Patent Description:
As developments in display technology advance, various display apparatuses, such as flexible displays or transparent displays, are being developed. Since a user may fold or unfold a device that includes a flexible display based on a circumstance of using the device, a volume of the device may be significantly reduced.

A flexible display may be implemented in the form of an organic light-emitting display (OLED), a liquid-crystal display (LCD), or the like. For example, a flexible display may be manufactured by using a flexible material for the LCD or the organic light-emitting display, for example, by substituting an organic substrate with a plastic film. Additionally, a foldable device may be manufactured by using a flexible material for at least a part, which may be folded, in the LCD or the organic light-emitting display.

As a flexible display is used, various fields to which the flexible display may be applicable are emerging. For example, a flexible display may be applied to a field of electronic books that may substitute for publications such as magazines, textbooks, books, or cartoons, or a field of new portable information technology (IT) products, such as a subminiature personal computer (PC) that may be carried by folding or rolling a display or a smart card for checking information in real time. Thus, there is a demand for development of an interface in which characteristics of a flexible display which are reflective of the flexible display are employed.

<CIT> discloses a method of controlling a portable device including the steps of: if the portable device is a first mode to lock the portable device, detecting an unlocking triggering signal; if the unlocking triggering signal is detected, converting the portable device to a second mode to display an unlocking interface in the expandable display; if a touch input signal for the unlocking interface is detected when the portable device is the second mode, recognizing a touch input pattern from the detected touch input; displaying the unlocking interface by reflecting to the touch input pattern and if the touch input pattern is matched with a pre-set pattern, converting the portable device to a third mode to unlock the portable device; and if the expandable display expands when the portable device is the second mode, displaying the unlocking interface by reflecting to an expansion of the expandable display; and if a degree of expansion of the expandable display is greater than a threshold, converting the portable device to the third mode.

<CIT> discloses a mobile terminal including: a flexible display unit configured to display first screen information that is flexible in response to an external physical force, a sensing unit configured to sense flexure of the flexible display unit and a controller configured to control the flexible display unit to output second screen information containing information associated with the first screen information on one region of the flexible display unit in response to the flexure.

<CIT> discloses a method in an electronic device comprising: when a display unit is deformed, determining a display area visible to a user; and displaying content on the confirmed display area.

<CIT> discloses a mobile computing device comprising: a body comprising a front side, a rear side, and four lateral sides, a main display on the front side of the body, and a secondary display on one of the four lateral sides of the body. Therein, an edge of the secondary display can be adjacent to an edge of the main display and the adjacent edges can positioned in contact with each other, can be joined together with an adhesive, and/or can be joined together with a compliant gasket. The main display and the secondary display can be controlled independently of each other based on predetermined display preference logic.

There is a demand for development of an interface in which characteristics of a flexible display which are reflective of the flexible display are employed.

Embodiments provide a foldable device, and a method of controlling the foldable device as defined in the appended claims.

A foldable device controls an activation of the flexible display unit as the foldable device is unfolded.

These and/or other aspects will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of the exemplary embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:.

Among the above listed figures, the embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG> pertain to the claimed solution, whereas the remaining figures pertain to background art examples.

Exemplary embodiments provide a foldable device that includes a flexible display unit that is configured to control an activation of the flexible display unit as the foldable device is unfolded, and a method of controlling the foldable device.

Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented exemplary embodiments.

According to an aspect of an exemplary embodiment, a foldable device includes: a flexible display which includes a main display area and an edge display area; and a controller configured to determine a range of a partial activation area of the main display area, which is partially bounded by a boundary between the edge display area and the main display area, based on an angle at which the foldable device is unfolded.

The controller may be further configured to activate the edge display area in response to the angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being greater than or equal to a predetermined first angle with respect to a state of being folded, and to activate a portion of the main display area in response to the angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being greater than or equal to a predetermined second angle, and to expand the range of the partial activation area of the main display area, in response to the angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being increased.

The controller may be further configured to display a first content on the edge display area and to display detailed content, which is related to the first content displayed on the edge display area, on the activated portion of the main display area.

The controller may be further configured to adjust at least one from among a type, an amount, and an attribute of content that is to be displayed on the activated portion of the main display area, based on the range of the partial activation area of the main display area.

The controller may be further configured to activate an entirety of the main display area in response to the angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being greater than or equal to a predetermined third angle.

The flexible display may further include a plurality of edge display areas, and the controller may be further configured to determine a location from which an activated portion of the main display area starts, based on a direction in which a user views the foldable device.

The flexible display may further include a plurality of edge display areas, and the controller may be further configured to determine at least one edge display area that is to be activated, from among the plurality of edge display areas, based on an angle at which the foldable device is inclined while in a state of being folded and a direction in which a user views the foldable device.

The controller may be further configured to activate the edge display area if at least one from among a plurality of events including a message reception, a call reception, and an alarm is generated.

The edge display area may include a display area that is exposed to an outside while the foldable device is folded.

According to an aspect of an exemplary embodiment, a method for controlling a foldable device that includes a flexible display including a main display area and an edge display area, the method including: sensing an angle at which the foldable device is unfolded; and determining a range of a partial activation area of the main display area, which is partially bounded by a boundary between the edge display area and the main display area, based on the sensed angle at which the foldable device is unfolded.

The method may further include: activating the edge display area in response to the sensed angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being greater than or equal to a predetermined first angle with respect to a state of being folded; activating a portion of the main display area in response to the sensed angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being greater than or equal to a predetermined second angle; and expanding the range of the partial activation area of the main display area, in response to the sensed angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being increased.

The method may further include: displaying first content on the edge display area; and displaying detailed content, which is related to the first content displayed on the edge display area, on the activated portion of the main display area.

The determining the range of the partial activation area of the main display area may include adjusting at least one from among a type, an amount, and an attribute of content that is to be displayed on the partial activation area, based on the range of the partial activation area.

The method may further include activating an entirety of the main display area in response to the sensed angle at which the foldable device is unfolded being greater than or equal to a predetermined third angle.

The flexible display may further include a plurality of edge display areas, and the determining the range of the partial activation area of the main display area may include a plurality of edge display areas, determining a location from which an activated portion of the main display area starts, according to a direction in which a user views the foldable device.

The flexible display may further include a plurality of edge display areas, and the method may further include determining at least one edge display area that is to be activated, from among the plurality of edge display areas, based on an angle at which the foldable device is inclined while in a state of being folded and a direction in which a user views the foldable device.

