Patent ID: 12253885

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1illustrates an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, an electronic device101in a network environment100may communicate with an electronic device102via a first network198(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or an electronic device104or a server108via a second network199(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). The electronic device101may communicate with the electronic device104via the server108. The electronic device101includes a processor120, memory130, an input device150, an audio output device155, a display device160, an audio module170, a sensor module176, an interface177, a haptic module179, a camera module180, a power management module188, a battery189, a communication module190, a subscriber identification module (SIM)196, or an antenna module197. In some embodiments, at least one (e.g., the display device160or the camera module180) of the components may be omitted from the electronic device101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device101. In some embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as single integrated circuitry. For example, the sensor module176(e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented as embedded in the display device160(e.g., a display).

The processor120may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device101coupled with the processor120, and may perform various data processing or computation. As at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor120may load a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module176or the communication module190) in volatile memory132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory132, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory134. The processor120may include a main processor121(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), and an auxiliary processor123(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor121. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary processor123may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor121, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor123may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor121.

The auxiliary processor123may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display device160, the sensor module176, or the communication module190) among the components of the electronic device101, instead of the main processor121while the main processor121is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor121while the main processor121is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). The auxiliary processor123(e.g., an ISP or a CP) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module180or the communication module190) functionally related to the auxiliary processor123.

The memory130may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor120or the sensor module176) of the electronic device101. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program140) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory130may include the volatile memory132or the non-volatile memory134.

The program140may be stored in the memory130as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)142, middleware144, or an application146.

The input device150may receive a command or data to be used by other component (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The input device150may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The audio output device155may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device101. The audio output device155may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record, and the receiver may be used for an incoming calls. The receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

The display device160may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The display device160may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. The display device160may include touch circuitry adapted to detect a touch, or sensor circuitry (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

The audio module170may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. The audio module170may obtain the sound via the input device150, or output the sound via the audio output device155or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device101.

The sensor module176may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device101or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the electronic device101, and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. The sensor module176may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface177may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device101to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. The interface177may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

A connection terminal178may include a connector via which the electronic device101may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102). The connection terminal178may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module179may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. The haptic module179may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

The camera module180may capture a image or moving images. The camera module180may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module188may manage power supplied to the electronic device101. The power management module188may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery189may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device101. The battery189may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

The communication module190may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device101and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102, the electronic device104, or the server108) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module190may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor120(e.g., the AP) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. The communication module190may include a wireless communication module192(e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module194(e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network198(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network199(e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a cellular network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module192may identify and authenticate the electronic device101in a communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the SIM196.

The wireless communication module192may support a 5G network, after a 4G network, and next-generation communication technology, e.g., new radio (NR) access technology. The NR access technology may support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC), or ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC). The wireless communication module192may support a high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band) to achieve, e.g., a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module192may support various technologies for securing performance on a high-frequency band, such as, e.g., beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (massive MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module192may support various requirements specified in the electronic device101, an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device104), or a network system (e.g., the second network199). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module192may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for implementing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for each of downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or a round trip of 1 ms or less) for implementing URLLC.

The antenna module197may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the antenna module197may include an antenna including a radiating element implemented using a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, the antenna module197may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, may be selected, for example, by the communication module190(e.g., the wireless communication module192) from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module190and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module197.

According to certain embodiments, the antenna module197may form a mmWave antenna module. According to an embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, a RFIC disposed on a first surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the first surface and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on a second surface (e.g., the top or a side surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the second surface and capable of transmitting or receiving signals of the designated high-frequency band.

At least some of the above-described components may be coupled mutually and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)).

According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device101and the external electronic device104via the server108coupled with the second network199. Each of the electronic devices102or104may be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device101may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices102,104, or108. For example, if the electronic device101should perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device101, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device101. The electronic device101may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device101may provide ultra low-latency services using, e.g., distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device104may include an internet-of-things (IoT) device. The server108may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or a neural network. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device104or the server108may be included in the second network199. The electronic device101may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technology.

