Patent Description:
With the development of flexible displays that are bendable while displaying image information thereon, devices including a flexible display, which forms a flat surface and a curved surface, are being developed.

As one example of these devices, <CIT> discloses a "Mobile Terminal", which includes a display having curved surfaces formed at the left end portion and the right end portion thereof. That is, a portion of the display forms a flat surface, and the remaining portion of the display forms a curved surface.

In addition, foldable devices including a flexible display and two bodies folded and unfolded from each other, have been developed. Such foldable devices are classified into an in-folding type, in which a flexible display is located on the inner sides of two bodies when the two bodies are folded over each other, and an out-folding type, in which a flexible display is located on the outer sides of two bodies when the two bodies are folded over each other.

When the two bodies of a foldable device are folded over each other, a portion of a flexible display forms a curved surface.

Further, as another exemplary device using a flexible display, a rollable device, which is configured such that a portion of a flexible device that forms a curved surface is variable, has been developed. In a rollable device, at least a portion of a flexible display can be rolled in a circular shape and unrolled, or the position of the portion that is curved to form a curved surface can be changed.

In general, in these display devices, a portion of a flexible display that corresponds to a curved surface forms an edge portion of a display device. However, such an edge portion of a display device is vulnerable to damage upon contact with an external object or external impact.

In particular, in a device including a display that is variable (for example, a foldable device, a rollable device, etc.), it is difficult to protect the outer surface of a curved portion of a flexible display using glass or the like, which has a relatively high degree of hardness, and thus the risk of damage to the curved portion of the flexible
display can increase.

Relevant prior art can be found in the documents <CIT> , <CIT> and <CIT>.

An aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a flexible display device having a protective structure for shielding and protecting a curved surface portion of a flexible display or exposing the curved surface portion.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a flexible display device to which a protective structure for protecting a curved surface portion of a flexible display is detachably mounted.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a flexible display device in which the position of a protective structure can be fixed so as to shield a specific region of a curved surface portion of a flexible display and can also be easily changed.

Still another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a flexible display device having a protective structure for shielding and protecting different regions of a curved surface portion of a flexible display.

Still another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a flexible display device having a structure for preventing foreign substances from entering the device.

A flexible display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a body, a flexible display, and a first protective guard.

At least a portion of the flexible display can be exposed to the outside of the body, and can include a first curved surface portion and a first surface portion.

The first curved surface portion can form an outer surface that is curved about a first curvature center line.

The first surface portion can form an outer surface that is parallel to the first curvature center line. The first surface portion can be a surface extending from the first curved surface portion.

The first surface portion can form an outer surface that is flat and extends from the first curved surface portion, and can be disposed on the front surface of the body.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a first support portion and a second support portion.

The first support portion and the second support portion can be provided separately from each other, and can be fixed to the body. The first support portion and the second support portion can be respectively disposed on the two opposite sides of the first curved surface portion in a direction parallel to the first curvature center line.

The first protective guard can include a first connection plate, a second connection plate, and a first protective plate.

The first protective plate can extend in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line, and can be disposed outside the flexible display. The first protective plate can connect the first connection plate and the second connection plate to each other.

The first connection plate can be movably coupled to the first support portion. The first connection plate can be coupled to the body so as to be rotatable about a first rotation axis. The first connection plate can be coupled to the first support portion so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis. The first connection plate can be formed to be bent at one end portion of the first protective plate.

The second connection plate can be movably coupled to the second support portion. The second connection plate can be coupled to the body so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis. The second connection plate can be coupled to the second support portion so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis. The second connection plate can be formed to be bent at the opposite end portion of the first protective plate.

In the flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first protective guard, which is movable relative to the first support portion and the second support portion, can function as a protective structure for protecting the flexible display, and can shield or expose at least a portion of the first curved surface portion.

The first support portion and the second support portion can be disposed at positions further outward than the two opposite edges of the first curved surface portion so as to be symmetrical to each other.

The vertical distance from the first curvature center line to the edge of the first support portion can be greater than the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion.

The first protective guard can be coupled to the first support portion and the second support portion so as to be rotatable about a first rotation axis.

The first rotation axis can be formed in the same line as the first curvature center line.

The first protective plate can include a curved inner surface, and the curved inner surface of the first protective plate can be concentric with the first curved surface portion.

The angle that the first curved surface portion forms about the first curvature center line can be <NUM>°, and the angle that the first protective plate forms about the first rotation axis can be any angle within a range from <NUM>° to <NUM>°.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include an extended protective guard.

The extended protective guard can include an extended protective plate, a first extended connection plate, and a second extended connection plate.

The extended protective plate can extend in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line, and can be disposed outside the flexible display. The extended protective plate can connect the first extended connection plate and the second extended connection plate to each other.

The first extended connection plate can be movably coupled to the first support portion. The first extended connection plate can be formed to be bent at one end portion of the extended protective plate.

The second extended connection plate can be movably coupled to the second support portion. The second extended connection plate can be formed to be bent at the opposite end portion of the extended protective plate.

In the flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the extended protective guard, which is movable relative to the first support portion and the second support portion, can function as a protective structure for protecting the flexible display, and can shield or expose at least a portion of the first curved surface portion.

The first protective guard and the extended protective guard can be movable relative to each other, and can at least partially overlap each other.

The first protective guard and the extended protective guard can be coupled to the first support portion and the second support portion so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis.

The first protective guard can be provided with a first latching protrusion, and the extended protective guard can be provided with a second latching protrusion configured to be caught on the first latching protrusion.

The flexible display can include a second surface portion forming an outer surface that is opposite the first surface portion.

The second surface portion can be a surface that extends from the first curved surface portion.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a first plate and a second plate, which are respectively disposed at positions further outward than the two opposite edges of each of the first surface portion and the second surface portion in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line.

The first plate and the second plate can protrude further outward than the first surface portion and the second surface portion in the direction orthogonal to surfaces of the first surface portion and the second surface portion.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can further include a base through which the first support portion and the first connection plate are coupled to each other.

Any one of the first connection plate or the base can be provided with a fastening protrusion, and the remaining one of the first connection plate or the base can be provided with a first fastening ring into which the fastening protrusion is inserted.

The outer circumferential surface of the fastening protrusion and the inner circumferential surface of the first fastening ring, configured to at least partially contact each other, can be formed in a polygonal shape.

In the flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the fastening protrusion can be formed at the base, and the first fastening ring can be formed at the first connection plate.

The first support portion can have a seating recess formed in the outer surface thereof, into which the base is detachably inserted.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a cap.

The cap can include a flange having a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the first fastening ring and a fixing protrusion protruding from the center of the flange to be attached to and detached from the fastening protrusion.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a rotary body, a stop ball, an elastic body, and a cylinder.

The rotary body can include a neck portion secured to the first connection plate and extending inward along the first rotation axis, and a head portion formed so as to expand in diameter from the inner end of the neck portion, the head portion including a plurality of concave stop recesses formed therein and arranged in the circumferential direction about the first rotation axis.

The stop ball can be configured to be inserted into any one of the stop recesses.

The elastic body can be configured to elastically support the stop ball such that the stop ball is inserted into any one of the stop recesses.

The cylinder can be coupled to the interior of the body, and can be configured to accommodate and support the stop ball and the elastic body.

The flexible display can include a second curved surface portion.

The second curved surface portion can be configured to form an outer surface that is curved about a second curvature center line parallel to the first curvature center line, and can be formed to be convex in the direction opposite the first curved surface portion.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a third support portion, a fourth support portion, and a second protective guard.

The third support portion and the fourth support portion can be provided separately from each other, and can be fixed to the body. The third support portion and the fourth support portion can be respectively disposed on the two opposite sides of the second curved surface portion in the direction parallel to the second curvature center line.

The second protective guard can include a second protective plate, a third connection plate, and a fourth connection plate.

The second protective plate can extend in the direction parallel to the second curvature center line, and can be disposed outside the flexible display. The second protective plate can connect the third connection plate and the fourth connection plate to each other.

The third connection plate can be coupled to the body so as to be rotatable about a second rotation axis. The third connection plate can be coupled to the third support portion so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis. The third connection plate can be formed to be bent at one end portion of the second protective plate.

The fourth connection plate can be coupled to the body so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis. The fourth connection plate can be coupled to the fourth support portion so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis. The fourth connection plate can be formed to be bent at the opposite end portion of the second protective plate.

In the flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the second protective guard, which is rotatable relative to the third support portion and the fourth support portion, can function as a protective structure for protecting the flexible display, and can shield or expose at least a portion of the second curved surface portion.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a back cover and a first filter.

The back cover can be configured to shield the second surface portion while being spaced apart therefrom.