The method may further include activating the edge display area in response to at least one of a message reception, a call reception, and an alarm being generated.

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. In this regard, the present exemplary embodiments may have different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the descriptions set forth herein. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments are merely described below, by referring to the figures, to explain aspects of the present inventive concept.

The present inventive concept will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are shown. The present inventive concept may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. In the description of the present inventive concept, certain detailed explanations of the related art are omitted when it is deemed that they may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the present inventive concept. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

A purpose, advantages, and features of the present inventive concept will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, as the present inventive concept allows for various changes and numerous embodiments, exemplary embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the written description. Like reference numerals in the drawings denote like elements. In the description of the present inventive concept, certain detailed explanations of well-known functions or configurations are omitted when it is deemed that they may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the present inventive concept. Additionally, it will be understood that, although the terms, 'first', 'second', etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms.

Hereinafter, a foldable device according to one or more exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Terms such as ". unit" and ". module," are used in the following description in consideration of only ease of drafting of the specification, and thus do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

A foldable device <NUM> may include any of a smartphone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a laptop computer, an electronic book, a wearable device, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistance (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation system, or the like. However, according to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that a configuration of the foldable device <NUM> may be also applied to a fixed terminal, such as a digital TV, a desktop computer, or the like except when the configuration may be only applied to a mobile terminal.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, it may be "directly connected or coupled" to the other element, or "electrically connected to" the other element with intervening elements therebetween. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", and/or "including" when used herein, specify the presence of components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, unless otherwise specified.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

<FIG> illustrate schematic diagrams of the foldable device <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment.

The foldable device <NUM>, described herein, may include a flexible display unit (also referred to herein as a "flexible display device" and/or a "flexible display") <NUM>.

The foldable device <NUM>, which includes the flexible display unit <NUM>, may be folded when the foldable device <NUM> is bent with reference to an arbitrary line that may be drawn on the flexible display unit <NUM>, and thus, both surfaces that are obtained when the flexible display unit <NUM> is bent and face each other, approach to within a close proximity of each other, and are almost in parallel with each other.

<FIG> illustrate examples of the foldable device <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment. <FIG> shows an example of a state when the foldable device <NUM> is folded. <FIG> shows an example of a state when the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded at a certain angle. <FIG> shows an example of a state when the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded to a maximum.

<FIG> illustrate examples of the foldable device <NUM>. However, the foldable device <NUM> is not limited thereto. For example, the foldable device <NUM> may be implemented in the form of a laptop computer, a tablet PC, or the like.

<FIG> illustrate block diagrams of the foldable device <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, the foldable device <NUM> may include the flexible display unit <NUM> (also referred to herein as a "flexible display") and a controller <NUM>. However, all elements, shown in <FIG>, are not essential elements. The foldable device <NUM> may be implemented by using more or less elements than those shown in <FIG>.

For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, the foldable device <NUM> may further include a video processing unit (also referred to herein as a "video processor") <NUM>, an audio processing unit (also referred to herein as an "audio processor") <NUM>, an audio output unit (also referred to herein as an "audio output device" and/or as a "speaker") <NUM>, a power unit (also referred to herein as a "power supplier") <NUM>, a tuner <NUM>, a sensing unit (also referred to herein as a "sensor") <NUM>, a communication unit (also referred to herein as a "communicator") <NUM>, a detection unit (also referred to herein as a "detector") <NUM>, an input/output unit (also referred to herein as an "input/output device") <NUM>, and a storage unit (also referred to herein as a "storage device" and/or as a "storage") <NUM>.

Hereinafter, the elements will be described.

The video processing unit <NUM> processes video data received by the device <NUM>. The video processing unit <NUM> may perform any of various image processing functions, such as, for example, decoding, scaling, noise filtering, frame rate conversion, resolution conversion, or the like with respect to the video data.

The flexible display unit <NUM> may display video data included in a broadcasting signal received via the tuner <NUM>, according to control by the controller <NUM>. Additionally, the flexible display unit <NUM> may display content (for example, moving images) input via the communication unit <NUM> and/or via the input/output unit <NUM>. The flexible display unit <NUM> may output an image stored in the storage unit <NUM> according to control by the controller <NUM>. Additionally, the flexible display unit <NUM> may display a voice user interface (UI) for performing a voice recognition task that corresponds to voice recognition (for example, a voice UI that includes a voice command language guide) or a motion UI for performing a motion recognition task that corresponds to motion recognition (for example, a motion UI that includes a user motion guide configured for motion recognition).

According to an exemplary embodiment, the flexible display unit <NUM> may consist of a main display area, a floating display area included in the main display area, and an edge display area. Each display area will be described in detail with reference to <FIG>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a range of the floating display area, which starts from a boundary between the edge display area and the main display area, may be determined based on an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded, according to control by the controller <NUM>.

Additionally, according to an exemplary embodiment, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined first angle with respect to a state of being folded, the edge display area may be activated according to control by the controller <NUM>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined second angle, the floating display area may be activated according to control by the controller <NUM>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased, a range of the floating display area may be expanded according to control by the controller <NUM>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined third angle or greater, the main display area that includes the floating display area may be activated according to control by the controller <NUM>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a surface of the edge display area may be bent at a certain angle or greater with respect to a surface of the floating display area.

The audio processing unit <NUM> processes audio data. The audio processing unit <NUM> may perform any of various processing functions, such as, for example, decoding, amplification, or noise filtering with respect to audio data. The audio processing unit <NUM> may include a plurality of audio processing modules which are configured for processing audio data that corresponds to a plurality of pieces of content.

The audio output unit <NUM> outputs audio data included in a broadcasting signal received from the tuner <NUM>, according to control by the controller <NUM>. The audio output unit <NUM> may output audio data (for example, voice or sound) input via the communication unit <NUM> and/or via the input/output unit <NUM>. Additionally, the audio output unit <NUM> may output audio data stored in the storage unit <NUM> according to control by the controller <NUM>. The audio output unit <NUM> may include at least one selected from the group consisting of a speaker <NUM>, a headphone output terminal <NUM>, and/or a Sony/Philips digital interface (S/PDIF) output terminal <NUM>. The audio output unit <NUM> may also include a combination of the speaker <NUM>, the headphone output terminal <NUM>, and the S/PDIF output terminal <NUM>.

