Adhesive structure and electronic device including same

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a first body frame including a curved portion formed along one edge, the curved portion including a first curved surface and a second curved surface formed in the opposite direction to the first curved surface; a second body frame rotatably connected to the first body frame; a display module having a portion disposed over the first curved surface and including a display panel and a plate cover; a hinge cover having at least a portion facing the second curved surface and having a shape corresponding to the second curved surface; a molding part formed to surround the edge of the display module and having a portion formed to correspond to the first curved surface; and an adhesive sheet disposed on the first curved surface to bond the molding part and the curved portion of the first body frame.

Description

Adhesive structure and electronic device including same

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to an adhesive structure and a foldable electronic device including the adhesive structure.

[0002] With the advancement of electronics, information, and communication technologies, a variety of functions are being integrated into a single portable communication device or electronic device. For example, smartphones incorporate functions such as audio playback, photography, and electronic notebooks in addition to communication functions. Furthermore, the installation of additional applications allows smartphones to offer even more diverse functions.

[0003] As the use of personal or portable communication devices such as smartphones becomes more widespread, user demand for portability and ease of use is increasing. For example, a touchscreen display, while functioning as an output device that displays visual information, can also provide a virtual keypad that replaces mechanical input devices (e.g., button-type input devices). This allows portable communication devices or electronic devices to be miniaturized while still offering the same or improved usability (e.g., larger screens). On the other hand, the commercialization of flexible displays, such as foldable or rollable displays, is expected to further enhance the portability and ease of use of electronic devices.

[0004] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first body frame including a curved portion formed along one edge, the curved portion including a first curved surface and a second curved surface formed in an opposite direction to the first curved surface, a second body frame rotatably connected to the first body frame, a display module having a portion disposed over the first curved surface and including a display panel and a plate cover, a hinge cover having at least a portion facing the second curved surface and having a shape corresponding to the second curved surface, a molding portion formed to surround an edge of the display module and having a portion corresponding to the first curved surface, and an adhesive sheet disposed on the first curved surface to bond the molding portion and the curved portion of the first body frame.

[0006] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first body frame including a curved portion formed along one edge thereof, and a first housing including a display module disposed on the first body frame, a second body frame, and a rear cover covering the second body frame, wherein the second housing is rotatably connected to the first housing, a hinge cover at least a portion of which faces a curved surface of the curved portion and has a shape corresponding to the curved surface, a molding portion formed to surround at least one edge of a panel or plate cover of the display module, and an adhesive sheet disposed on one surface facing an opposite direction of the curved surface of the curved portion, the adhesive sheet bonding the molding portion to the curved portion of the first body frame.

[0007] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

[0012] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a first housing and related components of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing one side of an adhesive sheet of an electronic device, a body frame adhered by the adhesive sheet, and a display module, each of which is arranged side by side, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a drawing of an electronic device in a folded state, viewed toward a display module, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the S1 region of the electronic device in the folded state of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the S2 region of the electronic device in the folded state of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of one side of a body frame, and a first frame portion and a second frame portion of the body frame, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of one side of a molding portion disposed on a display module, and a first molding portion and a second molding portion of the molding portion, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of one side of an adhesive sheet, a cross-section of a first adhesive portion, and a cross-section of a second adhesive portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of one side of an adhesive sheet, one side of a first adhesive portion, and one side of a second adhesive portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a process of attaching an adhesive sheet on a body frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a process of attaching a display module on a body frame to which an adhesive sheet is attached, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a process of bonding an adhesive sheet onto a display module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing an adhesive section between a display module and a body frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an adhesive sheet having a slit formed therein according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing an adhesive section between a display module and a body frame using the adhesive sheet of FIG. 18, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a molding part arranged on the rear surface of a display module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view of area S11 of FIG. 20 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 22 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area S11 of FIG. 20 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] The accompanying drawings are referenced in the following description, and specific examples of implementations are illustrated within the drawings. Furthermore, other examples may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various examples.

[0031] Electronic devices according to the 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 disclosed in this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0032] The embodiments and terminology used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to 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.

[0033] In this document, phrases such as "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 each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other corresponding components and do not limit the corresponding components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second) 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.

[0034] 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).

[0035] According to one embodiment, 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 arranged in other components. According to one embodiment, 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 this 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 one embodiment, 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.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)) omitted, or one or more other components added. In one embodiment, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0038] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0039] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0040] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0041] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0042] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0043] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0044] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external device (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a hall area program device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0045] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0046] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0047] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0048] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0049] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0050] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0051] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0052] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0053] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0054] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0055] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In one embodiment, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0056] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0057] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0058] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0059] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] The electronic devices illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4 are for illustrative purposes only, and the present disclosure is not limited by the drawings. The XYZ coordinate systems illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4 are for illustrative purposes only, and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0063] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include at least one pair of housings (210, 220). The pair of housings (210, 220) may be rotatably coupled to face each other and fold about, for example, a hinge (e.g., a hinge (240) of FIG. 4).

[0064] According to one embodiment, a pair of housings (210, 220) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged on opposite sides with a folding axis (F) as the center. One end region of the first housing (210) and one end region of the second housing (220) may be arranged side by side with a hinge (240) therebetween. The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may have a shape that is symmetrical with respect to a plane that includes the folding axis (F) and extends in the Z-axis direction. The folding axis (F) may be an axis extending in the X-direction formed by the hinge (240).

[0065] In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may have substantially the same length (e.g., length in the Y-axis direction) as the second housing (220), but is not limited thereto. The first housing (210) may have substantially the same width (e.g., width in the X-axis direction) as the second housing (220), but is not limited thereto.

[0066] Hereinafter, the 'unfolded state' or 'flat state' may refer to a state in which the angle formed by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is substantially 180 degrees. The 'folded state' or 'folding state' may refer to a state in which the angle formed by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is substantially 0 degrees. The 'intermediate state' may refer to any state between the unfolded state and the folded state. According to one embodiment, in the electronic device (101), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may rotate about the hinge (240) to form an angle of 0 to 180 degrees. In an electronic device (101), according to one embodiment, in the electronic device (101), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may rotate about a hinge (240) between 180 degrees and 360 degrees.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first surface (210a) and a second surface (210b). The first surface (210a) may be provided to face, for example, a first direction (e.g., a +Z-axis direction). The first surface (210a) may be, for example, a surface on which at least a portion of the flexible display (230) is disposed. The first surface (210a) may refer to, for example, a virtual surface that overlaps at least a portion of the flexible display (230). The second surface (210b) may be provided to face, for example, a second direction (e.g., a -Z-axis direction). The second surface (210b) may be, for example, a surface on which the display (280) is disposed. The second surface (210b) may be, for example, a surface on which the first rear cover (212) is disposed. The second surface (210b) may be parallel to the first surface (210a). The second surface (210b) may refer to a plane defined by, for example, the first rear cover (212).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a third surface (220a) and a fourth surface (220b). The third surface (220a) may be provided to face, for example, a first direction (e.g., a +Z-axis direction). The third surface (220a) may be, for example, a surface on which at least a portion of the flexible display (230) is disposed. The third surface (220a) may refer to, for example, a virtual surface that overlaps at least a portion of the flexible display (230). The fourth surface (220b) may be provided to face, for example, a second direction (e.g., a -Z-axis direction). The fourth surface (220b) may be, for example, a surface on which the second rear cover (222) is disposed. The fourth surface (220b) may be parallel to the third surface (220a). The fourth surface (220b) may refer to a plane defined by, for example, the second rear cover (222).

[0069] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) may be positioned within one arbitrary virtual plane (e.g., XY plane). For example, the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) may form the same plane when the electronic device (101) is unfolded. For example, the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) may be arranged to form 180 degrees with respect to the XY plane when the electronic device (101) is unfolded. When the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) may be positioned within another arbitrary virtual plane (e.g., XY plane). For example, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) may form the same plane when the electronic device (101) is unfolded. For example, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) can be arranged to form 180 degrees with respect to the XY plane in an unfolded state.

[0070] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, at least a portion of the first side (210a) and at least a portion of the third side (220a) may face each other. For example, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the angle formed by the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) may be 0 degrees with respect to the XY plane. As the electronic device (101) is folded from an unfolded state, the angle formed by the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) with respect to the XY plane may gradually decrease. For example, in an intermediate state, the angle formed by the first side (210a) and the third side (220a) with respect to the XY plane may be determined between about 0 degrees and about 180 degrees. When the electronic device (101) is folded, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) may be parallel to each other. For example, the second side (210b) and the fourth side (220b) may face opposite directions when the electronic device (101) is folded.