FIG.2Ais a perspective view of an electronic device in a retracted or slide-in state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure, andFIG.2Bis a perspective view of an electronic device in a slide-out state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

An electronic device200ofFIGS.2A and2Bmay be at least partially similar to the electronic device101ofFIG.1, or may further include other embodiments of an electronic device.

Referring toFIGS.2A and2B, the electronic device200may include a first housing210, a second housing220coupled to the first housing so as to be movable from the first housing210by a predetermined reciprocating distance in a predetermined direction, and a flexible display400(e.g., an expandable display) disposed to be supported through at least a portion of the second housing220and the first housing210. According to an embodiment, when disposed in a slide-out state, the electronic device200may include a bendable member or a bendable support member (e.g., the bendable member240ofFIG.3) (e.g., articulated hinge module) which at least partially forms substantially the same plane as at least a portion of the first housing210, and is at least partially accommodated in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the electronic device200in a slide-in state. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display400may be invisible from the outside (e.g., the exterior environment of the electronic device) when set in the slide-in state by disposition within the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the electronic device200, while being supported by the bendable member (e.g., the bendable member240ofFIG.3). According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display400may be visible from the outside in the slide-out state while supported by the bendable member (e.g., the bendable member240ofFIG.3), such that the extended portion of the flexible display forms at least partially the same plane as the first housing210.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device200may include a front surface200a(e.g., first surface), a rear surface200b(e.g., second surface) facing a direction opposite to a direction of the front surface200a, and a side surface200csurrounding a space between the front surface200aand the rear surfaces200b. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a first housing210including a first side member211, and a second housing220including a second side member221. According to an embodiment, the first side member211may include a first side surface2111having a first length oriented in a predetermined direction (e.g., y axis direction), a second side surface2112extending from the first side surface2111oriented in another predetermined direction (e.g., −x axis direction) substantially perpendicular thereto, so as to have a second length shorter than the first length, and a third side surface2113extending from the second side surface2112to be substantially parallel to the first side surface2111and having the first length matching the first side surface2111. According to an embodiment, the first side member211may be at least partially formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal). According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the first side member211may include at least one conductive portion segmented through at least one segmented portion (e.g., non-conductive portion). According to an embodiment, at least one conductive portion may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module192ofFIG.1) to be used as an antenna, which may operate in a predetermined frequency band (e.g., legacy band or sub-6 band).

According to certain embodiments, the second side member221may include a fourth side surface2211at least partially corresponding to the first side surface2111and having a third length, a fifth side surface2212extending from the fourth side surface2211in a direction substantially parallel to the second side surface2112and having a fourth length longer than the third length, and a sixth side surface2213extending from the fifth side surface2212to correspond to the third side surface2113and having the third length. According to an embodiment, the second side member221may be at least partially formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal). According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the second side member221may include at least one conductive portion segmented through at least one segmented portion (e.g., non-conductive portion). According to an embodiment, at least one conductive portion may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module192ofFIG.1) to be used as an antenna operating in a predetermined frequency band (e.g., legacy band or sub-6 band).

According to certain embodiments, the first side surface2111and the third side surface2113may be slidably coupled to the fourth side surface2211and the sixth side surface2213, respectively. According to an embodiment, in the slide-in state, at least a portion of the first side surface2111may overlap at least a portion of the fourth side surface2211, so that the remaining portion of the first side surface2111may be visible from the outside. According to an embodiment, in the slide-in state, at least a portion of the third side surface2113may overlap at least a portion of the sixth side surface2213, so that the remaining portion of the third side surface2113may be visible from the outside.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device200may include a flexible display400which is disposed to be supported by at least a portion of the second housing220and the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the flexible display400may include a first portion400a(e.g., flat portion) which is visible from the outside, and a second portion400b(e.g., bendable portion) extending from the first portion400aand introduced into the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the electronic device200to be invisible from the outside in the slide-in state. According to an embodiment, the first portion400amay be disposed to be supported by the first housing210, and the second portion400bmay be disposed to be supported by at least a portion of the bendable member (e.g., the bendable member240ofFIG.3). According to an embodiment, in a state in which the first housing210is slid out from the second housing220in a predetermined direction (i.e., direction {circle around (1)} ofFIG.2B), the flexible display400may at least partially extend via extraction of the second portion400bwhile being supported by the bendable member (e.g., the bendable member240ofFIG.3), in which second portion400bmay form substantially the same plane as the first portion400a, and may be disposed to be visible from the outside. According to an embodiment, in a state in which the first housing210is slid into the second housing220along a predetermined direction (direction {circle around (2)}), the second portion400bof the flexible display400may be retracted into the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the electronic device200, causing it to be invisible from the outside. Accordingly, a display area of the flexible display400may vary as the first housing210slides along a predetermined direction.

