Electronic device capable of sliding and folding operations

Abstract

An electronic device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, may comprise: a first housing; a second housing movably coupled to the first housing; a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing, at least a portion of the flexible display moving into an internal space of the electronic device in response to movement of the second housing relative to the first housing; and a hinge device rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing about a folding axis. The hinge device may comprise: a first bracket coupled to the first housing; a second bracket at least partially disposed in the first housing and rotatable about the folding axis relative to the first bracket; and a rail member fastened to the second bracket and movable with respect to the second bracket along a first direction perpendicular to the folding axis or along a second direction opposite to the first direction, to guide movement of the second housing relative to the first housing. Various other embodiments are possible.

Description

Electronic devices capable of sliding and folding movements

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to electronic devices capable of sliding and folding operations.

[0002] Displays can play a key role in portable electronic devices. They can visually display information. Factors such as display design, size, and quality can significantly influence consumers' choice of electronic devices.

[0003] Recent advancements in display technology have led to the introduction of flexible displays into the market. These flexible displays can also be used to create displays with variable screen sizes. For example, new electronic devices are being developed that include displays that can be expanded or contracted through sliding, rolled onto a specific structure, or transformed through folding.

[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] To implement various electronic devices using deformable displays, a new structure that can stably support the deformable display is required.

[0006] Additionally, with the advancement of display technology, a new form factor electronic device may be required in which a first housing and a second housing supporting a display are slidably joined together, and one housing is capable of folding at a certain angle relative to the other housing.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be a rollable electronic device whose display area can be expanded and / or contracted, and at the same time, a foldable electronic device that can be folded at a certain angle. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device may disclose a support structure that slidably connects a first housing and a second housing, and allows the second housing to rotate relative to the first housing.

[0008] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary skill in the technical field to which this document pertains from the description below.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing movably coupled to the first housing, a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing, at least a portion of which moves within an internal space of the electronic device based on movement of the second housing relative to the first housing, and a hinge device rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing about a folding axis. The hinge device may include a first bracket coupled to the first housing, a second bracket at least a portion of which is disposed on the first housing and is rotatable relative to the first bracket about the folding axis, and a rail member fastened to the second bracket and configured to guide movement of the second housing relative to the first housing by moving relative to the second bracket in a first direction perpendicular to the folding axis or in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge device may include a first bracket, a second bracket rotatable relative to the first bracket about a folding axis, a shaft coupled to the first bracket and the second bracket such that the first bracket and the second bracket rotate about the folding axis, and a rail member slidably connected to the second bracket and configured to rotate relative to the second bracket in a first direction perpendicular to the folding axis or in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may disclose a structure that slidably connects a first housing and a second housing, and allows the second housing to rotate relative to the first housing. For example, the structure may include a hinge device that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing, and a rail member that is connected to the hinge device so that the second housing can slide relative to the first housing. Accordingly, the electronic device may provide convenience to the user by expanding or contracting the information display area of ​​the display as the first housing and the second housing are slidably connected. In addition, the electronic device may provide convenience to the user in taking selfies, playing games, or watching videos through the display as the second housing is configured to be folded at a certain angle while being fully extended relative to the first housing.

[0012] 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.

[0013] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are drawings for explaining various states of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in this document.

[0016] FIG. 2c is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed herein.

[0017] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the electronic device illustrated in FIG. 2A according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document.

[0018] FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of the electronic device illustrated in FIG. 2b according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document.

[0019] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figures 5a and 5b are drawings of the electronic device in a folded state while being slid.

[0021] FIGS. 6A and 6B are drawings of a hinge device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 7A is a drawing of an electronic device in a slid-in state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 7b is a drawing of an electronic device in a slid-out state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 7c is a drawing of an electronic device folded at a certain angle in a slid-out state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating the arrangement relationship between a rail member and a display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 9A is a drawing of a flexible printed circuit board arranged in a recess of a rail member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 9b is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9a-9a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are drawings for confirming status information on movement of a rail member through a sensor disposed in a first housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0031] 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). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0032] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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).

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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).

[0043] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0044] 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.

[0045] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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 at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0050] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0051] 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)).

[0052] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0053] According to various embodiments, the sensor module (176) may include a movement distance detection sensor for detecting a movement distance of a second housing (e.g., a second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) from a first housing (e.g., a first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) of an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIG. 4). In one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may detect a first state, in which the second housing (220) is fully retracted from the first housing (210), a second state, in which the second housing (220) is fully withdrawn from the first housing (210), a withdrawal state, or an intermediate state between the retracted state and the withdrawal state. In some embodiments, the processor (120) may detect, in real time, the movement distance while the second housing (220) is moved from the first housing (210), through the sensor module (176), and may use a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (230) of FIG. 4)). Through this, the display module (160) can also be controlled to display an object corresponding to the display area that is being changed. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a drive motor control module (181) for controlling the operation of a drive motor (e.g., a DC motor or a stepping motor) disposed inside the electronic device. In some embodiments, the drive motor control module (181) may be replaced with a processor (120).

[0054] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are drawings for explaining various states of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document. FIG. 2C is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document.

[0055] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2C may be one of the electronic devices (101) described in FIG. 1.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the electronic device (200) may be an electronic device (200) implemented such that the information display area (201) of the flexible display (230) increases or decreases through a sliding manner. Here, the information display area (201) may be a portion of the flexible display (230) that is visible from the outside of the electronic device (200). Information output to the flexible display (230) may be visually conveyed to the user through the information display area (201).

[0057] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may increase or decrease the information display area (201) by a sliding motion. In one embodiment, the sliding motion of the electronic device (200) may mean sliding the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). The second housing (220) may be slid in the +X direction with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B or in the -X direction with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B with respect to the first housing (210).

[0058] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) can be changed from an inlet state (e.g., a reference state, a state illustrated in FIG. 2a) to an outlet state (e.g., a state illustrated in FIG. 2b) by a sliding motion.

[0059] The in-position state may mean a state in which the ends of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are substantially aligned. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, this may mean a state in which the second housing (220) does not protrude relative to the first housing (210), or in which the first housing (210) does not protrude relative to the second housing (220). The in-position state may mean a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are aligned. The in-position state may be understood as a closed state or a slide-in state.