[0071] According to one embodiment, a pair of housings (210, 220) included in an electronic device (101) are not limited to the illustrated shape and combination, and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first side frame (211). The first side frame (211) may constitute a side of the first housing (210). The first side frame (211) may constitute a portion of the exterior of the first housing (210). The first side frame (211) may be provided to protect components housed inside the electronic device (101) from the outside.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the first side frame (211) may include a first side member (211a), a second side member (211b), and / or a third side member (211c). The first side member (211a) may have a first length along a first longitudinal direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction). The second side member (211b) may extend from the first side member (211a) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., an X-axis direction). The second side member (211b) may extend to have a second length that is the same as or different from the first length. The third side member (211c) may extend from the second side member (211b) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction). The third side member (211c) may extend in a direction that is substantially parallel to the first side member (211a). The third side member (211c) may have a first length along a first longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and the third side member (211c) may be arranged to be visible from the outside. At least a portion of the first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and / or the third side member (211c) may be formed as a curved surface. The first side frame (211) may be formed into a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape by the first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and the third side member (211c). The first side member (211a), the second side member (211b), and the third side member (211c) may be formed integrally, but is not limited thereto.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second side frame (221). The second side frame (221) may constitute a side of the second housing (220). The second side frame (221) may constitute a portion of the exterior of the first housing (210). The second side frame (221) may be provided to protect components housed inside the electronic device (101) from the outside.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the second side frame (221) can include a fourth side member (221a), a fifth side member (221b), and / or a sixth side member (221c). The fourth side member (221a) can have a third length along a first longitudinal direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction). The fifth side member (221b) can extend from the fourth side member (221a) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., a X-axis direction). The fifth side member (221b) can extend to have a fourth length that is the same as or different from the third length. The sixth side member (221c) can extend from the fifth side member (221b) in a substantially perpendicular direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction). The sixth side member (221c) can extend in a direction substantially parallel to the fourth side member (221a). The sixth side member (221c) may have a third length along the first longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and the sixth side member (221c) may be arranged to be visible from the outside. At least a portion of the fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and / or the sixth side member (221c) may be formed as a curved surface. The second side frame (221) may be formed into a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape by the fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and the sixth side member (221c). The first length may be substantially equal to the third length. The second length may be substantially equal to the fourth length. The fourth side member (221a), the fifth side member (221b), and the sixth side member (221c) may be formed integrally, but is not limited thereto.

[0078] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the first side member (211a) and the fourth side member (221a) may be positioned substantially in a straight line. When the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the second side member (211b) and the fifth side member (221b) may be parallel to each other. When the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the third side member (211c) and the sixth side member (221c) may be positioned substantially in a straight line.

[0079] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the first side member (211a) and the fourth side member (221a) may be positioned to overlap each other. When the electronic device (101) is folded, the second side member (211b) and the fifth side member (221b) may be positioned to overlap each other. When the electronic device (101) is folded, the third side member (211c) and the sixth side member (221c) may be positioned to overlap each other.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (212). The first rear cover (212) may form at least a portion of the second side (210b) of the first housing (210). The first rear cover (212) may be coupled to a first side frame (211). The first rear cover (212) may, for example, be formed integrally with the first side frame (211).

[0081] In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (222). The second rear cover (222) may form at least a portion of the fourth side (220b) of the second housing (220). The second rear cover (222) may be coupled to a second side frame (221). The second rear cover (222) may be formed integrally with the second side frame (221), for example.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (212) and / or the second rear cover (222) may be formed of at least one or a combination of coated or colored glass, ceramic, glassic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (230) (e.g., a foldable display or display). The flexible display (230) may be arranged across the first housing (210), the hinge (240), and the second housing (220). The flexible display (230) may be arranged to extend from a first side (210a) of the first housing (210) across the hinge (240) to at least a portion of a third side (220a) of the second housing (220). The flexible display (230) may be arranged to overlap the first side (210a) of the first housing (210) and / or the third side (220a) of the second housing (220). The flexible display (230) can have a portion corresponding to the hinge (240) that can be bent according to the rotation of the hinge (240).

[0084] In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may be arranged so as to be visible from the outside when in an unfolded state. The flexible display (230) may be arranged so as to be invisible from the outside when in a folded state.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a protective cover (231). The protective cover (231) may be positioned to protect an edge portion of the flexible display (230). The protective cover (231) may form part of the exterior of the electronic device (101).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of an input device (e.g., a microphone (203)), an audio output device (e.g., a call receiver (201) or a speaker (202)), a sensor module (204), a camera module (a first camera module (205) or a second camera module (208)), a connector port (207), a key input device (not shown), or an indicator (not shown) disposed in a first internal space (214) of a first housing (210) or a second internal space (224) of a second housing (220). The electronic device (101) may be configured such that at least one of the above-described components is omitted, or other components are additionally included.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the input device may include a plurality of microphones arranged to detect the direction of sound. The audio output device may include, for example, a call receiver (201) and a speaker (202). The audio output devices (201, 202) may be arranged to face the outside through at least one speaker hole formed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The connector port (207) may be arranged to face the outside through a connector port hole formed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (204) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (101) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (204) can include at least one of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a time of flight (TOF) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a fingerprint recognition sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the camera module may include a first camera module (205) disposed on the front (e.g., +Z-axis direction side) of the electronic device (101) or a second camera module (208) disposed on the back (e.g., -Z-axis direction side). The first camera module (205) and / or the second camera module (208) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. As an example, the first camera module (205) may be disposed under the flexible display (230) and configured to capture an object through a portion of an active area of ​​the flexible display (230). A flash (209) may be positioned in the second camera module (208). The flash (209) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an antenna. The antenna may include, for example, an ultra-wide band (UWB) antenna, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna may, for example, enable short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0091] In one embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a portion or a combination of the housings (210, 220). For example, the antenna may include a communication antenna that is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the electronic device (101) and forms at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101). The communication antenna may be used for communication with an external electronic device (e.g., Wi-Fi).

[0092] In the detailed description below, a configuration in which a pair of housings (or, "housings") are rotatably coupled by a hinge structure (or, "hinge structure") may be exemplified. However, it should be noted that this embodiment does not limit the electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document. For example, the electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may include three or more housings, and "a pair of housings" in the embodiments disclosed below may mean "two housings rotatably coupled to each other among the three or more housings."

[0093] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a first housing and related components of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing one side of an adhesive sheet of an electronic device, a body frame adhered by the adhesive sheet, and a display module, each of which is arranged side by side, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a housing (200), a hinge cover (600), a molding portion (400), and an adhesive sheet (500). The housing (200) may include a body frame (300) and a display module (700). The housing (200), the molding portion (400), and the adhesive sheet (500) of the electronic device (101) may provide an adhesive structure.

[0096] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 5 and 6 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 4. The configuration of the body frame (300) and the display module (700) of FIGS. 5 and 6 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the side frames (211, 221) and the rear cover (212, 222) of FIG. 4.

[0097] The embodiments of FIGS. 5 and 6 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 4 and the embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 22.

[0098] In one embodiment, the housing (200) may form the overall appearance of the electronic device (101). The housing (200) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2). The housing (200) disclosed in FIGS. 5 and 6 may be one of the first housing (210) or the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the housing (200) may include a body frame (300) forming a side of the electronic device (101) and housing electrical components, and a display module (700) forming a back of the electronic device (101). The display module (700) may serve as a back cover and provide a display function that provides a user experience.

[0100] Hereinafter, with respect to the electronic device (101), the direction in which the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 4) faces may be defined as the front direction or the first direction (e.g., the +Z-axis direction), and the direction in which the display module (700) faces may be defined as the rear direction or the second direction (e.g., the -Z-axis direction).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may include a support plate (301) that provides a space in which electronic components are arranged, and side walls (302) arranged in a front direction (e.g., +Z-axis direction) and / or a rear direction (e.g., -Z-axis direction) along an edge of the support plate (301). The space in which the support plate (301) is arranged may include a front space (P1) that is open in the front direction, and a rear space (P2) that is open in the rear direction. For example, an electrical component such as a circuit board may be arranged in the front space, and an electrical component such as a battery, a camera, and a sensor may be arranged in the rear space (P2).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the display module (700) may include a display panel (710) and a plate cover (720) covering an outer surface of the display panel (710). The plate cover (720) is formed so that at least a portion thereof is exposed to the outside to protect the display panel (710), and may include at least one hole for a lens of a camera.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the display panel (710) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display panel (710) can include, for example, a holographic device or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (700) can be laminated with the display panel and include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, and / or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the plate cover (720) may form a structure laminated on the display panel (710) to protect the display panel (710). The plate cover (720) may be at least one of glass, plastic (e.g., polycarbonate, acrylic), polyurethane (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene terephthalate (PET)), or ceramic.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may be disposed between the display module (700) and the adhesive sheet (500) (or the body frame (300)). The molding portion (400) may be disposed at least partially on an edge of the display panel (710) and / or an edge of the plate cover (720). The edge is a side adjacent to the hinge cover (600) and may be formed to have a length corresponding to the width of the display module (700).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may include a curved portion that partially forms a curved surface. The curved portion has a shape corresponding to the curved portion (300a) of the body frame (300), and will be described in detail in the following drawings (FIG. 7 and below).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may include a first molding portion (410) disposed along one edge of the display module (700) and second molding portions (420) disposed along the other edge of the display module (700) substantially perpendicular to the first molding portion (410). The second molding portions (420) may be disposed parallel to each other and may have a shorter length than the first molding portion (410). For example, when viewed toward the display module (700), the molding portion (400) may be manufactured in a shape such as ']' or '['. The first molding portion (410) may be disposed to surround the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720), and the second molding portion (420) may be disposed to surround only the plate cover (720).

