Patent Description:
As the demand for mobile communication increases, or as the degree of integration of electronic devices increases, the portability of electronic devices such as mobile communication terminals may be increased, and better convenience may be provided in use of multimedia functions. For example, as touchscreen-integrated displays replace traditional mechanical (button-type) keypads, electronic devices may come more compact while functioning as an input device. For example, as the mechanical keypad may be omitted from the electronic device, portability of the electronic device may be improved. As the display area may be expanded to the area which used to be occupied by the mechanical keypad, the electronic device may provide a larger screen while remaining in the same size and weight as when it has the mechanical keypad.

Use of an electronic device with a larger screen may give more convenience in, e.g., web browsing or multimedia playing. A larger display may be adopted to output a larger screen. However, this way may be limited by the portability of the electronic device. According to an embodiment, a display using organic light emitting diodes may secure the portability of the electronic device while providing a larger screen. For example, a display using, or equipped with, organic light emitting diodes may implement a stable operation even if it is made quite thin, so that the display may be applied to an electronic device in a foldable, bendable or rollable form.

Electronic devices which may be folded or rolled according to the relative motion of mechanical structures may suffer from influx of foreign bodies into the internal space through the gap between the mechanical structures. For example, the foreign bodies may contaminate the internal space of the foldable, or rollable, electronic device or damage various electronic or mechanical components.

A foldable or rollable electronic device may include a flexible display. The flexible display may be attached to a mechanical structure and may be protected by a transparent member, such as a glass plate, a glass cover, a glass film, or a polyimide film, if necessary. In a structure in which the flexible display is attached to a mechanical structure in a foldable or rollable electronic device, the flexible display may be peeled off from the mechanical structure. For example, as the adhesive (or adhesive member) in the electronic device may denature or deteriorate according to the actual use environment or use time, the flexible display may start peeling off from a portion, e.g., edge or corner, thereof.

<CIT> describes an expandable mobile device, the device includes first and second housing parts that slide-engage relative to each other to extend and retract the device. The expandable mobile device includes a flexible display that extends from an interior of the expandable mobile device as the second housing part slides out from the first housing part. The flexible display also retracts into the interior of the expandable mobile device as the second housing part slides into the first housing part. Rollers are integrated in the first housing part and bend the flexible display around a fixed radius to position a first section of the flexible display approximately parallel to a second section of the flexible display in a retracted position of the expandable mobile device.

<CIT> describes a flexible display apparatus including a flexible display panel, a housing including an opening through which the flexible display panel enters and exits the housing, a cylinder disposed within the housing to coil and uncoil the flexible display panel, and a stretcher that selectively extends from the opening to support the flexible display panel, such that the flexible display panel is substantially planar when the flexible display panel is extended outside of the housing.

According to various embodiments, there may be provided an electronic device including a flexible display, which may block entry of foreign bodies into the internal space.

According to various embodiments, there may be provided an electronic device including a flexible display, which may block entry of foreign bodies while allowing the flexible display to be folded or rolled more smoothly.

According to various embodiments, there may be provided an electronic device including a flexible display, which may prevent the flexible display from separating off the mechanical structure and secure durability.

In accordance with an embodiment, an electronic device comprises a first structure including a first plate providing a first surface and a second surface facing away from the first surface, a second structure coupled to surround at least a portion of the first structure and guiding a sliding of the first structure in a direction parallel with the first surface or the second surface of the first structure, a roller rotatably mounted on an edge of the second structure, a flexible display including a first area mounted on the first surface of the first structure and a second area extending from the first area, the second area of the flexible display guided at least partially by the roller to be inserted or received from the edge of the second structure to an inside of the second structure or exposed to an outside of the second structure as the first structure is slid, and at least a portion of a support sheet mounted on the roller and selectively wound around the roller as the roller rotates, wherein the at least one portion of the support sheet is wound around the roller when the second area is received inside the second structure, and is deformed into a flat plate shape inside the second area when the second area is exposed to the outside of the second structure.

In accordance with an embodiment, an electronic device may comprise a housing including a rear case and a side wall extending from the rear case, a roller rotatably mounted in the housing while being positioned adjacent to a portion of the side wall, at least one support sheet mounted on the roller and selectively wound around the roller as the roller rotates, and a flexible display including a first area exposed to an outside of the housing and a second area extending from the first area, the second area of the flexible display guided by the roller to be at least partially inserted or received inside the housing or exposed to the outside of the housing, wherein the support sheet is gradually wound around the roller as the second area is gradually received inside the housing, and wherein when the second area is exposed to the outside of the housing, the support sheet is positioned between the rear case and the second area and deformed into a flat plate shape.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may include a support member (e.g., support sheet) wound around the roller, thereby allowing for adjustment of the gap (e.g., the gap of the entrance) of the portion where the flexible display enters the second structure or the housing. For example, the entrance gap may be reduced, with the flexible display received in the second structure or housing, so that entry of foreign bodies may be blocked off. According to an embodiment, a sufficient gap may be secured between the flexible display and other structures while inserted to or extracted from the second structure or housing, thus preventing the display from interfering with or rubbing against other structures. By preventing the flexible display from interfering with or rubbing against other structures, the insertion or extraction operation may be smoothed, and damage to the flexible display may be prevented. According to an embodiment, at least some of the edges of the flexible display may be supported on the inside of the mechanical structure, thereby preventing separation from the mechanical structure due to degeneration of the adhesive component (or adhesive member).

A module may be a single integral component, or a reduced (minimum) unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions.

Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory or external memory) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device #<NUM>). For example, a processor of the machine (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without using one or more other components under the control of the processor.

According to an embodiment, a method may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store (e.g., PLAYSTORE), or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly.

According to an embodiment, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities. According to an embodiment, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. According to an embodiment, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration. According to an embodiment, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

<FIG> is a view illustrating an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment, wherein a portion (e.g., the second area A2) of a flexible display <NUM> is received in a second structure <NUM>. <FIG> is a view illustrating an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment, wherein most of a flexible display <NUM> is exposed to the outside of a second structure <NUM>.

The state shown in <FIG> may be defined as a first structure <NUM> being closed with respect to a second structure <NUM>, and the state shown in <FIG> may be defined as the first structure <NUM> being open with respect to the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the "closed state" or "opened state" may be defined as a closed or open state of the electronic device.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an electronic device <NUM> may include a first structure <NUM> and a second structure <NUM> disposed to be movable in the first structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may be interpreted as having a structure in which the first structure <NUM> is slidably disposed on the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first structure <NUM> may be disposed to perform reciprocating motion by a predetermined distance in a predetermined direction with respect to the second structure <NUM>, for example, a direction indicated by an arrow ①.