The first filter can include at least one of a brush, a cloth, a nonwoven fabric, a sponge, or paper, and can be coupled to the inner surface of the back cover so as to be in contact with the flexible display.

The flexible display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a second filter.

The second filter can include at least one of a brush, a cloth, a nonwoven fabric, a sponge, or paper, and can be coupled to the inner surface of the first protective guard so as to be in contact with the flexible display.

The flexible display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure can include a first protective guard for shielding or exposing at least a portion of a first curved surface portion, and can further include a second protective guard, thereby effectively protecting a curved surface portion of a flexible display.

The flexible display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include a base and a cap, and a first protective guard can be easily mounted to or detached from the flexible display device.

The flexible display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include a fastening protrusion and a first fastening ring. The outer circumferential surface of the fastening protrusion and the inner circumferential surface of the first fastening ring can be formed in a polygonal shape. In addition, the flexible display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a rotary body, a stop ball, an elastic body, and a cylinder. Accordingly, the position of a first protective guard can be fixed so as to shield a specific region of a flexible display, and can also be easily changed.

The flexible display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include a first protective guard and an extended protective guard. The first protective guard and the extended protective guard can be configured to rotate relative to each other and to at least partially overlap each other. Accordingly, the first protective guard and the extended protective guard can shield and protect different regions of a first curved surface portion of a flexible display.

The flexible display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include a first filter and a second filter. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent foreign substances from entering the device.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to accompanying drawings, and the same or similar elements are designated with the same numeral references regardless of numerals in the drawings and their redundant description will be omitted. As used herein, the terms "module" and "unit" used to refer to components are used interchangeably in consideration of convenience of explanation, and thus, the terms per se should not be considered as having different meanings or functions. In relation to describing the present disclosure, when the detailed description of the relevant known technology is determined to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description can be omitted. The accompanying drawings are merely used to help easily understand embodiments of the present disclosure.

Although the terms first, second, third, and the like can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms.

When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, engaged, connected, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there can be no intervening elements or layers present.

As used herein, the articles "a," "an," and "the," include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

It should be understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "containing," "has," "having" or any other variation thereof specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components.

A flexible display device (hereinafter, referred to as a 'display device') described in the present specification can include a mobile terminal such as a portable phone, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation, a slate PC, a tablet PC, an ultrabook, a wearable device, a smartwatch, a smart glass, a head mounted display (HMD), and the like.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the configuration according to the embodiment disclosed in the present specification can be applied to a fixed terminal such as a digital TV, a desktop computer, a digital signage except for an example that is applied only to a mobile terminal. Hereinafter, in the present disclosure, for the convenience of description, the mobile terminal will be first described as an example of the display device.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating explaining a mobile terminal <NUM> according to the present disclosure.

The mobile terminal <NUM> includes a wireless transceiver <NUM>, an input interface <NUM>, a sensor <NUM>, an output interface <NUM>, an interface <NUM>, a memory <NUM>, a controller <NUM>, and a power supply <NUM>. The components shown in <FIG> are not essential to implement the mobile terminal, and the mobile terminal described in the present disclosure can include more or fewer components than the components described above.

More specifically, the wireless transceiver <NUM> can include one or more modules which enable wireless communication between the mobile terminal <NUM> and a wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal <NUM> and another mobile terminal <NUM>, or between the mobile terminal <NUM> and an external server. Further, the wireless transceiver <NUM> can include one or more modules which connect the mobile terminal <NUM> to one or more networks.

The wireless transceiver <NUM> can include at least one of a broadcast receiving module <NUM>, a mobile communication module <NUM>, a wireless internet module <NUM>, a near field communication module <NUM>, or a position information module <NUM>.

The input interface <NUM> can include a camera <NUM> or an image input interface which inputs an image signal, a microphone <NUM> or an audio input interface which inputs an audio signal, and a user input interface <NUM> (for example, a touch key or a mechanical key) which receives information from a user. Voice data or image data collected by the input unit <NUM> can be analyzed and processed as a control command of the user.

The sensor <NUM> can include one or more sensors which sense at least one of information in the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information around the mobile terminal, or user information. For example, the sensor <NUM> can include at least one of a proximity sensor <NUM>, an illumination sensor <NUM>, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scan sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (for example, a camera <NUM> or a microphone <NUM>), a battery gauge, an environment sensor (for example, a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation sensor, a thermal sensor, a gas sensor, etc.), or a chemical sensor (for example, an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, and a biometric sensor). Further, the mobile terminal disclosed in the present specification can combine and utilize information sensed by at least two sensors from the above-mentioned sensors.

The output interface <NUM> generates outputs related to visual, auditory, or tactile senses, and can include at least one of a display <NUM>, a sound output interface <NUM>, a haptic module <NUM>, or an optical output interface <NUM>. The display <NUM> can form a mutual layered structure with a touch sensor or be formed integrally to be implemented as a touch screen. The touch screen simultaneously can serve as a user input interface <NUM> which provides an input interface between the mobile terminal <NUM> and the user and provides an output interface between the mobile terminal <NUM> and the user.

The interface <NUM> serves as a passage between various types of external devices which are connected to the mobile terminal <NUM>. The interface <NUM> can include at least one of a wired/wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired/wireless data port, a memory card port, a port which connects a device equipped with an identification module, an audio input/output (I/O) port, a video input/output (I/O) port, or an earphone port. The mobile terminal <NUM> can perform appropriate control related to the connected external device in accordance with the connection of the external device to the interface <NUM>.

Further, the memory <NUM> can store data which supports various functions of the mobile terminal <NUM>. The memory <NUM> can store a plurality of application programs (or applications) driven in the mobile terminal, data and commands for operations of the mobile terminal <NUM>. At least some of the application programs can be downloaded via an external server through wireless communication. Further, at least some of the application programs for basic functions of the mobile terminal <NUM> (for example, functions for receiving and making calls and receiving and sending messages) can be provided in the mobile terminal <NUM> from the time of shipment. The application programs are stored in the memory <NUM>, and installed in the mobile terminal <NUM> to be driven by the controller <NUM> to perform an operation (or functions) of the mobile terminal <NUM>.

In addition to the operations related to the application programs, the controller <NUM> can generally control overall operation of the mobile terminal <NUM>. The controller <NUM> can process a signal, data, or information which is input or output through the above-described components, or drive the application programs stored in the memory <NUM> to provide or process appropriate information or functions to the user.

Further, in order to drive the application program stored in the memory <NUM>, the controller <NUM> can control at least some of components described with reference to <FIG>. Moreover, the controller <NUM> can combine and operate at least two of components included in the mobile terminal <NUM> to drive the application program.

The power supply <NUM> receives application of external power or internal power, and supplies the power to the respective components included in the mobile terminal <NUM> under the control of the controller <NUM>. The power supply <NUM> includes a battery <NUM> which can be a built-in battery or a replaceable battery.

At least some of the above-described components can operate in cooperation with each other to implement the operation, the control, or the control method of the mobile terminal according to various embodiments which will be described below. Further, the operation, the control, or the control method of the mobile terminal can be implemented on the mobile terminal by driving at least one application program stored in the memory <NUM>.

Hereinafter, prior to describing various embodiments implemented by the mobile terminal <NUM> described above, the above-mentioned components will be described in more detail with reference to <FIG>.

First, the wireless transceiver <NUM> will be described. The broadcast receiving module <NUM> of the wireless transceiver <NUM> receives a broadcast signal and/or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel can include a satellite channel and a ground wave channel. Two or more broadcast receiving modules for simultaneous broadcast reception or broadcast channel switching for at least two broadcast channels can be provided to the mobile terminal <NUM>.

The broadcast management sever can refer to a server which generates and transmits a broadcast signal and/or broadcast-related information or a server which is supplied with the previously generated broadcast signal and/or broadcast-related information and transmits the broadcast signal and/or the broadcast-related information to the terminal. The broadcast signal includes not only a TV broadcast signal, a radio broadcast signal, and a data broadcast signal, but also a broadcast signal obtained by combining the TV broadcast signal or the radio broadcast signal with the data broadcast signal.

The broadcast signal can be encoded according to at least one of technical standards for transmitting and receiving a digital broadcast signal (or broadcast schemes, for example, ISO, IEC, DVB, or ATSC), and the broadcast receiving module <NUM> can receive the digital broadcast signal using an appropriate method for the technical specification determined by the technical standards.

The broadcast-related information can refer to information related to a broadcast channel, a broadcast program, or a broadcast service provider. The broadcast-related information can also be provided through the mobile communication network. In this instance, the broadcast-related information can be received by the mobile communication module <NUM>.

The broadcast-related information can exist in various types such as an electronic program guide of digital multimedia broadcast (DMB) or an electronic service guide of a digital video broadcast-handheld (DVB-H). The broadcast signal and/or the broadcast-related information received by the broadcast receiving module <NUM> can be stored in the memory <NUM>.