[0108] The molding portion (400) disclosed in FIGS. 5 and 6 is disclosed as a structure disclosed on one side of the display module (700), but is not limited thereto and may be designed and changed into various shapes, such as a closed loop (e.g., FIGS. 20 to 22) disposed along all edges of the display module (700).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) is disposed between the display module (700) and the body frame (300), and can adhere the display module (700) onto the body frame (300). In addition to the adhesive function, the adhesive sheet (500) can provide a waterproof / dustproof function to prevent foreign substances from entering the interior of the electronic device (101).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) may be a closed loop shape disposed along the edge of the display module (700) and / or the body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) may be attached to a wider area on the edge portion of the display module (700) adjacent to the hinge cover (600) compared to other portions. For example, the adhesive sheet (500) may be disposed to wrap around one side of the display module (700) and may be disposed along the molding portion (400) including the curved portion. The molding portion (400) may expand the area to which the adhesive sheet (500) is adhered to the area overlapping the display panel (710), thereby providing a strong adhesive state between the body frame (300) and the display module (700).

[0111] According to one embodiment, a hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure (240) of FIG. 4) may include a hinge assembly and a hinge cover (600) that protects the hinge assembly. The hinge cover (600) is disposed on one side of the body frame (300) and may provide a shape including a curved surface. The one side of the body frame (300) has a shape corresponding to the curved surface of the hinge cover (600), and when the electronic device (101) is operated from an unfolded state to a folded state, the body frame (300) slides along the curved surface of the hinge cover (600), and a portion of the curved surface of the hinge cover (600) may be exposed to the outside.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (600) may be positioned on the opposite side of the display module (700), the molding portion (400), and the adhesive sheet (500) with respect to the body frame (300). Along one edge of the body frame (300), the hinge cover (600) may be positioned in the front direction, and the adhesive sheet (500), the molding portion (400), and the display module (700) may be sequentially stacked in the rear direction.

[0113] In general, in order to place or accommodate a hinge cover (600) on one edge of the body frame (300), the body frame (300) may be designed in a way that it is difficult to expand the area for bonding the display module (700). In addition, if a battery is placed adjacent to the hinge structure, a swelling phenomenon of the battery may require additional expansion of the bonding area. According to the present disclosure, by placing a molding part (400) including a curved portion capable of expanding the bonding area while wrapping the display module (700) on one edge of the body frame (300) and changing the design of the body frame (300) accordingly, the coupling between the body frame (300) and the display module (700) can be improved.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) may be named at least one of an adhesive member, a sticky member, a glue member, a paste member, or a waterproof member, and the expression of the member may be replaced with at least one of an element, a part, a portion, a sheet, a tape, or a component.

[0115] FIG. 7 is a drawing of an electronic device in a folded state, viewed toward a display module, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the S1 region of the electronic device in the folded state of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the S2 region of the electronic device in the folded state of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 7 to 9 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0119] The embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 9 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6 and the embodiments of FIGS. 8 to 22.

[0120] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the flexible display (230) can be bent so that a first flexible region corresponding to the first housing (210) and a second flexible region corresponding to the second housing (220) can face each other. When the electronic device (101) is folded, a display module (700) disposed on an opposite side of the first flexible region of the flexible display (230) with respect to the first housing (210) can be visible. The display module (700) can include a display panel (710) and a plate cover (720) protecting the display panel (710).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a body frame (300), a molding part (400), an adhesive sheet (500), a hinge cover (600), and a display module (700).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may include a first body frame corresponding to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2) and a second body frame corresponding to a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2). Hereinafter, the description related to the body frame (300) may be understood as content related to at least one of the first body frame or the second body frame.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may include a support plate (301) and side walls (302) extending in a front direction (e.g., +Z-axis direction) and a rear direction (e.g., -Z-axis direction) along an edge of the support plate (301). A portion of a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 4) may be arranged on the front side of the body frame (300), and a display module (700) may be arranged on the rear side. The display module (700) may be a rear cover of the electronic device (101) and may be positioned on only one body frame.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may include a front space (P1) facing the flexible display (230) and for arranging electrical components (e.g., a circuit board), and a rear space (P2) facing the display module (700) and for arranging electrical components (e.g., a battery). The body frame (300) may include a first surface (P3) forming the front space (P1) and a second surface (P4) opposite to the first surface (P3) and forming the rear space (P2), with respect to the support plate (301). The first surface (P3) and the second surface (P4) may each form a flat surface and / or a curved surface.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the housing (e.g., the body frame (300) and / or the display module (700)) may include a first edge portion (E1) adjacent to a hinge (e.g., the hinge (240) of FIG. 4) and / or a hinge cover (600) and a second edge portion (E2) opposite the first edge portion (E1). For example, the first edge portion (E1) and / or the second edge portion (E2) may be an area where an adhesive sheet (500) for adhering the display module (700) to the body frame (300) is positioned. According to one embodiment, the first edge portion (E1) may include a curved portion (300a) having at least a portion having an inclined or curved shape for the hinge cover (600) to be positioned or the adhesive sheet (500) to be positioned. The second edge portion (E2) may be a peripheral area where an electronic component, such as a camera, is positioned.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may include a curved portion (300a) designed along one edge (e.g., a first edge portion (E1)). The curved portion (300a) may include a first frame portion (310) at least partially facing a display panel (e.g., a display panel (710) of FIG. 6), and second frame portions (320) extending from both ends of the first frame portion (310). The second frame portions (320) may extend substantially vertically (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) from the first frame portion (310).

[0127] According to one embodiment (e.g., see FIG. 8), the curved portion (300a) of the body frame (300) may be formed along one edge of the body frame (300) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) and may include a first curved surface (311) that is part of the first surface (P3) and a second curved surface (312) that is formed in an opposite direction to the first curved surface (311) and is part of the second surface (P4). The first curved surface (311) may be formed toward the display module (700). The second curved surface (312) may be formed toward the hinge cover (600) or toward the flexible display (230). Hereinafter, the curved surface (e.g., the first curved surface (311), the second curved surface (312)) of the body frame (300) may include an inclined surface or may be used instead of an inclined surface.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the first surface (311) and the second surface (312) of the curved portion (300a) may have an inwardly concave shape, and the concave directions may be opposite to each other. For example, when the curvature of the first surface (311) of the curved portion (300a) has a positive or negative value, the second surface (312) opposite to the first surface (311) may have a negative or positive value. For example, the sign of the slope value of one side of the first surface (311) of the curved portion (300a) and the sign of the slope value of the second surface (312) may be opposite to each other. According to one embodiment, the curved portion (300a) may be named at least one of a double curvature portion, an opposing curvature portion, or a relative curvature portion.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the curved portion (300a) of the body frame (300) is a structural shape designed for the foldable electronic device (101), and can limit (e.g., reduce or prevent) lifting or damage to the display module (700) by increasing the bonding area between the body frame (300) and the display module (700). According to one embodiment, the first curved surface (311) of the curved portion (300a) may be a portion for increasing the bonding area between the display module (700) and the body frame (300). According to one embodiment, the second curved surface (312) of the curved portion (300a) may be a portion facing the curved hinge cover (600), and may be a portion corresponding to the shape of the hinge cover (600) so as to facilitate movement of the hinge cover (600).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the first frame portion (310) and the second frame portion (320) of the curved portion (300a) may have different shapes. Referring to FIG. 8, the first frame portion (310) may include a first curved surface (311) forming an adhesive surface of the adhesive sheet (500) and a first flat surface (313) extending (in the Y-axis direction) from the first curved surface (311). The first curved surface (311) may overlap the plate cover (720), and the first flat surface (313) may overlap the display panel (710). Referring to FIG. 9, each of the second frame portions (320) may include a third-first curved surface (321) forming an adhesive surface of an adhesive sheet (500), a third plane (323) extending (in the Y-axis direction) from the third-first curved surface (321), and a third-second curved surface (325) extending (in the Y-axis direction) from the third plane (323). The third-first curved surface (321) and the third plane (323) of the second frame portion (320) may be portions extending in the X-axis direction from the first curved surface (311) and the first plane (313) of the first frame portion (310), respectively, and may have substantially the same shape as each other. The third-second curved surface (325) of the second frame portion (320) is a portion for removing a step section of the body frame (300), and when the adhesive sheet (500) is attached, it may not lift off, thereby providing a strong adhesive force.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may be at least partially disposed along one edge (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) of the display panel (710) and / or one edge (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) of the plate cover (720). The one edge may be understood as an edge adjacent to the hinge cover (600).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may be formed to surround one edge of the display module (700) and may be formed to correspond at least partially to the first curved surface (311) of the curved portion (300a). For example, the length of the molding portion (400) may extend along the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the display panel (710) and / or the plate cover (720). For example, the width of the molding portion (400) may extend from one end of the plate cover (720) to a portion of the display panel (710). The length direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the molding portion (400) may be the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the display module (700), and the width direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the molding portion (400) may be the length direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the display module (700). According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may be named at least one of an injection portion, an adhesive providing portion (area), a curved structure, a panel cover portion, a panel protection portion, or an impact limiting portion.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the molding part (400) is a structure that is combined on the display module (700), and by expanding the bonding area of ​​the adhesive sheet (500) to an area overlapping with the display panel (710), the bonding between the display module (700) and the body frame (300) can be strengthened. According to one embodiment, the molding part (400) corresponds to the shape of the body frame (300), and by eliminating the step section between the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720), when the adhesive sheet (500) is attached, no lifting occurs, so that a strong adhesive force can be provided.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may include a first molding portion (410) formed to surround a portion of the display panel (710), and second molding portions (420) extending from both ends of the first molding portion (410). The second molding portions (420) may extend substantially vertically from the first molding portion (410).