According to an embodiment, the first structure <NUM> may be referred to as, for example, a first housing, a slide unit, or a slide housing, and may be disposed to reciprocate on the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second structure <NUM> may be referred to as, for example, a second housing, a main part, or a main housing, and may receive various electric or electronic components such as a main circuit board or a battery. A portion (e.g., the first area A1) of the display <NUM> may be seated on the first structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, another portion (e.g., the second area A2) of the display <NUM> may be received (e.g., slide-in) into the inside of the second structure <NUM> or exposed (e.g., slide-out) to the outside of the second structure <NUM> as the first structure <NUM> moves (e.g., slides) relative to the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the first structure <NUM> may include a first plate 111a (e.g., a slide plate), and the first structure <NUM> may include a first surface F1 (refer to <FIG>) formed to at least a portion of the first plate 111a and a second surface F2 facing away from the first surface F1. According to an embodiment, the second structure <NUM> may include a second plate 121a (refer to <FIG>) (e.g., a rear case), a first side wall 123a extending from the second plate 121a, a second side wall 123b extending from the first side wall and the second plate 121a, a third side wall 123c extending from the first side wall 123a and the second plate 121a and positioned parallel to the second side wall 123b, and/or a rear plate 121b (e.g., a rear window). According to an embodiment, the second side wall 123b and the third side wall 123c may be formed to be perpendicular to the first side wall 123a. According to an embodiment, the second plate 121a, the first side wall 123a, the second side wall 123b, and the third side wall 123c may be formed to have an opening (e.g., in the front face) to receive (or surround) at least a portion of the first structure <NUM>. For example, the first structure <NUM> may be coupled to the second structure <NUM> in a state in which it is at least partially surrounded, and the first structure <NUM> may be slide in a direction parallel to the first surface F1 or the second surface F2, for example, direction ① indicated with the arrow.

According to an embodiment, the second side wall 123b or the third side wall 123c may be omitted. According to an embodiment, the second plate 121a, the first side wall 123a, the second side wall 123b, and/or the third side wall 123c may be formed as separate structures and may be combined or assembled. The rear plate 121b may be coupled to surround at least a portion of the second plate 121a. According to an embodiment, the rear plate 121b may be formed substantially integrally with the second plate 121a. According to an embodiment, the second plate 121a or the rear plate 121b may cover at least a portion of the flexible display <NUM>. For example, the flexible display <NUM> may be at least partially received inside the second structure <NUM>, and the second plate 121a or the rear plate 121b may cover the portion of the flexible display received inside the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the first structure <NUM> may be moved in an open state or closed state with respect to the second structure <NUM> in a first direction (e.g., direction ①) parallel with the second plate 121a (e.g., the rear case) and the second side wall 123b to be positioned a first distance away from the first side wall 123a in the closed state and be positioned a second distance away from the first side wall 123a in the open state, wherein the second distance is larger than the first distance. According to an embodiment, when in the closed state, the first structure <NUM> may be positioned to surround a portion of the first side wall 123a.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a display <NUM>, a key input device <NUM>, a connector hole <NUM>, audio holes 145a, 145b, 147a, and 147b, or a camera module <NUM>. Although not shown, the electronic device <NUM> may further include an indicator (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED) device) or various sensor modules.

According to an embodiment, the display <NUM> may include a first area A1 and a second area A2. According to an embodiment, the first area A1 may extend substantially across at least a portion of the first surface F1 and may be disposed on the first surface F1. The second area A2 may extend from the first area A1 and be inserted or received into the inside of the second structure <NUM> (e.g., housing) or be exposed to the outside of the structure <NUM> as the first structure <NUM> slides. As will be described below, the second area A2 may be moved while being substantially guided by a roller <NUM> (refer to <FIG>) mounted on the second structure <NUM> and may thus be received into the inside of or exposed to the outside of the second structure <NUM>. For example, while the first structure <NUM> slides, a portion of the second area A2 may be deformed into a curved shape in a position corresponding to the roller <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, when viewed from the top of the first plate 111a (e.g., slide plate), when the first structure <NUM> moves from the closed state to the open state, the second area A2 may be gradually exposed to the outside of the second structure <NUM> to be substantially coplanar with the first area A1. The display <NUM> may be disposed to be coupled with, or adjacent, a touch detecting circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the strength (pressure) of touches, and/or a digitizer for detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen. According to an embodiment, the second area A2 may be at least partially received inside the second structure <NUM>, and a portion of the second area A2 may be exposed to the outside even in the state shown in <FIG> (e.g., the closed state). According to an embodiment, irrespective of the closed state or the open state, the exposed portion of the second area A2 may be positioned on the roller <NUM> and, in a position corresponding to the roller <NUM>, a portion of the second area A2 may maintain the curved shape.

The key input device <NUM> may be disposed on the second side wall 123b or the third side wall 123c of the second structure <NUM>. Depending on the appearance and the state of use, the electronic device <NUM> may be designed to omit the illustrated key input device <NUM> or to include additional key input device(s). According to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a key input device (not shown), e.g., a home key button or a touchpad disposed around the home key button. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the key input device <NUM> may be positioned on an area of the first structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the connector hole <NUM> may be omitted or may receive a connector (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) connector) for transmitting and receiving power and/or data with an external electronic device. Although not shown, the electronic device <NUM> may include a plurality of connector holes <NUM>, and some of the plurality of connector holes <NUM> may function as connector holes for transmitting/receiving audio signals with an external electronic device. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector hole <NUM> is disposed on the third side wall 123c, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the connector hole <NUM> or a connector hole not shown may be disposed on the first side wall 123a or the second side wall 123b.

According to an embodiment, the audio holes 145a, 145b, 147a, and 147b may include speaker holes 145a and 145b or microphone holes 147a and 147b. One of the speaker holes 145a and 145b may be provided as a receiver hole for voice calls, and the other may be provided as an external speaker hole. The microphone holes 147a and 147b may have a microphone inside to obtain external sounds. According to an embodiment, there may be a plurality of microphones to be able to detect the direction of a sound. According to an embodiment, the speaker holes 145a and 145b and the microphone holes 147a and 147b may be implemented as one hole, or a speaker may be included without the speaker holes 145a and 145b (e.g., a piezo speaker). According to, the speaker hole indicated by the reference number "145b" may be disposed in the first structure <NUM> and used as a receiver hole for voice calls, and the speaker hole indicated by the reference number "145a" (e.g., an external speaker hole) or the microphone holes 147a and 147b may be disposed in the second structure <NUM> (e.g., one of the side walls 123a, 123b, and 123c).

The camera module <NUM> may be provided on the second structure <NUM> and may capture a subject in a direction opposite to the first area A1 of the display <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> may include a plurality of camera modules <NUM>. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may include a wide-angle camera, a telephoto camera, or a close-up camera, and according to an embodiment, by including an infrared projector and/or an infrared receiver, the electronic device <NUM> may measure the distance to the subject. The camera module <NUM> may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. Although not shown, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a camera module (e.g., a front camera) that captures the subject in a direction opposite to the first area A1 of the display <NUM>. For example, the front camera may be disposed around the first area A1 or in an area overlapping the display <NUM> and, when disposed in the area overlapping the display <NUM>, the front camera may capture the subject via the display <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, an indicator (not shown) of the electronic device <NUM> may be disposed on the first structure <NUM> or the second structure <NUM>, and the indicator may include a light emitting diode to provide state information about the electronic device <NUM> as a visual signal. The sensor module (not shown) of the electronic device <NUM> may produce an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the internal operation state or external environment state of the electronic device. The sensor module may include, for example, a proximity sensor, a fingerprint sensor, or a biometric sensor (e.g., an iris/face recognition sensor or a heartrate monitor (HRM) sensor). According to an embodiment, the sensor module may further include, e.g., at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> or <FIG>) according to an embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may include a first structure <NUM>, a second structure <NUM> (e.g., a housing), a display <NUM> (e.g., a flexible display), a guide member (e.g., the roller <NUM>), a support sheet <NUM>, and/or a multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>. A portion (e.g., the second area A2) of the display <NUM> may be received in the second structure <NUM> while being guided by the roller <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the first structure <NUM> may include a first plate 111a (e.g., a slide plate), a first bracket 111b and/or a second bracket 111c mounted on the first plate 111a. The first structure <NUM>, for example, the first plate 111a, the first bracket 111b, and/or the second bracket 111c may be formed of a metallic material and/or a non-metallic (e.g., polymer) material. The first plate 111a may be mounted on the second structure <NUM> (e.g., the housing) and may be linearly reciprocated in one direction (e.g., in the direction ① indicated with the arrow in <FIG>) while being guided by the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first bracket 111b may be coupled to the first plate 111a to, together with the first plate 111a, form the first surface F1 of the first structure <NUM>. The first area A1 of the display <NUM> may be substantially mounted on the first surface F1 and remain in a flat plate shape. The second bracket 111c may be coupled to the first plate 111a to, together with the first plate 111a, form the second surface F2 of the first structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first bracket 111b and/or the second bracket 111c may be integrally formed with the first plate 111a. This may be appropriately designed in consideration of the assembly structure or manufacturing process of the product to be manufactured. The first structure <NUM> or the first plate 111a may be coupled with the second structure <NUM> and slide with respect to the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may include a plurality of bars or rods <NUM> (refer to <FIG>) and may be connected to one end of the first structure <NUM>. For example, as the first structure <NUM> slides, the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may move with respect to the second structure <NUM> and, in a closed state (e.g., the state shown in <FIG>),the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may be substantially received inside the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, even in the closed state, a portion of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may not be received inside the second structure <NUM>. For example, even in the closed state, a portion of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may be positioned to correspond to the roller <NUM> outside the second structure <NUM>. The plurality of rods <NUM> may extend in a straight line and be disposed parallel to the rotation axis R of the roller <NUM>, and the plurality of rods <NUM> may be arranged along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis R, e.g., the direction along which the first structure <NUM> slides.

