covering the edge of the first display (230) so that it is not visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the first protective frame (213a) may be formed integrally with the first side member (213).In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second protective frame (223a) (e.g., a second decorative member) that is coupled to the second side member (223) when the first display (230) is viewed from above and overlaps with the edge of the first display (230), thereby covering the edge of the first display (230) so that it is not visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the second protective frame (223a) may be formed integrally with the second side member (223). In some embodiments, the first protective frame (213a) and the second protective frame (223a) may be omitted.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (310) (e.g., hinge cover) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and may be disposed to cover a portion (e.g., at least one hinge module) of at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3). In one embodiment, the hinge housing (310) may be covered by portions of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or exposed to the outside, depending on whether the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. For example, when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, at least a portion of the hinge housing (310) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and may be disposed so as to be substantially invisible from the outside. In one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, at least a portion of the hinge housing (310) may be positioned so as to be visible from the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an intermediate state where they are folded with a certain angle, the hinge housing (310) may be positioned so as to be at least partially visible from the outside of the electronic device (200) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). For example, the area of ​​the hinge housing (310) exposed to the outside may be less than that in a completely folded state. In one embodiment, the hinge housing (310) may include a curved surface.

[0039] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIGS. 1A and 1B), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) form an angle of about 180 degrees, and the first region (230a), the second region (230b), and the folding region (230c) of the first display (230) may be arranged to form substantially the same plane and face substantially the same direction (e.g., the z-axis direction). In another embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the first housing (210) may be rotated at an angle of about 360 degrees with respect to the second housing (220) so that the second side (212) and the fourth side (222) face each other and may be folded in the opposite direction (out folding method).

[0040] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIGS. 2A and 2B), the first surface (211) of the first housing (210) and the third surface (221) of the second housing (220) may be arranged to face each other. In this case, the first region (230a) and the second region (230b) of the first display (230) may be arranged to face each other while forming a narrow angle (e.g., in the range of 0 degrees to about 10 degrees) with respect to each other through the folding region (230c). In one embodiment, the folding region (230c) may be deformed into a curved shape having at least a certain curvature. In one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in an intermediate state, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. In this case, the first region (230a) and the second region (230b) of the first display (230) can form an angle that is larger than the folded state and smaller than the unfolded state, and the curvature of the folding region (230c) can be smaller than the folded state and larger than the unfolded state. In some embodiments, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can form an angle that can stop at a specified folding angle between the folded state and the unfolded state through at least one hinge device (e.g., the hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3) (free stop function). In some embodiments, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be continuously operated while being pressed in an unfolding or folding direction based on a specified inflection angle through at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3).

[0041] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of a display (230, 300), an input device (215), an audio output device (227, 228), a sensor module (217a, 217b, 226), a camera module (216a, 216b, 225), a key input device (219), an indicator (not shown), or a connector port (229) disposed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the components or may additionally include at least one other component.

[0042] According to one embodiment, at least one display (230, 300) may include a first display (230) (e.g., a flexible display) that is arranged to be supported by a third side (221) of a second housing (220) through at least one hinge device (e.g., a hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3) from a first side (211) of a first housing (210), and a second display (300) that is arranged to be at least partially visible from the outside through a fourth side (222) in an interior space of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the second display (300) may be arranged to be visible from the outside through the second side (212) in an interior space of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the first display (230) may be primarily used in the unfolded state of the electronic device (200), and the second display (300) may be primarily used in the folded state of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may control the use of the first display (230) and / or the second display (300) based on the folding angles of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) in the intermediate state.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may be disposed in a receiving space formed by a pair of housings (210, 220). For example, the first display (200) may be disposed in a recess (201) formed by the pair of housings (210, 220), and may be disposed to occupy substantially most of the front surface of the electronic device (200) when unfolded. In one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a flexible display in which at least a portion of the display may be transformed into a flat or curved surface. In one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a first region (230a) facing the first housing (210) and a second region (230b) facing the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a folding area (230c) that includes a portion of the first area (230a) and a portion of the second area (230b) with respect to the folding axis (F). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the folding area (230c) may include an area corresponding to at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3). In one embodiment, the area division of the first display (230) is merely an exemplary physical division by a pair of housings (210, 220) and at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge devices (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3), and substantially, the first display (230) can be displayed as a seamless, full screen through the pair of housings (210, 220) and at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge devices (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3). In one embodiment, the first area (230a) and the second area (230b) may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding area (230c), or may have a partially asymmetrical shape.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first rear cover (240) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210) and a second rear cover (250) disposed on a fourth surface (222) of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first rear cover (240) may be formed integrally with the first side member (213). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second rear cover (250) may be formed integrally with the second side member (223). In one embodiment, at least one of the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) may be formed of a substantially transparent plate (e.g., a glass plate including various coating layers, or a polymer plate) or an opaque plate. In one embodiment, the first rear cover (240) may be formed by an opaque plate, such as, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. In one embodiment, the second rear cover (250) may be formed by a substantially transparent plate, such as, for example, glass or polymer. Accordingly, the second display (300) may be arranged so as to be visible from the outside through the second rear cover (250) in the internal space of the second housing (220).

[0045] In one embodiment, the input device (215) may include a microphone. In some embodiments, the input device (215) may include a plurality of microphones arranged to detect the direction of sound. In one embodiment, the audio output device (227, 228) may include speakers. In one embodiment, the audio output device (227, 228) may include a call receiver (227) arranged through the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220) and an external speaker (228) arranged through at least a portion of the second side member (223) of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the input device (215), the audio output device (227, 228), and the connector (229) are disposed in spaces of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) and can be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the holes formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) can be used in common for the input device (215) and the audio output device (227, 228). In some embodiments, the audio output device (227, 228) may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without the holes formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0046] According to one embodiment, the camera modules (216a, 216b, 225) may include a first camera module (216a) disposed on a first surface (211) of the first housing (210), a second camera module (216b) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210), and / or a third camera module (225) disposed on a fourth surface (222) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a flash (218) disposed near the second camera module (216b). In one embodiment, the flash (218) may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, the camera modules (216a, 216b, 225) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. In some embodiments, at least one of the camera modules (216a, 216b, 225) includes two or more lenses (e.g., wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors, and may be arranged together on either side of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0047] According to one embodiment, the sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226) may generate electrical signals or data values ​​corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state. In one embodiment, the sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226) may include a first sensor module (217a) disposed on a first surface (211) of the first housing (210), a second sensor module (217b) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210), and / or a third sensor module (226) disposed on a fourth surface (222) of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the sensor module (217a, 217b, 226) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a light sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an iris recognition sensor, or a distance detection sensor (e.g., a time of flight (TOF) sensor or a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include at least one sensor module, not shown, such as a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or a fingerprint recognition sensor. In some embodiments, the fingerprint recognition sensor may be disposed through at least one of the first side member (213) of the first housing (210) and / or the second side member (223) of the second housing (220).

[0049] In one embodiment, the key input device (219) may be arranged to be exposed to the outside through the first side member (213) of the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the key input device (219) may also be arranged to be exposed to the outside through the second side member (223) of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the key input devices (219), and the key input devices (219) that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on at least one display (230, 300). In another embodiment, the key input device (219) may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in at least one display (230, 300).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the connector port (229) may include a connector (e.g., a USB connector or an IF module (interface connector port module)) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device. In some embodiments, the connector port (229) may also perform a function for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device, or may further include a separate connector port (e.g., an ear jack hole) for performing a function for transmitting and receiving audio signals.