[0135] Referring to FIG. 8, the first molding portion (410) may include a first attachment surface (410a) for attachment of an adhesive sheet (500), and a first cover surface (410b) disposed on the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the first attachment surface (410a) of the first molding portion (410) may include a curved surface (e.g., the first attachment surface (411)) corresponding to the first curved surface (311) of the curved portion (300a), and a plane (e.g., the first attachment plane (412)) corresponding to the first flat surface (313) of the curved portion (300a). According to one embodiment, the first attachment surface (410a) of the first molding portion (410) may be formed to extend from one edge of the display panel (710) to the plate cover (720), and the first attachment surface (411) may cover a step section created when the display panel (710) is laminated on the plate cover (720). Accordingly, the first attachment surface (411) can eliminate the step section between the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720), and provide easy adhesion of the adhesive sheet (500).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first cover surface (410b) of the first molding portion (410) may be formed as a plane that covers the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720). According to one embodiment, the first cover surface (410b) is formed to extend from one edge of the display panel (710) to the plate cover (720) in a state of contact, and as the display panel (710) is laminated on the plate cover (720), the first cover surface (410b) may provide a stepped shape.

[0138] According to one embodiment, a portion of the first molding portion (410) may be disposed between the display panel (710) and the curved portion (300a) (e.g., the first flat surface (313)). A portion of the first molding portion (410) may be laminated on the display panel (710) with a predetermined thickness. For example, the first molding portions (410) disposed on the display panel (710) may form substantially the same thickness, which may be the distance between the first attachment flat surface (412) of the first attachment surface (410a) and the first cover surface (410b).

[0139] According to one embodiment, another part of the first molding portion (410) may be disposed between the plate cover (720) and the curved portion (300a) (e.g., the first curved surface (311)). Another part of the first molding portion (410) is laminated on the plate cover (720) to a predetermined thickness, which may vary along the extension direction. For example, the first molding portion (410) disposed on the plate cover (720) forms a thickness that sequentially decreases along the edge of the plate cover (720), and the decreasing thickness may be a distance from the first attachment curved surface (411) of the first attachment surface (410a) to the first cover surface (410b).

[0140] Referring to FIG. 9, the second molding portion (420) may include a second attachment surface (420a) for attachment of an adhesive sheet (500), and a second cover surface (420b) disposed on a plate cover (720).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the second attachment surface (420a) of the second molding portion (420) may include a surface corresponding to the 3-1st curved surface (321) of the curved portion (300a) (e.g., the 2-1st attachment surface (421)), a plane corresponding to the 3rd flat surface (323) of the curved portion (300a) (e.g., the 2nd attachment flat surface (422)), and a surface corresponding to the 3-2nd curved surface (325) of the curved portion (300a) (e.g., the 2-2nd attachment surface (423)). According to one embodiment, the second attachment surface (420a) of the second molding portion (420) may be formed to extend in the Y-axis direction along the plate cover (720) and form a plurality of curved surfaces corresponding to the shape of the second frame portion (320), thereby providing easy adhesion of the adhesive sheet (500). The second-first attachment curved surface (421) and the second attachment plane (422) of the second attachment surface (420a) may have substantially the same shape as the portion extending in the X-axis direction from the first attachment curved surface (411) and the first attachment plane (412) of the first attachment surface (410a).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the second cover surface (420b) of the second molding portion (420) may be formed as a plane that covers the plate cover (720). According to one embodiment, the second cover surface (420b) may be formed to extend in the Y-axis direction while in contact with the plate cover (720).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the second molding portion (420) may be disposed between the plate cover (720) and the curved portion (300a) (e.g., the third-first curved surface (321), the third plane (323), the third-second curved surface (325)). A portion of the second molding portion (420) may be laminated on the plate cover (720) with a predetermined thickness. For example, the predetermined thickness of the second molding portion (420) disposed on the plate cover (720) may vary along the extension direction. For example, the second molding portion (420) disposed on the plate cover (720) may form a thickness that sequentially increases along the edge of the plate cover (720), then has a constant thickness, and then decreases again. The increasing thickness may be the distance between the second-first attachment curved surface (421) of the second attachment surface (420a) and the second cover surface (420b), the constant thickness may be the distance between the second attachment plane (422) of the second attachment surface (420a) and the second cover surface (420b), and the decreasing thickness may be the distance between the second-second attachment curved surface (423) of the second attachment surface (420a) and the second cover surface (420b).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) can couple the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) can waterproof the space between the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300) to limit the inflow of foreign substances. The adhesive sheet (500) is formed of a material so that both sides can be adhered, and one side (e.g., a side facing the -Z axis) can be attached to the display module (700) and the molding part (400), and the other side (e.g., one side facing the +Z axis) can be attached to the body frame (300).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) may include a first adhesive surface (501) that adheres to the display module (700) (and / or the molding portion (400)) and a second adhesive surface (502) that is opposite to the first adhesive surface (501) and adheres to the body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) may have the same thickness overall and may extend along an edge of the body frame (300) and / or the display module (700). Since the adhesive sheet (500) includes a flexible material, it may form a curved surface corresponding to the curved shape of the curved portion (300a) of the body frame (300) and the molding portion (400).

[0146] In one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the display module (310). For example, the adhesive sheet (500) may have a closed loop shape extending along an edge of the rear surface of the display module (310). For example, the adhesive sheet (500) may have an open loop shape extending along a portion of an edge of the rear surface of the display module (310).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) may be positioned along one edge of the body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) may include a first adhesive portion (510) corresponding to the first frame portion (310) and / or the first molding portion (410), and a second adhesive portion (520) corresponding to the second frame portion (320) and / or the second molding portion (420).

[0148] According to one embodiment (e.g., see FIG. 8), the first adhesive portion (510) can be positioned between the first molding portion (410) and the first frame portion (310). The first adhesive portion (510) can form a first adhesive surface (501) including a curved surface and a flat surface corresponding to the shapes of the first molding portion (410) and the first frame portion (310).

[0149] According to one embodiment (e.g., see FIG. 9), the second adhesive portion (520) can be positioned between the second molding portion (420) and the second frame portion (320). The second adhesive portion (520) can form a second adhesive surface (502) including a curved surface and a flat surface corresponding to the shapes of the second molding portion (420) and the second frame portion (320).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (600) has a shape including a curved surface and may be disposed to face (or overlap) the second curved surface (312) of the curved portion (300a) of the body frame (300). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (600) may be positioned on an opposite surface to the display module (700), the molding portion (400), and the adhesive sheet (500) with respect to the body frame (300). According to one embodiment, when looking toward the display module (700) of the electronic device (101), the hinge cover (600) may be disposed to overlap at least one of the plate cover (720), the molding portion (400), and / or the adhesive sheet (500).

[0151] According to one embodiment (e.g., see FIG. 8), a cross-section of an electronic device (101) may include a structure in which a display panel (710), a molding part (400), an adhesive sheet (500), and a body frame (300) are laminated in that order in a direction G1 based on a display module (700). A cross-section of an electronic device (101) may include a structure in which a plate cover (720), a molding part (400), an adhesive sheet (500), a body frame (300), and a hinge cover (600) are laminated in that order in a direction G2 based on a display module (700).