The power unit <NUM> supplies power input from an external power source to the elements <NUM> through <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM>, according to control by the controller <NUM>. Additionally, the power unit <NUM> may supply power which is output from one or more batteries (not shown) located inside the foldable device <NUM> to the elements <NUM> through <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM>, according to control by the controller <NUM>.

The tuner <NUM> may tune and select only a frequency in a channel which is to be received by the foldable device <NUM>, from among radio wave elements, by performing amplification, mixing, and/or resonating a broadcasting signal that is received via a wire or wirelessly. The broadcast signal includes any of audio data, video data, and/or additional information (for example, an electronic program guide (EPG)).

The tuner <NUM> may receive a broadcast signal in a frequency band that corresponds to a channel number (for example, a cable TV channel number <NUM>) according to a user input (for example, an input of a control signal received from a control apparatus, such as a channel number input, a channel-up or down input, or a channel input on an EPG screen).

The tuner <NUM> may receive a broadcast signal from any of various sources such as a terrestrial broadcasting station, a cable broadcasting station, a satellite broadcasting station, or an internet broadcasting source. The tuner <NUM> may receive a broadcast signal from a source, such as an analog broadcasting station or a digital broadcasting station. The broadcast signal received via the tuner <NUM> is decoded (for example, audio-decoded, video-decoded, and/or additional information-decoded), and thus, separated as audio data, video data, and/or additional information. The separated audio data, video data, and/or additional information may be stored in the storage unit <NUM> according to control by the controller <NUM>.

Additionally, one or more tuners <NUM> may be present in the device <NUM>. The tuner <NUM> may be implemented as any of an all-in-one tuner, a separate device that includes a tuner that is electrically connected to the device <NUM> (for example, a set-top box (not shown)), or a tuner (not shown) that is connected to the input/output unit <NUM>.

The sensing unit <NUM> may detect a state of the device <NUM> or a state within a close proximity to the device <NUM> and transmit information, obtained as a result of the detecting, to the controller <NUM>. The sensing unit <NUM> may include at least one selected from the group consisting of a magnetic sensor <NUM>, an acceleration sensor <NUM>, a temperature/humidity sensor <NUM>, an infrared sensor <NUM>, a gyroscope sensor <NUM>, a location (for example, a global positioning system (GPS)) sensor <NUM>, a barometric pressure sensor <NUM>, a proximity sensor <NUM>, and a red-green-blue (RGB) sensor (illuminance sensor) <NUM>, but is not limited thereto. Functions of the respective sensors may be inferred from the name of the sensors by those of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, a detailed description thereof will not be provided here.

Additionally, the sensing unit <NUM> may include a sensor which is configured for detecting a touch input by an input tool or a sensor which is configured for detecting a touch input by a user. In this case, the sensor configured for detecting a touch input by the user may be included in a touchscreen or a touchpad. Additionally, the sensor configured for detecting a touch input by an input tool may be located below a touchscreen or a touchpad or included in a touchscreen or a touchpad.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the sensing unit <NUM> may sense an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded.

Additionally, according to an exemplary embodiment, the sensing unit <NUM> may sense a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>.

Additionally, according to an exemplary embodiment, the sensing unit <NUM> may sense an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is inclined while in a state of being folded.

The communication unit <NUM> may connect the foldable device <NUM> to an external apparatus (for example, an audio apparatus or the like) according to control by the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may transmit and/or receive (transceive) content to/from the external apparatus connected via the communication unit <NUM>, and thus, download an application from the external apparatus and/or perform web browsing.

The communication unit <NUM> may include at least one selected from the group consisting of a wireless local area network (LAN) <NUM>, Bluetooth <NUM>, and a wired Ethernet <NUM>. The communication unit <NUM> may also include a combination thereof.

Additionally, the communication unit <NUM> may include any of a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication unit, a near-field communication unit, a wireless local area network (WLAN) Wi-Fi communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, a ultra wideband (UWB) communication unit, and/or an Ant+ communication unit, but is not limited thereto.

The communication unit <NUM> may transceive a wireless signal with at least one selected from the group consisting of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. The wireless signal may include any of a voice call signal, a video phone call signal or various forms of data used to transceive text or multimedia messages.

Additionally, the communication unit <NUM> may include a broadcasting receiving unit which is configured for receiving broadcasting signals and/or broadcasting-related information from the outside via a broadcasting channel. The broadcasting channel may include, for example, a satellite channel or a terrestrial broadcast channel.

Additionally, the communication unit <NUM> may receive a control signal from an external control apparatus according to control by the controller <NUM>. The control signal may be implemented as any of a Bluetooth type, a radio frequency (RF) signal type, and/or a WiFi type.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the communication unit <NUM> may communicate with an external audio device according to control by the controller <NUM>. According to an exemplary embodiment, the communication unit <NUM> may include a BLE communication unit and/or a WLAN (WiFi) communication unit, and transceive a certain control signal with the external audio device that is located within a certain distance.

The detection unit <NUM> detects a voice and/or an image of a user or an interaction of the user.

A microphone <NUM> receives an uttered voice signal from a user. The microphone <NUM> may convert the received voice into an electrical signal, and output the voice to the controller <NUM>. The voice signal of the user may include, for example, a voice signal that corresponds to a menu or a function of the foldable device <NUM>. A distance of <NUM> meters or less from the microphone <NUM> to a location of a user is recommended as a range of voice recognition with respect to the microphone <NUM>. The range of voice recognition with respect to the microphone <NUM> may vary in correspondence with a volume of the voice of the user and a surrounding environment of the user (for example, sound of a speaker or nearby noise).

The microphone <NUM> may be implemented as one body or a separate body with respect to the foldable device <NUM>. The microphone <NUM>, when implemented as a separate body with respect to the foldable device <NUM>, may be electrically connected to the foldable device <NUM> via the communication unit <NUM> or the input/output unit <NUM>.

It will be easily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the microphone <NUM> may not be included in the foldable device <NUM> according to performance or a structure of the foldable device <NUM>.

A camera unit <NUM> may consist of a lens (not shown) and an image sensor (not shown). The camera unit <NUM> may support an optical zoom function and/or a digital zoom function by using a plurality of lenses and image processing. A range of recognition with respect to the camera unit <NUM> may vary in correspondence with an angle of view with a camera and a condition of a surrounding environment. If the camera unit <NUM> consists of a plurality of cameras, a three-dimensional (3D) still image or a 3D motion image may be received by using the plurality of cameras.