[0060] The withdrawal state may mean a state in which the second housing (220) slides relative to the first housing (210) in the withdrawal state. The information display area (201) of the flexible display (230) in the withdrawal state may be larger than the information display area (201) of the flexible display (230) in the withdrawal state.

[0061] A flexible display (230) in which an information display area (201) changes depending on a sliding motion may be defined as a “sliding display.” In addition, the flexible display (230) may be guided by a roller (e.g., a roller (260) of FIG. 3A) to be described later, so that some sections may be bent. A flexible display (230) that is guided by a roller and bends some areas may be defined as a “rollable display.” The flexible display (230) described below may be understood as a “sliding or rollable display.”

[0062] In one embodiment, the sliding of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) may be performed semi-automatically. For example, the sliding of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) may be performed by a member (not shown) that provides elastic force in the sliding direction. In this case, when the sliding of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) is partially performed, the sliding of the second housing (220) may be performed by the elastic force provided to the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the sliding of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) can be performed automatically. For example, the second housing (220) can be slid relative to the first housing (210) by a drive motor (not shown). The motor for sliding the second housing (220) can be operated according to signals input through various buttons and sensors included in the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the drive motor can be controlled through a drive motor control module (181).

[0064] According to various embodiments, the first housing (210) may include at least one sub-housing (211, 212, 213) and a guide housing (214). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2C, the first housing (210) may include a first sub-housing (211), a second sub-housing (212), a third sub-housing (213), and a guide housing (214). In one embodiment, at least one of the first sub-housing (211), the second sub-housing (212), and the third sub-housing (213) may be omitted. In one embodiment, an accommodation space (e.g., an internal space, the accommodation space (270) of FIG. 3A) for accommodating a portion of the flexible display (230) may be provided between the third sub-housing (213) and the second sub-housing (212). In one embodiment, the guide housing (214) may be provided in pairs and coupled to an assembly of the first sub-housing (211), the second sub-housing (212), and the third sub-housing (213) in both lateral directions (e.g., +Y direction and -Y direction of FIG. 2C) of the electronic device (200). The guide housing (214) may include a guide rail (214-1). The guide rail (214-1) may be a groove formed in the guide housing (214) to guide the sliding movement of the second housing (220) and the support member (250). The guide rail (214-1) may guide the sliding of the second housing (220) and the support member (250) by sliding the protrusions formed in the second housing (220) and the support member (250) while being inserted into the guide rail (214-1).

[0065] According to various embodiments, the second housing (220) can support a portion of the flexible display (230). At least a portion of the flexible display (230) is fixed to the second housing (220) and can move along the second housing (220) when the second housing (220) slides relative to the first housing (210).

[0066] According to various embodiments, the support member (250) (e.g., a multibar) may support a portion of the flexible display (230). The support member (250) may include a bendable structure. For example, the support member (250) may include a structure in which a plurality of bars are formed to extend in a direction perpendicular to a sliding direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 2C) (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 2C) and are connected along the sliding direction. In addition, the support member (250) may be configured with various bendable structures. For example, the support member (250) may be a bendable plate and may have a structure in which a plurality of grooves are formed to allow bending. The support member (250) is connected to the second housing (220) and may slide with respect to the first housing (210) together with the second housing (220).

[0067] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (230) may be a flexible display (230) that is bendable. In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a substrate made of a flexible material. For example, the flexible display (230) may include a substrate formed of a polymer material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In addition, the flexible display (230) may include a substrate made of a very thin glass material. The flexible display (230) is supported by a second housing (220) and a support member (250), and an information display area (201), which is a portion that is visible to the outside, may increase or decrease by sliding the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may further include a touch detection circuit (e.g., a touch sensor). Additionally, the flexible display (230) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch and / or a digitizer capable of detecting a magnetic field-type pen input device (e.g., a stylus pen). For example, the digitizer may include a coil member disposed on a dielectric substrate so as to detect an electromagnetic induction-type resonant frequency applied from the pen input device.

[0068] According to various embodiments, the rear cover (280) may be coupled to the first housing (210) to form the rear appearance of the electronic device (200). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2C, the rear cover (280) may be coupled to the first housing (210) in the Z-axis direction of FIG. 2C. The rear cover (280) may be formed of a transparent, opaque, or translucent material.

[0069] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the electronic device illustrated in FIG. 2A according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of the electronic device illustrated in FIG. 2B according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document.

[0070] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (230) may include a plurality of regions. The plurality of regions described below may be regions that are distinguished according to the state of the flexible display (230) in the electronic device (200) or the portion where the flexible display (230) is located. For example, the flexible display (230) may include a display region (230A), which is an area where the flexible display (230) is exposed to the outside of the electronic device (200), a storage region (230C), which is an area stored inside the electronic device (200), and a bending region (230B), which is an area that connects the display region (230A) and the storage region (230C) and is bent. In one embodiment, the storage region (230C) of the flexible display (230) may be an area where a portion of the flexible display (230) is stored in a storage space (270) included in the first housing (210). In one embodiment, depending on the shape of the housing surrounding the flexible display (230), a portion of the banding area (230B) may also be visible outside the electronic device (200).

[0071] As the electronic device (200) slides, the sizes of the display area (230A) and the storage area (230C) may vary. For example, the size of the display area (230A) in the retracted state (e.g., the state illustrated in FIG. 3A) may be smaller than the size of the display area (230A) in the retracted state (e.g., the state illustrated in FIG. 3B). The size of the storage area (230C) in the retracted state may be larger than the size of the storage area (230C) in the retracted state. Each area of ​​the flexible display (230) is merely distinguished for convenience of explanation and may not be an area that is actually visually distinct.

[0072] According to various embodiments, when the second housing (220) is slid in the +X direction with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the flexible display (230) connected to the second housing (220) moves, so that the display area (230A) increases and the storage area (230C) decreases. The support member (250) supporting the flexible display (230) can be bent along the roller (260) in the bending area (230B).