[0152] According to one embodiment (e.g., see FIG. 9), a cross-section of an electronic device (101) may include a structure in which a plate cover (720), a molding part (400), an adhesive sheet (500), and a body frame (300) are laminated in that order in the G3 direction based on the display module (700).

[0153] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of one side of a body frame, and a first frame portion and a second frame portion of the body frame, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0154] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of one side of a molding portion disposed on a display module, and a first molding portion and a second molding portion of the molding portion, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of one side of an adhesive sheet, a cross-section of a first adhesive portion, and a cross-section of a second adhesive portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of one side of an adhesive sheet, one side of a first adhesive portion, and one side of a second adhesive portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a process of attaching an adhesive sheet on a body frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a process of attaching a display module on a body frame to which an adhesive sheet is attached, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] Hereinafter, the design process of the body frame (300), the molding process of the molding part (400) on the display module (700), the formation and attachment process of the adhesive sheet (500), and the process of attaching the display module (700) on the attached body frame (300) are sequentially described.

[0160] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 10 to 15 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0161] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 15 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9 and the embodiments of FIGS. 16 to 19.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 10, the electronic device (101) may include a body frame (300). The body frame (300) may be formed to include a covered portion (300a) to expand the bonding area of ​​an adhesive sheet (500) at one edge of the body frame (300) adjacent to a hinge assembly or a hinge cover. The body frame (300) may include a conductive material such as metal, and may perform at least one process among computer numerical control (CNC) machining, die casting, extrusion, sheet metal forming, stamping, or metal injection molding (MIM).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) can be manufactured through a molding process to include a support plate (301) and a side wall (302) extending in a rearward direction (e.g., in the -Z-axis direction) along an edge of the support plate (301).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may be designed such that one edge (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) includes a curved portion (300a). The curved portion (300a) may include a first frame portion (310) at least partially facing a display panel (e.g., the display panel (710) of FIG. 6), and second frame portions (320) extending from both ends of the first frame portion (310). The second frame portions (320) may extend substantially vertically from the first frame portion (310).

[0165] Enlarged view S3 is a perspective view of the first frame part (310), and enlarged view S4 is a perspective view of the second frame part (320).

[0166] Referring to S3 in enlargement, the curved portion (300a) of the first frame portion (310) can provide a surface for bonding the adhesive sheet (500). One surface facing the rear direction (e.g., -Z-axis direction) of the curved portion (300a) can include a first flat surface (313) and / or a first curved surface (311). The first flat surface (313) and / or the first curved surface (311) is a surface for the adhesive sheet (500) (and the molding portion (400)) to be settled, and an adhesive sheet having a first width (w1) that is greater than or equal to a first width (w1) and relatively larger than the width of a general adhesive sheet (or the width of another region of the adhesive sheet (500)) can be attached thereto. One side of the above-mentioned curved portion (300a) is not limited to the content disclosed in FIG. 10, and may be designed in various ways, such as being composed of only a flat surface, only a curved surface, or including an inclined surface, in order to expand the bonding area.

[0167] Referring to S4 in enlargement, the second frame portion (320) may provide a surface for the adhesive sheet (500) to adhere to the curved portion (300a). A surface facing the rear direction (e.g., -Z-axis direction) of the curved portion (300a) may include a plane and / or curved surfaces. For example, the second frame portion (320) may include a surface that is connected to a third-first curved surface (321), a third plane surface (323), and a third-second curved surface (325). The second frame portion (320) may be a portion that extends along third and fourth edge portions (E3, E4) perpendicular to the first edge portion (E1) of the first frame portion (310). The third-second curved surface (325) of the second frame portion (320) is formed to be curved (or inclined) so that no step occurs between the second frame portion (320) and other parts of the extended body frame (300), thereby limiting (reducing or preventing) the lifting phenomenon of the adhesive sheet (500).

[0168] Referring to FIG. 11, the electronic device (101) may include a display module (700) and a molding member (400). The display module (700) may be manufactured by laminating a display panel (710) and a plate cover (720) that protects the display panel (710). The molding member (400) may be arranged to surround a portion of the display module (700) to provide an adhesive surface to which an adhesive sheet (500) may adhere. The adhesive surface may be formed as a curved surface to increase a surface area that can be placed, excluding the stepped shape of the display module (700).

[0169] According to the molding process of the molding part (400), after a silicone cap for molding (e.g., a cap including an internal cavity for forming a molding part) is placed on the rear surface of the display module (700), the molding part (400) can be formed by injecting a molten molding liquid into an injection port of the silicone cap. When the molding liquid is hardened and the silicone cap is removed, the molding part (400) can be formed to cover a portion of an edge of the display module (700) (e.g., an edge of the display panel (710) and / or a magnetic edge of the plate cover (720)). The edge of the display panel (710) covered by the molding part (400) is secured (or utilized) as an area to which the adhesive sheet (500) is attached, thereby strengthening the bonding between the body frame (300) and the display module (700).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) is disposed along one edge of the display module (700) and may be molded to correspond to the curved portion (300a) of the body frame (300). The molding portion (400) may include a first molding portion (410) formed to surround a portion of the display panel (710), and second molding portions (420) extending from both ends of the first molding portion (410). The second molding portions (420) may extend substantially vertically from the first molding portion (410).

[0171] Magnification S5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion where the first molding portion (410) is arranged on the display panel (710), and enlargement S6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion where the second molding portion (420) is arranged on the display panel (710).

[0172] Referring to S5 in enlargement, the first molding portion (410) may include a first cover surface (410b) extending along the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720), and a first attachment surface (410a) for attachment to the adhesive sheet (500). The first cover surface (410b) may be a plane corresponding to the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720). The first attachment surface (410a) may include a first attachment plane (412) overlapping the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720), and a first attachment curved surface (411) overlapping only the plate cover (720). The first attachment curved surface (411) covers a step section created when the display panel (710) is laminated on the plate cover (720), thereby removing the step section and providing easy attachment of the adhesive sheet (500).

[0173] Referring to S6 in enlargement, each of the second molding portions (420) may extend along the plate cover (720) without the display panel (710), and may include a second cover surface (420b) disposed on the plate cover (720), and a second attachment surface (420a) for attachment to the adhesive sheet (500). For example, the second attachment surface (420a) may include a surface that is connected to the second-first attachment curved surface (421), the second attachment plane (422), and the second-second attachment curved surface (423). Each of the second molding portions (420) may include curved surfaces so as to be manufactured in a shape corresponding to the second frame portion (320) (e.g., a step-removed shape), thereby limiting (reducing or preventing) the lifting phenomenon of the adhesive sheet (500).

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the electronic device (101) may include an adhesive sheet (500). The adhesive sheet (500) is a structure for adhering the display module (700) to the body frame (300) and preventing foreign substances from entering, and may be manufactured in a closed loop shape, arranged along the edge of the body frame (300) and / or the display module (700). However, the shape of the adhesive sheet (500) is not limited thereto, and may be manufactured by changing the design to an open loop shape at a portion thereof depending on the design of the structure.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) comprises a flexible material, and the adhesive sheet (500) positioned within the electronic device (101) can form a flat surface and / or a curved surface corresponding to the shape of the rigid body frame (300), the display module (700), and / or the molding portion (400).

[0176] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) may be disposed along one edge of the body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) may include a first adhesive portion (510) corresponding to a first frame portion (e.g., a first frame portion (310) of FIG. 10) and / or a first molding portion (e.g., a first molding portion (410) of FIG. 11), and a second adhesive portion (520) corresponding to a second frame portion (e.g., a second frame portion (320) of FIG. 10) and / or a second molding portion (e.g., a second molding portion (420) of FIG. 11).

[0177] Magnification S7 is a cross-sectional view of the first adhesive portion (510), and enlargement S8 is a cross-sectional view of the second adhesive portion (520).

[0178] Magnified views S9 and S10 are plan views of a portion of the first adhesive portion (510) and a second adhesive portion (520) viewed from above.

[0179] Referring to the enlarged view S7, the first adhesive portion (510) can be manufactured to be positioned between the first molding portion (410) and the first frame portion (310). The first adhesive portion (510) can correspond to the shapes of the first molding portion (410) and the first frame portion (310). For example, the first adhesive portion (510) can include a plane overlapping with the display panel (710), and a curved surface corresponding to the first curved surface (311) of the first frame portion (310) and the curved surface of the first molding portion (410).