The camera unit <NUM> may be implemented as one body or a separate body with respect to the foldable device <NUM>. An additional device (not shown) that includes a separate camera unit <NUM> may be electrically connected to the foldable device <NUM> via the communication unit <NUM> or the input/output unit <NUM>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the camera unit <NUM> may sense a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>.

It will be easily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the camera unit <NUM> may not be included in the foldable device <NUM> according to performance or a structure of the foldable device <NUM>.

An optical receiving unit (also referred to herein as an "optical receiver") <NUM> receives an optical signal (which includes a control signal) received from an external control apparatus via an optical window (not shown) in a bezel of the flexible display unit <NUM> or the like. The optical receiving unit <NUM> may receive an optical signal that corresponds to a user input (for example, a touch, push, a touch gesture, voice or a motion) from an external control apparatus. A control signal may be extracted from the received optical signal according to control by the controller <NUM>.

The input/output unit <NUM> receives any of video data (for example, moving pictures or the like), audio data (for example, voice, music, or the like), and/or additional information (for example, an EPG) according to control by the controller <NUM>. The input/output unit <NUM> may include at least one from among a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port <NUM>, a component jack <NUM>, a PC port <NUM>, and a universal serial bus (USB) port <NUM>. The input/output unit <NUM> may also include a combination of the HDMI port <NUM>, the component jack <NUM>, the PC port <NUM>, and the USB port <NUM>.

It will be easily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that performance or a structure of the input/output unit <NUM> may vary according to exemplary embodiments.

The controller <NUM> controls all operations of the foldable device <NUM> and a signal flow between the elements <NUM> through <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM>, and processes data. If a user input is present and/or a predetermined and stored condition is satisfied, the controller <NUM> may execute an operating system (OS) or any of various applications stored in the storage unit <NUM>.

The controller <NUM> may include a random access memory (RAM) <NUM> that stores a signal or data input from outside of the foldable device <NUM> or is used as a storage area that corresponds to various work functions performed by the foldable device <NUM>, a read-only memory (ROM) <NUM> that stores a control program for controlling the foldable device <NUM>, and a processor <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may include a graphic processing unit (GPU) (not shown) for performing graphic processing in correspondence with video data. The processor <NUM> may be implemented as a system-on-chip (SoC) in which a core (not shown) and the GPU (not shown) are integrated. The processor <NUM> may include any of a single-core processor, a dual-core processor, a triple-core processor, a quad-core processor, or a multiple-core processor.

Additionally, the processor <NUM> may include a plurality of processors. For example, the processor <NUM> may be implemented as a main processor (not shown) or a sub-processor (not shown) that operates in a sleep mode.

The GPU <NUM> generates a screen that includes various objects such as an icon, an image or text by using a calculation unit (also referred to herein as a "calculator") (not shown) and a rendering unit (also referred to herein as a "renderer") (not shown). The calculation unit calculates an attribute value of each object to be displayed, such as a coordinate value, a shape, a size, and/or a color of each object, by using user interaction detected by the detection unit <NUM> according to a layout of a screen. The rendering unit generates a screen of various layouts that includes an object, based on the attribute value calculated by the calculation unit. A screen generated by the rendering unit is displayed on a display area of the flexible display unit <NUM>.

First through nth interfaces <NUM>-<NUM> through <NUM>-n are connected to the elements described above. One of the first through nth interfaces <NUM>-<NUM> through <NUM>-n may be a network interface which is connected to an external apparatus via a network.

The RAM <NUM>, the ROM <NUM>, the processor <NUM>, the GPU <NUM>, and the first through nth interfaces <NUM>-<NUM> through <NUM>-n may be connected to each other via an internal bus <NUM>.

In the current embodiment, a term "controller" may include the RAM <NUM>, the ROM <NUM>, and the processor <NUM>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may determine a range of a floating display area, which starts from a boundary between an edge display area and a main display area, according to an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded.

Additionally, according to an exemplary embodiment, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may activate the edge display area if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined first angle with respect to a state of being folded.

Additionally, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined second angle, the controller <NUM> may activate the floating display area.

Additionally, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased, the controller <NUM> may expand a range of the floating display area.

Additionally, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined third angle or greater, the controller <NUM> may activate the main display area that includes the floating display area.

Additionally, the controller <NUM> may adjust at least one selected from the group consisting of a type, an amount, and an attribute of content that is to be displayed on the floating display area, according to a range of the floating display area.

Additionally, the controller unit <NUM> may determine a location from which the floating display area included in the main display area starts, based on a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>.

If the flexible display unit <NUM> includes a plurality of edge display areas, the controller <NUM> may determine at least one edge display area that is to be activated from among the plurality of edge display areas, based on an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is inclined and a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM> when the foldable device <NUM> is folded.

Additionally, if at least one event selected from the group consisting of a message reception, a call reception, and an alarm is generated, the controller <NUM> may activate the edge display area.

It will be easily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that a configuration and an operation of the controller <NUM> may vary according to exemplary embodiments.

The storage unit <NUM> may store any of various data, programs or applications for driving and controlling the foldable device <NUM> according to control by the controller <NUM>. The storage unit <NUM> may store a signal and/or data input/output in correspondence with driving of the video processing unit <NUM>, the flexible display unit <NUM>, the audio processing unit <NUM>, the audio output unit <NUM>, the power unit <NUM>, the tuner <NUM>, the communication unit <NUM>, the detection unit <NUM>, and the input/output unit <NUM>. The storage unit <NUM> may store any one or more of a control program for controlling the foldable device <NUM> and the controller <NUM>, an application provided as a bundle by a manufacturer or downloaded from outside, a graphical user interface (GUI) related to the application, an object for providing the GUI (for example, image text, an icon, a button, or the like), user information, a document, databases, and/or relevant data.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a term "storage unit" includes the storage unit <NUM>, the ROM <NUM> or the RAM <NUM> included in the controller <NUM>, or a memory card (for example, a micro secure digital (SD) or a USB memory, not shown). Additionally, the storage unit <NUM> may include any of a non-volatile memory, a volatile memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), and/or a solid-state drive (SSD).