[0073] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) slidably coupled to the first housing (210), and a flexible display (300) arranged to be supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0075] According to various embodiments, a flexible display (300) (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 2A) may include a first portion (300a) (e.g., a flat portion) that is always visible from the outside (e.g., the first portion (300a) of FIG. 5A) and a second portion (300b) (e.g., a bendable portion or a bending portion) that extends from the first portion (300a) and is accommodated in a manner that is at least partially bent into an accommodation space (270) of the first housing (210) so as not to be visible from the outside when in a retracted state (e.g., the second portion (300b) of FIG. 5A). In one embodiment, the first portion (300a) may include a display area (230A). The second portion (300b) may include a bending area (230B) and a accommodation area (230C).

[0076] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first portion (300a) may be arranged to be supported by the second housing (220), and the remaining portion of the first portion (300a) and the second portion (300b) may be arranged to be at least partially supported by a support member (e.g., the support member (250) of FIG. 2c). In one embodiment, the second portion (300b) of the flexible display (300) may be arranged to form substantially the same plane as the first portion (300a) and be visible from the outside while being supported by the support member (e.g., the support member (250) of FIG. 4) when the second housing (220) is pulled out along the first direction (e.g., the + X direction of FIG. 3b). In one embodiment, the second part (300b) of the flexible display (300) may be accommodated in a manner that is bent into the accommodation space (270) of the first housing (210) while the second housing (220) is introduced along the second direction (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 3b), and may be arranged so as not to be visible from the outside. Accordingly, the display area of ​​the flexible display (300) may be varied as the second housing (220) is moved in a sliding manner along a specified direction (e.g., the ±x-axis direction) from the first housing (210).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may include a window layer (310), a polarizing layer (POL) (320) (e.g., a polarizing film) sequentially disposed on a back surface of the window layer (310), a display panel (330), a polymer layer (340), at least one functional layer (350), and a support plate (360). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a support member (250) disposed under the functional layer (350) to correspond to at least the second portion (300b). According to one embodiment, the support member (250) may include a plurality of multi-bars attached at a specified interval through an adhesive layer on a back surface of the support plate (360). According to one embodiment, the window layer (310), the polarizing layer (320), the display panel (330), the polymer layer (340), the support plate (360), and the support member (250) may be attached to each other via an adhesive layer (e.g., an adhesive or an adhesive). For example, the adhesive layer may include at least one of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), an optical clear adhesive (OCA), an optical clear resin (OCR), a heat-reactive adhesive, a general adhesive, or a double-sided tape. At least one layer (e.g., the support plate (360) or the support member (250)) among the above-described plurality of layers (310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 250) may be omitted. For example, when the flexible display (300) is a POL-less display, the polarizing layer may be omitted, and a transparent reinforcing layer (e.g., a buffer layer) may be further disposed in that position.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the window layer (310) may include a first window layer (e.g., a glass layer, a first layer) (311) and a second window layer (e.g., a protective layer, a second layer) (312) that are sequentially laminated. According to one embodiment, the first window layer (311) may be formed of glass. According to one embodiment, the first window layer may include ultra thin glass (UTG). According to one embodiment, the second window layer (312) may be formed of a polymer (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)). In some embodiments, the flexible display (300) may further include a coating layer formed as a part of the window layer (310) and disposed on top of the second window layer (312). In such cases, the coating layer may include various coating layers such as a hard coating layer, an anti-reflection (AR) / low reflection (LR) coating layer, a shatterproof (SP) coating layer, or an anti-fingerprint (AF) coating layer. In some embodiments, the coating layer may be formed on at least one of a portion between the first window layer (311) and the second window layer (312), a side surface of the second window layer (312), and a back surface or side surface of the first window layer (311).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the display panel (330) may include a plurality of pixels and a wiring structure (e.g., an electrode pattern). According to one embodiment, the polarizing layer (320) may selectively transmit light generated from a light source of the display panel (330) and vibrating in a certain direction. According to one embodiment, the display panel (330) and the polarizing layer (320) may be formed integrally. According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may also include a touch panel (not shown).

[0080] In one embodiment, the polymer layer (340) may be disposed under the display panel (330) to provide a dark background for ensuring visibility of the display panel (330) and may be formed as a buffering material for buffering. In some embodiments, to ensure waterproofing of the flexible display (300), the polymer layer (340) may be removed or disposed under the support plate (360).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may include at least one functional layer (350) disposed under the polymer layer (340). According to one embodiment, the functional layer (350) may include a protective layer (e.g., a TPU layer) for preventing deformation due to bending of the support member (250), a graphite sheet for heat dissipation, an added display, a force touch FPCB, a fingerprint sensor FPCB, a communication antenna radiator, a conductive / non-conductive tape, or a digitizer. According to one embodiment, the digitizer may include a plurality of conductive patterns (e.g., a dielectric film or a dielectric sheet) disposed on a dielectric substrate so as to detect a resonant frequency of an electromagnetic induction method applied from an electronic pen.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the support plate (360) can provide rigidity and bendability to the flexible display (300). For example, the support plate (360) can be formed of a non-metallic thin-plate material, such as fiber reinforced plastics (FRP) (e.g., carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP)) having rigid properties for supporting the display panel (330). According to one embodiment, the support plate (360) can include a first region (e.g., a flat region) corresponding to a first portion (300a) of the flexible display (300) and a second region (e.g., a bending region) corresponding to a second portion (300b). According to one embodiment, the second region can include a plurality of openings arranged at a specified interval. According to one embodiment, the bending properties of the second region can be determined through at least one of the size, shape, or arrangement density of at least some of the openings among the plurality of openings. In some embodiments, the support plate (360) may be formed of a metal material such as SUS, Cu, Al, or a metal CLAD (e.g., a laminated member in which SUS and Al are alternately arranged). In one embodiment, the support plate (360) may help reinforce the rigidity of the electronic device (200), shield ambient noise, and may be used to disperse heat emitted from surrounding heat-emitting components.