According to an embodiment, each rod <NUM> may pivot around another adjacent rod <NUM> while remaining parallel with the other adjacent rod <NUM>. Accordingly, as the first structure <NUM> slides, the plurality of rods <NUM> may be arranged to form a curved shape or a planar shape. For example, as the first structure <NUM> slides, a portion of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>, which faces the roller <NUM>, may form a curved surface, and another portion of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>, which does not face the roller <NUM>, may form a flat surface. According to an embodiment, the second area A2 of the display <NUM> may be mounted or supported on the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and, in the open state (e.g., the state shown in <FIG>), the second area A2, along with the first area A1, may be exposed to the outside of the second structure <NUM>. In the state in which the second area A2 is exposed to the outside of the second structure <NUM>, the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may substantially form a flat surface, thereby supporting or maintaining the second area A2 in the flat state.

According to an embodiment, the second structure <NUM> (e.g., housing) may include a second plate 121a (e.g., a rear case), a printed circuit board (not shown), a rear plate 121b, a third plate 121c (e.g., the front case), and a support member 121d. The second plate 121a, e.g., the rear case, may be disposed to face in a direction opposite to the first surface F1 of the first plate 111a, and the second plate 121a may substantially form the external shape of the second structure <NUM> or the electronic device <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second structure <NUM> may include a first side wall 123a extending from the second plate 121a, a second side wall 123b extending from the second plate 121a and formed to be substantially perpendicular to the first side wall 123a, and a third side wall 123c extending from the second plate 121a, substantially perpendicular to the first side wall 123a, and parallel to the second side wall 123b. In the illustrated embodiment, the second side wall 123b and the third side wall 123c are manufactured as separate components from the second plate 121a and are mounted or assembled on the second plate 121a. However, the second side wall 123b and the third side wall 123c may alternatively be integrally formed with the second plate 121a. The second structure <NUM> may receive an antenna for proximity wireless communication, an antenna for wireless charging, or an antenna for magnetic secure transmission (MST) in a space that does not overlap the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the rear plate 121b may be coupled to the outer surface of the second plate 121a and, according to an embodiment, the rear plate 121b may be manufactured integrally with the second plate 121a. According to an embodiment, the second plate 121a may be formed of a metal or polymer, and the rear plate 121b may be formed of a material such as metal, glass, synthetic resin, or ceramic to decorate the exterior of the electronic device <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second plate 121a and/or the rear plate 121b may be formed of a material that transmits light at least partially (e.g., an auxiliary display area). For example, while a portion (e.g., the second area A2) of the display <NUM> is received in the second structure <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> may output visual information using a partial area of the display <NUM> received inside the second structure <NUM>. The auxiliary display area may provide the visual information output from the area received inside the second structure <NUM> to the outside of the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the third plate 121c may be formed of a metal or polymer, and the third plate 121c may be coupled with the second plate 121a (e.g., rear case), the first side wall 123a, the second side wall 123b, and/or the third side wall 123c to form an internal space of the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the third plate 121c may be referred to as a "front case", and the first structure <NUM>, e.g., the first plate 111a, may be slid while substantially facing the third plate 121c. According to an embodiment, the first side wall 123a may be formed of a combination of a first side wall portion 123a-<NUM> extending from the second plate 121a and a second side wall portion 123a-<NUM> formed at an edge of the third plate 121c. According to an embodiment, the first side wall portion 123a-<NUM> may be coupled to surround an edge of the third plate 121c, e.g., the second side wall portion 123a-<NUM>. In this case, the first side wall portion 123a-<NUM> itself may form the first side wall 123a.

According to an embodiment, the support member 121d may be disposed in a space between the second plate 121a and the third plate 121c, and may have a flat plate shape formed of a metal or polymer. The support member 121d may provide an electromagnetic shielding structure in the internal space of the second structure <NUM> or may increase mechanical rigidity of the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, when received into the inside of the second structure <NUM>, a partial area (e.g., the second area A2) of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and/or the display <NUM> may be positioned in a space between the second plate 121a and the support member 121d.

According to an embodiment, a printed circuit board (not shown) may be disposed in a space between the third plate 121c and the support member 121d. For example, the printed circuit board may be received in a space separated by the support member 121d from the space in which a partial area of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and/or the display <NUM> is received inside the second structure <NUM>. A processor, memory, and/or interface may be mounted on the printed circuit board. The processor may include one or more of, e.g., a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing device, an image signal processing, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor.

The memory may include, e.g., a volatile or non-volatile memory.

The interface may include, e.g., a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, and/or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect, e.g., the electronic device <NUM> with an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/multimedia card (MMC) connector, or an audio connector.

According to an embodiment, the display <NUM> may be an organic light emitting diode-based flexible display, and the display <NUM> may normally remain in the flat shape and may be at least partially deformed into a curved shape. According to an embodiment, the first area A1 of the display <NUM> may be mounted or attached to the first surface F1 of the first structure <NUM> and maintained in a substantially flat shape. The second area A2 may extend from the first area A1 and may be supported or attached to the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>. For example, the second area A2 may extend along the sliding direction of the first structure <NUM> and, along with the multi-joint hinge structure, may be received in the second structure <NUM>. As the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> is deformed, the second area A2 may be at least partially deformed into a curved shape.

According to an embodiment, as the first structure <NUM> slides on the second structure <NUM>, the area of the display <NUM> exposed to the outside may vary. The electronic device <NUM> (e.g., processor) may change the area of the display <NUM> that is activated based on the area of the display <NUM> that is exposed to the outside. For example, in the open state or in an intermediate position between the closed state and the open state, the electronic device <NUM> may activate a partial area exposed to the outside of the second structure <NUM> of the entire area of the display <NUM>. In the closed state, the electronic device <NUM> may activate the first area A1 of the display <NUM> and deactivate the second area A2. In the closed state, when there is no user input for a certain period of time (e.g., <NUM> seconds or <NUM> minutes), the electronic device <NUM> may deactivate the entire area of the display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, in the state in which the entire area of the display <NUM> is deactivated, the electronic device <NUM> may activate a partial area of the display <NUM> as necessary (e.g., a notification according to user settings, missing call/received message notification) and provide visual information through the auxiliary display area (e.g., a portion of the second plate 121a and/or the rear plate 121b formed of a material that transmits light).