The storage unit <NUM> may include any of a broadcasting receiving module, a channel control module, a volume control module, a communication control module, a voice recognition module, a motion recognition module, an optical receiving module, a display control module, an audio control module, an external input control module, a power control module, a power control module configured for controlling an external apparatus that is wirelessly connected (for example, via Bluetooth) to the foldable device <NUM>, a voice database (DB), and/or a motion DB which are not shown in the drawing. The modules and the databases included in the storage unit <NUM>, which are not shown, may be implemented in the form of software so as to perform a broadcast reception control function, a channel control function, a volume control function, a communication control function, a voice recognition function, a motion recognition function, an optical reception control function, a display control function, an audio control function, an external input control function, a power control function, or a function of controlling power of an external apparatus that is wirelessly connected (for example, via Bluetooth) to the foldable device <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> may perform each function by using the software stored in the storage unit <NUM>.

Additionally, the foldable device <NUM> which includes the flexible display unit <NUM> may be electrically connected to a separate external apparatus which includes a tuner (for example, a set-top box, not shown). For example, it may be easily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the foldable device <NUM> may be implemented as any of an analog television (TV), a digital TV, a 3D TV, a smart TV, a light-emitting diode (LED) TV, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) TV, a plasma TV, a monitor, and/or the like, but is not limited thereto.

At least one selected from the elements shown respect to the foldable device <NUM> (for example, the elements <NUM> through <NUM>) may be further included or may not be included in the foldable device <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, according to performance of the foldable device <NUM>. Additionally, it will be easily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that a location of the elements (for example, the elements <NUM> through <NUM>) may be changed according to performance or a structure of the foldable device <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a flowchart of a method for controlling the foldable device <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a diagram for explaining a configuration of the flexible display unit <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment. <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining an example of expanding a range of a floating display area as an angle at which the foldable device is unfolded is increased, according to an exemplary embodiment.

According to an exemplary embodiment, as the foldable device <NUM> is gradually unfolded from a state of being folded, the foldable device <NUM> may activate a partial area of a main display area, which starts from an edge display area and may be viewed by a user (hereinafter, for convenience of description, referred to as a "floating display area"), and provide certain content. Each display area will be described in detail below with reference to <FIG>.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the foldable device <NUM> may variably adjust the partial area that is activated based on an angle at which the foldable device is unfolded (hereinafter, referred to as a "floating display area"), and sequentially provide an increasingly large amount of relevant content based on a range of the floating display area, which is gradually expanded in accordance with an increase in the angle at which the foldable device is unfolded.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation S101, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may sense an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may sense an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded, via the sensing unit <NUM> that includes the magnetic sensor <NUM>, the acceleration sensor <NUM>, the gyroscope sensor <NUM>, or the like.

In operation S102 as illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may determine a range of a partial activation area that starts from a boundary between an edge display area and a main display area and is activated (hereinafter, the "floating display area") from within the main display area, based on an angle at which the foldable device is unfolded.

Referring to <FIG>, the flexible display unit <NUM> may consist of a main display area a3, a floating display area a2, and an edge display area a1. A name of each display area is provided for convenience of description, and does not refer to a limited area.

The "main display area" a3 may refer to an entirety of an area that is located at both surfaces that face each other when the foldable device <NUM> is folded, from within an area of the flexible display unit <NUM>. Accordingly, the main display area a3 may refer to an area that is not exposed to the outside when the foldable device <NUM> is folded.

The edge display area a1 is a display area that is located on at least one edge surface from among left, right, upper, and lower edge surfaces of the foldable device <NUM>. The edge display area a1 may refer to an area that is exposed to the outside when the foldable device <NUM> is folded.

The edge display area a1 may be physically located at a surface that extends from the main display area a3. The flexible display unit <NUM> that is flexible may be bent at a certain angle or greater at a boundary between the main display area a3 and the edge display area a1. The "floating display area" a2 is a partial area of the main display area a3, and may refer to a partial activation area that is activated based on an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded. The floating display area a2 may start from a boundary between the edge display area a1 and the main display area a3.

A range of the floating display area a2 may vary based on an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded. The floating display area a2 is an area that is activated when an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a certain angle. If an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is <NUM>°, that is, if the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being folded, a floating display area may not be generated. Additionally, if the angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased, the controller <NUM> may expand a range of the floating display area (refer to operation S204 that is to be described below with reference to <FIG>).

In this aspect, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may determine a range of the floating display area based on an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded.

<FIG> illustrates a flowchart that relates to an activation of each display area.

In operation S201 as illustrated in <FIG>, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined first angle with respect to being folded, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may activate an edge display area.

Referring to view (a) of <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> is folded, an edge display area a1 may be in a deactivation state.

The term "deactivation state" refers to a state when the flexible display unit <NUM> is turned off, and a state when the flexible display unit <NUM> may be turned on if a preset trigger (for example, a generation of a new event such as an input of a key provided outside the foldable device <NUM>, a message reception, and/or a preset alarm) is generated.

Referring to view (b) of <FIG>, as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded from a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> may activate the edge display area a1. For example, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle (for example, <NUM>° θ ≤ <NUM>°) the controller <NUM> may activate the edge display area a1.

When each display area is "activated," a wallpaper that is preset as a default may be displayed. Additionally, if a display area is "activated" when a particular event is generated, a screen indicating the generated particular event may be displayed. If a display area is "activated" when a particular application is executed, an execution screen that relates to the particular application may be displayed.

In particular, an "activation" state of a display area may refer to a state that exists when certain content is displayed on the display area.

As another example, if a new event (for example, a message reception, a call reception, or the like) is generated when the foldable device <NUM> is folded as shown in view (a) of <FIG>, the controller <NUM> may activate the edge display area a1.

In operation S202 as illustrated in <FIG>, if an angle at which foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined second angle, the controller <NUM> included in the device <NUM> may activate a partial area (i.e., "a floating display area") of a main display area. For example, as shown in view (c) of <FIG>, if the foldable device is unfolded at an angle that is greater than a predetermined second angle (for example, <NUM>° < θ), the controller <NUM> may activate the floating display area a2.

In operation S203 as illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> included in the device <NUM> may determine whether an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased.

In operation S204 as illustrated in <FIG>, if the controller <NUM> determines via the sensing unit <NUM> that the angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased as the controller <NUM> is gradually unfolded, the controller <NUM> may expand a range of the partial area (i.e., "the floating display area") that is activated, from within the main display area. For example, as shown in view (c) of <FIG>, the controller <NUM> may expand a range of the floating display area a2 that starts from a boundary between the edge display area a1 and the main display area a3.