[0083] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings may include slit-shaped perforated patterns extending from the upper surface to the lower surface of the second region. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings may include recesses formed at a predetermined depth. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings may be formed in a mixed form of perforation patterns and recesses.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may include a bending portion that is arranged to be folded from the display panel (330) to at least a portion of the back surface of the flexible display (300). According to one embodiment, the bending portion (332) may include an extension portion (3321) that extends from the display panel (330) and includes a control circuit (3321a), and a flexible substrate (3322) (e.g., a maim FPCB) that is electrically connected to the extension portion (3321) and includes a plurality of electrical elements. According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may include an FPCB connection portion (3323) (e.g., a connector portion) that extends from the flexible substrate (3322) and is electrically connected to a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (450) of FIG. 10A) of an electronic device (200) (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIG. 5A).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control circuit (3321a) may include a display driver IC (DDI) or a touch display driver IC (TDDI) mounted on an extension portion (3321) having an electrical wiring structure. According to one embodiment, the bending portion (332) may include a chip on panel (COP) or chip on plastic (COP) structure in which the control circuit (3321a) is directly disposed on the extension portion (3321). In some embodiments, the bending portion (332) may include a chip on film (COF) structure in which the control circuit (3321a) is mounted on a separate connecting film (not shown) that connects the extension portion (3321) and the flexible substrate (3322). According to one embodiment, the plurality of electrical components (3322a) may include passive components such as a touch IC, a flash memory for a display, an ESD prevention diode, a pressure sensor, a fingerprint sensor, or a decapping capacitor.

[0086] Figures 5a and 5b are drawings of the electronic device in a folded state while being slid.

[0087] The electronic device (400) described below may be an electronic device (400) including a first housing (410) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) and a second housing (420) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) that are slidably coupled similarly to the electronic device (200) described through FIGS. 2A to 2C and 3A to 3B, and in which an information display area (e.g., the information display area (201) of FIG. 2A) of a flexible display (300) (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 2A) is variable according to the sliding of the second housing (420). The operation and structure of the electronic device (400) described below may be understood with reference to the above description since it includes a configuration similar to that of the electronic device (200) described above.

[0088] In one embodiment, the area of ​​a portion where information is displayed (information display area) or a portion of the flexible display (300) that is visible to the outside of the electronic device (400) may increase as the second housing (420) slides relative to the first housing (410). In one embodiment, one end of the flexible display (300) may be inserted and fixed inside the second housing (420) or at least a portion thereof may be coupled to one surface of the second housing (420). Hereinafter, sliding in a direction in which the information display area expands is referred to as sliding in a first direction (e.g., +X direction in FIG. 2B). Sliding in a second direction (e.g., -X direction in FIG. 2B) opposite to the first direction may be sliding in a direction in which the information display area shrinks. Sliding in a direction in which the information display area shrinks may be referred to as sliding in the second direction.

[0089] In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) of FIGS. 5A and 5B may be configured such that the second housing (420) can rotate relative to the first housing (410). When the second housing (420) rotates relative to the first housing (410), a portion of the flexible display (300) may be deformed (e.g., bent). As illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B , the display area disposed in the first housing (410) and the display area disposed in the second housing (420) may form a predetermined angle depending on the rotation of the second housing (420) relative to the first housing (410). The rotation of the second housing (420) relative to the first housing (410) may be understood as a folding operation of the first housing (410) and the second housing (420). Accordingly, the electronic device (400) below may mean an electronic device (400) that is a sliderable or rollable electronic device (400) and can be folded at the same time.

[0090] In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the second housing (420) can be rotated relative to the first housing (410) in a fully extended state (e.g., slide out) relative to the first housing (410). In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) can include at least one hinge device (500) that rotatably couples the first housing (410) and the second housing (420). In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 7A, which will be described later, the hinge device (500) can be at least partially fixed to the first housing (410). In one embodiment, the second housing (420) can be rotated relative to the first housing (410) about a folding axis (FA) of the hinge device (500) (e.g., the folding axis (FA) of FIG. 6A). In one embodiment, the first housing (410) and the second housing (420) may be disposed on both sides with respect to the folding axis (FA). In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may include a plurality of hinge devices (500). For example, the plurality of hinge devices (500) may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval and coupled to the first housing (410). The second housing (420) may rotate with respect to the first housing (410) with respect to the plurality of folding axes (FA) through a rail member (600) slidably coupled to the hinge device (500). In one embodiment, each of the folding axes (FA) of the plurality of hinge devices (500) may be substantially parallel to the Y-axis direction of FIG. 5A, and may coincide with each other when viewed along the XZ plane of FIG. 5A.

[0091] In one embodiment, the second housing (420) can slide relative to the first housing (410) in a first direction (e.g., the + X direction in FIG. 5A) and / or a second direction (e.g., the - X direction in FIG. 5A) perpendicular to the folding axis (FA) via a rail member (600) slidably connected to the hinge device (500). In one embodiment, the rail member (600) can be slidably connected to each of a plurality of hinge devices (500) to be coupled to the second housing (420) and / or the first portion (300a) of the flexible display (300). In one embodiment, the rail member (600) can be slidably connected to the hinge device (500) to guide sliding of the first housing (410) relative to the second housing (420). Accordingly, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A to 7C to be described later, the second housing (420) can be pulled out in the first direction from the first housing (410) through the rail member (600), and then rotated with respect to the first housing (410) about the folding axis (FA) through the hinge device (500). In this state, information can be displayed on the flexible display (300) disposed in the second housing (420). A camera (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1) disposed in the front of the second housing (420) can be used to take a selfie, display a notification, or display an operation UI on the flexible display (300) disposed in the first housing (410) and display content (e.g., a game, a video) on the flexible display (300) disposed in the second housing (420). In addition, the electronic device (400) disclosed in this document can be utilized in various ways.