According to an embodiment, in the open state (e.g., the state shown in <FIG> ), the entire area (e.g., the first area A1 and the second area A2) of the display <NUM> may be substantially exposed to the outside, and the first area A1 and the second area A2 may be arranged to form a plane. According to an embodiment, even in the open state, a portion (e.g., one end) of the second area A2 may be positioned corresponding to the roller <NUM>, and the portion of the second area A2, which corresponds to the roller <NUM> may remain in the curved shape. For example, according to an embodiment, despite the phrase "the second area A2 is disposed to form a plane in the open state," a portion of the second area A2 may remain in the curved shape. Likewise, although it is stated that "in the closed state, the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and/or the second area A2 are received inside the second structure <NUM>," a portion of the second area A2 of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may be positioned outside the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the guide member, e.g., the roller <NUM>, may be rotatably mounted on the second structure <NUM> in a position adjacent to an edge of the second structure <NUM> (e.g., the second plate 121a). For example, the roller <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to an edge (e.g., the portion indicated with reference denotation 'IE') of the second plate 121a parallel to the first side wall 123a. Although no reference denotation is assigned in the drawings, another side wall may extend from the edge of the second plate 121a, and the side wall adjacent to the roller <NUM> may be substantially parallel to the first side wall 123a. As mentioned above, the side wall of the second structure <NUM> adjacent to the roller <NUM> may be formed of a material that transmits light, and a portion of the second area A2 may provide visual information via the portion of the second structure <NUM> while being received in the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, an end of the roller <NUM> may be rotatably coupled to the second side wall 123b, and the other end thereof may be rotatably coupled to the third side wall 123c. For example, the roller <NUM> may be mounted on the second structure <NUM>, rotating about the rotation axis R perpendicular to the sliding direction (e.g., direction ① indicated with the arrow in <FIG> or <FIG>) of the first structure <NUM>. The rotation axis R may be disposed substantially parallel to the first side wall 123a, and may be positioned away from the first side wall 123a, for example, at one edge of the second plate 121a. According to an embodiment, the gap formed between the outer circumferential surface of the roller <NUM> and the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a may form an entrance through which the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> or display <NUM> enters the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, when the display <NUM> is deformed into a curved shape, the roller <NUM> maintains a radius of curvature of the display <NUM> to a certain degree, thereby suppressing excessive deformation of the display <NUM>. The term "excessive deformation" may mean that the display <NUM> is deformed to have a radius of curvature that is too small to damage pixels or signal lines included in the display <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> may be moved or deformed while being guided by the roller <NUM> and may be protected from damage due to excessive deformation. According to an embodiment, the roller <NUM> may rotate while the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> or the display <NUM> is inserted into or extracted from the second structure <NUM>. For example, the friction between the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> (or display <NUM>) and the second structure <NUM> may be suppressed, allowing the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> (or display <NUM>) to smooth the insertion/extraction of the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the support sheet <NUM> may be formed of a material having flexibility and a certain degree of elasticity, for example, a material including an elastic body such as silicone or rubber. As the roller <NUM> rotates, with the support sheet <NUM> mounted or attached to the roller <NUM>, the support sheet <NUM> may be selectively wound around the roller <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of (e.g., four) support sheets <NUM> may be arranged along the direction of the rotation axis R of the roller <NUM>. For example, the plurality of support sheets <NUM> may be mounted on the roller <NUM> with them a predetermined distance spaced apart from other adjacent support sheets <NUM>, and the support sheets <NUM> may extend along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis R. Alternatively, one support sheet may be mounted or attached to the roller <NUM>. For example, one support sheet may have a size and shape corresponding to the area in which the support sheets <NUM> are disposed and the area between the support sheets <NUM> in <FIG>. As such, the number, size, or shape of the support sheets <NUM> may be appropriately changed depending on the product actually manufactured. According to an embodiment, as the roller <NUM> rotates, the support sheet <NUM> may be rolled up on the outer circumferential surface of the roller <NUM> or may depart from the roller <NUM> and unfold in a flat plate shape between the display <NUM> and the third plate 121c. According to an embodiment, the support sheet <NUM> may be referred to as a "support belt", "auxiliary belt", "support film" or "auxiliary film".

According to an embodiment, an end of the support sheet <NUM> may be connected to the first structure <NUM>, e.g., the first plate 111a (e.g., slide plate) and, in a closed state (e.g., the state shown in <FIG>), the support sheet <NUM> may be rolled on the roller <NUM>. Therefore, when the first plate 111a moves to the open state (e.g., the state shown in <FIG>), the support sheet <NUM> may be gradually positioned between the second structure <NUM> (e.g., the third plate 121c) and the display <NUM> (e.g., the second area A2) or between the second structure <NUM> (e.g., the third plate 121c) and the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>. For example, at least a portion of the support sheet <NUM> may be positioned to face the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and may be selectively wound around the roller <NUM> as the first plate 111a slides. The support sheet <NUM> is generally disposed in contact with the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>, but the portion rolled up around the roller <NUM> may be substantially separated from the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the gap (e.g., the arrangement gap G of <FIG>) between the surface of the display <NUM> and the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a may differ depending on the degree to which the support sheet <NUM> is wound around the roller <NUM>. The smaller the arrangement gap G is, the easier it is to prevent foreign bodies from flowing in, but when the arrangement gap G is too small, the display <NUM> may contact or rub against the second plate 121a. When direct contact or friction occurs, the surface of the display <NUM> may be damaged or the sliding operation of the first structure <NUM> may be obstructed.