[0051] According to one embodiment, at least one of the camera modules (216a, 216b, 225), at least one of the sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226), and / or an indicator may be arranged to be exposed through at least one display (230, 300). For example, at least one of the camera modules (216a, 225), at least one of the sensor modules (217a, 226), and / or an indicator may be arranged to be exposed through at least one display (230, 300) in the interior space of at least one housing (210, 220), below an active area of ​​at least one display (230, 300), and may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through an opening or transparent area perforated up to a cover member (e.g., a window layer (not shown) of the first display (230) and / or a second rear cover (250)). In one embodiment, the area where at least one display (230, 300) and at least one camera module (216a, 225) face each other may be formed as a transparent area having a certain transmittance as part of the area displaying content. In one embodiment, the transparent area may be formed to have a transmittance in the range of about 5% to about 20%. This transparent area may include an area overlapping with an effective area (e.g., a field of view area) of at least one camera module (216a, 225) through which light passes to be imaged by an image sensor to create an image. For example, the transparent area of ​​the display (230, 300) may include an area having a lower pixel density than the surrounding area. For example, the transparent area may replace an opening. For example, at least one camera module (216a, 225) may include an under-display camera (UDC) or an under-panel camera (UPC).In another embodiment, some camera modules or sensor modules (217a, 226) may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the display. For example, the area facing the camera module (216a, 225) and / or sensor module (217a, 226) arranged under the display (230, 300) (e.g., display panel) may have an under-display camera (UDC) structure, eliminating the need for a perforated opening.

[0052] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 3, the electronic device (200) may include a first display (230) (e.g., a flexible display), a second display (300), at least one hinge device (400, 400-1), a pair of support members (261, 262), at least one substrate (270) (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)), a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first rear cover (240), and / or a second rear cover (250).

[0054] In one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a display panel (430) (e.g., a flexible display panel) and a support plate (450) disposed under the display panel (430). In one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a reinforcing plate (462) disposed under the support plate (450). In some embodiments, the reinforcing plates (462) may be omitted. In one embodiment, the display panel (430) may include a first panel area (430a) corresponding to a first area of ​​the first display (230) (e.g., the first area (230a) of FIG. 1A), a second panel area (430b) extending from the first panel area (430a) and corresponding to a second area of ​​the first display (230) (e.g., the second area (230b) of FIG. 1A), and a third panel area (430c) connecting the first panel area (430a) and the second panel area (430b) and corresponding to a folding area of ​​the first display (230) (e.g., the folding area (230c) of FIG. 1A). In one embodiment, the support plate (450) is disposed between the display panel (430) and a pair of support members (261, 262), and may be formed to have a material and shape to provide a planar support structure for the first panel area (430a) and the second panel area (430b) and a bendable structure to aid in bendability for the third panel area (430c). In one embodiment, the support plate (450) may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal) or a non-conductive material (e.g., polymer or fiber reinforced plastics (FRP)). In one embodiment, the reinforcing plate (462) may include a first reinforcing plate (4621) positioned between the support plate (450) and the pair of support members (261, 262) to correspond with at least a portion of the first panel area (430a) and the third panel area (430c), and a second reinforcing plate (4622) positioned to correspond with at least a portion of the second panel area (430b) and the third panel area (430c).In one embodiment, the reinforcing plate (462) may be formed of a metal material (e.g., SUS) to help reinforce the ground connection structure and rigidity for the first display (230). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a digitizer (e.g., digitizer (461) of FIG. 4) disposed under the support plate (450) and replaced with the reinforcing plate (462) or added between the support plate (450) and the reinforcing plate (462).

[0055] In one embodiment, the second display (300) may be positioned in the space between the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (250). In one embodiment, the second display (300) may be positioned in the space between the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (250) so as to be visible from the outside through substantially the entire area of ​​the second rear cover (250).

[0056] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first support member (261) may be foldably coupled to the second support member (262) via at least one hinge device (400, 400-1). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one wiring member (263) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) that extends from at least a portion of the first support member (261) across the at least one hinge device (400, 400-1) to a portion of the second support member (262). In one embodiment, the first support member (261) may be disposed in a manner that extends from the first side member (213) or is structurally coupled with the first side member (213). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first space (e.g., the first space (2101) of FIG. 1A) provided through a first support member (261) and a first rear cover (240). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) (e.g., the first housing structure) may be configured through a combination of a first side member (213), a first support member (261), and a first rear cover (240). In one embodiment, the second support member (262) may be arranged in a manner that extends from the second side member (223) or is structurally coupled with the second side member (223). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second space (e.g., the second space (2201) of FIG. 1A) provided through a second support member (262) and a second rear cover (250). In one embodiment, the second housing (220) (e.g., the second housing structure) may be configured by combining a second side member (223), a second support member (262), and a second rear cover (250). In one embodiment, at least one wiring member (263) and / or at least a portion of at least one hinge device (400, 400-1) may be arranged to be supported by at least a portion of a pair of support members (261, 262).In one embodiment, at least one wiring member (263) may be arranged to extend from the first support member (261) across the folding axis (F) to the second support member (262). In one embodiment, at least one wiring member (263) may be arranged to have a length in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis (e.g., the y-axis or the folding axis (F) of FIG. 1A) (e.g., the x-axis direction).

[0057] According to one embodiment, at least one substrate (270) may include a first substrate (271) disposed in a first space (2101) and a second substrate (272) disposed in a second space (2201). In one embodiment, the first substrate (271) and the second substrate (272) may include a plurality of electronic components disposed to implement various functions of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the first substrate (271) and the second substrate (272) may be electrically connected through at least one wiring member (263).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one battery (291, 292). In one embodiment, the at least one battery (291, 292) may include a first battery (291) disposed in a first space (2101) of a first housing (210) and electrically connected to a first substrate (271) and a second battery disposed in a second space (2201) of a second housing (220) and electrically connected to a second substrate (272). In one embodiment, the first support member (261) and the second support member (262) may further include at least one swelling hole for the first battery (291) and the second battery (292).