According to certain embodiments, the first housing210and the second housing220may be operated with respect to each other in a sliding manner so that the overall length is variable. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200in the slide-in state may be configured to have a first length (L1) from the second side surface2112to the fifth side surface2212. According to an embodiment, in the slide-out state, a portion of the bendable member (e.g., the bendable member240ofFIG.3) inserted into the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the electronic device200may be movable to form an additional second length (L2), and thus, the electronic device200may be configured to have a third length (L3) longer than the first length (L1). For example, the flexible display400may have a display area substantially corresponding to the first length (L1) in the slide-in state, and an expanded display area substantially corresponding to the third length (L3) in the slide-out state.

According to certain embodiments, the operation of sliding out the electronic device200may be performed via user manipulation. For example, the electronic device200may be transitioned to the slide-out state from the slide-in state when a user moves the outer surface of the flexible display400in a predetermined direction (direction {circle around (1)}). In an embodiment, the first housing210may also be slid out in a predetermined first direction (e.g., direction {circle around (1)}) through manipulation of a locking mechanism (not shown) exposed through the rear surface200bof the electronic device200. In an embodiment, the first housing210may be automatically operated through a driving mechanism (e.g., driving motor, decelerating module and/or gear assembly) disposed in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the first housing210and/or the inner space of the second housing220. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may be configured such that the operation of the first housing210is controlled through the driving mechanism when an event for changing the slide-in/slide-out state of the electronic device200is detected through the processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1). In an embodiment, the processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device200may control the flexible display400such that an object is displayed and an application program is executed, in response to detecting a change in the display area of the flexible display400according to a slide-in state, a slide-out state, or an intermediate state (e.g., including a free-stop state).

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device200may include at least one of an input device203, sound devices206and207, at least one sensor module204, at least one camera module205, a connector port (not shown), a key input device (not shown), or an indicator (not shown), which are disposed in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the first housing210and/or the inner space of the second housing220. In another embodiment, the electronic device200may be configured such that at least one of the above-described elements is omitted or other elements are additionally included.

According to certain embodiments, the input device203may include a microphone. In an embodiment, the input device203may include a plurality of microphones arranged to sense the direction of sound. The sound devices206and207may include a speaker. The sound devices206and207may include a call receiver206and an external speaker207. According to an embodiment, the external speaker207may be disposed in the second housing220or the inner space of the second housing210. According to an embodiment, the call receiver206may also include a speaker (e.g., piezo speaker) operated without a separate speaker hole.

According to certain embodiments, the at least one sensor module204may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state or an external environmental state of the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, the at least one sensor module204may be arranged to detect the external environment through, for example, at least a portion of the flexible display400. In an embodiment, the electronic device200may further include at least one additional sensor module disposed to detect the external environment through the rear surface200b. According to an embodiment, the sensor module204may include at least one of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a time of flight (TOF) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a fingerprint recognition sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor.