According to an embodiment, the support sheet <NUM> is wound around the roller <NUM> in the closed state, thus reducing the gap between the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a and the surface of the display <NUM> while keeping the surface of the display <NUM> not in contact with the second plate 121a. For example, it is possible to prevent foreign bodies from flowing into the inside of the second structure <NUM> by reducing the arrangement gap G in the closed state. According to an embodiment, as the first structure <NUM> (e.g., the first plate 111a or the slide plate) gradually moves to the open state, the support sheet <NUM> may move away from the roller <NUM> and gradually move to the space between the second structure <NUM> (e.g., the second plate 121a or the third plate 121c) and the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>. For example, as the first structure <NUM> moves to the open state, the arrangement gap G gradually increases, suppressing direct friction or contact between the display <NUM> and other structures (e.g., the second plate 121a) and hence preventing possible damage to the surface of the display <NUM> due to friction or contact. According to an embodiment, the thickness of the support sheet <NUM> may gradually increase as the distance between an end (e.g., the portion fixed to the roller <NUM>) and the other end (e.g., the portion fixed to the first plate 111a) reduces. Use of the thickness profile of the support sheet <NUM> allows for adjustment of the arrangement gap G in the closed state and the open state. A configuration in which the gap (e.g., arrangement distance G) between the surface of the display <NUM> and the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a is adjusted is described below in more detail with reference to <FIG>.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include at least one elastic member <NUM> and <NUM> formed of a low density elastic body such as a sponge or a brush. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may include a first elastic member <NUM> mounted on one end of the display <NUM> and, according to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a second elastic member <NUM> mounted on the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a. The first elastic member <NUM> may be substantially disposed in the internal space of the second structure <NUM> and may be positioned to correspond to the edge of the second plate 121a in the open state (e.g., the state shown in <FIG>). According to an embodiment, the first elastic member <NUM> may move in the internal space of the second structure <NUM> as the first structure <NUM> slides. When the first structure <NUM> moves from the closed state to the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may move toward the edge of the second plate 121a. When the first structure <NUM> reaches the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may contact the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a. For example, in the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may seal the gap between the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a and the surface of the display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, when moving from the closed state to the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may move (e.g., slidingly contact) while in contact with the second plate 121a. For example, if a foreign body has been introduced in the gap between the second area A2 and the second plate 121a in the closed state, when moving to the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may discharge the foreign body to the outside of the second structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the second elastic member <NUM> may be attached to the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a, and may be disposed to substantially face the inner surface of the display <NUM>. In the closed state, the gap (e.g., the arrangement gap) between the surface of the display <NUM> and the inner edge of the second plate 121a may be substantially determined by the second elastic member <NUM>. According to an embodiment, in the closed state, the second elastic member <NUM> may contact the surface of the display <NUM>, substantially sealing the arrangement gap G. According to an embodiment, the second elastic member <NUM> may be formed of a low-density elastic body such as a sponge or a brush, so that the surface of the display <NUM> may be prevented from damage despite direct contact with the display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, as the first structure <NUM> gradually moves to the open state, the arrangement gap G may increase. For example, the display <NUM> may gradually expose the second area A2 to the outside of the second structure <NUM> substantially without contacting or rubbing against the second elastic member <NUM>. When the first structure <NUM> reaches the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may contact the second elastic member <NUM>. For example, in the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> and the second elastic member <NUM> may seal the arrangement gap G, blocking influx of foreign bodies.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a guide rail(s) <NUM> and/or an actuating member(s) <NUM>. The guide rail(s) <NUM> may be mounted on the second structure <NUM>, e.g., the third plate 121c to guide a sliding of the first structure <NUM> (e.g., the first plate 111a or the slide plate). The actuating member(s) <NUM> may include a spring or a spring module that provides an elastic force in a direction to allow both ends thereof to move away from each other. An end of the actuating member(s) <NUM> may be rotatably supported by the second structure <NUM>, and the other end may be rotatably supported by the first structure <NUM>. When the first structure <NUM> slides, both the ends of the actuating member(s) <NUM> may be positioned closest to each other (hereinafter, a 'nearest point') at any one point between the closed state and the open state. For example, in the interval between the nearest point and the closed state, the actuating member(s) <NUM> may provide an elastic force to the first structure <NUM> in a direction moving to the closed state and, in the interval between the nearest point and the open state, the actuating member(s) <NUM> may provide an elastic force to the first structure <NUM> in a direction moving to the open state.

In the following description, the components easy to understand from the description of the above embodiments are denoted with or without the same reference numerals and their detailed description may be skipped. According to an embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) may be implemented by selectively combining configurations of different embodiments, and the configuration of one embodiment may be replaced by the configuration of another embodiment. However, it is noted that the disclosure is not limited to a specific drawing or embodiment.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating a flexible display (e.g., the display <NUM> of <FIG>) mounting structure of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) according to an embodiment. <FIG> is a bottom view illustrating a flexible display <NUM> of an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment. <FIG> is a side, cross-sectional view illustrating an example in which a flexible display <NUM> of an electronic device <NUM> is mounted, according to an embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, the first area A1 of the display <NUM> may be mounted or attached to the first surface F1 of the first structure <NUM>, and the second area A2 may be attached or supported to the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM>. The multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may guide or support the deformation of the second area A2 into a curved shape and, in the state exposed to the outside, the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may keep the second area A2 flat while suppressing deformation of the second area A2 due to an external force (e.g., the user's contact). According to an embodiment, the first surface F1 may be formed as the first plate 111a and the first bracket 111b are coupled together. According to an embodiment, a portion of the first area A1 may be directly attached to the first bracket 111b, and another portion thereof may be directly attached to the first plate 111a.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) may further include a flexible printed circuit board <NUM>. The flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may connect the display <NUM> to a main circuit board (e.g., a printed circuit board received in the second structure <NUM> of <FIG> ). According to an embodiment, a driving chip of the display <NUM> may be mounted on the flexible printed circuit board <NUM>. When a touch panel is integrated into the display <NUM>, a touch panel driving chip may be mounted on the flexible printed circuit board <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may be electrically connected to the display <NUM> or the printed circuit board by including connectors 135a and 135b provided at both ends respectively. According to an embodiment, a portion (hereinafter, a 'bent portion B') of the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed in the electronic device <NUM> in a bent state.

According to an embodiment, with a portion of the first area A1 mounted on the first bracket 111b, the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may be coupled or electrically connected to the display <NUM> using the first connector 135a. When the first bracket 111b is mounted on the first plate 111a, a portion of the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed between the first bracket 111b and the first plate 111a. For example, a portion of the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may be received or fixed between the first bracket 111b and the first plate 111a. The first bracket 111b may be mounted on the first plate 111a while being coupled to the display <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the first plate 111a may include an assembly hole 115a formed to penetrate at least a portion. Referring to <FIG>, a portion of the edge of the display <NUM> may enter the assembly hole 115a, with the display <NUM> and the first plate 111a inclined with respect to the first plate 111a from the top side of the first plate 111a. When a portion of the edge of the display <NUM> enters the inside of the assembly hole 115a, the display <NUM> or the first bracket 111b may be bonded or mounted to the first plate 111a. In the state of being bonded or mounted to the first plate 111a, a portion (e.g., an outer surface of the edge) of the surface of the display <NUM> may be supported on a side-end structure SE or the inner surface of the assembly hole 115a of the first plate 111a.

According to an embodiment, referring to <FIG>, the second bracket 111c may be coupled or mounted on the bottom surface of the first plate 111a, closing the assembly hole 115a. For example, the display <NUM> and/or the first bracket 111b may be easily assembled to the first plate 111a through the assembly hole 115a and, after assembly, the assembly hole 115a may be closed using the second bracket 111c, enhancing the structural stability of the first structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, a portion of the second bracket 111c may be exposed to the outside of the first structure <NUM> and may be used as a component decorating the exterior of the electronic device <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating an example in which a flexible display (e.g., the display <NUM> of <FIG>) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) is mounted according to an embodiment. <FIG> is a bottom view illustrating an example in which a flexible display <NUM> of an electronic device <NUM> is mounted, according to an embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, when the display <NUM> is coupled to the first structure <NUM>, the surface of the display <NUM> may be flush with a portion (e.g., the upper end P1 and lower end P2) of the surface of the first structure <NUM>. For example, a portion of the surface of the first structure <NUM> and the surface of the display <NUM> may be located on one flat surface or one curved surface. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, at the top and bottom of the electronic device <NUM>, a portion of the surface of the first structure <NUM> and the surface of the display <NUM> may be described as positioned on one flat surface or curved surface.

According to an embodiment, the first plate 111a may further include a wiring hole 115b, and at least a portion, e.g., the bent portion B, of the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may be placed inside the wiring hole 115b. In the state where the display <NUM> is mounted on the first structure <NUM>, a portion, e.g., the bent portion B, of the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> and the second connector 135b may be exposed to the second surface F2 of the first structure <NUM>. For example, the bent portion B may be at least partially disposed inside the wiring hole 115b, and a portion of the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> between the second connector 135b and the bent portion B and/or the second connector 135b may be located on the second surface F2 of the first structure <NUM>. The third plate 121c may include another wiring hole (not shown) similar to the wiring hole 115b. The second connector 135b may be disposed inside the second structure <NUM> or connected to the printed circuit board inside the second structure <NUM> via the other wiring hole formed in the third plate 121c.