[0059] In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first rotation support surface (214), and the second housing (220) may include a second rotation support surface (224) corresponding to the first rotation support surface (214). In one embodiment, the first rotation support surface (214) and the second rotation support surface (224) may include curved surfaces corresponding to (naturally connected to) the curved outer surface of the hinge housing (310). In one embodiment, the first rotation support surface (214) and the second rotation support surface (224) may cover the hinge housing (310) when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, thereby not exposing the hinge housing (310) to the rear surface of the electronic device (200) or exposing only a portion of the hinge housing (310). In one embodiment, the first rotational support surface (214) and the second rotational support surface (224) can rotate along the outer surface of the curve of the hinge housing (310) when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, thereby exposing at least a portion of the hinge housing (310) to the rear surface of the electronic device (200).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one antenna (276) disposed in the first space (2201). In one embodiment, the at least one antenna (276) may be disposed in the first space (2201), on the first battery (291) and the first rear cover (240). In one embodiment, the at least one antenna (276) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. In one embodiment, the at least one antenna (276) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging. In some embodiments, the antenna structure may be formed by at least a portion of the first side member (213) or the second side member (223) and / or a portion of the first support member (261) and the second support member (262), or a combination thereof.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include at least one electronic component assembly (274, 275) and / or additional support members (263, 273) disposed in a first space (e.g., first space (2101) of FIG. 1A) and / or a second space (e.g., second space (2201) of FIG. 1A). For example, the at least one electronic component assembly may include an interface connector port assembly (274) or a speaker assembly (275).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first waterproof member (WP1) disposed between a first reinforcing plate (4621) and a first support member (261) and a second waterproof member (WP2) disposed between a second reinforcing plate (4622) and a second support member (262). In one embodiment, the first waterproof member (WP1) may provide at least one first waterproof space between the first reinforcing plate (4621) and the first support member (261). In one embodiment, the at least one first waterproof space may accommodate an area corresponding to at least one electronic component (e.g., a camera module or a sensor module) disposed to be supported by the first support member (261). In one embodiment, the second waterproof member (WP2) may provide a second waterproof space between the second reinforcing plate (4622) and the second support member (262). In one embodiment, the second waterproof space can accommodate at least a portion of the bending portion (432) that folds toward the back of the first display (230). For example, the second waterproof space can be arranged to extend from the display panel (430) of the first display (230) and surround at least a portion of the bending portion (e.g., the bending portion (432) of FIG. 4) that folds toward the back. Accordingly, a control circuit (e.g., a control circuit (4321a) of FIG. 4) (e.g., a display driver IC (DDI)) and a plurality of electrical components (e.g., electrical components (4322a) of FIG. 5b) arranged in the bending portion (432) can be protected from external moisture and / or foreign substances by being arranged in the second waterproof space.

[0063] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a waterproof tape (241) disposed between the first rear cover (240) and the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a bonding member (251) disposed between the second rear cover (250) and the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the bonding member (251) may be disposed between the second display (300) and the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the waterproof tape (241) may be replaced with the bonding member (251), and the bonding member (251) may be replaced with the waterproof tape (241).

[0064] According to one embodiment, at least one hinge device (400, 400-1) may include a first hinge device (400) disposed at one end in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) and a second hinge device (400-1) disposed at the other end. In one embodiment, the first hinge device (400) and the second hinge device (400-1) may have substantially the same configuration. In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a connection module (400-2) disposed between the first hinge device (400) and the second hinge device (400-1). In one embodiment, the connection module (400-2) may be disposed through a combination of at least one gear and / or a combination of at least one link. In some embodiments, the connection module (400-2) may be replaced with the first hinge device (400). In some embodiments, at least one hinge device (400, 400-1) may be arranged at one location or three or more locations at a specified interval along a direction parallel to the folding axis (F). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first hinge plate (311) and a second hinge plate (312) connected via at least one hinge device (400, 400-1). In one embodiment, the first hinge plate (311) may form the same plane as the first housing (210) in an unfolded state, and the second hinge plate (312) may form the same plane as the second housing (220) in an unfolded state.

[0065] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] The flexible display (230) of FIG. 4 may be at least partially similar to the first display (230) of FIG. 1A, or may further include other embodiments of the flexible display.

[0067] The flexible display (230) according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may include an unbreakable (UB) type OLED display (e.g., a curved display). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the flexible display (230) may also include a flat type display of an on-cell touch AMOLED (active matrix organic light-emitting diode) (OCTA) type.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 4, the first display (230) (hereinafter referred to as a 'flexible display') may include a window layer (410) (e.g., a transparent window layer or a protective layer), a polarizing layer (POL (polarizer)) (420) (e.g., a polarizing film) sequentially arranged on the back surface (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) of the window layer (410), a display panel (430), a polymer layer (440), a support plate (450), and / or a functional layer (460). In one embodiment, the functional layer (460) may include a digitizer (461) and / or a reinforcing plate (462). In one embodiment, the reinforcing plate (462) may include a first reinforcing plate (4621) positioned corresponding to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 1A) and a second reinforcing plate (4622) positioned corresponding to a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, the reinforcing plate (462) may be formed integrally. In some embodiments, the flexible display (230) may include a digitizer (461) positioned between the support plate (450) and the reinforcing plate (462). In some embodiments, the digitizer (461) may include a first digitizer (4611) positioned corresponding to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 1A) and a second digitizer (4612) electrically connected to the first digitizer and positioned corresponding to a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, the digitizer (461) may be formed integrally. In some embodiments, the digitizer (461) may be positioned between the polymer layer (440) and the support plate (450). In one embodiment, the digitizer (461) may include coil members positioned on a dielectric substrate (e.g., a dielectric film or a dielectric sheet) to detect a resonant frequency of an electromagnetic induction method applied from an electronic pen.In some embodiments, if the flexible display (230) is a POL-less display, the polarizing layer may be omitted, and a transparent reinforcing layer (e.g., a buffer layer) may be further disposed in that location. In some embodiments, the polymer layer (440) and / or the reinforcing plate (462) may be omitted. In some embodiments, the polymer layer (440) may be disposed on the reinforcing plate (462).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the window layer (410) may include a first layer (e.g., the first layer (411) of FIG. 6) and a second layer (e.g., the second layer (412) of FIG. 6) that are sequentially laminated. According to one embodiment, the first layer (411) may be formed of a polymer (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)). According to one embodiment, the second layer (412) may be formed of glass. According to one embodiment, the second layer may include ultra thin glass (UTG). In some embodiments, the flexible display (230) may be formed as a part of the window layer (410) and may further include a coating layer disposed on top of the first layer (411). In such a case, the coating layer may include a hard coating layer (HC layer), an anti-reflection / low reflection (AR / LR) coating layer, a shatterproof (SP) coating layer, or an anti-fingerprint (AF) coating layer. In some embodiments, the coating layer may be formed between the first layer (411) and the second layer (412), on at least one of the side surface of the first layer (411), and the back surface or side surface of the second layer (412).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the window layer (410), the polarizing layer (420), the display panel (430), the polymer layer (440), and the support plate (450) may be arranged to cross at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., the first surface (211) of FIG. 1A) of a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 1A) and a third surface (e.g., the third surface (221) of FIG. 1A) of a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 1A). In one embodiment, the reinforcing plate (462) provides rigidity for the flexible display (230) and may be used as a ground to prevent malfunction of the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the reinforcing plate (462) may be formed of a metal material. In one embodiment, the reinforcing plate (462) may be formed of SUS or Al. In one embodiment, the window layer (410), the polarizing layer (420), the display panel (430), the polymer layer (440), the support plate (450), and the reinforcing plate (462) may also be attached to each other via an adhesive (or adhesive member).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the display panel (430) may include a plurality of pixels and a wiring structure (e.g., an electrode pattern). In one embodiment, the polarizing layer (420) may selectively transmit light generated from a light source of the display panel (430) and vibrating in a certain direction. In one embodiment, the display panel (430) and the polarizing layer (420) may be formed integrally. In one embodiment, the polarizing layer (420) may be removed by arranging a color filter formed of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) pigments having a polarizing function on pixels arranged in the display panel (430). In one embodiment, when a color filter having a polarizing function is applied, the display panel (430) may include a light reflection blocking layer (e.g., a black pixel define layer (BPDL)) that can prevent reflection of external light. In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may also include a touch panel (not shown).