[0092] FIGS. 6A and 6B are drawings of a hinge device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7A is a drawing of an electronic device in a slid-in state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B is a drawing of an electronic device in a slid-out state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7C is a drawing of an electronic device in a slid-out state folded at a certain angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a drawing explaining the arrangement relationship between a rail member and a display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the first housing (410) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) and the second housing (420) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) may be foldable relative to each other via a hinge device (500) when the electronic device (400) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 and / or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) is in an extended state. In one embodiment, the first housing (410) and the second housing (420) may be positioned on opposite sides of a folding axis (FA) of the hinge device (500). In one embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing (410) and the second housing (420) may vary depending on whether the electronic device (400) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. The first housing (410) and the second housing (420) can form an angle that can stop at a designated folding angle between a folded state and an unfolded state through at least one hinge device (500) (free stop function). In some embodiments, the first housing (410) and the second housing (420) can be continuously operated while being pressed in the unfolding or folding direction based on the designated inflection angle through at least one hinge device (500).

[0094] In one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may include a folding area (300C) including a portion of a first area and a portion of a second area with respect to a folding axis (FA). In one embodiment, the folding area (300C) may include a portion of the first portion (300a) and the second portion (300b) of the flexible display (300). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the folding area (300C) may include an area corresponding to at least one hinge device (500). In one embodiment, the area division of the flexible display (300) is merely an exemplary division by a pair of housings (410, 420) and at least one hinge device (500), and substantially, the flexible display (300) may be displayed as a seamless, full screen through a pair of housings and at least one hinge device (500).

[0095] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B , the hinge device (500) may include a first bracket (510) (e.g., a first hinge portion and / or a first rotator), a second bracket (520) (e.g., a second hinge portion and / or a second rotator), a shaft (530), a plurality of washers (560), a first cam (541) and a second cam (542) that are interlocked with each other and rotate, and / or an elastic member (550) (e.g., a disk spring and / or a coil spring). In one embodiment, the components of the hinge device (500) may be connected to the shaft (530). For example, the second bracket (520) may be coupled to the shaft (530), and the remaining components of the hinge device (500) except for the second bracket (520) may be inserted into the shaft (530). The components of the hinge device (500) may be assembled in the order of second bracket (520) - first bracket (510) - first cam (541) - second cam (542) - elastic member (550) - fixed member (570) (e.g., nut) while connected to the shaft (530).

[0096] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the first bracket (510) and the second bracket (520) may be coupled to the shaft (530). The first bracket (510) and the second bracket (520) may be coupled to the shaft (530) and rotate about the folding axis (FA). In one embodiment, the shaft (530) may be coupled to the first bracket (510) in a manner that penetrates the first bracket (510). In one embodiment, the shaft (530) may be connected to the coupling portion (522) of the second bracket (520). In one embodiment, the coupling portion (522) of the second bracket (520) and the shaft (530) may be connected via a rivet or a screw.

[0097] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the first cam (541) and the second cam (542) may be engaged with each other. In one embodiment, the first cam and the second cam (542) may sequentially penetrate the shaft (530). In one embodiment, the first cam (541) may be supported on a portion of the first bracket (510). In one embodiment, the first cam (541) may be coupled to the first bracket (510) and may rotate relative to the second cam (542) based on the rotation of the first bracket (510). In one embodiment, the first cam (541) may be coupled to the first bracket (510) via a screw or a bolt or may be formed integrally with the first bracket (510). In one embodiment, the elastic member (550) can be inserted into the shaft (530) and supported by a fixed member (570) fixed to the end of the shaft (530) to press the second cam (542) toward the first cam (541).

[0098] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the hinge device (500) may include a plurality of washers (560). The plurality of washers (560) may be positioned between components of the hinge device (500) (e.g., the first bracket (510), the second bracket (520), the shaft (530), the first cam (541), the second cam (542), the elastic member (550), and / or the fixing member (570)) to distribute the force applied between the components of the hinge device (500) and prevent damage. In one embodiment, a washer (560) may be positioned at least one of between the shaft (530) and the first bracket (510), between the first bracket (510) and the first cam (541), between the second cam (542) and the elastic member (550), and / or between the elastic member (550) and the fixed member (570).

[0099] The configuration and connection relationship of the hinge device (500) described above are exemplary, and the hinge device can be modified into various forms.

[0100] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the hinge device (500) may be disposed in the first housing (410), as illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C. The first bracket (510) of the hinge device (500) may be fixed to the first housing (410). For example, the first bracket (510) may be coupled to a portion of the first housing (410) via a fastening member (F) (e.g., a screw). However, the hinge device (500) may not be limited to being disposed in the first housing (410). In one embodiment, a portion of the hinge device (500) (e.g., a portion of the second bracket (520)) may be disposed in the second housing (420).

[0101] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A to 7C, the second bracket (520) may include a guide groove (521) formed in a shape corresponding to the rail member (600) to guide movement of the rail member (600). In one embodiment, the rail member (600) may be inserted into the guide groove (521) of the second bracket (520) to move in the first direction and / or the second direction relative to the second bracket (520).

[0102] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 7a, 7b, and 7c, the rail member (600) is inserted into the guide groove (521) of the second bracket (520) to guide movement of the second housing (420) relative to the first housing (410) in a first direction (e.g., the + X direction in FIG. 7a) and / or a second direction (e.g., the - X direction in FIG. 7a), and can guide rotation of the second housing (420) relative to the first housing (410) about the folding axis (FA). In one embodiment, the rail member (600) can be coupled to the first portion (300a) of the flexible display (300) and / or a portion of the second housing (420). In one embodiment, the second housing (420) can move in the first direction relative to the first housing (410) as the rail member (600) moves in the first direction relative to the second bracket (520). For example, when a user grips one end of the second housing (420) and applies an external force in the first direction (e.g., the + X direction in FIG. 7A) from the first housing (410), the second housing (420) can be pulled out in the first direction relative to the first housing (410) through the rail member (600). Accordingly, the electronic device (400) can be in a pulled-out state, and the information display area of ​​the flexible display (300) can be increased compared to a pulled-in state (e.g., slide-in). Conversely, the second housing (420) can move in the second direction relative to the first housing (410) as the rail member (600) moves in the second direction relative to the second bracket (520). For example, when a user grips one end of the second housing (420) and applies an external force in a second direction (e.g., the - X direction of FIG. 7A) from the first housing (410), the second housing (420) can be moved in the second direction with respect to the first housing (410) via the rail member (600). Accordingly, the electronic device (400) can be in a retracted state (e.g., slide in), and the information display area of ​​the flexible display (300) can be reduced compared to the retracted state.