[0180] Referring to the enlarged drawing S8, the second adhesive portion (520) can be manufactured to be positioned between the second molding portion (420) and the second frame portion (320). The second adhesive portion (520) can correspond to the shapes of the second molding portion (420) and the second frame portion (320). For example, the second adhesive portion (520) can include a plane of the first adhesive portion (510), a plane extending into a curved surface, and a curved surface. The second adhesive portion (520) can include another curved surface that corresponds to a structure designed to form a part of the second body frame (300) as a stepless curved surface that extends into the plane. Accordingly, the adhesive sheet (500) can directly adhere to the plate cover (720) without a step in an area other than the second adhesive portion (520).

[0181] Referring to enlarged views S9 and S10, it can be seen that a difference in thickness occurs when looking at a part of the first adhesive portion (510) and the second adhesive portion (520) from above.

[0182] In general, one edge of the body frame (300) and / or the display module (700) may be lifted due to external impact, folding operation of the electronic device (101), or swelling of the battery, as it is adjacent to the hinge cover (e.g., hinge cover (600) of FIG. 5) and the battery. The adhesive sheet (500) of the present disclosure can improve adhesive performance by forming the adhesive area of ​​the first adhesive portion (510) of the adhesive sheet (500) corresponding to the one edge through the body frame (300) and the molding portion (400) to be larger than that of another portion (e.g., second adhesive portion (520)). For example, the first width (T1) of the adhesive area of ​​the first adhesive portion (510) may be designed to be larger than the second width (T2) of the adhesive area of ​​the second adhesive portion (520).

[0183] Referring to FIG. 14, a process of attaching an adhesive sheet (500) on a body frame (300) can be performed. After placing an adhesive sheet (500) in a closed loop shape in parallel on the back surface (e.g., the surface facing the -Z axis) of the body frame (300), the adhesive sheet (500) can be attached along the edge of the body frame (300). For example, the adhesive sheet (500) can be attached to a plane above the side wall (302) of the body frame (300). For example, the first adhesive portion (510) and the second adhesive portion (520) of the adhesive sheet (500) can be attached on the first frame portion (310) and the second frame portion (320) of the body frame (300). Corresponding to the shapes of the first frame part (310) and the second frame part (320), the first adhesive part (510) and the second adhesive part (520) can be attached in the shape of a plane or a curved surface.

[0184] According to one embodiment, after various electrical components are placed on the support plate (301) of the body frame (300), a process of attaching an adhesive sheet (500) along the edge of the body frame (300) can be performed.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 15, a process of attaching a display module (700) onto a body frame (300) to which an adhesive sheet (500) is attached can be performed. The display module (700) is in a form in which a molding part (400) is arranged, and a portion of the adhesive sheet (500) can be attached onto the molding part (400).

[0186] After the display module (700) is placed side by side on the back side (e.g., the side facing the -Z axis) of the body frame (300) on which the adhesive sheet (500) is placed, the display module (700) (and the molding part (400)) can be attached along the edge of the body frame (300) on which the adhesive sheet (500) is attached. For example, the adhesive sheet (500) and the plate cover (720) can be directly attached to edges other than one edge of the body frame (300). For example, the first molding part (410) and the second molding part (420) of the molding part (400) can be attached on the first adhesive part (510) and the second adhesive part (520) of the adhesive sheet (500) corresponding to one edge of the body frame (300). In accordance with the shapes of the first molding part (410) and the second molding part (420), the first adhesive part (510) and the second adhesive part (520) can be attached in the shape of a plane or a curved surface.

[0187] Although FIGS. 14 and 15 disclose a process in which an adhesive sheet (500) is attached along an edge of a body frame (300) and then a display module (700) (and a molding part (400)) is attached on the adhesive sheet (500), the process is not limited thereto. For example, the design can be changed in various ways, such as a process in which an adhesive sheet (500) is attached along an edge of a display module (700) (and a molding part (400)) and then a body frame (300) is attached on the adhesive sheet (500).

[0188] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a process of bonding an adhesive sheet onto a display module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0189] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing an adhesive section between a display module and a body frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0190] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 16 and 17 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 15.

[0191] The embodiments of FIGS. 16 and 17 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 15 and the embodiments of FIGS. 18 to 22.

[0192] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a body frame (300), a molding portion (400), an adhesive sheet (500), a hinge cover (600), and a display module (700).

[0193] According to one embodiment, a housing (e.g., a body frame (300) and / or a display module (700)) may include a first edge portion (E1) adjacent to a hinge (e.g., a hinge (240) of FIG. 4) and / or a hinge cover (600) and a second edge portion (E2) opposite to the first edge portion (E1). For example, the first edge portion (E1) and / or the second edge portion (E2) may be an area where an adhesive sheet (500) for adhering the display module (700) to the body frame (300) is positioned.

[0194] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may include a curved portion (300b) designed along one edge (e.g., a first edge portion (E1)). The curved portion (300b) may include a frame portion (e.g., a frame curved surface (342)) at least partially facing the hinge cover (600).

[0195] According to one embodiment, the curved portion (300b) of the body frame (300) may be formed along one edge (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) of the body frame (300) and may include a frame plane (341) facing the display module (700) and a frame curved surface (342) formed in a direction opposite to the frame plane (341). The frame plane (341) may include a first frame plane (341a) and a second frame plane (341b) that are stepped. The first frame plane (341a) may be disposed adjacent to the plate cover (720) compared to the second frame plane (341b).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the first frame plane (341a) may be arranged to face the plate cover (720) with the adhesive sheet (500) interposed therebetween, and the second frame plane (341b) may be arranged to face the display panel (710) with the adhesive sheet (500) interposed therebetween.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the frame plane (341) of the body frame (300) may have a stepped shape, which is a structural shape designed for the foldable electronic device (101). The frame plane (341) may increase the bonding area between the body frame (300) and the display module (700), thereby limiting (e.g., reducing or preventing) lifting or damage to the display module (700). For example, the second frame plane (341b) may be a portion for increasing the bonding area between the display module (700) and the body frame (300).

[0198] According to one embodiment, the frame curved surface (342) is a portion facing the curved hinge cover (600), and may be a portion corresponding to the shape of the hinge cover (600) so as to facilitate movement of the hinge cover (600).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may be at least partially disposed along one edge of the display panel (710) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) and / or one edge of the plate cover (720) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1).

[0200] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may be formed to surround one edge of the display module (700) and may be formed to at least partially correspond to the second frame plane (341b). For example, the length of the molding portion (400) may extend along the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the display panel (710) and / or the plate cover (720). For example, the width of the molding portion (400) may extend from the plate cover (720) to a portion of the display panel (710). The length direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the molding portion (400) may be the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the display module (700), and the width direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the molding portion (400) may be the length direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the display module (700).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the molding part (400) is a structure bonded onto the display module (700), and by expanding the bonding area of ​​the adhesive sheet (500) to an area overlapping with the display panel (710), the bonding between the display module (700) and the body frame (300) can be strengthened.

[0202] According to one embodiment, the molding part (400) may be formed to surround an edge portion of the display panel (710). The molding part (400) may include an attachment surface (441) for attachment of the adhesive sheet (500), and a cover surface (442) disposed on the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720). The attachment surface (441) and the cover surface (442) of the molding part (400) may be formed parallel to each other. The attachment surface (441) and the cover surface (442) may be formed as a flat surface without a curve. The cover surface (442) may be formed as a plurality of extended flat surfaces.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) can couple the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) can waterproof the space between the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300) to limit the inflow of foreign substances. The adhesive sheet (500) includes a first adhesive sheet (500a) and a second adhesive sheet (500b) spaced apart from each other, and each adhesive sheet (500) is formed of a material so that both sides are adhesive, and one side (e.g., a side facing the -Z axis) can be attached to the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720), and the other side (e.g., a side facing the +Z axis) can be attached to the body frame (300).

[0204] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive sheet (500a) and the second adhesive sheet (500b) may be plate-shaped sheets having a constant thickness.

[0205] According to one embodiment (see FIG. 17), the first adhesive sheet (500a) may be disposed between the first frame plane (341a) of the body frame (300) and the plate cover (720). For example, the first adhesive sheet (500a) disposed on the first frame plane (341a) may couple the plate cover (720) of the display module (700). The second adhesive sheet (500b), together with the first adhesive sheet (500a), may strengthen the coupling between the body frame (300) and the display module (700).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive sheet (500a) may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the display module (310). For example, the first adhesive sheet (500a) may have a closed loop shape extending along an edge of the rear surface of the display module (310).

[0207] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive sheet (500b) may be disposed between the second frame plane (341b) of the body frame (300) and the molding portion (400). For example, the second adhesive sheet (500b) disposed on the first frame plane (341b) may couple the display module (700) on which the molding portion (400) is disposed. A portion of the second adhesive sheet (500b) may overlap the display panel (710). The second adhesive sheet (500b), together with the first adhesive sheet (500a), may strengthen the coupling between the body frame (300) and the display module (700).