[0072] In one embodiment, the polymer layer (440) is disposed under the display panel (430), thereby providing a dark background for ensuring visibility of the display panel (430) and may be formed as a buffer material for buffering. In some embodiments, to ensure waterproofing of the flexible display (230), the polymer layer (440) may be removed or disposed under the support plate (450). In some embodiments, the polymer layer (440) may be omitted when the support plate (450) is formed of an opaque material.

[0073] In one embodiment, the support plate (450) can provide bending characteristics to the flexible display (230). For example, the support plate (450) can be formed of a non-metallic thin-plate material, such as fiber reinforced plastics (FRP) (e.g., carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP)) having rigid characteristics for supporting the display panel (430). In one embodiment, the support plate (450) can include a first planar portion (451) corresponding to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 1A), a second planar portion (452) corresponding to a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 1A), and a flexible portion (453) (flexible portion or bending portion) connecting the first planar portion (451) and the second planar portion (452). In one embodiment, the flexible portion (453) may include a plurality of openings formed to penetrate from the upper surface to the lower surface of the support plate (450) and / or a plurality of recesses formed in a portion of the upper surface and / or a portion of the lower surface to improve bendability. In one embodiment, the bending characteristics of the flexible portion (453) may be determined through at least one of the size, shape, or arrangement density of at least a portion of the plurality of openings and / or at least a portion of the plurality of recesses. In some embodiments, the support plate (450) may be formed of a metal material such as SUS (steel use stainless) (e.g., STS (stainless steel)), Cu, Al, or a metal CLAD (e.g., a laminated member in which SUS and Al are alternately arranged). In this case, the support plate (450) may have a plurality of openings formed throughout its entire area so that a detection operation of a digitizer (461) arranged below may be induced.In one embodiment, the support plate (450) may help reinforce the rigidity of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 1A), shield ambient noise, and may be used to dissipate heat emitted from surrounding heat-emitting components.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include at least one auxiliary material layer (not shown) disposed between the polymer layer (440) and the support plate (450), or under the support plate (450). In one embodiment, the at least one auxiliary material layer may include a graphite sheet for heat dissipation, a force touch FPCB, a fingerprint sensor FPCB, an antenna radiator for communication, or a conductive / non-conductive tape. In one embodiment, the at least one auxiliary material layer may be replaced with a functional layer (460) including the digitizer (461) and / or the reinforcing plate (462) described above. In one embodiment, the at least one auxiliary material layer may be individually disposed in a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 1A) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 1A) if bending is not possible. In one embodiment, at least one of the auxiliary material layers may be integrally formed to be arranged from a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 1A) to at least a portion of a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 1A) via a hinge device (e.g., the hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3), if bendable.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a bending portion (432) arranged in a manner to fold from the display panel (430) to at least a portion of the back surface (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) of the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the bending portion (432) may be arranged on a support plate (450) arranged below the display panel (430). For example, the bending portion (432) may be arranged on a back surface of the support plate (450) facing the second support member (262) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, when a reinforcing plate (462) is arranged below the support plate (450), the bending portion (432) may be arranged on a back surface of the reinforcing plate (462) facing the second support member (262) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the bending portion (432) may include an extension portion (4321) extending from the display panel (430) and including a control circuit (4321a), and a flexible substrate (4322) (e.g., FPCB, flexible printed circuit board) electrically connected to the extension portion (4321) and including a plurality of electronic components. In one embodiment, the control circuit (4321a) may include a display driver IC (DDI) or a touch display driver IC (TDDI) mounted on the extension portion (4321) having an electrical wiring structure. In one embodiment, the bending portion (432) may include a chip on panel (COP) or chip on plastic (COP) structure in which the control circuit (4321a) is directly disposed on the extension portion (4321). In some embodiments, the bending portion (432) may include a chip on film (COF) structure in which the control circuit (4321a) is mounted on a separate connecting film (not shown) that connects the extension portion (4321) and the flexible substrate (4322). In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a plurality of electronic components (e.g., electronic components (4322a) of FIG. 5B) arranged on the flexible substrate (4322).In one embodiment, the plurality of electronic components may include passive components such as a touch IC, a flash memory for a display, an ESD protection diode, a pressure sensor, a fingerprint sensor, or a decap. In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include an FPCB connection portion (4323) (e.g., a connector portion) extending from a flexible substrate (4322) and electrically connected to a substrate (e.g., a second substrate (272) of FIG. 3) of an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIG. 3). In another embodiment, when the bending portion (432) is disposed in an area facing a first housing (e.g., a first housing (210) of FIG. 1A) of the flexible display (230), the FPCB connection portion (4323) may also be electrically connected to another substrate (e.g., a first substrate (271) of FIG. 3) of the electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIG. 3).

[0076] In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include perforated openings (not shown) disposed in each of the layers (420, 430, 440, 450, 460) and corresponding to electronic components (e.g., camera devices) disposed thereunder. In some embodiments, the display panel (430) and / or the polarizing layer (420) may not require perforated openings.

[0077] FIG. 5A is a plan view of a flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5B is a rear view of the flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] The flexible display (230) of FIGS. 5A and 5B may be substantially similar to the first display (230) of FIG. 1A, or may further include other embodiments of the flexible display.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the flexible display (230) may include a first edge (401) having a first length, a second edge (402) extending from the first edge (401) in a direction perpendicular to the first edge (401) (e.g., in the x-axis direction) and having a second length, a third edge (403) extending from the second edge (402) in a direction parallel to the first edge (401) (e.g., in the y-axis direction) and having a first length, and a fourth edge (404) extending from the third edge (403) to the first edge (401) in a direction parallel to the second edge (402) (e.g., in the -x-axis direction) and having a second length. In one embodiment, the first edge (401) may be formed to have a length in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F). In one embodiment, the first length may be formed to be longer than the second length. In some embodiments, the first length may be formed to be equal to the second length or shorter than the second length.

[0080] In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a display panel (430) and a window layer (410) laminated on an upper surface of the display panel (430). In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a bending portion (432) attached to a back surface of the flexible display (230) in a manner that extends from the display panel (430) and bends at a first edge (401). In one embodiment, the bending portion (432) may include an extension portion (4321), a flexible substrate (4322) extending from the extension portion (4321), and an FPCB connection portion (4323) extending from at least a portion of the flexible substrate (4322). In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a control circuit (4321a) disposed on an extension portion (4321) and a plurality of electronic components (4322a) disposed on a flexible substrate (4322). In some embodiments, the bending portion (432) may be disposed to extend from any one of the second edge (402), the third edge (403), or the fourth edge (404), rather than the first edge (401).

[0081] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 1A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 1A) may include a first molding member (510) (e.g., 510 of FIG. 6) arranged to surround at least a bending portion (432) at a first edge (401) of a flexible display (230) (e.g., the first display (230) of FIG. 1A). In one embodiment, the first molding member (510) may be formed in such a manner that a first molding liquid injected through a molding injector is cured. In one embodiment, the cured first molding liquid may be a first molding member (510) (e.g., a hard molding) having a specified molding modulus value, and may be arranged to protect the bending portion (432). For example, the molding modulus value of the first molding member (510) may have a value of about 1000 Mpa (1 Gpa) or more, thereby helping to improve the durability of the bending portion (432) to withstand external impact. In one embodiment, the 'modulus' may be Young's modulus. In one embodiment, the higher the modulus, the more the deformation due to external impact may be relatively reduced. In addition, the higher the modulus, the harder the member may be.