According to an embodiment, when the first structure <NUM> slides, the bent portion B of the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> may be deformed. For example, a tensional force may be applied to the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> due to the sliding of the first structure <NUM>, and this tensional force may be canceled by the deformation of the bent portion B. According to an embodiment, the bent portion B may be substantially deformed within the space inside the wiring hole 115b. According to an embodiment, an additional space (e.g., a dummy recess) may be provided on the surface of the second structure <NUM> (e.g., the third plate 121c) in an area corresponding to the wiring hole 115b) to receive a portion of the bent portion B.

<FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of the display <NUM> and/or first structure <NUM>, taken along line C1 of <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the display <NUM> and/or first structure <NUM>, taken along line C2 of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the display <NUM> may be supported by the first bracket 111b in an area adjacent to the edge of the inner surface, and a portion of the edge of the outer surface may be supported by the side end structure (SE) (e.g., the inner surface of the assembly hole 115a of <FIG>) of the first structure <NUM>. For example, at least a portion of the edge of the display <NUM> may be supported on the inner surface of the assembly hole 115a so that the inner surface of the display <NUM> may come in tight contact with the first bracket 111b. According to one embodiment, the entire edge of one side of the display <NUM> may be supported on the inner surface of the assembly hole 115a, and thus at least the first area A1 of the display <NUM> may remain attached to the first structure <NUM>. In bonding to the mechanical structure, the adhesive component or the adhesive member may be denatured due to long-term possession or use, and the edge or corner of the flexible display (e.g., the display <NUM>) may be separated from the mechanical structure, as set forth above. In the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) According to an embodiment, when mounting the display <NUM> on the first structure <NUM>, an edge portion of the display <NUM> may be supported or pressed, preventing the display <NUM> from being separated from the mechanical structure (e.g., the first plate 111a or the first bracket 111b).

According to an embodiment, with the display <NUM> coupled to the first structure <NUM>, the surface of the display <NUM> may be flush with a portion of the surface of the first structure <NUM>. For example, at the upper or lower portion P2 of the electronic device <NUM>, the surface of the display <NUM> and a portion of the surface of the first structure <NUM> may be located on the same flat surface or curved surface. According to one embodiment, although not assigned reference numerals in the drawings, the first plate 111a and/or the first bracket 111b may include a through hole or a recess, providing a space for receiving the flexible printed circuit board <NUM> or various electronic components disposed on the flexible printed circuit board <NUM>.

<FIG> are views illustrating a structure in which a support sheet (e.g., the support sheet <NUM> of <FIG>) is mounted on a roller (e.g., the roller <NUM> of <FIG>) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) according to an embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a mounting recess <NUM> formed in the surface of the roller <NUM>. A portion, e.g., an end, of the support sheet <NUM> may be fixed to the mounting recess <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the depth of the mounting recess <NUM> may gradually increase from the surface of the roller <NUM> along the circumferential direction, and the increased (or maximum depth of the mounting recess <NUM> may be equal to or larger than the thickness of one end of the support sheet <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a mounting hole <NUM> formed in or extending from the surface of the roller <NUM> to the roller <NUM>. The mounting hole <NUM> may extend obliquely from the surface of the roller <NUM>, for example, obliquely with respect to the radial direction of the roller <NUM>. One end of the support sheet <NUM> may be inserted or mounted into the mounting hole <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may include the mounting recess <NUM> and/or the mounting hole <NUM> formed in the roller <NUM>. For the sake of brevity, the mounting recess <NUM> and the mounting hole <NUM> are separately described. However, according to an embodiment, the term 'mounting recess' or 'mounting hole' may be interpreted as encompassing the mounting recess <NUM> and mounting hole <NUM> of <FIG>. According to an embodiment, the mounting recess <NUM> may have a depth gradually increasing along the circumferential direction from the surface of the roller <NUM>, and the mounting hole <NUM> may extend from the end of the mounting recess <NUM> to the inside of the roller <NUM>. An end of the support sheet <NUM> may be inserted or mounted into the mounting hole <NUM>, and a portion of the support sheet <NUM> may be disposed on, or fixed to, the mounting recess <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) according to an embodiment, wherein a portion of a flexible display (e.g., the display <NUM> of <FIG>) is received in a second structure (e.g., the second structure <NUM> of <FIG>). <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the flexible display <NUM> is removed from the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment, wherein a portion of a flexible display <NUM> is received in a second structure <NUM>. <FIG> is an enlarged, cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, in the closed state, the first area A1 of the display <NUM> may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device <NUM> (e.g., the second structure <NUM>), and the second area A2 may be received in the second structure <NUM>. For example, in the closed state, the first structure <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to the roller <NUM>, and the support sheet <NUM> may be rolled up around the roller <NUM>. As much as the support sheet <NUM> is wound around the roller <NUM>, the distance, e.g., the arrangement gap (e.g., the arrangement gap G of <FIG>), between the surface of the display <NUM> and the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a may be reduced. According to an embodiment, as the arrangement gap G decreases, it is possible to suppress or prevent external foreign bodies from flowing into the inside of the second structure <NUM> through the arrangement gap G. According to an embodiment, the second area A2 or the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> inside the second structure <NUM> may be generally received in a space between the second plate 121a (e.g., rear case) and the support member 121d. As described above, the space in which the second area A2 or the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> is received may be separated by the support member 121d from the space (e.g., the space between the third plate 121c and the support member 121d) in which the printed circuit board is received.