The mobile transceiver <NUM> can transmit/receive a wireless signal to/from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server on a mobile communication network established according to the technical standards or communication methods for mobile communication (for example, Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), Code Division Multi Access <NUM> (CDMA2000), Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only (EV-DO), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), and Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A)).

The wireless signal can include a voice call signal, a video call signal, or various types of data in accordance with transmission or reception of a text/multimedia message.

The wireless internet module <NUM> refers to a module for wireless internet connection and can be embodied in the mobile terminal <NUM> or installed at the outside of the mobile terminal <NUM>. The wireless Internet module <NUM> can be configured to transmit/receive a wireless signal in a communication network according to wireless internet technologies.

The wireless internet technique includes wireless LAN (WLAN), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi direct, digital living network alliance (DLNA), wireless broadband (WiBro), world interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), high speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), high speed uplink packet access (HSUPA), long term evolution (LTE), and long term evolution-advanced (LTE-A). The wireless internet module <NUM> can transmit or receive data in accordance with at least one wireless internet technique within a range including internet techniques which have not been described above.

From the viewpoint that the wireless internet connection by WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE, LTE-A, etc. is performed by the mobile communication network, the wireless internet module <NUM> which performs the wireless internet connection through the mobile communication network can be understood as a type of the mobile communication module <NUM>.

The near field communication module <NUM> is provided for short range communication and supports the near field communication using at least one of Bluetooth™, radio frequency identification (RFID), infrared data association (IrDA), ultra wideband (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, or Wireless Universal Serial Bus (Wireless USB). The near field communication module <NUM> can support wireless communication between the mobile terminal <NUM> and the wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal <NUM> and the other mobile terminal <NUM>, or between the mobile terminal <NUM> and a network in which the other mobile terminal <NUM> (or external server) is located, through the near field wireless communication network. The near field wireless communication network can be a near field wireless personal communication network.

Here, the other mobile terminal <NUM> can be a wearable device (for example, a smart watch, a smart glass, or a head mounted display (HMD)) which is capable of exchanging data (or interworking) with the mobile terminal <NUM> according to the present disclosure. The near field communication module <NUM> can detect (or recognize) a wearable device which is capable of communication with the mobile terminal <NUM>, in the vicinity of the mobile terminal <NUM>. Moreover, when the detected wearable device is authenticated to communicate with the mobile terminal <NUM> according to the present disclosure, the controller <NUM> can transmit at least a part of data processed in the mobile terminal <NUM> to the wearable device through the near field communication module <NUM>. Therefore, the user of the wearable device can use the data processed in the mobile terminal <NUM> through the wearable device. For example, according to this, when a phone call is received by the mobile terminal <NUM>, the user can make a phone call through the wearable device, or when a message is received by the mobile terminal <NUM>, the user can check the received message through the wearable device.

The GNSS sensor <NUM> is a module for obtaining the position (or the current position) of a mobile terminal, and its representative examples include a global positioning system (GPS) module or a Wi-Fi module. For example, when a GPS module is utilized, the mobile terminal can obtain the position of the mobile terminal using a signal transmitted from the GPS satellite. As another example, when a Wi-Fi module is utilized, the mobile terminal can obtain the position of the mobile terminal based on information of a wireless access point (AP) which transmits and receives wireless signals with the Wi-Fi module. If necessary, the position information module <NUM> can perform any function of another module of the wireless transceiver <NUM> to substitutably or additionally obtain data on the position of the mobile terminal. As a module used to obtain a position (or a current position) of the display device for a vehicle, the position information module <NUM> is not limited to a module which directly calculates or obtains the position of the mobile terminal.

Next, the input interface <NUM> is provided to input video information (or signals), audio information (or signals), data, or an information input from the user, and in order to input the video information, the mobile terminal <NUM> can include one or a plurality of cameras <NUM>. The camera <NUM> processes an image frame such as a still image or a moving image obtained by an image sensor in a video call mode or a photographing mode. The processed image frame can be displayed on the display <NUM> or stored in the memory <NUM>. Further, the plurality of cameras <NUM> equipped in the mobile terminal <NUM> can be disposed to form a matrix structure, and a plurality of pieces of image information having various angles or focal points can be input to the mobile terminal <NUM> through the cameras <NUM> that form the matrix structure. Further, the plurality of cameras <NUM> can be disposed to have a stereo structure to obtain a left image and a right image to implement a stereoscopic image.

The microphone <NUM> processes an external sound signal as electrical speech data. The processed voice data can be utilized in various forms in accordance with a function which is being performed by the mobile terminal <NUM> (or an application program which is being executed). In the microphone <NUM>, various noise removal algorithms which remove noise generated during the process of receiving the external sound signal can be implemented.

The user input interface <NUM> receives information from the user, and when the information is input through the user input interface <NUM>, the controller <NUM> can control the operation of the mobile terminal <NUM> so as to correspond to the input information. The user input interface <NUM> can include a mechanical input interface (or a mechanical key, for example, a button located on a front, rear, or side surface of the mobile terminal <NUM>, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.) and a touch type input interface. For example, the touch type input interface can be formed by a virtual key, a soft key, or a visual key which is disposed on the touchscreen through a software process or a touch key which is disposed on a portion other than the touchscreen. The virtual key or the visual key can be displayed on the touch screen in various shapes, and for example, can be formed by graphics, text, icons, video, or a combination thereof.

The sensor <NUM> senses at least one of information in the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information around the mobile terminal, or user information and generates a sensing signal corresponding to the information. The controller <NUM> can control the driving or the operation of the mobile terminal <NUM> or perform data processing, functions, or operations related to the application program installed in the mobile terminal <NUM>, based on the sensing signal. Representative sensors among various sensors which can be included in the sensor <NUM> will be described in more detail below.

First, the proximity sensor <NUM> is a sensor which senses the presence of an object approaching a predetermined sensing surface or nearby objects, using an electromagnetic field force or infrared ray without any mechanical contact. The proximity sensor <NUM> can be disposed in an internal area of the mobile terminal which is enclosed by the above-described touch screen or in the vicinity of the touch screen.

Examples of the proximity sensor <NUM> can include a transmission type photoelectric sensor, a direct reflection type photoelectric sensor, a mirror reflection type photoelectric sensor, a high frequency oscillation type proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, and an infrared proximity sensor. When the touch screen is a capacitive type, the proximity sensor <NUM> can be configured to detect the proximity of the object with a change in the electric field in accordance with the proximity of the object having conductivity. In this instance, the touch screen (or the touch sensor) itself can be classified as a proximity sensor.

For convenience of description, when an object approaches the touch screen without contacting the touch screen, and it is recognized that the object is located above the touch screen, it is referred to as a "proximity touch". When the object actually touches the touch screen, it is referred to as a "contact touch". A position at which the object proximately touches the touch screen refers to a position at which the object vertically corresponds to the touch screen when the object proximately touches the touch screen. The proximity sensor <NUM> can sense a proximate touch and a proximate touch pattern (for example, a proximate touch distance, a proximate touch direction, a proximate touch speed, a proximate touch time, a proximate touch position, a proximate touch movement state, etc.). As described above, the controller <NUM> can process data (or information) corresponding to the proximate touch operation and the proximate touch pattern sensed by the proximity sensor <NUM>, and can further output visual information corresponding to the processed data on the touch screen. Furthermore, the controller <NUM> can control the mobile terminal <NUM> to process different operations or data (or information) depending on whether the touch on the same point on the touch screen is a proximity touch or a contact touch.

The touch sensor senses a touch (or a touch input) applied to the touch screen (or the display <NUM>) using at least one of various touch types such as a resistive film type, a capacitive type, an infrared type, an ultrasonic type, or a magnetic field type.

For example, the touch sensor can be configured to convert a change of a pressure which is applied to a specific portion of the touch screen, or a capacitance which is generated in a specific portion, into an electrical input signal. The touch sensor can be configured to detect a position and an area where a touch subject which applies a touch onto the touch screen is touched on the touch sensor, and a capacitance at the time of the touch. Here, the touch subject is an object which applies a touch to the touch sensor, and can include, for example, a finger, a touch pen, a stylus pen, a pointer, etc..

As described above, when there is a touch input to the touch sensor, corresponding signals are transmitted to a touch controller. The touch controller processes the signal(s) and then transmits corresponding data to the controller <NUM>. By doing this, the controller <NUM> can confirm which area of the display <NUM> is touched. Here, the touch controller can be a separate component from the controller <NUM>, or can be the controller <NUM> itself.

The controller <NUM> can perform different control or the same control depending on a type of a touch subject which touches the touch screen (or a touch key equipped other than the touch screen). Whether to perform the different control or the same control depending on the type of touch subject can be determined in accordance with an operating state of the current mobile terminal <NUM> or an application program which is being executed.