[0083] According to one embodiment, when the first molding member (510) of a hard material having a molding modulus of 1 GPa or more is filled up to the space between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430), a natural slip phenomenon between each layer of the flexible display (230) due to a folding operation is suppressed, and as a result, a buckling phenomenon may occur near the first molding member (510), thereby deteriorating the surface quality of the flexible display (230). Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the space (including the space including the POL) (e.g., the second space (400b)) between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430) may not be applied with the first molding member (510), or a second molding member (e.g., the second molding member (520) of FIG. 6) (e.g., a soft molding) of a soft material having a molding modulus value lower than that of the first molding member (510) may be applied. For example, the molding modulus value of the second molding member (520) has a value of about 10 Mpa or less, thereby accommodating the slip phenomenon that occurs during folding and helping to improve the surface quality of the flexible display (230).

[0084] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 6, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 1A), a second housing (220) foldably coupled to the first housing (210) via a hinge device (e.g., the hinge device (400, 400-1) of FIG. 3), and a flexible display (230) arranged to be supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a display panel (430), a POL (420) sequentially laminated on an upper surface (4301) of the display panel (430), a window layer (410), a polymer layer (440) sequentially laminated on a back surface (4302) of the display panel (430), and / or a support plate (450). In one embodiment, the window layer (410), the polarizing layer (420), the display panel (430), the polymer layer (440), and the support plate (450) may be attached to each other via adhesive members (P1, P2, P3, P4) (or an adhesive). In some embodiments, the support plate (450) may also be attached to reinforcing plates (e.g., reinforcing plates (462) of FIG. 4) disposed between the support plate (450) and the housings (210, 220) via the adhesive members. In one embodiment, the window layer (410) may include a first layer (411) formed of a polymer (e.g., a PET layer or a TPU layer) and a second layer (412) formed of glass (e.g., a UTG layer) disposed below the first layer (411).

[0085] In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may be arranged so that at least a portion thereof is supported by a first side member (213) in the interior space of the first housing (210) and a first support member (261) extending from the first side member (213) into the interior space. In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may be arranged so that at least a portion thereof is supported by a second side member (223) in the interior space of the second housing (220) and a second support member (262) extending from the second side member (223) into the interior space.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a bending portion (432) (e.g., COP or COF) extending from the display panel (430) and bent toward the back surface of the flexible display (230) at a first edge (401) corresponding to one side of the second housing (220) (e.g., the side facing the X direction in the second side member (223) of FIG. 3). According to one embodiment, the bending portion (432) may be protected by a bending protect layer (bpl) (431). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first molding member (510) disposed in a first space (400a) surrounding at least a bending portion (432) in an internal space of the second housing (220), and a second molding member (520) disposed in a second space (520) between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first space (400a) may include a portion of a space (2201) between the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230) and the second side member (223) of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first space (400a) may include a bending portion (432) and may include a space in contact with layers (e.g., a polymer layer (440) and / or a support plate (450)) laminated on the back surface (4302) of the display panel (430) at the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the first space (400a) may be a space between the second side member (223) of the second housing (220) facing the bending portion (432) of the flexible display (230) and the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the first space (400a) may include a space (e.g., the first-1 space (4001a)) between the second side member (223) and the bending portion (432). Additionally, in one embodiment, the first space (400a) may include a space (e.g., a first-second space (4002a)) between the first edge (401) of the layers (e.g., the display panel (430), the polymer layer (440), and / or the support plate (450)) and the bending portion (432) located lower (e.g., in the -Z direction of FIG. 6) than the bending portion (432) or the POL (420) among the plurality of layers constituting the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the first space (400a) may not include layers (e.g., the POL (420) and / or the window layer (410)) laminated on the upper surface (4301) of the display panel (430).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the second space (400b) may include a space between layers stacked on the upper surface (4301) of the display panel (430). According to one embodiment, the second space (400b) may include a space between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430). According to one embodiment, the first space (400a) and the second space (400b) may not overlap. According to one embodiment, when the flexible display (230) is viewed from above, the first space (400a) may be arranged so as not to overlap the second space (400b). In some embodiments, the first space (400a) may be arranged so as to at least partially overlap the second space (400b).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the first molding member (510) and the second molding member (520) can be formed in such a way that the molding liquid injected through the molding injector is cured. In one embodiment, the first molding member (510) and the second molding member (520) can be converted into a fluid, solid, or semi-solid state through a curing process after the molding liquid is injected into the first space (400a) or the second space (400b) through the molding injector.

[0090] As described below, the first molding liquid included in the first molding member (510) can be injected into the first space (400a) after the second molding member (520) is filled or placed in the second space (400b). For example, the second molding liquid included in the second molding member (520) can be injected into the second space (400b) of the flexible display (230) before the flexible display (230) is placed in the housings (210, 220). Thereafter, when the flexible display (230) is placed in the housings (210, 220), the first molding liquid included in the first molding member (510) can be injected into the first space (400a) through an injection hole (e.g., an injection hole) formed in the second housing (220). Accordingly, the first molding member (510) can be filled into the first space (400a).

[0091] In one embodiment, the molding member (e.g., the first molding member and the second molding member) can be cured through at least one of natural curing, thermal curing, or ultraviolet curing. According to one embodiment, the first molding member (510) and the second molding member (520) can be formed to have different molding modulus values. According to one embodiment, the first molding member (510) can have strength to improve the durability of the bending portion (432) due to external impact. For example, the first molding member (510) can be formed of a material having a molding modulus value of about 1 GPa or more when the first molding liquid is cured. According to one embodiment, the first molding member (510) can be cured through the first molding liquid of an epoxy series. According to one embodiment, the first molding member (510) cured in the first space (400a) can help improve durability for protecting the bending portion (432) without being involved in a slip phenomenon due to the folding and unfolding motion of the electronic device (400).

[0092] According to one embodiment, each layer of the flexible display (230) (e.g., the display panel (430), the polymer layer (440), and / or the support plate (450)) may be formed to have a step structure for uniform application at the first edge (401) when the first molding member (510) is injected. According to one embodiment, each of the layers (430, 440, 450) may be arranged so that, when the flexible display (230) is viewed from above, the edges of the layers arranged underneath can be seen at the first edge (401). For example, the polymer layer (440) may be arranged closer to the bending portion (432) than to the display panel (430) at the first edge (401) when the flexible display (230) is viewed from above. According to one embodiment, the support plate (450) may be positioned closer to the bending portion (432) than to the polymer layer (440) at the first edge (401) when the flexible display (230) is viewed from above.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the second molding member (520) filled in the second space (400b) may be formed by curing the second molding liquid filled in the second space (400b). The second molding member (520) may be formed of a material having a molding modulus of about 10 MPa or less when the second molding liquid is cured. In some embodiments, the second molding member (520) may be formed of a material having a molding modulus of about 5 MPa or less when the second molding liquid is cured. In some embodiments, the second molding member (520) may be formed of a material having a molding modulus of about 1 MPa or less when the second molding liquid is cured. According to one embodiment, the second molding member (520) may be cured through a second molding liquid of a silicone series. According to one embodiment, the second molding member (520) can help improve the surface quality of the flexible display (230) by reducing the occurrence of defects such as buckling by accommodating a slip phenomenon between layers of the flexible display (230) (e.g., the window layer (410) and the display panel (430)) that occurs due to the folding and unfolding motion of the electronic device (400). According to one embodiment, the second molding member (520) filled in the second space (400b) can block the second space (400b) between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430) at the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230), thereby providing an improved protection structure against ESD, in which static electricity introduced from the outside is introduced into the display panel (430) through the bending portion (432), and can help improve waterproof performance by suppressing the infiltration of external foreign substances and / or moisture. In some embodiments, the second molding member (520) may be omitted.