According to certain embodiments, the at least one camera module205may include one or a plurality of lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. According to an embodiment, the at least one camera module205may be disposed under the flexible display400and may be configured to photograph a subject through a portion of an active area of the flexible display400. For example, the at least one camera module205or the at least one sensor module204may be disposed in the inner space of the electronic device200so as to communicate with the external environment through a transmission region or an opening formed by perforating the flexible display400. According to an embodiment, a region of the flexible display400, facing the at least one camera module205, as a part of a region for displaying content, may also be formed as a transmission region having a predetermined transmittance. According to an embodiment, the transmission region may be formed to have a transmittance in the range of about 5% to about 20%. This transmission region may include a region overlapping with an effective region (e.g., region of field of view) of the at least one camera module205, through which light for generating an image formed by an image sensor passes. For example, the transmission region of the flexible display400may include a region having a pixel density and/or a wiring density lower than the periphery thereof. For example, the transmission region may replace the above-described opening. For example, the at least one camera module205may include an under display camera (UDC). In an embodiment, the at least one sensor module204may also be arranged in the inner space of the electronic device200to perform a function thereof without being visually exposed through the flexible display400. In an embodiment, the electronic device200may further include at least one additional camera module disposed to photograph an external subject through the rear surface200b.

FIG.3is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.3, the electronic device200may include a first housing210, a second housing220slidably coupled to the first housing210, a bendable member240connected to the first housing210and disposed to be at least partially rotatable according to the movement of the first housing210(e.g., by curling around the supporting member261), and a flexible display400disposed to be supported by at least a portion of the bendable member240and the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the first housing210may be configured by coupling a first bracket housing210aand a second bracket housing210b. According to an embodiment, the first housing210may include an inner space (e.g., the inner space2101inFIG.5A) provided through the coupling structure of the first bracket housing210aand the second bracket housing210b. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a main substrate250disposed in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a camera module (e.g., the camera module205ofFIGS.2A and2B) or a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module204ofFIGS.2A and2B) disposed on the substrate250in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A). According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include at least one battery251disposed near the main substrate250or at least partially overlapping the main substrate250, as disposed in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A). According to an embodiment, the bendable member240may be disposed such that one end thereof is fixed to the first bracket housing210aand the other end thereof is accommodated to be at least partially rotatable in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the first housing210. For example, the bendable member240may be at least partially accommodated in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) in the slide-in state and may be at least partially slid out to substantially form or at least parallel the plane as the first housing210in the slide-out state. Accordingly, the display area of the flexible display400supported by the first housing210and the bendable member240may vary according to the sliding operation. In an embodiment, the other end of the bendable member240may be at least partially received in the inner space of the second housing220in the slide-in state.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device200may include a support structure coupled to the second housing220and arranged to support the bendable member240. In an embodiment, the support structure may include a support plate260coupled to the first housing210, and a supporting member261coupled to the support plate260. According to an embodiment, the supporting member261may have a curved outer surface in order to induce the bendable member240to curl around itself and thus be smoothly retracted into the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A). In an embodiment, the supporting member261may include a support shaft rotatably disposed in the support plate260.

FIG.4is a block diagram of a flexible display according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.4, the flexible display400may include a first portion400aarranged to be visible from the outside in the slide-in state, and a second portion400bextending from the first portion400aand accommodated in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the electronic device200, disposed to be at least partially invisible from the outside in the slide-in state. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the second portion400bmay be maintained to be received in the inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) so as to be invisible from the outside in the slide-out state.

According to certain embodiments, the flexible display400may include a protection layer410(e.g., window layer), and a polarizing (“POL” or “polarizer”) layer420(e.g., polarizing film), a display panel430, a polymer member440, and a metal sheet layer450, which are sequentially disposed on the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the protection layer410may include a polymer layer and/or a glass layer laminated on the polymer layer. According to an embodiment, the protection layer410may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyimide (PI) as a polymer layer and may include ultra-thin glass (UTG) as a glass layer. In an embodiment, the polarizing layer420may function as the protection layer410.

According to certain embodiments, the protection layer410, the polarizing layer420, the display panel430, the polymer member440, and the metal sheet layer450may be attached to each other through an adhesive (P). For example, the adhesive (P) may include at least one of an optical clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), a heat-reactive adhesive, a general adhesive, and a double-sided tape. According to an embodiment, the flexible display400may be attached to the first housing210and the bendable member240through another adhesive member. In an embodiment, the polarizing layer420may be replaced with a color filter and a black matrix (BM) formed on at least a portion of the display panel430.