According to an embodiment, the rods <NUM> of the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may be generally arranged along the sliding direction ① of the first structure <NUM>, and some may be arranged around the roller <NUM>. The multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may support the second area A2 of the display <NUM> in a flat shape while maintaining a substantially flat shape. According to an embodiment, the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may deform a portion of the second area A2 into a curved shape while deforming into a curved shape around the roller <NUM>. According to an embodiment, in the closed state, the first elastic member (e.g., the first elastic member <NUM> of <FIG>) may be disposed to face the inner surface of the second plate 121a inside the second structure <NUM>. When the first structure <NUM> gradually moves to the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may move in a direction toward the edge of the second plate 121a, e.g., the second elastic member <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, when moving to the open state, the first structure <NUM> may gradually move away from the roller <NUM>, and the second area A2 or the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may move to the outside of the second structure <NUM>. For example, as the first structure <NUM> moves to the open state, the second area A2, along with the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> connected to the first structure <NUM>, may gradually be exposed to the outside of the second structure. When the first structure <NUM> slides, the roller <NUM> may rotate correspondingly and guide the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> to the outside of the second structure <NUM>. For example, while the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> moves to the outside of the second structure <NUM> (or while being received in the second structure <NUM>), the roller <NUM> may mitigate direct contact or friction between the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and the second structure <NUM>. According to an embodiment, since an end of the support sheet <NUM> is connected to the first structure <NUM>, the support sheet <NUM> may gradually depart from the roller <NUM> and move onto the second structure <NUM> (e.g., the third plate 121c) as the first structure <NUM> slides. For example, the support sheet <NUM> may be deformed into a flat plate shape while gradually moving between the display (or multi-joint hinge structure) and the second structure (e.g., the second plate 121a or the third plate 121c). When reaching the open state, the support sheet <NUM> may be disposed in an unfolded state inside (e.g., the rear surface) the display <NUM>, for example, the second area A2. According to an embodiment, as the support sheet <NUM> gradually escapes from the roller <NUM>, the gap (e.g., the arrangement gap G of <FIG>) between the surface of the display <NUM> and the second plate 121a (e.g., the inner side of the edge) may gradually increase. For example, as the first structure <NUM> moves from the closed state to the open state, the gap between the surface of the display <NUM> and the second plate 121a increases, so that the second area A2 may move to the outside of the second structure <NUM> without causing the surface of the display <NUM> to contact or rub against other structures.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) according to an embodiment, wherein most of a flexible display (e.g., the display <NUM> of <FIG>) is exposed to the outside of a second structure (e.g., the second structure <NUM> of <FIG>). <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the flexible display <NUM> is removed from the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment, wherein most of a flexible display <NUM> is exposed to the outside of a second structure <NUM>. <FIG> is an enlarged, cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, in the open state, the second area A2 together with the first area A1 of the display <NUM> may be exposed to the outside of the second structure <NUM>. For example, in the open state, the first structure <NUM> may be located away from the roller <NUM>, and the second area A2, the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and/or the support sheet <NUM> may be located in an area between the roller <NUM> and the first plate 111a (or the first area A1). According to an embodiment, as the first structure <NUM> moves to the open state, the support sheet <NUM> may be positioned between the display <NUM> (e.g., the second area A2) and the second structure <NUM> or between the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> and the second structure <NUM>. In the open state, since the support sheet <NUM> substantially gradually departs from the roller <NUM> and is disposed in a flat plate shape on the second structure <NUM>, the arrangement gap (e.g., the gap between the surface of the display <NUM> and the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a) may be increased. When the first structure <NUM> reaches the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to the edge of the inner surface of the second plate 121a. According to an embodiment, in the open state, the first elastic member <NUM> may contact the inner surface of the second plate 121a, thereby substantially sealing the gap between the edge of the second plate 121a and the display <NUM>. For example, as the gap between the edge of the second plate 121a and the display <NUM> is sealed in the closed state and/or, in the open state, the second elastic member <NUM> substantially seals the gap between the edge of the second plate 121a and the display <NUM>, it is possible to prevent foreign bodies from flowing into the inside of the second structure <NUM> through the gap between the edge of the second plate 121a and the display <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view illustrating a structure in which a support sheet (e.g., the support sheet <NUM> of <FIG>) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) is wound around a roller (e.g., the roller <NUM> of <FIG>) according to an embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, according to an embodiment, the second elastic member <NUM> is disposed on the inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a. In the following detailed description, the "inner surface of the edge of the second plate 121a" may mean a point defining the boundary between the internal space and the outer space of the second structure <NUM>. As an example, this point is denoted as 'IE' in <FIG>, and such a point is referred to below as a "boundary point (IE)". Although <FIG> illustrates a cross section of a portion of the electronic device <NUM>, and the boundary point IE is shown as a point, the boundary point IE may substantially mean a line parallel to the first side wall 123a or the rotation axis R. <FIG> shows a configuration in which the boundary point (IE) is disposed in the second elastic member <NUM> but, for the sake of brevity of the description, a configuration in which the "boundary point (IE) is positioned at the edge of the second plate 121a or in the inner surface of the edge" may be described. For example, according to an embodiment, the boundary point IE may be located at the edge of the second plate 121a and, in a structure in which the second elastic member <NUM> is disposed, the boundary point IE may be positioned in the second elastic member <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) may include a mounting hole <NUM> formed in the roller <NUM>. The mounting hole <NUM> may extend from the surface of the roller <NUM> to the inside, for example, along the radial direction of the roller <NUM>. An end of the support sheet <NUM> may be inserted or, fixed, into the mounting hole <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a fixing member <NUM> received in the mounting hole <NUM>. The fixing member <NUM> may tightly contact an inner wall of the mounting hole <NUM> and/or an end of the support sheet <NUM>, for example. For example, the fixing member <NUM> may fix an end of the support sheet <NUM> to the inside of the mounting hole <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the fixing member <NUM> may be formed of a material including an elastic material (e.g., silicon or rubber) and may be fixed inside the mounting hole <NUM> in a compressed state, allowing one end of the support sheet <NUM> to be stably fixed inside the mounting hole <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the gap (e.g., arrangement gap G) between the surface of the display <NUM> and the inner surface (e.g., the boundary point IE) of the edge of the second plate 121a may be a passage through which foreign bodies may flow into the inside of the second structure <NUM>. As discussed above, in the closed state, the support sheet <NUM> may be wound around the roller <NUM> so that the arrangement gap G may be reduced and, in the open state, the arrangement gap G is increase but may be sealed by the first elastic member <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. According to an embodiment, the distance (D) between the boundary point (IE) and the rotation axis (R) of the roller <NUM> may include the arrangement gap (G) and the thickness of the support sheet <NUM> rolled up around the roller <NUM>. The distance D, the radius of the roller <NUM>, and the thickness of the display <NUM> or the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> may be substantially constant. For example, the arrangement gap G and the thickness of the support sheet <NUM> rolled up around the roller <NUM> between the inner surface (e.g., boundary point IE) of the edge of the second plate 121a and the rotation axis R of the roller <NUM> may be inversely proportional. For example, in the closed state, the support sheet <NUM> is wound around the roller <NUM>, reducing (minimizing) the arrangement gap G. As the first structure <NUM> (e.g., the first plate 111a) moves to the open state, the thickness of the support sheet <NUM> rolled up on the roller <NUM> gradually decreases, increasing the arrangement gap G.

According to an embodiment, in the closed state, for example, in a state in which the second area A2 or the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> is substantially received inside the second structure <NUM>, at least two different portions of the support sheet <NUM> may overlap (OL) each other between the boundary point IE and the rotation axis R. For example, when the thickness of the support sheet <NUM> is constant and is defined as "T", the sum of the thicknesses of the support sheet <NUM> wound around the roller <NUM> may be defined as "n*T". Here, 'n' may mean the number of windings of the support sheet <NUM> or the number of overlaps of different portions of the support sheet <NUM> between the boundary point IE and the rotation axis R and, in the state where the support sheet <NUM> is not wound around the roller <NUM> (e.g., the state where the support sheet <NUM> does not exist between the boundary point IE and the rotation axis R), the sum of the thicknesses of the wound support sheet <NUM> may be defined as "<NUM> (zero). " For example, if the increased (maximum) value of the arrangement gap G, e.g., the arrangement gap G in the open state, is "Gmax", the arrangement gap G may be defined as "Gmax-n*T". In <FIG>, the thickness of the support sheet <NUM> may be about <NUM> and, since the two portions of the support sheet <NUM> overlap between the boundary point IE and the rotation axis R, the arrangement gap G may be calculated as "Gmax-<NUM>*<NUM>". For example, although there may be some differences depending on embodiments, the reduced (minimum) arrangement gap may be approximately <NUM> smaller than the increased (maximum) arrangement gap Gmax in the illustrated embodiment.