[0094] FIG. 7 is a front view of a flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8a is a front view of a first housing and a second housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8b is a rear view of the second housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and is an enlarged view of an injection hole formed in the second housing. FIG. 8c is a front view of the second housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and is an enlarged view of an injection hole formed in the second housing.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first molding liquid forming the first molding member (510) may be injected into the first space (400a) after the second molding member (520) is filled or placed in the second space (400b). For example, the second molding liquid forming the second molding member (520) may be injected into the second space (400b) of the flexible display (230) before the flexible display (230) is placed in the housings (210, 220). According to one embodiment, the first molding member (510) may be injected into the first space (400a) through an injection hole formed in the second housing (220) after the flexible display (230) is placed in the housings (210, 220).

[0096] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 8a, 8b, and 8c, the second housing (220) may include an injection hole (601) (e.g., a first hole, an injection port) for injecting a first molding liquid to form the first molding member (510) and a discharge hole (602) (e.g., a second hole, an discharge port) for discharging the over-injected first molding liquid to the outside of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the injection hole (601) and the discharge hole (602) may be arranged in a longitudinal direction from the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230) at a position spaced apart from both ends of the bending portion (432) to correspond to the first space (400a). For example, referring to FIG. 8A, the injection hole (601) may be positioned in a first direction (e.g., the + Y direction in FIG. 8A) with respect to one end of the bending portion (432). The discharge hole (602) may be positioned in a second direction (e.g., the - Y direction in FIG. 8A) opposite to the first direction with respect to the other end of the bending portion (432). In one embodiment, when the flexible display (230) is viewed in a vertical direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction in FIG. 8C), at least a portion of the injection hole (601) and the discharge hole (602) may overlap with an edge of the flexible display (230).

[0097] In one embodiment, the positions where the injection hole (601) and the discharge hole (602) are formed in the second housing (220) may be specifically defined as follows. In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 7, 8A, 8B, and 8C, the second housing (220) may include a first region (S1) overlapping with the bending portion (432) when the flexible display (230) is viewed in a vertical direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIG. 8C), a second region (S2) positioned in a first direction with respect to the first region (S1), and a third region (S3) positioned in a second direction with respect to the first region (S1). In one embodiment, the second region (S2) may be an edge region of the second housing (220). The third region (S3) may be an edge region of the second housing (220) located opposite to the second region (S2). In one embodiment, the injection hole (601) may be formed in the second region (S2) of the second housing (220) and positioned in a first direction (e.g., + Y direction in FIG. 7) with respect to one end of the bending portion (432). The discharge hole (602) may be formed in the third region (S3) of the second housing (220) and positioned in a second direction (e.g., - Y direction in FIG. 7) with respect to the other end of the bending portion (432).

[0098] In one embodiment, the first molding member (510) can be filled or arranged on the inner side of the bending member (432) and the outer side of the bending member (432) as the injection hole (601) and the discharge hole (602) are respectively positioned adjacent to both ends of the bending member (432). For example, the first molding member (510) can be filled or arranged in the 1-1 space (4001a) between the bending member (432) and the second side member (223) of the second housing (220) through the injection hole (601), and the 1-2 space (4002a) which is the space between the bending member (432) and the first edge (401) of the plurality of layers (e.g., the display panel (430), the polymer layer (440), and / or the support plate (450)) arranged under the bending member (432) as the inner space of the bending member (432). In one embodiment, the durability of the bending portion (432) against external impact can be enhanced as the first molding member (510) is filled in the first-1 space (4001a) and the first-2 space (4002a). For example, when an external impact is applied to the electronic device (200), the external impact applied to the bending portion (432) can be buffered or alleviated through the first molding member (510) filled in the first-1 space (4001a) and the first molding member (510) filled in the first-2 space (4002a).

[0099] In one embodiment, the first molding liquid forming the first molding member (510) can be filled into the first space (400a) through the injection hole (601). As the first molding liquid is filled into the first space (400a), the pressure of the first space (400a) can increase. The first molding liquid can flow toward the exhaust hole (602) as air flow is induced from the first space (400a) to the exhaust hole (602) that is connected to the outside of the electronic device (200). Accordingly, the first molding liquid can be sufficiently applied into the first space (400a) (e.g., the 1-1 space (4001a) and the 1-2 space (4002a)). In one embodiment, the injection hole (601) and the discharge hole (602) may be filled with the first molding liquid after the process of applying the first molding liquid to the first space (400a) is completed. Accordingly, the injection hole (601) and the discharge hole (602) may be filled with the first molding member (510) in which the first molding liquid has been hardened.

[0100] The first molding liquid forming the first molding member (510) according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be filled into the space (e.g., the first space (400a)) between the second side member (223) of the second housing (220) and the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230) through the injection hole (601) formed in the second housing (220). Therefore, without using a separate jig in which the injection hole (601) is formed for injecting the first molding liquid, the first molding liquid can be injected into the space (e.g., the first space (400a)) between the second side member (223) of the second housing (220) and the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230) while the flexible display (230) is assembled into the housings (210, 220).

[0101] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9c to be described later, a guide member (610) may be included between the flexible display (230) and the second housing (220) to guide the first molding liquid injected through the injection hole (601) to fill the first space (400a). In one embodiment, the guide member (610) may be disposed in the second housing (220) at least partially along the extension direction of the bending portion (432) (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 8a). Referring to FIG. 9c to be described later, the guide member (610) may be disposed between the second support member (262) of the second housing (220) and the bending portion (432) along the extension direction of the bending portion (432) to guide the first molding liquid injected through the injection hole (601) to fill the designated space (e.g., the first space (400a)). In one embodiment, the first molding liquid filled in the first space (400a) may not flow to the area where the electronic components arranged on the back surface of the flexible display (230) are located through the guide member (610).

[0102] In one embodiment, the guide member (610) may be disposed along the perimeter of the second housing (220) between the back surface of the second housing (220) and the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the guide member (610) may be formed in a closed loop shape with at least a portion disposed in the bending portion (432). In one embodiment, the guide member (610) may be a liquid adhesive or adhesive tape disposed between the second housing (220) and the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the guide member (610) may be a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 8A, the guide member (610) may be a second waterproof member (e.g., the second waterproof member (WP2) of FIG. 3) disposed between the back surface of the flexible display (230) and the second support member (262) of the second housing (220) to form a waterproof space that accommodates at least a portion of the bending portion (432).