A touch sensor and a proximity sensor described above can, independently or in combination, sense various types of touches on the touch screen, such as a short (or tap) touch, a long touch, a multi touch, a drag touch, a flick touch, a pinch-in touch, a pinch-out touch, a swipe touch, or a hovering touch.

The ultrasonic sensor can recognize position information of a sensing object using an ultrasonic wave. The controller <NUM> can calculate a position of a wave generating source by information sensed by the optical sensor and the plurality of ultrasonic sensors. A position of the wave generating source can be calculated using the property that light is much faster than an ultrasonic wave, that is, the time in which light reaches the optical sensor is much faster than the time in which the ultrasonic wave reaches the ultrasonic sensor. More specifically, the position of the wave generating source can be calculated using a time difference of the time of arrival of the ultrasonic wave with respect to light which serves as a reference signal.

As seen from the configuration of the input interface <NUM>, the camera <NUM> includes at least one of a camera sensor (for example, a CCD or a CMOS), a photo sensor (or an image sensor), or a laser sensor.

The camera <NUM> and the laser sensor can be combined to sense a touch of a sensing object for a three-dimensional stereoscopic image. The photo sensor, which is laminated on a display element, is configured to scan a motion of a sensing object proximate to the touch screen. More specifically, the photo sensor is formed by mounting photo diodes and transistors (TR) in rows/columns to scan contents which are disposed on the photo sensor using an electrical signal that changes in accordance with an amount of light applied to the photo diode. That is, the photo sensor calculates coordinates of a sensing object in accordance with a changed amount of light, and position information of the sensing object can be obtained through the coordinates.

The display <NUM> displays (outputs) information processed in the mobile terminal <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> can display execution screen information of an application program driven in the mobile terminal <NUM> and user interface (UI) and graphic user interface (GUI) information in accordance with the execution screen information.

Further, the display <NUM> can be configured as a stereoscopic display which displays a stereoscopic image.

A three-dimensional display type such as a stereoscopic type (a glass type), an autostereoscopic type (a glass-free type), a projection type (a holographic type) can be applied to the stereoscopic display.

The speaker <NUM> can output audio data received from the wireless transceiver <NUM> or stored in the memory <NUM> in a call signal reception mode, a phone-call mode, a recording mode, a speech recognition mode, or a broadcast reception mode. The sound output interface <NUM> can also output a sound signal related to a function (for example, a call signal reception sound or a message reception sound) performed in the mobile terminal <NUM>. Such a sound output interface <NUM> can include, for example, a receiver, a speaker, and a buzzer.

The haptic module <NUM> can generate various tactile effects that can be felt by the user. A representative example of the tactile effect generated by the haptic actuator <NUM> can be vibration. An intensity and a pattern of the vibration generated in the haptic module <NUM> can be controlled by the selection of the user or a setting of the controller <NUM>. For example, the haptic module <NUM> can compose different vibrations and output the composed vibrations, or sequentially output the different vibrations.

In addition to vibration, the haptic module <NUM> generates various tactile effects such as effects by a pin arrangement which vertically moves to a contact skin surface, an injection force or a suction force of air through an injection port or a suction port, grazing on a skin surface, electrode contact, or stimulation of an electrostatic force or effects of reproducing a cold or hot sensation using a heat absorbing or heat emitting element.

The haptic module <NUM> can not only transmit a tactile effect by means of direct contact, but can also be implemented to allow the user to feel a tactile effect by muscular sensation of a finger or an arm. Two or more haptic modules <NUM> can be provided in accordance with a configuration aspect of the mobile terminal <NUM>.

The optical output interface <NUM> outputs a signal for notifying occurrence of an event using light of a light source of the mobile terminal <NUM>. Examples of events generated in the mobile terminal <NUM> can be message reception, call signal reception, missed call, alarm, schedule notification, email reception, and information reception through an application.

The signal output from the optical output interface <NUM> is implemented as the mobile terminal emits single color or multicolor light to a front surface or a rear surface. When the mobile terminal senses the event confirmation of the user, the signal output can be completed.

The interface <NUM> serves as a passage between all external devices which are connected to the mobile terminal <NUM>. The interface <NUM> receives data from the external device or is supplied with a power source and transmits the data to each component in the mobile terminal <NUM>, or transmits the data in the mobile terminal <NUM> to the external device. For example, the interface <NUM> can include a wired/wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired/wireless data port, a memory card port, a port which connects a device equipped with an identification module, an audio input/output (I/O) port, a video input/output (I/O) port, an earphone port, etc..

The identification module is a chip in which various information for authenticating a usage right of the mobile terminal <NUM> is stored, and can include, for example, a user identity module (UIM), a subscriber identification module (SIM), and a universal subscriber identity module (USIM). A device with an identification module (hereinafter, "identification device") can be manufactured as a smart card. Therefore, the identification device can be connected to the mobile terminal <NUM> through the I/O connector <NUM>.

When the mobile terminal <NUM> is connected to an external cradle, the interface <NUM> can serve as a passage through which the power is supplied from the cradle to the mobile terminal <NUM> or a passage through which various command signals are transmitted to the mobile terminal <NUM>. Various command signals or the power inputted from the cradle can operate a signal for recognizing that the mobile terminal <NUM> is precisely mounted in the cradle.

The memory <NUM> can store a program for an operation of the controller <NUM>, or temporarily store input/output data (for example, a phone book, a message, a still image, a moving image, etc.). The memory <NUM> can store data on a vibration or a sound of various patterns output when the touch is input onto the touch screen.

The memory <NUM> can include at least one type of storage medium of a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a solid state disk (SSD) type, a silicon disk drive (SDD) type, a multimedia card micro type, and card type memories (for example, SD or XD memory and the like), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The mobile terminal <NUM> can operate in association with a web storage which performs a storage function of the memory <NUM> on the Internet.

As described above, the controller <NUM> can control an operation related to the application program and the overall operation of the mobile terminal <NUM>. For example, when the state of the mobile terminal satisfies a predetermined condition, the controller <NUM> can execute or release a locking state which restricts an input of a control command of a user for the applications.

Further, the controller <NUM> can perform control and processing related to voice call, data communication, and video call, or perform a pattern recognition process which recognizes a handwriting input or a picture drawing input performed on the touch screen as a text or an image, respectively. Moreover, the controller <NUM> can control any one or a combination of a plurality of components described above to implement various embodiments which will be described below on the mobile terminal <NUM> according to the present disclosure.

The power supply <NUM> receives application of an external power or an internal power by the control of the controller <NUM>, and supplies the power required for operations of components. The power supply <NUM> includes a battery <NUM>, and the battery can be a chargeable embedded battery and be detachably coupled to the terminal body to be charged.

Further, the power supply <NUM> includes a connection port, and the connection port can be configured as one example of an interface <NUM> to which an external charger which supplies a power to charge a battery is electrically connected.

As another example, the power supply <NUM> can be configured to wirelessly charge the battery without using the connection port. In this instance, the power supply <NUM> can receive the power using one or more of an inductive coupling method based on a self-induction phenomenon or a magnetic resonance coupling method based on an electromagnetic resonance phenomenon.

Various embodiments below can be implemented in a recording medium readable by a computer or a similar device using hardware, software, or a combination thereof.

The display <NUM> can include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a three-dimensional display (3D display), or an electronic ink display (e-ink display).

Further, two or more displays <NUM> can be provided in accordance with an implementation type of the mobile terminal <NUM>. In this instance, a plurality of displays can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other or integrally disposed on one surface of the mobile terminal <NUM> or can be disposed on different surfaces.

The display <NUM> can include a touch sensor which senses a touch on the display <NUM> so as to receive the control command by the touch method. Therefore, when the touch is made on the display <NUM>, the touch sensor senses the touch, and based on the touch the controller <NUM> generates a control command corresponding to the touch. Contents inputted by the touch method can be letters or numbers, instructions in various modes, menu items which can be designated, or the like.

The microphone <NUM> is configured to receive a voice of the user, or other sounds. The microphone <NUM> is equipped in a plurality of locations to receive stereo sounds.

The interface <NUM> serves as a passage through which the mobile terminal <NUM> is connected to external devices. For example, the interface <NUM> can be at least one of a connection terminal for connection with other devices (for example, an earphone or an external speaker), a port for near field communication (for example, an infrared port (IrDA port), a Bluetooth port, and a wireless LAN port,), or a power supply terminal for supplying power to the mobile terminal <NUM>. The interface <NUM> can be implemented as a socket type which accommodates an external card such as a subscriber identification module (SIM), a user identity module (UIM), and a memory card for information storage.