According to certain embodiments, the polymer member440may include a dark color (e.g., black) applied thereto and thus may advantageously display the same dark color background when the display is deactivated. According to an embodiment, the polymer member440may act as a cushion to prevent damage to the flexible display400by absorbing an impact from the outside of the electronic device200. In an embodiment, the polymer member440may be disposed under the metal sheet layer450.

According to certain embodiments, the metal sheet layer450may advantageously reinforce the rigidity of the electronic device200, provide shielding against ambient noise and interference, dissipate heat emitted from a heat dissipating component disposed in the periphery thereof, and maintain a degree of flexibility to the flexible display. According to an embodiment, the metal sheet layer450may include at least one of steel use stainless (SUS) (e.g., stainless steel “STS”), Cu, Al, or CLAD (e.g., laminated member including SUS and Al arranged alternately). In another embodiment, the metal sheet layer450may include other alloy materials. According to an embodiment, the metal sheet layer450may be disposed in a region facing at least a portion of the second portion400bof the flexible display400, so as to include a pattern having a plurality of openings capable of providing flexibility to the flexible display400. According to an embodiment, the bending characteristic of the flexible display400may be determined through a shape or arrangement structure of the plurality of openings. In an embodiment, the flexible display400may further include a detection member (not shown) for detecting an input by an electromagnetic induction-type writing member. According to an embodiment, the detection member may include a digitizer. According to an embodiment, the detection member may be disposed between the display panel430and the at least one polymer member440. In another embodiment, the detection member may be disposed under the metal sheet layer450, and the metal sheet layer450may include certain structures (e.g., a plurality of openings) that enable the detection member to detect a signal (e.g., a resonance frequency) of an electronic pen. In another embodiment, the detection member may be disposed on the metal sheet layer450between the first housing210and the bendable member240.

According to certain embodiments, the flexible display400may also include at least one functional member (not shown) disposed between the polymer member440and the metal sheet layer450. According to an embodiment, the functional member may include a graphite sheet for dissipating heat, a force touch FPCB, a fingerprint sensor FPCB, an antenna radiator for communication, a heat dissipation sheet, a conductive/non-conductive tape, and/or an open cell sponge.

According to certain embodiments, the flexible display400may include an extension431extending from the display panel430, having a predetermined width and length. According to an embodiment, the extension431, which includes a region formed by extension of the wiring structure of the display panel430, may include a control circuit4311(e.g., display driver IC “DDI”) for controlling the driving of the flexible display400. According to an embodiment, the flexible display400may include a display substrate460(e.g., flexible printed circuit “FPCB”) electrically connected to the extension431and including at least one electric element4611. According to an embodiment, the at least one electric element4611may include at least one of a touch IC, a display flash memory, an ESD preventing diode, a pressure sensor, or a passive element such as a decap.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, the extension431extending from the display panel430may not be folded to the rear surface of the flexible display400and may be disposed on the protection layer410(e.g., window layer) by lamination. In an embodiment, the display substrate460electrically connected to the extension431may also be attached to the protection layer410. The arrangement structure of the extension431may enable the active area of the display panel430to be better utilized when the slidable electronic device200(e.g., rollable electronic device) is slid out, and may prevent collision with a structure disposed in the periphery thereof, thereby advantageously reducing malfunction of the flexible display400.

FIG.5Ais a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line5a-5aofFIG.2Aaccording to certain embodiments of the disclosure, andFIG.5Bis a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line5b-5bofFIG.2Baccording to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.5A and5B, the electronic device200may include a first housing210, a second housing220slidably coupled to the first housing210, a bendable member240connected to the first housing210and at least partially slid into the inner space2101(e.g., the internal space2101of the first housing210) of the electronic device200in the slide-in state, and a flexible display400disposed to be supported by at least a portion of the bendable member240and the first housing210. According to an embodiment, in the slide-in state, the flexible display400may be accommodated in the inner space2101of the electronic device200while being at least partially supported by the bendable member240, so as to be invisible from the outside. According to an embodiment, the flexible display400may be supported by the bendable member240in the slide-out state and may be slid out such that the portion accommodated in the inner space2101is at least partially visible from the outside.