[0103] FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams illustrating a process for applying a first molding member to a bending portion while a flexible display is assembled to a first housing and a second housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 1A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] The following description may be a description of a series of processes for filling or arranging the first molding member (510) and the second molding member (520) in the flexible display.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the second molding member (520) may be filled in the space (e.g., the second space (400b)) between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430) of the flexible display (230) before the first molding member (510) is injected into the interior of the second housing (220). For example, the second molding member (520) may be formed by applying a second molding liquid to the space between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430) through a molding injector and then curing the second molding liquid before assembling the flexible display (230) to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0106] According to one embodiment, a guide member (610) may be placed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) before assembling the flexible display (230) to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). As described above, the guide member (610) may be a liquid adhesive, an adhesive tape, or a second waterproof member (WP2) placed between the back surface of the flexible display (230) and the second support member (262) of the second housing (220), and may define an area where the first molding member (510) should be filled or placed within the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the guide member (610) may prevent the first molding liquid forming the first molding member (510) from flowing from the back surface of the flexible display (230) to an area where electronic components are positioned.

[0107] According to one embodiment, after the guide member (610) is placed in the second housing (220), the flexible display (230) can be assembled to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C, when the flexible display (230) is assembled to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), the molding jig (700) can be assembled to the second housing (220) to cover the flexible display (230) placed on the front side of the second housing (220) (e.g., the side facing the +Z direction in FIG. 9A). In one embodiment, the molding jig (700) may include a protrusion (701) that prevents the first molding liquid from leaking into the space between an edge of the flexible display (230) (e.g., the first edge (401), the second edge (402), or the fourth edge (404) of FIG. 5A) and the second side member (223) of the second housing (220).

[0108] In one embodiment, the first molding liquid may be injected into the first space (400a) through the injection hole (601) of the second housing (220) while the front surface of the second housing (220) (e.g., the surface facing the +Z direction in FIG. 9b) is covered by the molding jig (700). In one embodiment, when the first molding liquid is injected into the injection hole (601) of the second housing (220), the first molding liquid may be filled into the first space (400a) including the bending portion (432) of the flexible display (230), and the over-injected first molding liquid may be discharged to the outside of the second housing (220) through the discharge hole (602). In one embodiment, the first molding liquid may be cured through at least one of natural curing, thermal curing, or ultraviolet curing while being filled into the first space (400a) of the second housing (220). Thereafter, when the molding jig (700) is separated from the second housing (220), the first molding member (510) can be maintained in a fixed state so as to surround at least the bending portion (432) at the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230).

[0109] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, among the multiple layers included in the flexible display (230), the uppermost layer, such as the window layer (410) and the polarizing layer (420), may have a higher slip generation amount during folding. Accordingly, as the second molding member (520) having a lower modulus value than the first molding member (510) is filled in the second space (e.g., the second space (400b)) between the window layer (410) and the display panel (430), the slip phenomenon occurring during folding can be accommodated, and the surface quality of the flexible display (230) can be improved. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the bending portion (432) may be covered by the first molding member (510). In one embodiment, the first molding member (510) may be filled or placed in the first-first space (4001a) between the outer surface of the bending portion (432) and the second side member (223) of the second housing (220) through the injection hole (601) and the first-second space (4002a) between the inner surface of the bending portion (432) and the first edge (401) of a plurality of layers (e.g., a display panel (430), a polymer layer (440) and / or a support plate (450)) arranged under the bending portion (432). Accordingly, when an external impact is applied to the electronic device (200), the external impact applied to the bending portion (432) can be buffered or alleviated through the first molding member (510) filled in the 1-1 space (4001a) and the first molding member (510) filled in the 1-2 space (4002a).

[0110] A foldable electronic device (200) may include a hinge device (400, 400-1) (e.g., a hinge assembly, a hinge structure, or a hinge module), and a first housing (210) and a second housing (220) that are foldably connected to each other in opposite directions through the hinge device. The foldable electronic device (200) may be operated in an in-folding and / or out-folding manner by allowing the first housing (210) to rotate with respect to the second housing (220) through the hinge device in a range of 0 to 360 degrees. The foldable electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (230) arranged to be at least partially supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) in an unfolded state. The flexible display (230) may include a plurality of layers (e.g., a transparent window layer (410), a POL (420), a polymer layer (440), or at least one functional layer (460)) arranged on an upper surface and / or a lower surface based on a display panel (430).

[0111] Meanwhile, in order to make the foldable electronic device (200) slimmer, a protective cover (e.g., a decorative cover or a protective frame) may be omitted so that the edge portion (e.g., the edge) of the display of the flexible display (200) is not visible from the outside. For example, in an electronic device where a protective cover is omitted, the flexible display (230) may be positioned so that the edges are visible from the outside while being supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0112] In this case, the edge portion including the bending portion (432) (e.g., COP (chip on panel or chip on plastic)) extending from the display panel (430) of the flexible display (230) is vulnerable to external impact, and thus malfunction due to damage may occur. In addition, static electricity introduced into the space between the housings (210, 220) and the display panel (430) may be induced along the bending portion (432) (ESD, electrostatic discharge), thereby electrically damaging the display panel (430). In addition, foreign substances or moisture introduced between the housings (210, 220) and the flexible display (230) may be vulnerable to waterproofing by being introduced between the multiple layers of the flexible display (230).

[0113] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device including a flexible display can be provided that can help improve durability against external impact by providing a protective structure for a bending portion (432) of a display panel (430).

[0114] Various embodiments may provide an electronic device (200) including a flexible display (230) having a waterproof structure applied thereto to protect against external moisture or foreign substances.

[0115] Various embodiments may provide an electronic device including a flexible display (230) having a protective structure (e.g., a first molding member (510) and / or a second molding member (520)) for improving durability against external impact and improving surface quality considering the amount of slip of the flexible display (230) when folding.

[0116] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0117] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document belongs from the description below.

[0118] An electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a hinge assembly (400, 400-1) rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display (230) supported by the first housing and the second housing. The flexible display may include a transparent window layer (410), a display panel (430) disposed below the transparent window layer, a support plate disposed below the display panel, and a bending portion (432) extending from the display panel to the back surface of the support plate. The electronic device may include an injection hole (601) formed in the second housing and positioned in a first direction with respect to one end of the bending portion, an exhaust hole (602) formed in the second housing and positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the other end of the bending portion, and a first molding member (510) injected through the injection hole and surrounding at least a portion of the bending portion.

[0119] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a second molding member (520) disposed between the transparent window layer and the display panel.

[0120] In one embodiment, the second molding member may have a lower modulus value than the first molding member.

[0121] In one embodiment, the first molding member may be filled in a space (4002a) between the bending portion and the first edge (401) of the flexible display through the injection hole, and may be filled in a space (4001a) between the bending portion and the side member (223) of the second housing.

[0122] In one embodiment, the space between the bending portion and the first edge of the flexible display may be a space between an edge (401) of the display panel, an edge (401) of a polymer layer (440) disposed under the display panel, an edge (401) of the support plate (450) disposed under the polymer layer, and the bending portion.

[0123] In one embodiment, the second housing may include a first region (S1) that, when viewed from a vertical direction with respect to the flexible display, at least a portion of which overlaps the bending portion, a second region (S2) that is positioned in the first direction relative to the first region and is an edge of the second housing and in which the injection hole is formed, and a third region (S3) that is positioned in the second direction relative to the first region and is an edge of the second housing and in which the discharge hole is formed.

[0124] In one embodiment, the flexible display may further include a guide member (610) disposed along the periphery of the second housing between the second housing and the back surface of the flexible display, at least a portion of which is disposed in the bending portion. In one embodiment, the first molding member may be disposed at least a portion between the side member (223) of the second housing and the guide member.