At least one antenna for wireless communication can be provided in a terminal body. The antenna can be embedded in the terminal body or formed in a case. For example, the antenna which forms a part of the broadcast receiving module <NUM> (see <FIG>) can be configured to be drawn from the terminal body. Alternatively, the antenna can be formed to be a film type to be attached onto an inner surface of a housing, or a case including a conductive material can serve as an antenna.

The terminal body includes the power supply <NUM> (see <FIG>) which supplies the power to the mobile terminal <NUM>. The power supply <NUM> can be embedded in the terminal body or include a battery <NUM> which is configured to be detachable at the outside of the terminal body.

The battery <NUM> can be configured to be supplied with power through a power cable connected to the interface <NUM>. Further, the battery <NUM> can be configured to be wirelessly chargeable by a wireless charging device. The wireless charging can be implemented by a self-induction method or a resonance method (magnetic resonance method).

An accessory which protects the exterior or supports or extends the function of the mobile terminal <NUM> can be added to the mobile terminal <NUM>. An example of the accessory can include a cover or a pouch which covers at least one surface of the mobile terminal <NUM> or accommodates the mobile terminal <NUM>. The cover or the pouch can interwork with the display <NUM> to extend the function of the mobile terminal <NUM>. Another example of the accessory can include a touch pen which supports or extends a touch input on the touch screen.

Hereinafter, in the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an X-direction, a Y-direction, and a Z-direction shown in the drawings are orthogonal to each other.

<FIG> and <FIG> are perspective views illustrating a flexible display device <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

<FIG> are cross-sectional views schematically illustrating a flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

<FIG> is a view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied, and <FIG> is a view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a flexible display <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a flexible display <NUM> according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a body <NUM>, a flexible display <NUM>, and a first protective guard <NUM>.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include two surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> that are opposite each other. The flexible display device <NUM> can include a first surface <NUM> and a second surface <NUM>, and the direction in which the first surface <NUM> is oriented (the Z-direction) and the direction in which the second surface <NUM> is oriented (the direction opposite the Z-direction) can be opposite each other.

Hereinafter, the first surface <NUM> is referred to as a front surface of the flexible display device <NUM>, and the second surface <NUM> is referred to as a rear surface of the flexible display device <NUM>.

The body <NUM> defines the overall shape of the flexible display device <NUM>. The body <NUM> forms a frame of the flexible display device <NUM>. The body <NUM> can be made of a relatively hard material, and can include plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. Other components that constitute the flexible display device <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM>.

The body <NUM> can be formed in any of various shapes that are capable of supporting other components coupled thereto.

The body <NUM> can be formed in a flat shape overall, or can be formed in a curved shape having a curved surface. The body <NUM> can be formed so as to have an entirely solid interior, or can be formed so as to have a partially hollow interior.

In one example, when viewed from the front (the Z-direction), the body <NUM> can be formed in a rectangular shape overall, and can also be formed in a flat shape overall.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the body <NUM> can be formed in a unitary invariable shape.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the body <NUM> can be divided into two or more parts. The body <NUM> can include a first body 210a and a second body 210b, in which the first body 210a and the second body 210b are formed so as to be movable relative to each other (see <FIG>, <FIG>).

For example, the second body 210b can be formed so as to perform sliding motion (reciprocating motion) relative to the first body 210a. Accordingly, the total area occupied by the body <NUM> can be varied.

The flexible display <NUM> is formed in the type of a thin film that is bendable. The flexible display <NUM> includes an outer surface and an inner surface, and is coupled to the body <NUM>. The inner surface of the flexible display <NUM> is a surface that is coupled to the body <NUM>, and the outer surface of the flexible display <NUM> is a surface that is opposite the inner surface thereof.

At least a portion of the flexible display <NUM> is exposed to the outside of the body <NUM>. The flexible display <NUM> can include a first curved surface portion 220a and a first surface portion 220b.

The first curved surface portion 220a forms an outer surface that is curved about a first curvature center line L1. The first curvature center line L1 is an imaginary straight line that forms the center of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a.

The first surface portion 220b forms an outer surface that is parallel to the first curvature center line L1. The first surface portion 220b can have a uniform cross-section in the longitudinal direction of the first curvature center line L1. The first surface portion 220b can be a surface that extends from the first curved surface portion 220a.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first surface portion 220b can form a curved surface overall. In this instance, the curvature of the first surface portion 220b can be smaller than the curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a, and the radius of curvature of the first surface portion 220b can be larger than the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a. The radius of curvature of the first surface portion 220b can be much larger than the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a. For example, when the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a is "a", the radius of curvature of the first surface portion 220b can be "<NUM>*a" or greater.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first surface portion 220b can form a flat surface overall. The first surface portion 220b can form an outer surface that is a flat surface extending from the first curved surface portion 220a, and can be disposed on the front surface of the body <NUM>.

Hereinafter, the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the first surface portion 220b forms a flat surface, will be described.

The direction in which the first surface portion 220b is oriented (the direction in which the outer surface of the first surface portion 220b is oriented, or the Z-direction) can be a first direction. The first surface portion 220b can form the entirety or a portion of the first surface <NUM> of the flexible display device <NUM>.

An image can be displayed on each of the first curved surface portion 220a and the first surface portion 220b.

The area of the first surface portion 220b can be larger than the area of the first curved surface portion 220a.

The flexible display <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a second surface portion 220c that forms an outer surface, which is the surface opposite the first surface portion 220b. In addition, as described later, the flexible display <NUM> can include a second curved surface portion 220d. An image can be displayed on each of the second surface portion 220c and the second curved surface portion 220d.

When the direction in which the second surface portion 220c is oriented (the direction in which the outer surface of the second surface portion 220c is oriented) is a second direction, the second direction is the direction opposite the first direction (the Z-direction). That is, in the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first surface can be oriented in the forward direction, and the second surface can be oriented in the backward direction.

The second surface portion 220c can form the entirety or a portion of the second surface <NUM> of the flexible display device <NUM>.

The second surface portion 220c forms an outer surface that is parallel to the first curvature center line L1. The second surface portion 220c can have a uniform cross-section in the longitudinal direction of the first curvature center line L1. The second surface portion 220c can be a surface that extends from the first curved surface portion 220a.

The flexible display <NUM> can be configured such that the first surface portion 220b, the first curved surface portion 220a, and the second surface portion 220c are sequentially connected to each other. The first surface portion 220b, the first curved surface portion 220a, and the second surface portion 220c can be formed in a U shape overall.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second surface portion 220c can form a curved surface overall. In this instance, the curvature of the second surface portion 220c can be smaller than the curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a, and the radius of curvature of the second surface portion 220c can be larger than the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a. The radius of curvature of the second surface portion 220c can be much larger than the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a. For example, when the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a is "a", the radius of curvature of the second surface portion 220c can be "<NUM>*a" or greater.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second surface portion 220c can form a flat surface overall. Further, the second surface portion 220c can be formed parallel to the first surface portion 220b. Hereinafter, the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the second surface portion 220c is formed in the shape of a flat surface and is formed parallel to the first surface portion 220b, will be described.

When the body <NUM> is formed in a unitary invariable shape, the flexible display <NUM> can also be formed in an invariable shape. In other words, each of the first curved surface portion 220a, the first surface portion 220b, the second surface portion 220c, and/or the second curved surface portion 220d can have a constant shape (see <FIG> and <FIG>).

In contrast, when the body <NUM> is formed in a variable shape, the flexible display <NUM> can also be formed in a variable shape. For example, when the body <NUM> includes a first body 210a and a second body 210b and when the second body 210b is formed so as to perform reciprocating motion relative to the first body 210a in the direction parallel to the first surface portion 220b, a portion of the flexible display <NUM> can be moved and the shape thereof can be varied in the state of being coupled to the first body 210a or the second body 210b (see <FIG>, <FIG>).

When the flexible display <NUM> is formed in a variable shape and when the second body 210b is formed so as to perform reciprocating motion relative to the first body 210a, a plurality of support bars <NUM> can be coupled to the rear surface of the flexible display <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Each of the support bars <NUM> extends long in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1 (the Y-direction), and has a uniform cross-section in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1.

Each of the support bars <NUM> can have the same thickness (the length in the Z-direction) as the second body 210b, and can support the flexible display <NUM>, the shape of which is variable.

When the state in which the first body 210a and the second body 210b are coupled to each other so as to occupy the smallest area is referred to as a first state (the state shown in <FIG> or <FIG>) and the state in which the second body 210b slides away from the first body 210a such that the overall area of the body <NUM> increases is referred to as a second state (the state shown in <FIG> or <FIG>), if the second body 210b performs reciprocating motion relative to the first body 210a between the first state and the second state, the area of the first surface portion 220b can increase or decrease.