[0208] In one embodiment, when viewed from above the display module (700), the second adhesive sheet (500b) may be positioned inside the first adhesive sheet (500a). For example, when viewed from above the display module (700), the first adhesive sheet (500a) may be positioned to surround the second adhesive sheet (500b).

[0209] FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an adhesive sheet having a slit formed therein according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0210] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing an adhesive section between a display module and a body frame using the adhesive sheet of FIG. 18, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0211] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 18 and 19 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 15.

[0212] The embodiments of FIGS. 18 and 19 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 16 and the embodiments of FIGS. 20 to 22.

[0213] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a body frame (300), a molding portion (400), an adhesive sheet (500), a hinge cover (600), and a display module (700).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the housing (e.g., the body frame (300) and / or the display module (700)) may include a first edge portion (E1) adjacent to a hinge (e.g., the hinge (240) of FIG. 4) and / or a hinge cover (600) and a second edge portion opposite the first edge portion (E1). According to one embodiment, the first edge portion (E1) may include a curved portion (300a) having at least a portion that includes an inclined or curved shape for the hinge cover (600) to be placed or the adhesive sheet (500) to be placed.

[0215] According to one embodiment, the curved portion (300a) of the body frame (300) may be formed along one edge (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) of the body frame (300) and may include a first curved surface (311) formed toward the display module (700) and a second curved surface (312) formed opposite to the first curved surface (311) and toward the hinge cover (600) or toward the flexible display (e.g., the display (230) of the figure). Hereinafter, the curved surface (e.g., the first curved surface (311), the second curved surface (312)) of the body frame (300) may include an inclined surface or may be used instead of an inclined surface.

[0216] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may be at least partially disposed along one edge of the display panel (710) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) and / or one edge of the plate cover (720) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)).

[0217] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) is formed to surround one edge of the display module (700) and may be formed to correspond at least partially to the first curved surface (311) of the curved portion (300a). According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) is a structure that is bonded onto the display module (700), and by expanding the bonding area of ​​the adhesive sheet (500) to an area overlapping with the display panel (710), the bonding between the display module (700) and the body frame (300) can be strengthened.

[0218] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may include a first attachment surface (410a) for attachment of an adhesive sheet (500), and a first cover surface (410b) disposed on the display panel (710) and the plate cover (720).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) can bind the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) can waterproof the space between the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300) to prevent foreign substances from entering.

[0220] According to one embodiment, a portion of the adhesive sheet (500) corresponding to one edge of the body frame (300) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)) may be formed of two spaced-apart adhesive regions. For example, the adhesive sheet (500) may have a structure in which one side is branched into a first adhesive region (541) and a second adhesive region (542), are arranged along one edge of the body frame (300) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)), and are then rejoined at the other side. For example, the adhesive sheet (500) may include a portion extending in the X-axis direction, and a slit may be formed on the inside. When the adhesive sheet (500) is attached along one edge of the body frame (300) (e.g., the first edge portion (E1)), a phenomenon in which a portion is overlapped or crumpled by the first curved surface (311) of the body frame (300) may occur. The adhesive sheet (500) including the above slit or branched portion can limit (reduce or prevent) the phenomenon of being pinched or broken, since a portion of the sheet can expand into the space within the slit even when the adhesive sheet is compressed during the attachment process.

[0221] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive region (541) may be disposed between the first curved surface (311) of the body frame (300) and the molding portion (400). For example, the first adhesive region (541) disposed on the first curved surface (311) may couple the display module (700) on which the molding portion (400) is disposed. As the first adhesive region (541) is disposed on the first curved surface (311), it may be disposed relatively adjacent to the rear direction (e.g., -Z-axis direction) compared to the second adhesive region (542).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive region (542) may be disposed between the first plane (313) of the body frame (300) and the molding portion (400). For example, the second adhesive region (542) disposed on the first plane (313) may overlap with the display panel (710) of the display module (700). The second adhesive region (542), together with the first adhesive region (541), may strengthen the bonding between the body frame (300) and the display module (700).

[0223] In one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the display module (310). For example, the adhesive sheet (500) may have a closed loop shape extending along an edge of the rear surface of the display module (310).

[0224] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a molding part arranged on the rear surface of a display module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0225] FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view of area S11 of FIG. 20 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0226] FIG. 22 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area S11 of FIG. 20 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0227] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 20 to 22 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 15.

[0228] The embodiments of FIGS. 20 to 22 can optionally be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 19.

[0229] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a body frame (300), a molding portion (400), an adhesive sheet (500), a hinge cover (600), and a display module (700).

[0230] The configuration of the body frame (300), the molding part (400), and the adhesive sheet (500), the hinge cover (600), and the display module (700) of FIGS. 20 to 22 applies the configuration of the body frame (300), the molding part (400), and the adhesive sheet (500), the hinge cover (600), and the display module (700) of FIGS. 7 to 15, and the following description focuses on the configuration of the second molding part (420) of the molding part (400) with differences and the configuration of the second frame part (320) related thereto.

[0231] According to one embodiment, the body frame (300) may include a curved portion (300a) designed along one edge (e.g., a first edge portion (E1)). The curved portion (300a) may include a first frame portion (e.g., the first frame portion (310) of FIG. 8) at least partially facing the display panel (710), and second frame portions (320) extending from both ends of the first frame portion (310). The second frame portions (320) may extend substantially vertically (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) from the first frame portion (310).

[0232] According to one embodiment, the first frame portion (e.g., the first frame portion (310) of FIG. 8) and the second frame portion (320) of the curved portion (300a) may have the same shape. The first frame portion (310) may include a first curved surface (311) forming an adhesive surface of the adhesive sheet (500) and a first plane (313) extending in the Y-axis direction from the first curved surface (311). The second frame portion (320) may include a third-first curved surface (321) forming an adhesive surface of the adhesive sheet (500) and a third plane (323) extending in the Y-axis direction from the third-first curved surface (311). Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 9, the second frame portion (320) may exclude the third-second curved surface (325) since the molding portion (400) is arranged to form the same thickness in the Y-axis direction.

[0233] According to one embodiment, the molding portion (400) may have a closed loop shape extending along the edge of the rear surface of the display module (310). The molding portion (400) may include a first molding portion (410) formed to surround a portion of the display panel (710), and a second molding portion (420) extending from one end of the first molding portion (410), positioned along all edges of the display module (700) (e.g., plate cover (720)), and then connected to the other end of the first molding portion (410). For example, the second molding portions (420) may include a second-first molding portion (425) extending in the Y-axis direction from one end of the first molding portion (410), a second-second molding portion (426) parallel to the first molding portion (410), and a second-third molding portion (427) extending in the Y-axis direction from one end of the first molding portion (410). The second-first molding portion (425), the second-second molding portion (426) after the curve, and the second-third molding portion (427) after the curve may form substantially the same thickness.

[0234] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) can bind the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300). The adhesive sheet (500) can waterproof the space between the display module (700) and the corresponding body frame (300) to prevent foreign substances from entering.

[0235] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet (500) is formed of a material so that both sides can be adhered, and one side (e.g., a side facing the -Z axis) can be attached to the molding part (400) that covers the display module (700), and the other side (e.g., a side facing the +Z axis) can be attached to the body frame (300). Since one side of the adhesive sheet (500) is attached only to the molding part (400), the curved surface is excluded compared to the embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 9, and since it is attached only to one material (e.g., attached only to the molding part (400) and not to the plate cover (720), it can provide a strengthened bonding force.

[0236] Typically, an electronic device including a flexible display (e.g., a foldable electronic device) may include a plurality of body frames (e.g., a housing), a flexible display covering the front surfaces of the body frames, and rear covers covering the rear surfaces of the body frames. At least one of the rear covers may have a display module disposed thereon to provide a visual experience to a user.

[0237] The above foldable electronic device is designed in consideration of the arrangement space in which internal components such as a battery and a hinge cover (e.g., hinge structure) are arranged, and may have a structure in which it is difficult to expand the area for adhering the display module due to the design of the body frame. Accordingly, the area adjacent to the hinge cover (e.g., hinge structure) may cause the display module to lift off from the body frame due to the folding motion of the electronic device. In addition, the area adjacent to the battery may cause the display module to lift off from the body frame due to the swelling phenomenon of the battery. The lifting may not only cause a defect in the electronic device itself, but also increase the risk of damage to the display module and a PL (product liability) accident when an impact occurs to the electronic device.

[0238] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can improve the bonding between the body frame and the display module by arranging a molding part including a curved part that can expand the bonding area while wrapping the display module on one edge of the body frame, and changing the design of the body frame accordingly.