[0103] In one embodiment, the second housing (420) can rotate about the folding axis (FA) with respect to the first housing (410) via a rail member (600) fastened to the second bracket (520) of the hinge device (500). In one embodiment, the second housing (420) can rotate about the folding axis (FA) with respect to the first housing (410) by a predetermined angle when in an extended state where the second housing (420) is fully extended from the first housing (410). For example, when the electronic device (400) is in a withdrawal state, when the user rotates the second housing (420) relative to the first housing (410) about the folding axis (FA) so that the first housing (410) and the second housing (420) form a predetermined angle, the second bracket (520) connected to the rail member (600) can rotate relative to the first bracket (510) fixed to the first housing (410) via the shaft (530). Accordingly, the second housing (420) can be folded at a predetermined angle relative to the first housing (410).

[0104] According to one embodiment, a detent operation and a free stop operation may be required to increase the usability of the electronic device (400). The detent operation may be an operation of maintaining the electronic device (400) in a fully folded or fully unfolded state. The free stop may be an operation of maintaining the state when an external force greater than a certain level is not applied to the electronic device (400) during the process of transitioning from a folded state to an unfolded state or from an unfolded state to a folded state. The detent operation and the free stop operation may be implemented by the engagement of the first cam (541) and the second cam (542), respectively. Accordingly, the electronic device (400) may be provided with a detent force to maintain the folded or unfolded state through the engagement of the first cam (541) and the second cam (542), or may be provided with a force capable of maintaining the state at a predetermined intermediate angle.

[0105] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 7b and 7c, the rail member (600) may include a body portion (610) passing through a guide groove (521) of the second bracket (520) and a stopper (620) formed at one end of the body portion (610). In one embodiment, the guide groove (521) formed in the second bracket (520) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the body portion (610) of the rail member (600). In one embodiment, the stopper (620) may have a shape protruding with respect to the body portion (610). For example, the width of the stopper (620) (e.g., the length in the Y-axis direction of FIG. 7b) may be wider than the widths of the body portion (610) and the guide groove (521) of the second bracket (520). In one embodiment, the stopper (620) can prevent the body portion (610) of the rail member (600) from being separated from the guide groove (521) of the second bracket (520). For example, the stopper (620) can be formed at one end of the body portion (610) of the rail member (600) located in the first housing (410) regardless of the retracted or drawn-out state of the electronic device (400). When the second housing (420) moves in the first direction with respect to the first housing (410) so that the electronic device (400) is switched from the drawn-in state to the drawn-out state, the stopper (620) of the rail member (600) can be caught on the second bracket (520). Accordingly, the second housing (420) can be drawn out with respect to the first housing (410) by a specified distance through the stopper (620) of the rail member (600).

[0106] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9b, which will be described later, the rail member (600) may include a protrusion (630) formed at one end of the body portion (610) located in the first housing (410). In one embodiment, the protrusion (630) may be inserted into the guide groove (521) based on the movement of the rail member (600) with respect to the second bracket (520). For example, the protrusion (630) of the rail member (600) may be inserted into the guide groove (521) of the second bracket (520) when the second housing (420) moves in the first direction with respect to the first housing (410) so that the electronic device (400) is switched from the retracted state to the retracted state. Accordingly, the electronic device (400) may maintain the retracted state as the protrusion (630) is fitted into the second bracket (520) in the retracted state.

[0107] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the rail member (600) may be disposed on the back surface of the flexible display (300). In one embodiment, the rail member (600) may be disposed to correspond to at least the first portion (300a) under the functional layer (350) of the flexible display (300). In one embodiment, the rail member (600) may be attached via an adhesive layer to the back surface of the support plate (360) disposed under the functional layer (350). In one embodiment, like the second housing (220) illustrated in FIG. 2C, the second housing (420) illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B may include a first surface supporting the flexible display (300) and a second surface opposite the first surface. In this case, the rail member (600) may be attached to the second surface of the second housing (420).

[0108] In one embodiment, when the rail member (600) rotates about the folding axis (FA) to fold the electronic device (400) at a predetermined angle in the withdrawn state, a portion of the rail member (600) may come into contact with one surface of the first housing (410). Therefore, in order to prevent contact between the rail member (600) and the first housing (410) during the folding operation of the electronic device (400), the first housing (410) may include a mounting groove formed at a portion facing the second bracket (520). Therefore, when the second bracket (520) rotates with respect to the first bracket (510) during the folding operation of the electronic device (400), at least a portion of the rail member (600) may be positioned in the mounting groove while tilted with respect to one surface of the first housing (410).

[0109] FIG. 9A is a drawing of a flexible printed circuit board positioned in a recess of a rail member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9A-9A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the rail member (600) may include a recess (611) formed in the body portion (610). In one embodiment, the recess (611) may be formed to extend along a longitudinal direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 7A) in the body portion (610). In one embodiment, the recess (611) may be formed to have a flexible printed circuit board (460) electrically connecting a printed circuit board (450) disposed in a first housing (410) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) and an electronic component disposed in a second housing (420) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A)). In one embodiment, the electronic components disposed in the second housing (420) may include at least one of a camera module (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1), an antenna module (e.g., the antenna module (197) of FIG. 1), a speaker (e.g., the audio output module (155) of FIG. 1), and a microphone (e.g., the audio output module (155) of FIG. 1). In addition, the flexible printed circuit board (460) may electrically connect the printed circuit board (450) disposed in the first housing (410) and various electronic components disposed in the second housing (420). In one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (460) disposed in the recess (611) of the rail member (600) may electrically connect the flexible display (300) and the printed circuit board (450) disposed in the first housing (410).

[0111] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are drawings for confirming status information on movement of a rail member through a sensor disposed in a first housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may include a movement distance detection sensor for detecting a movement distance of the second housing (420) from the first housing (410). In one embodiment, the movement distance detection sensor may detect a state in which the second housing (420) is fully retracted from the first housing (410) (or a slide-in state), a state in which the second housing (420) is fully withdrawn from the first housing (410) (or a slide-out state), or an intermediate state between the retracted state and the withdrawn state. In one embodiment, the movement distance detection sensor may be a proximity sensor or a hall sensor (480) electrically connected to the printed circuit board (450).