When the second body 210b performs reciprocating motion relative to the first body 210a between the first state and the second state, the portion that forms the first curved surface portion 220a can be changed to the first surface portion 220b. Alternatively, the portion that forms the first curved surface portion 220a can be changed to the second surface portion 220c.

When the second body 210b moves relative to the first body 210a so as to switch from the first state to the second state, the portion that forms the first curved surface portion 220a in the first state can be changed to the first surface portion 220b in the second state, and the portion that forms the second surface portion 220c in the first state can be changed to the first curved surface portion 220a in the second state.

When the second body 210b moves relative to the first body 210a so as to switch from the second state to the first state, the portion that forms the first curved surface portion 220a in the second state can be changed to the second surface portion 220c in the first state, and the portion that forms the first surface portion 220b in the second state can be changed to the first curved surface portion 220a in the first state.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied, <FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG>, <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a first protective guard <NUM> shown in <FIG>, and <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a second protective guard <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a side view illustrating the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is a side view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied.

<FIG> is a side view illustrating the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. In <FIG>, illustration of the first protective guard <NUM> is omitted.

<FIG> is a side view illustrating a portion of the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is a side view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a first plate <NUM> and a second plate <NUM>.

The first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> can form a portion of the body <NUM>.

The first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> can be provided separately from each other, and can be respectively disposed at positions further outward than the two opposite edges of the first surface portion 220b in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1. The first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> can be disposed to be symmetrical to each other.

The first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> can protrude further outward than the first surface portion 220b and the second surface portion 220c in the directions orthogonal to the surfaces of the first surface portion 220b and the second surface portion 220c (the Z-direction and the direction opposite the Z-direction). That is, the first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> can protrude further than the first surface portion 220b in the first direction, and can protrude further than the second surface portion 220c in the second direction.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a first support portion <NUM> and a second support portion <NUM>.

The first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> can form a portion of the body <NUM>.

When the body <NUM> is formed in a unitary shape, the first support portion <NUM> can form a portion of the first plate <NUM>, and the second support portion <NUM> can form a portion of the second plate <NUM>.

When the body <NUM> includes the first body 210a and the second body 210b, which are moveable relative to each other, the first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> can form a portion of the first body 210a, and the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> can form a portion of the second body 210b.

The first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> are provided separately from each other, and are respectively disposed on the two opposite sides of the first curved surface portion 220a in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1.

The first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> can form the two opposite end portions of the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> can form the two opposite end portions of the flexible display device <NUM> that are the closest to the first curved surface portion 220a.

The first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> can be disposed at positions further outward than the two opposite edges of the first curved surface portion 220a so as to be symmetrical to each other.

The first protective guard <NUM> can include a first protective plate <NUM>, a first connection plate <NUM>, and a second connection plate <NUM>.

The first protective plate <NUM> is formed in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1, and is located at the outer side of the flexible display <NUM>. The first protective plate <NUM> can be formed to have a predetermined area, and can be configured to shield a portion of the outer surface of the flexible display <NUM>.

The first protective plate <NUM> can be formed to have a uniform cross-section along the first curvature center line L1. The first protective plate <NUM> can extend along the first curvature center line L1. That is, the longitudinal direction of the first protective plate <NUM> can be parallel to the first curvature center line L1.

The first protective plate <NUM> can be formed in a curved shape. The first protective plate <NUM> can have an inner surface 231a (a surface facing the flexible display <NUM>) formed in a curved shape.

The first protective plate <NUM> connects the first connection plate <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> to each other. The first connection plate <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> are portions that are respectively connected to the two opposite end portions of the first protective plate <NUM>.

The first connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be bent at one end portion of the first protective plate <NUM>. The second connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be bent at the opposite end portion of the first protective plate <NUM>.

Each of the first connection plate <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> can be formed in the shape of a plate that forms a surface orthogonal to the first curvature center line L1. The inner surface of each of the first connection plate <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> can form a surface orthogonal to the first curvature center line L1.

Each of the first connection plate <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> can be formed in a fan shape.

The first connection plate <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> can be formed symmetrical with each other.

The first protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform motion (reciprocating motion) relative to the body <NUM>.

The first protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform rotation (reciprocating rotation) relative to the body <NUM>. When the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> are provided, the first protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform rotation (reciprocating rotation) relative to the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM>.

A first rotation axis S1 is the rotation axis of the first protective guard <NUM>. The first rotation axis S1 is parallel to the first curvature center line L1. The first rotation axis S1 can lie in the same line as the first curvature center line L1. That is, the first rotation axis S1 can coincide with the first curvature center line L1.

Specifically, the first connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1. Further, the first connection plate <NUM> can be movably coupled to the first support portion <NUM>. The first connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the first support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1.

In addition, the second connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1. Further, the second connection plate <NUM> can be movably coupled to the second support portion <NUM>. The second connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the second support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1.

In the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first protective guard <NUM>, which is movable (rotatable) relative to the body <NUM>, the first support portion <NUM>, and the second support portion <NUM>, can function as a protective structure for protecting the flexible display <NUM>, and can shield or expose at least a portion of the first curved surface portion 220a.

During the use of the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, when it is desired to display an image through the first surface portion 220b and the first curved surface portion 220a and to expose the first surface portion 220b and the first curved surface portion 220a to a user, the first protective guard <NUM> can be rotated relative to the body <NUM> such that the first protective plate <NUM> of the first protective guard <NUM> is located on the second surface <NUM> of the flexible display device <NUM>.

In addition, during the use of the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, when no image is displayed through the first curved surface portion 220a or when it is desired to protect the first curved surface portion 220a, the first protective guard <NUM> can be rotated relative to the body <NUM> such that the first protective plate <NUM> of the first protective guard <NUM> is located directly on the outer side of the first curved surface portion 220a. In this instance, the first protective plate <NUM> can shield the entirety or a portion of the first curved surface portion 220a.

As described above, the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> can be disposed at positions further outward than the two opposite edges of the first curved surface portion 220a. That is, the flexible display <NUM> can be located between the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM>. In particular, the first curved surface portion 220a can be located between the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM>.

Each of the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> can be formed to have a curved edge. The edge of the first support portion <NUM> and the edge of the second support portion <NUM> can be formed in an arc shape about the first curvature center line L1.

The vertical distance from the first curvature center line L1 to the edge of the first support portion <NUM> can be greater than the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a, and the vertical distance from the first curvature center line L1 to the edge of the second support portion <NUM> can be greater than the radius of curvature of the first curved surface portion 220a.

As described above, the first protective plate <NUM> can have a curved inner surface. In this instance, the inner surface 231a of the first protective plate <NUM> can be formed to be concentric with the first curved surface portion 220a.

The angle θ<NUM> that the first curved surface portion 220a forms about the first curvature center line L1 can be <NUM>°, and the angle θ<NUM> that the first protective plate <NUM> forms about the first rotation axis S1 can be any angle within the range from <NUM>° to <NUM>° (see <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>).

The flexible display <NUM> can include the second curved surface portion 220d.

The second curved surface portion 220d forms an outer surface that is curved about a second curvature center line L2, which is parallel to the first curvature center line L1. The second curved surface portion 220d is formed to be convex in the direction opposite the direction in which the first curved surface portion 220a is convex.

The second curvature center line L2 is an imaginary straight line that forms the center of curvature of the second curved surface portion 220d.

The second curved surface portion 220d can be symmetrical to the first curved surface portion 220a.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a third support portion <NUM>, a fourth support portion <NUM>, and a second protective guard <NUM>.

The third support portion <NUM> and the fourth support portion <NUM> are provided separately from each other, and are fixed to the body <NUM>. The third support portion <NUM> and the fourth support portion <NUM> are respectively disposed on the two opposite sides of the second curved surface portion 220d in the direction parallel to the second curvature center line L2.

The third support portion <NUM> and the fourth support portion <NUM> can form a portion of the body <NUM>.

When the body <NUM> is formed in a unitary shape, the third support portion <NUM> can form a portion of the first plate <NUM>, and the fourth support portion <NUM> can form a portion of the second plate <NUM>.

The third support portion <NUM> can be formed to be symmetrical to the first support portion <NUM> described above.

The fourth support portion <NUM> can be formed to be symmetrical to the second support portion <NUM> described above.

The second protective guard <NUM> can include a second protective plate <NUM>, a third connection plate <NUM>, and a fourth connection plate <NUM>. The second protective guard <NUM> can be formed to be symmetrical to the first protective guard <NUM>.

The second protective plate <NUM> is formed in the direction parallel to the second curvature center line L2, and is located at the outer side of the flexible display <NUM>.

The second protective plate <NUM> can be formed in a curved shape. The second protective plate <NUM> can have an inner surface 241a (a surface facing the flexible display <NUM>) formed in a curved shape.