[0239] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is formed such that a molding part surrounds an edge of a panel of a display module, and one surface of the molding part provides an attachment surface of an adhesive sheet, thereby allowing the attachment surface of the adhesive sheet to extend to a panel area other than a plate cover of the display module.

[0240] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed such that a molding part surrounds the edges of a panel and a plate cover of a display module, and a curved portion may be formed on one surface of the molding part. The curved portion of the molding part may eliminate a step section generated between the panel and the plate cover of the display module, and provide an attachment surface that does not cause lifting or wrinkling of the adhesive sheet.

[0241] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can limit (reduce or prevent) lifting of a display module occurring in an adjacent area of ​​a hinge cover (e.g., a hinge structure) due to a folding operation of the electronic device by increasing an adhesive area between a bonding area of ​​a body frame and a display module.

[0242] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can limit (reduce or prevent) lifting of a display module occurring in an area adjacent to a battery due to a battery swelling phenomenon by increasing the bonding area between the body frame and the display module.

[0243] 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.

[0244] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a first body frame (211) including a curved portion (300a) formed along one edge (E1), wherein the curved portion comprises a first curved surface (311) and a second curved surface (312) formed in an opposite direction to the first curved surface, a second body frame (221) rotatably connected to the first body frame, a display module (700) having a portion disposed over the first curved surface and including a display panel (710) and a plate cover (720), a hinge cover (600) having at least a portion facing the second curved surface and having a shape corresponding to the second curved surface, a molding part (400) formed to surround an edge of the display module and having a portion corresponding to the first curved surface, and an adhesive bonding member disposed on the first curved surface to bond the molding part to the curved portion of the first body frame. It may include a sheet (500).

[0245] According to one embodiment, a portion of the adhesive sheet may be positioned to overlap an edge of the display panel with the molding portion therebetween.

[0246] In one embodiment, a portion of the molding portion may be sequentially reduced toward the edge of the display module.

[0247] According to one embodiment, the attachment surface (411) of the molding portion to which the adhesive sheet is attached can be formed parallel to the first curved surface of the first body frame.

[0248] According to one embodiment, when viewed from above the plate cover, the attachment curved surface (411) of the molding portion may overlap a portion of the hinge cover.

[0249] According to one embodiment, when the curvature of the first curved surface of the curved portion has a positive or negative value, the curvature of the second curved surface of the curved portion can be formed to have a negative or positive value.

[0250] According to one embodiment, the sign of the slope value of the first surface and the sign of the slope value of the second surface may be opposite.

[0251] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a battery disposed adjacent to the hinge cover and within the first body frame, facing the display module. The molding portion and the adhesive sheet on the molding portion may be adjacent to one end of the battery.

[0252] According to one embodiment, the molding portion may include a first molding portion (410) arranged along one edge of the display module and a second molding portion (420) arranged along the other edge of the display module substantially perpendicular to the first molding portion (410).

[0253] According to one embodiment, the first molding portion may be formed to surround a side surface and a portion of the rear surface of the display panel, and the second molding portion may be disposed on the rear surface of the plate cover.

[0254] According to one embodiment, the first attachment surface (410a) of the first molding portion attached to the adhesive sheet may include a first attachment curved surface (411) adjacent to the hinge cover and a first attachment plane (412) extending from the first attachment curved surface.

[0255] According to one embodiment, the second attachment surface (420a) of the second molding portion attached to the adhesive sheet may include a second-first attachment curved surface (421) adjacent to the hinge cover, a second attachment plane (422) extended from the second-first attachment curved surface, and a second-second attachment plane (423) extended from the second attachment plane.

[0256] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet may be arranged in a closed loop shape along an edge of the rear surface of the display module.

[0257] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet may extend along the longitudinal direction of the display module, with a portion attached along the molding portion and another portion attached along the plate cover.

[0258] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet may be arranged along an edge of the display module. A first width (T1) of a first adhesive portion adjacent to the hinge cover and arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the hinge cover may be greater than a second width (T2) of a second adhesive portion extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first adhesive portion.

[0259] In one embodiment, the adhesive sheet may include a slit formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the hinge cover. The adhesive sheet may include a first adhesive region and a second adhesive region branched with the slit therebetween.

[0260] According to one embodiment, the molding portion may be formed in a closed loop shape along an edge of the rear surface of the display module.

[0261] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first body frame (211) including a curved portion (300a) formed along one edge (E1), and a first housing (210) including a display module (700) disposed on the first body frame, a second body frame (221), and a rear cover covering the second body frame, wherein the second housing (220) is rotatably connected to the first housing, a hinge cover (600) at least a portion of which faces a curved surface of the curved portion and has a shape corresponding to the curved surface, a molding portion (400) formed to surround at least one edge of a panel (710) or a plate cover (720) of the display module, and an adhesive sheet (500) disposed on one surface facing the opposite direction of the curved surface of the curved portion to adhere the molding portion to the curved portion of the first body frame.

[0262] According to one embodiment, one side of the curved portion to which the adhesive sheet is attached may include a curved shape, and a portion of the molding portion may include a curved surface parallel to the curved shape.

[0263] According to one embodiment, the adhesive sheet may include a first adhesive sheet (500a) arranged in a closed loop shape along an edge of the display module and a second adhesive sheet (500b) arranged inside the first adhesive sheet. The first adhesive sheet may be attached to the plate cover, and the second adhesive sheet may be attached to the molding portion.

[0264] In one embodiment, when viewed from above the plate cover, a portion of the molding portion may overlap a portion of the hinge cover.

[0265] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a battery disposed adjacent to the hinge cover and within the first body frame, facing the display module. The molding portion and the adhesive sheet on the molding portion may be adjacent to one end of the battery.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), A first body frame (211) including a curved portion (300a) formed along one edge (E1), wherein the curved portion includes a first curved surface (311) and a second curved surface (312) formed in an opposite direction to the first curved surface; A second body frame (221) rotatably connected to the first body frame; A display module (700) having a portion disposed over the first curved surface and including a display panel (710) and a plate cover (720); A hinge cover (600) having at least a portion facing the second curved surface and having a shape corresponding to the second curved surface; A molding part (400) formed to surround the edge of the display module and formed so that a portion thereof corresponds to the first curved surface; and An electronic device comprising an adhesive sheet (500) disposed on the first curved surface and bonding the molding portion and the curved portion of the first body frame.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which a portion of the adhesive sheet is positioned overlapping the edge of the display panel with the molding portion interposed therebetween.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, An electronic device wherein a portion of the molding portion sequentially decreases toward the edge of the display module.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An electronic device in which the attachment surface (411) of the molding portion to which the adhesive sheet is attached is formed parallel to the first curved surface of the first body frame.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, When viewed from above the plate cover, the attachment curved surface (411) of the molding portion overlaps a portion of the hinge cover, an electronic device.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, An electronic device, wherein when the curvature of the first curved surface of the curved portion has a positive or negative value, the curvature of the second curved surface of the curved portion is formed to have a negative or positive value.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An electronic device wherein the sign of the slope value of the first surface and the sign of the slope value of the second surface are opposite.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, Further comprising a battery disposed adjacent to the hinge cover and disposed within the first body frame and facing the display module; An electronic device wherein the molding portion and the adhesive sheet on the molding portion are adjacent to one end of the battery.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The molding portion includes a first molding portion (410) arranged along one edge of the display module and a second molding portion (420) arranged along the other edge of the display module substantially perpendicular to the first molding portion (410). An electronic device wherein the first molding portion is formed to surround a side and a portion of the rear surface of the display panel, and the second molding portion is disposed on the rear surface of the plate cover.

10. In paragraph 9, The first attachment surface (410a) of the first molding portion attached to the adhesive sheet includes a first attachment curved surface (411) adjacent to the hinge cover and a first attachment plane (412) extending from the first attachment curved surface, An electronic device, wherein the second attachment surface (420a) of the second molding portion attached to the adhesive sheet includes a second-first attachment curved surface (421) adjacent to the hinge cover, a second attachment plane (422) extended from the second-first attachment curved surface, and a second-second attachment plane (423) extended from the second attachment plane.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, An electronic device wherein the adhesive sheet is arranged in a closed loop shape along the edge of the rear surface of the display module.

12. In paragraph 11, An electronic device wherein the adhesive sheet extends along the length of the display module, some of which is attached along the molding portion, and other of which is attached along the plate cover.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above adhesive sheet is placed along the edge of the display module, An electronic device, wherein a first width (T1) of a first adhesive portion adjacent to the hinge cover and arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the hinge cover is larger than a second width (T2) of a second adhesive portion extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first adhesive portion.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above adhesive sheet includes a slit formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the hinge cover, An electronic device, wherein the adhesive sheet includes a first adhesive region and a second adhesive region branched with the slit therebetween.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, An electronic device wherein the molding portion is formed in a closed loop shape along the edge of the rear surface of the display module.

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