According to an embodiment, the support sheet <NUM> may have a profile that gradually increases in thickness from a portion mounted on the roller <NUM> to a portion connected to the first structure <NUM> (e.g., the first plate 111a). For example, the sum of the thicknesses of the support sheet <NUM> rolled on the roller <NUM> between the boundary point IE and the rotation axis R may gradually change according to the rotation angle (or position) of the roller <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the arrangement gap G may gradually increase according to the sliding of the first structure <NUM> to the open state or the rotation of the roller <NUM> while having a reduced (minimum) value in the closed state. For example, as the first structure <NUM> moves to the open state, the arrangement gap G may increase, and the display <NUM> may gradually move away from another structure, for example, the inner surface of the second plate 121a.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) comprises a first structure (e.g., the first structure <NUM> of <FIG>) including a first plate (e.g., the first plate 111a of <FIG>) providing a first surface (e.g., the first surface F1 of <FIG> or <FIG>) and a second surface (e.g., the second surface F2 of <FIG>) facing away from the first surface, a second structure (e.g., the second structure <NUM> of <FIG>) coupled to surround at least a portion of the first structure and guiding a sliding of the first structure in a direction parallel with the first surface or the second surface of the first structure, a roller (e.g., the roller <NUM> of <FIG>) rotatably mounted on an edge of the second structure, a flexible display (e.g., the display <NUM> of <FIG>) including a first area (e.g., the first area A1 of <FIG>) mounted on the first surface of the first structure and a second area (e.g., the second area A2 of <FIG>) extending from the first area, the second area of the flexible display guided at least partially by the roller to be inserted or received from a side of the second structure to an inside of the second structure or exposed to an outside of the second structure as the first structure is slid, and at least one support sheet (e.g., the support sheet <NUM> of <FIG>) mounted on the roller and selectively wound around the roller as the roller rotates, wherein the support sheet is wound around the roller when the second area is received inside the second structure, and is unfolded inside (e.g., the rear surface of the second area) the second area when the second area is exposed to the outside of the second structure.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further comprise a mounting recess (e.g., the mounting recess <NUM> or <NUM> of <FIG>) formed in a surface of the roller. A portion of the support sheet may be fixed to the mounting recess.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further comprise a mounting hole (e.g., the mounting hole <NUM> or <NUM> of <FIG>) formed from a surface of the roller to an inside of the roller. An end of the support sheet may be mounted inside the mounting hole.

According to an embodiment, the plurality of support sheets may be arranged along a direction of a rotation axis (e.g., the rotation axis R of <FIG> or <FIG>) of the roller. The support sheets may extend in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

According to an embodiment, the second structure may include a second plate (e.g., the second plate 121a of <FIG>) facing away from the first surface. The second area may be inserted into an inside of the second structure through a gap between the roller and the second plate.

According to an embodiment, a gap (e.g., the arrangement gap G of <FIG>) between the display and an inner surface of an edge of the second plate when the second area is received inside the second structure (e.g., the state shown in <FIG>) may be smaller than a gap between the display and the inner surface of the edge of the second plate when the second area is exposed to the outside of the second structure (e.g., the state shown in <FIG>).

According to an embodiment, the second structure may include a second plate (e.g., the second plate 121a of <FIG>) facing away from the first surface, a first side wall (e.g., the first side wall 123a of <FIG>) perpendicular to the second plate, a second side wall (e.g., the second side wall 123b of <FIG>) perpendicular to the second plate and the first side wall, and a third side wall (e.g., the third side wall 123c of <FIG>) perpendicular to the second plate and the first side wall and parallel to the second side wall. The roller may be rotatably mounted between the second side wall and the third side wall in a position adjacent to an edge of the second plate. The roller may rotate about the rotation axis extending parallel to the first side wall.

According to an embodiment, the flexible display may be inserted into the inside of the second structure through a gap between an inner surface of the edge of the second plate and the roller.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further comprise an elastic member (e.g., the first elastic member <NUM> of <FIG>) mounted on an end of the flexible display and moving inside the second structure as the first structure slides. The elastic member may slidingly contact the second plate as the second area gradually moves to a position where the second area is exposed to the outside of the second structure and, when the second area is exposed to the outside of the second structure, the elastic member may be positioned between the inner surface of the edge of the second plate and a surface of the flexible display.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further comprise a multi-joint hinge structure (e.g., the multi-joint hinge structure <NUM> of <FIG>) including a plurality of rods (e.g., the rods <NUM> of <FIG>) supporting the second area and connected to the first structure to move over the second structure as the first structure slides. As the first structure slides, a portion of the multi-joint hinge structure may be deformed to a curved shape in a position corresponding to the roller.

According to an embodiment, the support sheet may have a first end fixed to the roller and a second end fixed to the first structure. At least a portion of the support sheet may be positioned to face the multi-joint hinge structure or wound around the roller.

According to an embodiment, the rods may be arranged along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, in parallel to the rotation axis. When the second area is exposed to the outside of the second structure, the support sheet may be positioned between the second structure and the multi-joint hinge structure.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device may comprise a housing (e.g., the second structure <NUM> of <FIG>) including a rear case (e.g., the second plate 121a of <FIG>) and a side wall (e.g., the side walls 123a, 123b, and 123c of <FIG>) extending from the rear case, a roller (e.g., the roller <NUM> of <FIG>) rotatably mounted in the housing while being positioned adjacent to a portion of the side wall, at least one support sheet (e.g., the support sheet <NUM> of <FIG>) mounted on the roller and selectively wound around the roller as the roller rotates, and a flexible display (e.g., the display <NUM> of <FIG>) including a first area exposed to an outside of the housing and a second area extending from the first area, the second area of the flexible display guided by the roller to be at least partially inserted or received inside the housing or exposed to the outside of the housing. The support sheet may be gradually wound around the roller as the second area is gradually received inside the housing. When the second area is exposed to the outside of the housing, the support sheet may be positioned between the rear case and the second area.

According to an embodiment, when the second area is received inside the housing, at least two different portions (e.g., the portions denoted with 'OL' in <FIG>) of the support sheet may be disposed to overlap between an edge of the rear case and a rotation axis of the roller.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further comprise a multi-joint hinge structure including a plurality of rods supporting the second area and, as the roller rotates, guided by the roller to be inserted or received inside the housing or extracted to the outside of the housing. The multi-joint hinge structure may be at least partially deformed to a curved shape in a position corresponding to the roller.

According to an embodiment, when the second area is exposed to the outside of the housing, the support sheet may be disposed between the rear case and the multi-joint hinge structure.

According to an embodiment, the plurality of support sheets may be arranged along a direction of a rotation axis of the roller. The support sheets may extend in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further comprise a slide plate slidably coupled to the housing. The first area may be mounted on the slide plate.

According to an embodiment, the support sheet may have a first end fixed to the roller and a second end fixed to the slide plate. At least a portion of the support sheet may be positioned to face the second area or is wound around the roller.

Claim 1:
An electronic device (<NUM>), comprising:
a first structure (<NUM>) including a first plate (111a) providing a first surface and a second surface facing away from the first surface;
a second structure (<NUM>) coupled to surround at least a portion of the first structure (<NUM>) and configured to guide a sliding of the first structure (<NUM>) in a direction parallel with the first surface or the second surface of the first structure (<NUM>);
a roller (<NUM>) mounted on an edge of the second structure (<NUM>);
a flexible display (<NUM>) including a first area mounted on the first surface of the first structure (<NUM>) and a second area extending from the first area, the second area of the flexible display (<NUM>) is guided at least partially by the roller (<NUM>) to be inserted or received from the edge of the second structure (<NUM>) to an inside of the second structure (<NUM>) or exposed to an outside of the second structure (<NUM>) as the first structure (<NUM>) is slid; and
at least a portion of a support sheet (<NUM>) mounted on the roller (<NUM>) and selectively wound around the roller (<NUM>) as the roller (<NUM>) rotates,
wherein the at least a portion of the support sheet (<NUM>) is wound around the roller (<NUM>) when the second area is received inside the second structure (<NUM>), and is deformed into a flat plate shape inside the second area when the second area is exposed to the outside of the second structure (<NUM>).