The second protective plate <NUM> connects the third connection plate <NUM> and the fourth connection plate <NUM> to each other.

The second protective plate <NUM> can be formed to be symmetrical to the first protective plate <NUM>.

The third connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2. The third connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the third support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2. The third connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be bent at one end portion of the second protective plate <NUM>.

The third connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be symmetrical to the first connection plate <NUM>.

The fourth connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2. The fourth connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the fourth support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2. The fourth connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be bent at the opposite end portion of the second protective plate <NUM>.

The fourth connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be symmetrical to the second connection plate <NUM>.

The second protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform rotation (reciprocating rotation) relative to the body <NUM>. When the third support portion <NUM> and the fourth support portion <NUM> are provided, the second protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform rotation (reciprocating rotation) relative to the third support portion <NUM> and the fourth support portion <NUM>.

The second rotation axis S2 is the rotation axis of the second protective guard <NUM>. The second rotation axis S2 is parallel to the second curvature center line L2. The second rotation axis S2 can lie in the same line as the second curvature center line L2. That is, the second rotation axis S2 can coincide with the second curvature center line L2.

Specifically, the third connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2. Further, the third connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the third support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2.

In addition, the fourth connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2. Further, the fourth connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the fourth support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the second rotation axis S2.

In the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the second protective guard <NUM>, which is rotatable relative to the body <NUM>, the third support portion <NUM>, and the fourth support portion <NUM>, can function as a protective structure for protecting the flexible display <NUM>, and can shield or expose at least a portion of the second curved surface portion 220d.

During the use of the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, when it is desired to display an image through the first surface portion 220b and the second curved surface portion 220d and to expose the first surface portion 220b and the second curved surface portion 220d to a user, the second protective guard <NUM> can be rotated relative to the body <NUM> such that the second protective plate <NUM> of the second protective guard <NUM> is located on the second surface <NUM> of the flexible display device <NUM>.

In addition, during the use of the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, when no image is displayed through the second curved surface portion 220d or when it is desired to protect the second curved surface portion 220d, the second protective guard <NUM> can be rotated relative to the body <NUM> such that the second protective plate <NUM> of the second protective guard <NUM> is located directly on the outer side of the second curved surface portion 220d. In this instance, the second protective plate <NUM> can shield the entirety or a portion of the second curved surface portion 220d.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating the first protective guard <NUM> and an extended protective guard <NUM> in the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, <FIG> is a view illustrating the configuration in which the first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective guard <NUM> shown in <FIG> are coupled to the flexible display device <NUM>, and <FIG> is a view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include an extended protective guard <NUM>.

The extended protective guard <NUM> can include an extended protective plate <NUM>, a first extended connection plate <NUM>, and a second extended connection plate <NUM>.

The extended protective plate <NUM> is formed in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1, and is located at the outer side of the flexible display <NUM>. The extended protective plate <NUM> can be formed to have a predetermined area, and can be configured to shield a portion of the outer surface of the flexible display <NUM>.

The extended protective plate <NUM> can be formed to have a uniform cross-section along the first curvature center line L1. The extended protective plate <NUM> can extend along the first curvature center line L1. That is, the longitudinal direction of the extended protective plate <NUM> can be parallel to the first curvature center line L1.

The extended protective plate <NUM> can be formed in a curved shape. The extended protective plate <NUM> can have an inner surface (a surface facing the flexible display <NUM>) formed in a curved shape.

The extended protective plate <NUM> connects the first extended connection plate <NUM> and the second extended connection plate <NUM> to each other. The first extended connection plate <NUM> and the second extended connection plate <NUM> are portions that are respectively connected to the two opposite end portions of the extended protective plate <NUM>.

The first extended connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be bent at one end portion of the extended protective plate <NUM>. The second extended connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be bent at the opposite end portion of the extended protective plate <NUM>.

Each of the first extended connection plate <NUM> and the second extended connection plate <NUM> can be formed in the shape of a plate that forms a surface orthogonal to the first curvature center line L1. The inner surface of each of the first extended connection plate <NUM> and the second extended connection plate <NUM> can form a surface orthogonal to the first curvature center line L1.

Each of the first extended connection plate <NUM> and the second extended connection plate <NUM> can be formed in a fan shape.

The first extended connection plate <NUM> and the second extended connection plate <NUM> can be formed to be symmetrical to each other.

The extended protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform motion (reciprocating motion) relative to the body <NUM>.

The extended protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform rotation (reciprocating rotation) relative to the body <NUM>. When the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM> are provided, the extended protective guard <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to perform rotation (reciprocating rotation) relative to the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM>.

Specifically, the first extended connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1. Further, the first extended connection plate <NUM> can be movably coupled to the first support portion <NUM>. The first extended connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the first support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1.

In addition, the second extended connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1. Further, the second extended connection plate <NUM> can be movably coupled to the second support portion <NUM>. The second extended connection plate <NUM> can be coupled to the second support portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about the first rotation axis S1.

In the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the extended protective guard <NUM>, which is movable (rotatable) relative to the first support portion <NUM> and the second support portion <NUM>, can function as a protective structure for protecting the flexible display <NUM>, and can shield or expose at least a portion of the first curved surface portion 220a.

During the use of the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, when it is desired to display an image through the first surface portion 220b and the first curved surface portion 220a and to expose the first surface portion 220b and the first curved surface portion 220a to a user, the first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective guard <NUM> can be rotated relative to the body <NUM> such that the first protective plate <NUM> of the first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective plate <NUM> of the extended protective guard <NUM> are located on the second surface <NUM> of the flexible display device <NUM>.

In addition, during the use of the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, when no image is displayed through the first curved surface portion 220a or when it is desired to protect the first curved surface portion 220a, the first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective guard <NUM> can be rotated relative to the body <NUM> such that the first protective plate <NUM> of the first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective plate <NUM> of the extended protective guard <NUM> are located directly on the outer side of the first curved surface portion 220a. In this case, the first protective plate <NUM> and the second extended protective plate can shield the entirety or a portion of the first curved surface portion 220a.

The first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective guard <NUM> can be movable relative to each other, and can at least partially overlap each other.

The first protective guard <NUM> can be provided with a first latching protrusion <NUM>, and the extended protective guard <NUM> can be provided with a second latching protrusion <NUM>, which is configured to be caught on the first latching protrusion <NUM>.

The first latching protrusion <NUM> can be formed at each of the two opposite end portions of the first protective guard <NUM>, and the second latching protrusion <NUM> can be formed at each of the two opposite end portions of the extended protective guard <NUM>.

The area of the first curved surface portion 220a, which is shielded by the first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective guard <NUM>, can be adjusted by respectively rotating the first protective guard <NUM> and the extended protective guard <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, <FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG>, <FIG> is a view illustrating the configuration in which a fastening protrusion and a first fastening ring shown in <FIG> are coupled to each other, <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is a view illustrating cross-sections of some components of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can further include a base <NUM> through which the first support portion <NUM> and the first connection plate <NUM> are coupled to each other.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a plurality of bases <NUM>. The bases <NUM> can serve to couple the second support portion <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> to each other, can serve to couple the third support portion <NUM> and the third connection plate <NUM> to each other, and can serve to couple the fourth support portion <NUM> and the fourth connection plate <NUM> to each other.

Any one of the first connection plate <NUM> or the base <NUM> can be provided with a fastening protrusion, and the other one can be provided with a first fastening ring into which the fastening protrusion is inserted.

Hereinafter, the configuration in which the fastening protrusion <NUM> is formed on the base <NUM> and in which the first fastening ring <NUM> is formed on the first connection plate <NUM> will be described by way of example.

A second fastening ring <NUM> can be formed on the second connection plate <NUM> in order to couple the base <NUM> and the second connection plate <NUM> to each other, a third fastening ring <NUM> can be formed on the third connection plate <NUM> in order to couple the base <NUM> and the third connection plate <NUM> to each other, and a fourth fastening ring <NUM> can be formed on the fourth connection plate <NUM> in order to couple the base <NUM> and the fourth connection plate <NUM> to each other (see <FIG> and <FIG>).

The base <NUM> can be detachably coupled to the outer surface of the first support portion <NUM>.

The base <NUM> is configured not to rotate relative to the first support portion <NUM> in the state of being coupled to the first support portion <NUM>. That is, the base <NUM> is configured not to rotate about the first rotation axis S1.

A concave seating recess 213a, in which the base <NUM> is inserted, is formed in the outer surface of the first support portion <NUM>. The base <NUM> can be perfectly or tightly fitted into the seating recess 213a.