According to certain embodiments, the flexible display400may include a protection layer410, and a display panel430laminated on the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the flexible display400may include an extension431extending from the display panel430and including a control circuit4311disposed thereon, and a display substrate460electrically connected to the extension431. According to an embodiment, the control circuit4311may be disposed on the extension431to face the inner space2101. In an embodiment, the control circuit4311may be disposed on the extension431to face the protection layer410when positioned between the extension431and the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the extension431and the display substrate460may be disposed to be laminated on at least a portion of the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the extension431and the display substrate460may be disposed to be attached to the protection layer410through an adhesive member. According to an embodiment, the protection layer410may include at least one of a polymer layer, a glass layer, and a polarizing layer. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a main substrate250disposed in the inner space2101. According to an embodiment, the display substrate460may be electrically connected to the main substrate250through the flexible FPCB490. According to an embodiment, the flexible FPCB490may be formed to have elasticity and/or length capable of accommodating a movement occurring when transitioning the electronic device200from the slide-in state to the slide-out state. According to an embodiment, the main substrate250may be disposed on at least one additional bracket (e.g., front housing or an intermediate bracket) disposed in the inner space2101of the housing210.

According to certain embodiments, when the electronic device200is transitioned from the slide-in state to the slide-out state by the first housing210moving in a predetermined first direction (direction {circle around (1)}), at least a portion of the flexible display400, accommodated in the inner space2101, may be moved in a second direction (direction {circle around (2)}) opposite to the first direction (direction {circle around (1)}). For example, the extension431laminated on the protection layer410and extending from the display panel430and the display substrate460electrically connected to the extension431may also move together in the second direction (direction {circle around (2)}). According to an embodiment, even during the transition from the slide-in state to the slide-out state, the electrical connection structure between the flexible display400and the main substrate250may be maintained through the flexible FPCB490.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, since the extension431extending from the display panel430has no region where the same is folded to the rear surface of the flexible display400, the flexible display400may use, as an active area thereof, a region occurring just before a region from which the extension431of the display panel430starts, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the flexible display400through the exclusion of unnecessary dummy regions and advantageously slimming the electronic device200due to the lowered laminate height.

FIGS.6A and6Bare partial cross-sectional views of an electronic device in a slide-in state and a slide-out state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

In the description of the electronic device200ofFIGS.6A and6B, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components substantially the same as those of the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIGS.6A and6B, the display substrate460and at least a portion of the extension431extending from the display panel430may be disposed to be supported through a support member470disposed on the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the support member470may be formed of a polymer or a metal material. According to an embodiment, the support member470may be attached to the protection layer410through an attachment method, such as bonding and/or taping. According to an embodiment, the control circuit4311may be disposed on a surface of the extension431facing the protection layer410, and may be received in a recess471formed lower than the outer surface of the support member470. In an embodiment, the support member470may further include a cushioning member (e.g., the cushioning member4711ofFIG.6C), such as a sponge or Poron, disposed in the recess471to protect the control circuit4311from external impact. Accordingly, the support member470may provide robust protection for the control circuit4311from external impact. According to an embodiment, the display substrate460may be fixed to the outer surface of the support member470through an attachment method, such as bonding and/or taping. In an embodiment, the support member470may include a stepped portion472formed lower than the outer surface thereof to receive the display substrate460so as to advantageously reduce the overall laminate thickness.

FIG.6Cis a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line6c-6cofFIG.6Aaccording to certain embodiments of the disclosure.FIG.6Dis a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line6d-6dofFIG.6Caccording to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.6C and6D, the electronic device200may include a guide structure for inducing a smooth operation of the support member470during the sliding operation, so as to prevent the protection layer410from contacting the inner surface of the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the guide structure may include at least one guide rail473protruding from the support member470, and a guide slit2102formed in a region corresponding to the first housing210(e.g., the first bracket housing210a) to guide the guide rail473. According to an embodiment, the guide rail473may extend toward the first housing210from each of the opposite side surfaces of the support member470. Accordingly, the protection layer410of the flexible display400may move according to the sliding operation while spaced apart from the inner surface of the first housing210, through the guide structure (e.g., the guide rail473and/or the guide slit2102) of the support member470and the first housing210, thereby preventing damage due to friction.