[0113] In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, a magnetic member (640) may be disposed on the rail member (600). In this case, the movement distance detection sensor may be a Hall sensor (480) that detects a magnetic field of the magnetic member. In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may be switched to an inlet state or an outlet state as the rail member (600) moves in a first direction (e.g., + X direction of FIG. 10A) or a second direction (e.g., - X direction of FIG. 10A) with respect to a second bracket (520) disposed on the first housing (410). The Hall sensor (480) may be disposed on a printed circuit board (450) disposed on the first housing (410) to detect a magnetic field of the magnetic member (640) that moves together with the rail member (600). In one embodiment, a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1) may store magnetic field values ​​corresponding to the slide-in state, slide-out state, and intermediate state of the electronic device (400). A processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may determine the sliding state (e.g., slide-in state, slide-out state, or intermediate state) of the electronic device (400) by checking the magnetic field value detected from the Hall sensor (480).

[0114] In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, the number of Hall sensors (480) may be arranged on the printed circuit board (450) corresponding to the number of magnetic members (640). In one embodiment, the first printed circuit board (450) may be arranged with a first Hall sensor (480) and a second Hall sensor (480) spaced apart in a second direction relative to the first Hall sensor (480). In one embodiment, the rail member (600) may be arranged with a first magnetic member (640) and a second magnetic member (640) spaced apart in a second direction (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 10A) relative to the first magnetic member (640). In one embodiment, the first Hall sensor (480) may detect the magnetic field of the first magnetic member (640) when the electronic device (400) is in the retracted state, and may detect the magnetic field of the second magnetic member (640) when the electronic device (400) is in the withdrawn state. The second Hall sensor (480) may detect the magnetic field of the second magnetic member (640) when the electronic device (400) is in the withdrawn state, and may not detect the magnetic field when the electronic device (400) is in the withdrawn state. The number of the magnetic members (640) and the Hall sensors (480) described above is merely an example, and may vary depending on the detection accuracy of the processor for the withdrawn state, the withdrawn state, and the intermediate state between the withdrawn state and the withdrawn state of the electronic device (400).

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101, 200, 400) may include a first housing (210, 410), a second housing (220, 420) movably coupled to the first housing, a flexible display (230, 300) disposed in the first housing and the second housing and at least a portion of which moves in an internal space (270) of the electronic device based on movement of the second housing relative to the first housing, and a hinge device (500) rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing about a folding axis (FA). The hinge device may include a first bracket (510) coupled to the first housing, a second bracket (520) at least partly disposed in the first housing and rotatable with respect to the first bracket about the folding axis, and a rail member (600) coupled to the second bracket and configured to move in a first direction perpendicular to the folding axis or a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the second bracket to guide movement of the second housing with respect to the first housing.

[0116] In one embodiment, the second bracket may include a guide groove (521) formed in a shape corresponding to the rail member to guide movement of the rail member.

[0117] In one embodiment, the rail member includes a body portion (610) passing through the guide groove of the second bracket and a stopper (620) formed at one end of the body portion and positioned in the first housing, and the stopper is formed in a shape protruding from the body portion to prevent the body portion from being separated from the guide groove.

[0118] In one embodiment, the rail member includes a protrusion (630) formed at one end of the body portion located in the first housing, and the protrusion can be inserted into the guide groove based on movement of the rail member relative to the second bracket.

[0119] In one embodiment, the rail member may further include a printed circuit board (450) disposed in the first housing, an electronic component disposed in the second housing, and a flexible printed circuit board (460) connecting the printed circuit board and the electronic component, wherein the rail member may include a recess (611) formed in the body portion and in which at least a portion of the flexible printed circuit board is disposed.

[0120] In one embodiment, the flexible display includes a first portion (300a) that is visible from the outside of the electronic device and is flat, and a second portion (300b) that extends from the first portion and has at least a portion that is retracted or withdrawn into an internal space of the electronic device based on movement of the second housing relative to the first housing and at least a portion that is bent, and the rail member can be arranged in the first portion of the flexible display.

[0121] In one embodiment, the flexible display includes a display panel (330) and a functional layer (350) supporting the display panel, and the rail member can be disposed on the functional layer.

[0122] In one embodiment, the functional layer may include a support plate (360) formed of a metal material.

[0123] In one embodiment, the flexible display may further include a plurality of support members (250) arranged in the second part and a plurality of guide rails (214-1) inserted at both ends of the support members to guide movement of the support members and arranged in the first housing.

[0124] In one embodiment, the second housing includes a first surface supporting the flexible display and a second surface opposite the first surface, and the rail member can be disposed on the second surface of the second housing.

[0125] In one embodiment, the first housing may further include a printed circuit board (450) disposed on the first housing, a hall sensor (480) disposed on the printed circuit board, and a magnetic member (640) disposed on the rail member and facing the hall sensor.

[0126] In one embodiment, the hinge device may include a shaft (530) coupled to the first bracket and the second bracket so that the first bracket rotates about the folding axis relative to the second bracket, a first cam (541) supported by the first bracket and into which the shaft is inserted, a second cam (542) into which the shaft is inserted and which engages with the first cam, and an elastic member (550) into which the shaft is inserted and which presses the second cam toward the first cam.

[0127] In one embodiment, the first cam may be coupled to the first bracket.

[0128] In one embodiment, one end of the rail member may be disposed in the first housing, and the other end of the rail member may be fixed to the second housing.

[0129] In one embodiment, the first housing includes a mounting groove formed on a surface facing the second bracket, and the rail member can be received in the mounting groove while the second bracket is rotated about the folding axis and tilted with respect to one surface of the first housing.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge device (500) may include a first bracket (510), a second bracket (520) rotatable with respect to the first bracket about a folding axis (FA), a shaft (530) coupled to the first bracket and the second bracket so that the first bracket and the second bracket rotate with respect to the folding axis, and a rail member (600) slidably connected to the second bracket and extending in a first direction perpendicular to the folding axis or in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the second bracket.