The seating recess 213a is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the base <NUM>. In the state in which the base <NUM> is inserted in the seating recess 213a, the base <NUM> is prevented from rotating relative to the first support portion <NUM>. To this end, the base <NUM> and the seating recess 213a can be formed in any of various shapes other than a circular shape. For example, the base <NUM> and the seating recess 213a can be formed in a polygonal shape, an elliptical shape, or the like.

As shown in <FIG>, the base <NUM> and the seating recess 213a can be formed in a rectangular shape.

The fastening protrusion <NUM> is formed to protrude outward from the outer surface of the base <NUM>. The fastening protrusion <NUM> can protrude along the first rotation axis S1, and can have a uniform cross-section along the first rotation axis S1.

The first fastening ring <NUM> is formed in the shape of a circular ring that has a through-hole formed in the center portion thereof. The fastening protrusion <NUM> is inserted into the center of the first fastening ring <NUM>. In the state in which the fastening protrusion <NUM> is inserted into the center of the first fastening ring <NUM>, the first fastening ring <NUM> and the fastening protrusion <NUM> at least partially contact each other.

The first fastening ring <NUM> has an inner circumferential surface that has a size and a shape corresponding to those of the outer circumferential surface of the fastening protrusion <NUM>. That is, in the state in which the fastening protrusion <NUM> is inserted into the first fastening ring <NUM>, when no external force is applied thereto, the base <NUM> and the first protective guard <NUM> (the first connection plate <NUM>) do not rotate relative to each other.

The outer circumferential surface 261a of the fastening protrusion <NUM> and the inner circumferential surface 234a of the first fastening ring <NUM> can be formed in a polygonal shape (refer to <FIG>). Further, the fastening protrusion <NUM> and the first fastening ring <NUM> can be made of an elastically deformable material. For example, at least one of the fastening protrusion <NUM> or the first fastening ring <NUM> can be made of an elastically deformable material such as plastic.

When each of the outer circumferential surface 261a of the fastening protrusion <NUM> and the inner circumferential surface 234a of the first fastening ring <NUM> is formed in the shape of a polygon having n sides, the first protective guard <NUM> (the first connection plate <NUM>) can be rotated relative to the base <NUM> to an angle of <NUM>°/n (or a multiple thereof) by external force applied thereto.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a cap <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> can include a flange <NUM> and a fixing protrusion <NUM>. The cap <NUM> is disposed on the outer side of the first connection plate <NUM>, and is coupled to the base <NUM> in order to prevent the first connection plate <NUM> from being separated from the base <NUM>.

The flange <NUM> is formed in the shape of a plate that has a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the first fastening ring <NUM>.

The fixing protrusion <NUM> protrudes from the center of the inner surface of the flange <NUM>, and is attached to and detached from the fastening protrusion <NUM>. The fastening protrusion <NUM> of the base <NUM> can have a fixing recess <NUM> formed therein, into which the fixing protrusion <NUM> is inserted. The fixing protrusion <NUM> can be tightly fitted into the fixing recess <NUM>.

As described above, in the flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes the base <NUM> and the cap <NUM>, it is possible to easily install or separate the first protective guard <NUM> to or from the flexible display device <NUM> by assembling or disassembling the base <NUM>, the first connection plate <NUM>, and the cap <NUM> with or from each other.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is a view illustrating the state in which the shape of the flexible display device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is varied.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a rotary body <NUM>, a stop ball <NUM>, an elastic body <NUM>, and a cylinder <NUM>.

The rotary body <NUM> can include a neck portion <NUM> and a head portion <NUM>.

The neck portion <NUM> is secured to the first connection plate <NUM> and extends inward along the first rotation axis S1.

The head portion <NUM> can be formed so as to expand in diameter from the inner end of the neck portion <NUM>. The head portion <NUM> can have a concave stop recess <NUM> formed therein. The stop recess <NUM> can be formed in a hemispherical shape.

The stop recess <NUM> can be provided in a plural number, and the plurality of stop recesses <NUM> can be arranged in the circumferential direction about the first rotation axis S1.

The stop ball <NUM> can be formed in a spherical shape, and can be inserted into any one of the stop recesses <NUM>.

The elastic body <NUM> is configured to elastically support the stop ball <NUM> in the direction in which the stop ball <NUM> is inserted into any one of the stop recesses <NUM> (the Y-direction). The elastic body <NUM> can be formed in a coil spring shape.

The cylinder <NUM> can be secured to the interior of the body <NUM>, and can have an accommodation space formed therein. The accommodation space can extend in the direction parallel to the first rotation axis S1, and can be open toward the head portion <NUM>.

The elastic body <NUM> is accommodated in the accommodation space in the cylinder <NUM>. The elastic body <NUM> is elastically deformed in the accommodation space. The stop ball <NUM> is elastically supported by the elastic body <NUM> in the state in which at least a portion thereof is inserted into the accommodation space.

When no external force is applied thereto, the stop ball <NUM> is maintained in the state of being inserted into any one of the stop recesses <NUM> by the elastic body <NUM>. Accordingly, the first protective guard <NUM> is prevented from rotating relative to the body <NUM> and the cylinder <NUM>.

When the first protective guard <NUM> is rotated relative to the body <NUM> and the cylinder <NUM> by external force applied thereto, the rotary body <NUM> rotates, and accordingly the stop ball <NUM> escapes from one of the stop recesses <NUM>, in which the stop ball <NUM> has been received, and is inserted into a neighboring one of the stop recesses <NUM>. When the external force is removed, the rotation of the first protective guard <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> and the cylinder <NUM> is stopped.

As such, the position of the first protective guard <NUM> can be fixed so as to shield a specific region of the flexible display <NUM>, and can also be easily changed.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating some components of the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, <FIG> are views schematically illustrating a portion of a first filter <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating some components of the flexible display device <NUM> according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a back cover <NUM> and a first filter <NUM>.

The back cover <NUM> can be formed in a flat plate shape overall, and can be fixed to the body <NUM>. The back cover <NUM> can form the entirety or a portion of the second surface <NUM> of the flexible display device <NUM>.

The back cover <NUM> can be configured to shield the second surface portion 220c of the flexible display <NUM> while being spaced apart therefrom.

The first filter <NUM> can be made of a soft material. The first filter <NUM> can include at least one of a brush, a cloth, a nonwoven fabric, a sponge, or paper (see <FIG>).

The first filter <NUM> can extend in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1. The first filter <NUM> can be formed over the entire area of the flexible display <NUM> in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1. That is, the first filter <NUM> can have a length that is equal to the length of the flexible display <NUM> in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1.

The first filter <NUM> is coupled to the inner surface of the back cover <NUM> so as to be in contact with the flexible display <NUM>. The first filter <NUM> prevents foreign substances such as dust from entering the region between the second surface portion 220c of the flexible display <NUM> and the back cover <NUM>.

The flexible display device <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a second filter <NUM>.

The second filter <NUM> can be made of a soft material. The second filter <NUM> can include at least one of a brush, a cloth, a nonwoven fabric, a sponge, or paper.

The second filter <NUM> can extend in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1. The second filter <NUM> can be formed over the entire area of the flexible display <NUM> in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1. That is, the second filter <NUM> can have a length that is equal to the length of the flexible display <NUM> in the direction parallel to the first curvature center line L1.

The second filter <NUM> is coupled to the inner surface of the first protective plate <NUM> of the first protective guard <NUM> so as to be in contact with the flexible display <NUM>. The second filter <NUM> can remove foreign substances such as dust from the outer surface of the flexible display <NUM>, on which the first protective guard <NUM> moves relative thereto.

Claim 1:
A flexible display device (<NUM>), comprising:
a body (<NUM>);
a flexible display (<NUM>) configured such that at least a portion of the flexible display (<NUM>) is exposed to an outside of the body (<NUM>), the flexible display (<NUM>) comprising a first curved surface portion (220a) curved about a first curvature center line (L1) and a first surface portion (220b) extending from the first curved surface portion (220a), the first surface portion (220b) being disposed on a front surface of the body (<NUM>);
a first support portion (<NUM>) and a second support portion (<NUM>) provided separately from each other, the first support portion (<NUM>) and the second support portion (<NUM>) being fixed to the body (<NUM>) and respectively disposed on opposite sides of the first curved surface portion (220a) in a direction parallel to the first curvature center line (L1); and
a first protective guard (<NUM>) comprising a first connection plate (<NUM>) movably coupled to the first support portion (<NUM>), a second connection plate (<NUM>) movably coupled to the second support portion (<NUM>), and a first protective plate (<NUM>) configured to connect the first connection plate (<NUM>) and the second connection plate (<NUM>) to each other,
wherein the first protective guard (<NUM>) moves relative to the first support portion (<NUM>) and the second support portion (<NUM>) to shield or expose at least a portion of the first curved surface portion (220a).