FIGS.7A and7Bare partial cross-sectional views of an electronic device in a slide-in state and a slide-out state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

In the description of the electronic device200ofFIGS.7A and7B, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components substantially the same as those of the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIGS.7A and7B, the display substrate460may include a protruding region460aat least partially protruding further than the support member470. For example, the display substrate460may include a first surface4601facing the inner space2101, and a second surface4602facing the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the second surface4602of the display substrate460, except for the protruding region460a, may be attached to the outer surface of the support member470. In this case, the flexible FPCB490may be in contact with at least a portion of the second surface4602of the display substrate460. For example, the connector of the flexible FPCB490may be disposed on the second surface4602when positioned between the display substrate460and the protection layer410, thereby advantageously providing a space for efficiently mounting an electrical component of the main substrate250.

FIGS.8A and8Bare partial cross-sectional views of an electronic device in a slide-in state and a slide-out state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

In the description of the electronic device200ofFIGS.8A and8B, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components substantially the same as those of the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIGS.8A and8B, the support member470may be disposed on the protection layer410to support the control circuit4311. For example, the support member470may be disposed under the extension431and between the display panel430and the display substrate460. For example, at least a portion of the extension431may be attached to the outer surface of the support member470, and the control circuit4311may be received in the recess471of the support member470, formed lower than the outer surface thereof. In an embodiment, the display substrate460may be directly attached to at least a portion of the protection layer410.

FIGS.9A and9Bare partial cross-sectional views of an electronic device in a slide-in state and a slide-out state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

In the description of the electronic device200ofFIGS.9A and9B, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components substantially the same as those of the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIGS.9A and9B, at least a portion of the extension431extending from the display panel430may be electrically connected to at least a portion of the display substrate460disposed on the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the control circuit4311may be received in a recess461formed lower than the outer surface of the display substrate460. In this case, the display substrate460may include a rigid printed circuit board (PCB).

FIGS.10A and10Bare partial cross-sectional views of an electronic device in a slide-in state and a slide-out state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

In the description of the electronic device200ofFIGS.10A and10B, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components substantially the same as those of the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIGS.10A and10B, at least a portion of the extension431extending from the display panel430may extend from an end portion of the bendable member240, and may be disposed to be supported through an extension plate241disposed directly on the protection layer410. For example, at least a portion of the extension431may be disposed to at least partially penetrate the extension plate241. In an embodiment, the extension431may be disposed to be fitted into a slit and/or recess (not shown) formed inwardly from one end of the extension plate241. According to an embodiment, the control circuit4311may be arranged to be received in a recess2411formed lower (e.g., on a lower plane) than the outer surface (e.g., or “top” surface, via depiction inFIG.10A) of the extension plate241. In an embodiment, the display substrate460may be disposed on at least a portion of the extension plate241.