Referring to view (d) of <FIG>, if it is determined that an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than a predetermined third angle (for example, <NUM>° < θ), the controller <NUM> may activate the entirety of the main display area a3 that includes the floating display area a2.

Then, the controller <NUM> may display a wallpaper or an application execution screen as one area on the whole main display area a3 that includes the floating display area a2.

Additionally, if the whole main display area a3 of the foldable device <NUM> is activated, the controller <NUM> may display the main display area a3 so that the floating display area a2 may be distinguished from a remaining area of the main display area a3 which is outside of the floating display area a2, based on an execution area of an application. For example, if a video playback application is executed, the controller <NUM> may display an interface for controlling video playback on the floating display area a2, and a video clip that is being played on a remaining area of the main display area a3 outside of the floating display a2.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate examples of displaying content based on a range of the floating display area a2.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller <NUM> displays content on the edge display area a1 and displays detailed content, related to the content displayed on the edge display area a1, on an activated partial area (the floating display area a2) of the main display area a3.

For example, if content displayed on the edge display area a1 is a title of a message, detailed content displayed on the floating display area a2 may be a description of the message. Additionally, if content displayed on the edge display area a1 is a title that relates to music that is being played, detailed content displayed on the floating display area a2 may be an image related to the music that is being played, detailed information about the music that is being played, and/or the like.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded from a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> expands a range of the floating display area a2. Additionally, the controller <NUM> adjusts a type of content that is to be displayed on the floating display area a2, based on a range of the floating display area a2.

For example, referring to <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> displays content that includes a title, description, and an image on the flexible display unit <NUM> in accordance with an execution of a memo application, when the foldable device <NUM> is folded, the controller <NUM> may display only the title on the edge display area a1.

Referring to <FIG>, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a certain angle, the controller <NUM> activates the floating display area a2, and displays the description on the floating display area a2.

Additionally, as shown in <FIG>, as an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased, the controller <NUM> expands a range of the floating display area a2. Accordingly, the controller <NUM> may further display an image on the floating display area a2.

In particular, as a range of the floating display area a2 is expanded, the controller <NUM> determines a type of content that is to be displayed on the floating display area a2. Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded from a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> expands a range of the floating display area a2, and adjusts an amount of content that is to be displayed on the floating display area a2.

For example, referring to <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> displays a list of messages in correspondence with an execution of a message application, when the foldable device <NUM> is folded, the controller <NUM> may display one message in the list of the messages on the edge display area a1.

When the foldable device <NUM> is folded, if an event of message reception is generated, the controller <NUM> may activate the edge display area a1, and display a title or a part of a description that relates to the received message.

Referring to <FIG>, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle, the controller <NUM> activates the floating display area a2, and displays another message from within the list of the messages on the floating display area a2.

According to another exemplary embodiment, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle, the controller <NUM> activates the floating display area a2, and further displays a remaining description of the message displayed on the edge display area a1.

Additionally, as shown in <FIG>, as an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased, the controller <NUM> expands a range of the floating display area a2. Accordingly, the controller <NUM> may further display another message from within the list of the messages on the floating display area a2.

In this aspect, as the controller <NUM> expands a range of the floating display area a2, the controller <NUM> increases an amount of content that is to be displayed on the floating display area a2.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded, the controller <NUM> may expand a range of the floating display area a2, and adjust an attribute of content that is to be displayed on the floating display area a2.

For example, referring to <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> displays an interface related to music playback on the flexible display unit <NUM> in accordance with an execution of a music playback application, if the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being unfolded at a predetermined angle or a lesser angle, the controller <NUM> may display only a music playback control area on the edge display area a1.

Referring to <FIG>, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle as an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased, the controller <NUM> may activate the floating display area a2, and display an image related to a music playback list on the floating display area a2.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded, the controller <NUM> may expand a range of the floating display area a2 and adjust a number of pieces of content that is to be displayed on the floating display area a2.

For example, referring to <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> displays an icon that corresponds to an application, if the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being folded at a predetermined angle or a lesser angle, the controller <NUM> may display only a predetermined number of icons on the edge display area a1.

Referring to <FIG>, as an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is increased, if the angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a certain angle, the controller <NUM> may activate the floating display area a2 and further display additional icons that correspond to the application on the floating display area a2.

<FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining an example of displaying an edge display area as an angle at which the foldable device is unfolded is increased, according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded from a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> may activate an edge display area a1-<NUM>.

For example, referring to <FIG>, as an event is generated, when the foldable device <NUM> displays details regarding the generated event, if the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> may display an event in an event list on the edge display area a1. The details about the event may include an indication of an unidentified message, an indication of a missed call, or the like.

Referring to <FIG>, if an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle, the controller <NUM> may activate another edge display area a1-<NUM>, and display another event in the event list on the edge display area a1-<NUM>.

In this aspect, as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded, the controller <NUM> may increase an activated edge display area to include the edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> by activating the edge display area a1-<NUM>.

<FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate an example of displaying the edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded from a state of being folded.

As shown in <FIG>, and <FIG>, as the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded, the controller <NUM> may provide an interface for showing an animation effect on each of the edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a flowchart of a method for controlling a floating display area based on a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment. <FIG>, <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining a method for controlling the floating display area a2 based on a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment.

In operation S301 as illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may sense a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>. For example, the foldable device <NUM> may sense a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM> via the camera unit <NUM> or the sensing unit <NUM>.

In operation S302 as illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may determine a location from which a partial area that is activated (i.e., a "floating display area"), from within the main display area, starts, based on the sensed direction in which the user views the foldable device <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is placed in a lengthwise direction, and an upper surface of the foldable device <NUM> is open and unfolded, the floating display area a2 may start from a boundary between the first edge display area a1 and the main display area a3.

In particular, the floating display area a2 may be generated in a location that may be easily viewed by a user according to a direction in which the user views the foldable device <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is placed in a longitudinal direction, and a right surface of the foldable device <NUM> is open and unfolded, the floating display area a2 may start from a boundary between the first edge display area a1 and the main display area a3.

Referring to <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is placed in a longitudinal direction, and a left surface of the foldable device <NUM> is open and unfolded, the floating display area a2 may start from a boundary between a second edge display area a1-<NUM> and the main display area a3.

<FIG> illustrates a flowchart of a method for controlling an edge display area based on a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment. <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining a method for controlling edge display areas based on a direction in a user views the foldable device <NUM>, according to an exemplary embodiment.