[0131] In one embodiment, the second bracket may include a guide groove (521) formed in a shape corresponding to the rail member to guide movement of the rail member.

[0132] In one embodiment, the rail member includes a body portion (610) passing through the guide groove of the second bracket and a stopper (620) formed at one end of the body portion, and the stopper is formed in a shape protruding from the body portion to prevent the body portion from being separated from the guide groove.

[0133] In one embodiment, the rail member includes a protrusion (630) formed on the body portion, and the protrusion can be inserted into the guide groove based on movement of the rail member relative to the second bracket.

[0134] In one embodiment, the first cam (541) may be supported by the first bracket and into which the shaft is inserted, a second cam (542) into which the shaft is inserted and which engages with the first cam, and an elastic member (550) into which the shaft is inserted and which presses the second cam toward the first cam.

[0135] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (400) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) may disclose a structure that slidably connects a first housing (410) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) and a second housing (420) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A), and allows the second housing (420) to rotate relative to the first housing (410). For example, the structure may include a hinge device (500) that rotatably connects the first housing (410) and the second housing (420), and a rail member (600) that is connected to the hinge device (500) to allow the second housing (420) to slide relative to the first housing (410). Accordingly, the electronic device (400) can provide convenience to the user by expanding or contracting the information display area of ​​the flexible display (300) (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 2A) as the first housing (410) and the second housing (420) are slidably connected. In addition, the electronic device (400) can provide convenience to the user in taking selfies and providing game or video viewing functions through the flexible display (300) as the second housing (420) is configured to be folded at a certain angle while being maximally extended with respect to the first housing (410).

[0136] 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.

[0137] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0138] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and arranged in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0139] It will be appreciated that the present invention contemplates and encompasses embodiments based on any combination of two or more of the disclosed embodiments, as well as embodiments comprising any combination of the features disclosed herein. That is, the absence of an explicit indication that two features or two embodiments can be combined does not imply that such a combination is not envisioned, but rather that such a combination is intended to be included herein.

Claims

1. In electronic devices (101, 200, 400), 1st housing (210, 410); A second housing (220, 420) movably coupled to the first housing; A flexible display (230, 300) disposed in the first housing and the second housing, at least a portion of which moves into the internal space (270) of the electronic device based on movement of the second housing relative to the first housing; and It includes a hinge device (500) that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing based on the folding axis (FA); The above hinge device, A first bracket (510) coupled to the first housing, A second bracket (520) at least partly disposed in the first housing and rotatable relative to the first bracket about the folding axis, and An electronic device comprising a rail member (600) that is fastened to the second bracket and moves in a first direction perpendicular to the folding axis or a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the second bracket to guide movement of the second housing with respect to the first housing.

2. In paragraph 1, The above second bracket, An electronic device including a guide groove (521) formed in a shape corresponding to the rail member and guiding the movement of the rail member.

3. In paragraph 2, The above rail member, It includes a body part (610) passing through the guide groove of the second bracket and a stopper (620) formed at one end of the body part and located in the first housing, The above stopper, An electronic device formed in a protruding shape with respect to the body portion to prevent the body portion from coming out of the guide groove.

4. In paragraph 3, The above rail member, It includes a protrusion (630) formed on one end of the body portion located in the first housing, The above protrusion is, An electronic device insertable into the guide groove based on movement of the rail member relative to the second bracket.

5. In paragraph 3, A printed circuit board (450) placed in the first housing; Electronic components arranged in the second housing; and Further comprising a flexible printed circuit board (460) connecting the printed circuit board and the electronic component; The above rail member, An electronic device comprising a recess (611) formed in the body portion and in which at least a portion of the flexible printed circuit board is placed.

6. In paragraph 1, The above flexible display, A first portion (300a) that is visible from the outside of the electronic device and is planar, and a second portion (300b) that extends from the first portion and is at least partially retracted or drawn into the internal space of the electronic device based on movement of the second housing relative to the first housing and at least partially bent, The above rail member, An electronic device disposed on the first part of the above flexible display.

7. In paragraph 6, The above flexible display, It includes a display panel (330) and a functional layer (350) supporting the display panel, The above rail member, An electronic device disposed on the above functional layer.

8. In paragraph 6, A plurality of support members (250) arranged in the second part of the flexible display; and An electronic device comprising a plurality of guide rails (214-1) inserted at both ends of the support member and guiding the movement of the support member and arranged in the first housing.

9. In paragraph 1, The above second housing, It includes a first side supporting the flexible display and a second side opposite to the first side, The above rail member, An electronic device disposed on the second surface of the second housing.

10. In paragraph 1, A printed circuit board (450) placed in the first housing; A hall sensor (480) placed on the printed circuit board; and An electronic device further comprising a magnetic member (640) disposed on the rail member and facing the Hall sensor.

11. In paragraph 1, The above hinge device, A shaft (530) coupled to the first bracket and the second bracket so that the first bracket rotates relative to the second bracket about the folding axis; A first cam (541) supported by the first bracket and into which the shaft is inserted; A second cam (542) into which the shaft is inserted and which engages with the first cam, and An electronic device comprising an elastic member (550) into which the shaft is inserted and which presses the second cam toward the first cam.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first cam is an electronic device coupled to the above first bracket.

13. In paragraph 1, One end of the above rail member is placed in the first housing, An electronic device in which the other end of the above rail member is fixed to the second housing.

14. In paragraph 1, The above first housing, Including a fixing groove formed on a surface facing the second bracket, The above rail member, An electronic device in which the second bracket is accommodated in the mounting groove while being tilted relative to one surface of the first housing by rotating around the folding axis.

15. In the hinge device (500), First bracket (510); A second bracket (520) rotatable relative to the first bracket with respect to the folding axis (FA); A shaft (530) coupled to the first bracket and the second bracket so that the first bracket and the second bracket rotate about the folding axis; and A hinge device including a rail member (600) slidably connected to the second bracket and having a first direction perpendicular to the folding axis or a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the second bracket.

Images