[0125] In one embodiment, the guide member may be a waterproof member (WP2) disposed between the second housing and the back surface of the flexible display to form a waterproof space that accommodates at least a portion of the bending portion.

[0126] In one embodiment, the guide member may be any one of a liquid adhesive, an adhesive tape, or a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0127] In one embodiment, the first molding member can be formed to have a molding modulus value of 1 Gpa or greater.

[0128] In one embodiment, the second molding member can be formed to have a molding modulus value of 10 Mpa or less.

[0129] In one embodiment, the first molding member may be formed in a manner in which the flexible display to which the second molding member is applied is injected into a space (400a) between the first edge of the flexible display and the side member (223) of the second housing through the injection hole while the flexible display is placed in the second housing.

[0130] In one embodiment, the first molding member and the second molding member can be formed in a manner that they are cured through injection of a molding liquid.

[0131] In one embodiment, the first housing includes a first side member (213) forming at least a portion of a side surface of the electronic device and a first support member (261) extending from the first side member, the second housing includes a second side member (223) forming at least a portion of a side surface of the electronic device and a second support member (262) extending from the second side member, and the flexible display can be arranged to be supported by the first support member and the second support member.

[0132] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first molding member may be disposed in the space (2201) between the second side member and the second support member.

[0133] In one embodiment, the first molding member may have its size and / or shape determined by the space between the second side member and the second support member.

[0134] In one embodiment, when the flexible display is viewed from a vertical direction, at least a portion of the injection hole and the discharge hole may overlap with an edge of the flexible display, respectively.

[0135] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a hinge assembly (400, 400-1) rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display (230) supported by the first housing and the second housing. The flexible display may include a transparent window layer (410), a display panel (430) disposed below the transparent window layer, and a bending portion (432) that bends from the display panel to the rear surface of the flexible display at a first edge (401) of the flexible display. The electronic device may include an injection hole (601) positioned adjacent to an end of the bending portion and formed at an edge of the second housing, and a first molding member (510) injected through the injection hole to surround at least a portion of the bending portion.

[0136] In one embodiment, the device further includes a second molding member (520) disposed between the transparent window layer and the display panel, wherein the second molding member may have a lower modulus value than the first molding member.

[0137] In one embodiment, the first molding member may be filled in a space (4002a) between the bending portion and the first edge of the flexible display through the injection hole, and may be filled in a space (4001a) between the bending portion and the side member of the second housing.

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (200) includes a first edge (401) including a bending portion (432) of a flexible display (230), wherein a first molding member (510) for protecting the bending portion (432) is disposed except for a space between a transparent window layer (410) of the flexible display (230) and the flexible display (230), or a second molding member (520) having a molding modulus lower than that of the first molding member (510) is filled in the space, thereby helping to improve the durability of the bending portion (432) and the surface quality of the flexible display (230). In addition, an improved protection structure against ESD can be provided through the first molding member (510) and / or the second molding member (520), and penetration of external foreign substances and / or moisture can be suppressed.

[0139] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device (200) may be configured such that a molding liquid constituting the first molding member (510) may be filled into a space between a side surface of the housing (e.g., the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220)) and a first edge (401) of the flexible display (230) through an injection hole (601) formed in the housing (e.g., the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220)). In one embodiment, the injection hole (601) may be formed adjacent to both ends of the bending portion (432) of the flexible display (230). Accordingly, without using a separate jig in which an injection hole is formed for injecting the molding liquid, the molding liquid can be injected into the space (400a, 400b) between the side of the housing (210, 220) and the first edge (401) of the flexible display (230) while the flexible display (230) is assembled into the housings (210, 220).

[0140] In addition, various effects may be provided, either directly or indirectly, through this document.

[0141] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0142] The electronic device (200) according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be a device of various forms. For example, the electronic device (200) may include a slideable electronic device (e.g., a rollable electronic device) in which a plurality of housings are slidably coupled, or a bar-type electronic device.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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).

[0146] 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 (200), First housing (210); Second housing (220); A hinge assembly (400, 400-1) that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing; and A flexible display (230) supported by the first housing and the second housing, Transparent window layer (410), A display panel (430) placed below the transparent window layer; A support plate (450) placed below the above display panel, and It includes a bending portion (432) extending from the display panel to the back surface of the support plate, An injection hole (601) formed in the second housing and positioned in the first direction with respect to one end of the above bending portion; and An electronic device comprising a first molding member (510) injected through the injection hole and surrounding at least a portion of the bending portion.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device further comprising a discharge hole (602) formed in the second housing and positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the other end of the bending portion.

3. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a second molding member (520) disposed between the transparent window layer and the display panel; An electronic device wherein the second molding member has a lower modulus value than the first molding member.

4. In paragraph 1, The above first molding member, An electronic device that is filled in the space (4002a) between the bending portion and the first edge (401) of the flexible display through the injection hole, and is filled in the space (4001a) between the bending portion and the side member (223) of the second housing.

5. In paragraph 4, The space between the above bending portion and the first edge of the flexible display An electronic device comprising a space between an edge (401) of the display panel, an edge (401) of a polymer layer (440) disposed under the display panel, an edge (401) of the support plate disposed under the polymer layer, and the bending portion.

6. In paragraph 2, The above second housing, When the flexible display is viewed from a vertical direction, a first region (S1) that at least partially overlaps the bending portion; A second region (S2) located in the first direction with respect to the first region, which is the edge of the second housing and in which the injection hole is formed, and An electronic device comprising a third region (S3) located in the second direction with respect to the first region, which is an edge of the second housing and in which the discharge hole is formed.

7. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a guide member (610) disposed along the periphery of the second housing between the second housing and the back surface of the flexible display, at least a portion of which is disposed in the bending portion; The above first molding member, An electronic device wherein at least a portion of the electronic device is disposed between the side member (223) of the second housing and the guide member.

8. In paragraph 7, The above guide member is, An electronic device comprising a waterproof member (WP2) disposed between the second housing and the back surface of the flexible display to form a waterproof space that accommodates at least a portion of the bending portion.

9. In paragraph 7, The above guide member is, An electronic device comprising any of a liquid adhesive, adhesive tape, or pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

10. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which the first molding member is formed to have a molding modulus value of 1 Gpa or more.

11. In paragraph 3, An electronic device in which the second molding member is formed to have a molding modulus value of 10 Mpa or less.

12. In paragraph 3, The above first molding member, An electronic device formed in a manner in which the flexible display to which the second molding member is applied is placed in the second housing and injected into the space (400a) between the first edge of the flexible display and the side member (223) of the second housing through the injection hole.

13. In paragraph 1, The first housing comprises a first side member (213) forming at least a portion of a side surface of the electronic device and a first support member (261) extending from the first side member, The second housing comprises a second side member (223) forming at least a portion of a side surface of the electronic device and a second support member (262) extending from the second side member, The above flexible display is an electronic device arranged to be supported by the first support member and the second support member.

14. In paragraph 13, An electronic device wherein at least a portion of the first molding member is disposed in the space (2201) between the second side member and the second support member.

15. In paragraph 2, When the above flexible display is viewed from a vertical direction, At least part of the above injection hole and the above discharge hole, An electronic device that overlaps each edge of the above flexible display.

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