According to an exemplary embodiment, if the flexible display unit <NUM> includes a plurality of edge display areas, the controller <NUM> may determine at least one edge display area that is to be activated, selected from the group consisting of the plurality of edge display areas, based on an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is inclined in a state of being folded and a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>.

In operation S401 as illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may sense an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is inclined in a state of being folded.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may sense an angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is inclined in a state of being folded, via the sensing unit <NUM> that includes the magnetic sensor <NUM>, the acceleration sensor <NUM>, the gyroscope sensor <NUM>, or the like.

In operation S402 as illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may sense a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>. For example, the foldable device <NUM> may sense a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM> via the camera unit <NUM> or the sensing unit <NUM>.

In operation S403 as illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> included in the foldable device <NUM> may determine at least one edge display area that is to be activated, selected from the group consisting of a plurality of edge display areas, based on the sensed angle at which the foldable device <NUM> is inclined and the sensed direction in which the user views the foldable device <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is inclined in a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> may activate the first edge display area a1 that is located at a lower part of the foldable device <NUM> and display content on the first edge display area a1, based on a direction in which the user views the foldable device <NUM>.

Additionally, as shown in <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is inclined in a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> may activate a second edge display area a1-<NUM> that is located at an upper part of the foldable device <NUM> and display content on the second edge display area a1-<NUM>, based on a direction in which the user views the foldable device <NUM>.

Additionally, as shown in <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being folded, if a user's eye level corresponds to a level of edge display areas, the controller <NUM> may activate intermediate areas (for example, a1-<NUM> or a1-<NUM>) of the first and second edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> so that the intermediate areas a1-<NUM> or a1-<NUM> are respectively viewed as one area, and display content on the intermediate areas (for example, a1-<NUM> and/or a1-<NUM>).

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining a method of controlling an edge display area based on a direction in which the foldable device <NUM> faces, according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded from a state of being folded when the foldable device <NUM> is placed in a lengthwise direction, the foldable device <NUM> may be unfolded in a longitudinal direction with reference to a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>. Accordingly, if the foldable device <NUM> is placed in a lengthwise direction in a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> may display an icon that corresponds to an application that is appropriate to be executed in the longitudinal direction when the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded. For example, the controller <NUM> may display icons i1, i2, and i3, which respectively correspond to a phone application, a message application, and a note application.

Additionally, the controller <NUM> may display an icon that corresponds to an application that has been executed several times when the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded in a longitudinal direction.

Referring to <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded from a state of being folded in a longitudinal direction, the foldable device <NUM> may be unfolded in a longitudinal direction with reference to a direction in which a user views the foldable device <NUM>. Accordingly, if the foldable device <NUM> is placed in a longitudinal direction in a state of being folded, the controller <NUM> may display an icon that corresponds to an application that is appropriate to be executed in the lengthwise direction when the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded. For example, the controller <NUM> may display icons i4, i5, and i6, which respectively correspond to a video playback application, a digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) application, and an electronic book application.

Additionally, the controller <NUM> may display an icon that corresponds to an application that has been executed several times when the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded in a lengthwise direction.

<FIG>, <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining an example of touch recognition in an edge display area, according to an exemplary embodiment.

As shown in <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being unfolded, the controller <NUM> may turn off a touch recognition function with respect to the edge display area a1. This is to prevent a malfunction of the foldable device <NUM> such that, when a user is holding the foldable device <NUM>, a finger f11 of the user is misunderstood as a touch input to the edge display area a1 regardless of an intention of the user.

As shown in <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is folded from a state of being unfolded, the controller <NUM> may turn on the touch recognition function with respect to the edge display area a1. This is to receive an input signal for operating a certain function of the foldable device <NUM>, by receiving a user input of touching the edge display area a1 by using a finger f12 of a user.

<FIG> illustrates a diagram for explaining an example of controlling touch recognition when a plurality of edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> are present.

As shown in the top portion of <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being unfolded, the controller <NUM> may turn on a touch recognition function with respect to the edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM>. In particular, the device <NUM> may receive an input signal for operating a function of the foldable device <NUM>, by receiving a user input of touching the edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> by using fingers f21 and f22 of a user.

As shown in the bottom portion of <FIG>, if the foldable device <NUM> is folded from a state of being unfolded, the controller <NUM> may perform a calibration process so as to increase an accuracy of touch recognition with respect to the plurality of edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> may recognize only a touch input with respect to a relatively larger touched area from among touch inputs with respect to the plurality of edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> as being a valid touch input.

Referring to the bottom portion of <FIG>, in the case of a first touch input t1, since a touched part t-<NUM> of the first edge display area a1 is larger than a touched part t1-<NUM> of the second edge display area a1-<NUM>, the controller <NUM> may determine that a touch input to the first edge display area a1 is received.

Additionally, in the case of a second touch input t2, since a touched part t2-<NUM> of the second edge display area a1-<NUM> is larger than a touched part t2-<NUM> of the first edge display area a1, the controller <NUM> may determine that a touch input to the second edge display area a1-<NUM> is received.

<FIG> illustrates a diagram for explaining an example of the foldable device <NUM> in which a foldable cover <NUM> is equipped, according to an exemplary embodiment.

As shown in <FIG>, a foldable cover <NUM> for covering the flexible display unit <NUM> may be equipped in the foldable device <NUM>. A plurality of magnets m1, m2, and m3 may be attached to an area in which the foldable cover <NUM> contacts the flexible display unit <NUM> when the foldable cover <NUM> covers the flexible display unit <NUM>. The foldable device <NUM> may determine an area of the flexible display unit <NUM> which is covered by the foldable cover <NUM>, by sensing a location and a number of magnets that contact the flexible display unit <NUM>.

As shown in a top portion of <FIG>, as the foldable cover <NUM> is opened from a state of being closed, the foldable device <NUM> may activate an edge display area b1 of the flexible display unit <NUM>.

Additionally, referring to a center portion of <FIG>, as the foldable cover <NUM> is opened in correspondence with a predetermined area, the foldable device <NUM> may activate the floating display area b2 of the flexible display unit <NUM>.

Additionally, as shown in a bottom portion of <FIG>, as the foldable cover <NUM> is opened at maximum, the foldable device <NUM> may activate a whole area of the main display area b3 that includes the floating display area b2 of the flexible display unit <NUM>.

<FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining an example of performing displaying on the flexible display unit <NUM>, based on a gesture that relates to unfolding the foldable device <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, a user may unfold the foldable device <NUM> while the user touches an icon i20, from among icons displayed on the edge display area a1, by using a finger or thumb f31. In this case, as shown in <FIG>, an execution screen that relates to an application which corresponds to the icon i20 touched by the user may be displayed on the flexible display unit <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates examples of executing different modes from each other based on a touch gesture performed when the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded.

As shown in a leftmost portion of <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being folded, if a user holds both edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> and unfolds the foldable device <NUM> by using both hands of the user while performing a gesture input in a direction d1 with a left hand and not performing a gesture input in a direction d2 with a right hand, a wallpaper in a general mode may be displayed on the flexible display unit <NUM>.

Additionally, as shown in a center portion of <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being folded, if a user holds both edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> and unfolds the foldable device <NUM> while performing a gesture input in directions d3 and d4, a wallpaper in a children's mode may be displayed on the flexible display unit <NUM>.

Additionally, as shown in a rightmost portion of <FIG>, when the foldable device <NUM> is in a state of being folded, if a user holds both edge display areas a1 and a1-<NUM> and unfolds the foldable device <NUM> while performing a gesture input in directions d5 and d6, a wallpaper in a business mode may be displayed on the flexible display unit <NUM>.

<FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate diagrams for explaining an example of unlocking the flexible display unit <NUM> based on a gesture that relates to unfolding the foldable device <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, user icons which respectively correspond to a plurality of users may be displayed on the first edge display area a1. Number icons for inputting a password may be displayed on the second edge display area a2.

For example, a user may unfold the foldable device <NUM> while touching a user icon i30 and a number icon i31 respectively by using fingers f41 and f42. If the foldable device <NUM> determines that the user icon i30 and the number icon i31 which are selected by a touch input correspond to each other, the foldable device <NUM> may release a locked state of the foldable device <NUM> and display a wallpaper on the flexible display unit <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates diagrams for explaining an example of inputting a password.

As shown in leftmost drawing (a) of <FIG>, if a predetermined password for releasing a locked state of the foldable device <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>-<NUM>, when a touch gesture of moving a finger in a direction from a number icon <NUM> to a number icon <NUM> which are displayed the edge display area a1-<NUM>, and then, a touch gesture of moving the finger in a direction from the number icon <NUM> to a number icon <NUM> displayed on the edge display area a1-<NUM> are performed, the foldable device <NUM> is unfolded, and thus, the locked state of the foldable device <NUM> may be released.

Additionally, as shown in drawings (b-<NUM>), (b-<NUM>), (b-<NUM>), and (b-<NUM>) of <FIG>, the foldable device <NUM> may sequentially provide expected number icons to the edge display area a1-<NUM> so that an input of a password for releasing a lock state of the foldable device <NUM> is facilitated.

For example, drawings (b-<NUM>), (b-<NUM>), (b-<NUM>), and (b-<NUM>) of <FIG> illustrate a method for inputting a password when a predetermined password for releasing a locked state of the foldable device <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>-<NUM>-<NUM>.

As shown in drawing (b-<NUM>) of <FIG>, number icons <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be sequentially displayed on the edge display area a1-<NUM>. If the foldable device <NUM> receives a touch gesture input of moving a user's finger in an upward direction so as to select the number <NUM>, the foldable device <NUM> may provide number icons <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> so that a next number in the password is input (as shown in drawing (b-<NUM>) of <FIG>).

Then, the foldable device <NUM> may receive a tap input of selecting a number icon <NUM>. Additionally, as illustrated in drawing (b-<NUM>) of <FIG>, the foldable device <NUM> may receive a tap input of selecting a number icon <NUM>. Then, as illustrated in drawing (b-<NUM>) of <FIG>, the foldable device <NUM> may receive a touch gesture input of moving a finger in a downward direction so as to select the number icon <NUM>. In this aspect, if the number icons <NUM>-<NUM>-<NUM>-<NUM> in the predetermined password are sequentially input, the locked state of the foldable device <NUM> may be released.

It may be understood that the exemplary embodiments described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Additionally, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to sequences of operations provided in the flowcharts described with reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. It will be further understood that some operations may not be included, and additional operations may be further included, according to exemplary embodiments.

One or more exemplary embodiments can be embodied in the form of a recording medium containing commands which are implementable by a computer, such as, for example, a program module executed by a computer. The computer-readable medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer and includes any of volatile and non-volatile mediums and separable and non-separable mediums. Furthermore, the computer readable medium may include all of computer storage mediums and communication mediums. The computer storage medium includes any of a volatile and a non-volatile medium and a separable and a non-separable medium embodied by any method or technology for storing information such as a computer-readable command, a data structure, a program module or other data. The communication medium includes any of a computer readable command, a data structure, a program module or other data of a modulated data signal, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information transmission medium.

Additionally, a "unit" described herein may include a hardware component, such as a processor or a circuit, and/or a software component executed by a hardware component such as a processor.

It should be understood that exemplary embodiments described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each exemplary embodiment should typically be considered as available for other similar features or aspects in other exemplary embodiments. For example, each component described in a singular form may be executed in a distributed form. Likewise, components described in a distributed form may be executed in a combined form.

Claim 1:
A foldable device (<NUM>) comprising:
a flexible display (<NUM>) comprising a display area (a3) and at least one edge display area (a1, a1-<NUM>, a1-<NUM>) configured to display content with respect to an event on the at least one edge display area (a1, a1-<NUM>, a1-<NUM>) in response to the event;
a sensing unit (<NUM>) configured to sense an angle at which the foldable device (<NUM>) is unfolded; and
a controller (<NUM>) configured to:
based on detecting an unfolding of the foldable device (<NUM>), control the flexible display (<NUM>) to display a first content in a partial area (a2) of the display area (a3) being activated based on the angle at which the foldable device (<NUM>) is unfolded, and
in response to the angle at which the foldable device (<NUM>) is unfolded being increased, expand a range of the partial area (a2) of the display area (a3) being further activated based on the angle to display a second content;
wherein the controller (<NUM>) is configured to adjust at least one of a type and an amount of content to be displayed on the expanded range of the partial area (a2) of the display area (a3) in accordance with an increase in the angle at which the foldable device (<NUM>) is unfolded.