FIG.11is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

In the description of the electronic device200ofFIG.11, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components substantially the same as those of the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIG.11, a portion of the protection layer410, corresponding to a section (T), in which the extension431extending from the display panel430and the display substrate460electrically connected to the extension431are arranged, may be disposed such that there is an absence of support from the bendable member240. According to an embodiment, the portion of the protection layer410, arranged in the corresponding section (T), may come into contact with the inner surface of the first housing210, which may generate friction that could damage the protection layer410, or cause a malfunction of the sliding operation. Accordingly, the protection layer410in the corresponding section (T) may include a friction reducing layer4101laminated on the outer surface thereof. According to an embodiment, reduced frictional resistance between the protection layer410and the inner surface of the first housing210through the friction reducing layer4101may prevent damage to the protection layer410. According to an embodiment, the friction reducing layer4101may include a Teflon coating layer or a hard coating layer. In an embodiment, the friction reducing layer4101may also be disposed on the inner surface of the first housing210that the protection layer arranged in the corresponding section (T) faces during the sliding operation. In an embodiment, the friction reducing layer4101may be disposed on both the protection layer410and the inner surface of the first housing.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.5A) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.5A), a second housing (e.g., the second housing220ofFIG.5A) slidably coupled to the first housing, and a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display400ofFIG.5A) which includes a first portion (e.g., the first portion400aofFIG.2B) at least partially connected to the first housing and visible from the outside in a slide-in state, and a second portion extending from the first portion and at least partially received in an inner space (e.g., the inner space2101ofFIG.5A) of the electronic device to be invisible from the outside, and the flexible display may include a protection layer (e.g., the protection layer410ofFIG.5A), a display panel (e.g., the display panel430ofFIG.5A) laminated on at least a portion of the protection layer, and an extension (e.g., the extension431ofFIG.5A) extending, in a region corresponding to the second portion, from the display panel and having a control circuit (e.g., the control circuit4311ofFIG.5A) disposed thereon. The extension may be disposed to be supported by the protection layer.

According to certain embodiments, the extension may be disposed on the protection layer corresponding to at least a portion of the second portion.

According to certain embodiments, in a slide-out state, at least a portion of the second portion and the extension may be maintained to be received in the inner space.

According to certain embodiments, the protection layer may include a polymer layer and/or a glass layer.

According to certain embodiments, the protection layer may include a polymer layer and/or a glass layer, and a polarizing layer laminated on the polymer layer and/or the glass layer.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include a display substrate electrically connected to the extension with the control circuit interposed therebetween.

According to certain embodiments, the display substrate may be attached to the protection layer.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may include a support member disposed between the display substrate and the protection layer and configured to support at least a portion of the display substrate.

According to certain embodiments, at least a portion of the extension may be disposed to be supported by the support member.

According to certain embodiments, the control circuit may be disposed on a surface of the extension facing the protection layer and may be received in a recess formed lower than the outer surface of the support member.

According to certain embodiments, the support member may be configured such that guide rails disposed on opposite ends thereof are guided along guide slits disposed in the inner space of the first housing.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include a main substrate disposed in the inner space, and the main substrate and the display substrate may be electrically connected to each other through a flexible FPCB.

According to certain embodiments, the display substrate may include a protruding region which does not overlap the structure, and the flexible FPCB may be electrically connected to the protruding region of the display substrate while being disposed between the display substrate and the protection layer.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include a bendable member connected to be movable together with the first housing, and at least a portion of the first portion and at least a portion of the second portion may be arranged to be supported by the bendable member.

According to certain embodiments, the bendable member may further include an extension plate extending from an end portion thereof and disposed on the protection layer, and the extension may penetrate at least a portion of the extension plate to be fixed to the extension plate.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include a display substrate which is electrically connected to the extension with the control circuit interposed therebetween and is fixed to the extension plate.

According to certain embodiments, the control circuit may be disposed on a surface of the extension facing the protection layer, and the extension plate may include a recess for receiving the control circuit.

According to certain embodiments, the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display400ofFIG.5A) may include a protection layer (e.g., the protection layer410ofFIG.5A), a display panel (e.g., the display panel430ofFIG.5A) laminated on at least a portion of the protection layer, and an extension (e.g., the extension431ofFIG.5A) extending from the display panel and having a control circuit (e.g., the control circuit4311ofFIG.5A) disposed thereon, and the extension may be disposed to be supported by the protection layer.

According to certain embodiments, the protection layer may include a polymer layer and/or a glass layer.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include a display substrate electrically connected to the extension with the control circuit interposed therebetween, and a main substrate disposed in the inner space, and the main substrate and the display substrate may be electrically connected to each other through a flexible FPCB.

The embodiments disclosed in the specification and drawings are merely provided for specific examples to easily explain the technical content according to the embodiments of the disclosure and help the understanding of the embodiments of the disclosure, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of the disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the disclosure should be construed that all changes or modified forms derived based on the technical idea of certain embodiments of the disclosure in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein are included in embodiments of the disclosure.