Folding member and display device including the same

This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0016276, filed on Feb. 12, 2019, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0049105, filed on Apr. 26, 2019, and all the benefits accruing therefrom under 35 U.S.C. § 119, the content of which in their entirety is herein incorporated by reference.

1. Field

Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to a folding member and a display device including the same.

2. Description of the Related Art

A display device displaying an image includes a display panel such as an organic light-emitting element display panel including organic light-emitting diodes (“OLEDs”) or quantum dot-electroluminescence (“QD-EL”) elements or a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) panel.

A mobile electronic device includes a display device to provide an image to a user. The demand for a smaller, thinner mobile electronic device with a larger display screen has increased, and a foldable (or bendable) display device capable of being folded or unfolded to provide a larger display screen only when in use has been developed.

Various methods may be used to realize the foldable display device. In a case where multi-joint parts that may be rotatably connected to one another are used to realize the foldable display device, the display panel of the foldable display device may be pressed by the joint parts in a folding area.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a display device having guide parts applied in multi-joint parts and thus improving durability.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention also provide a display device having a protective member applied in multi-joint parts and thus improving durability.

However, exemplary embodiments of the invention are not restricted to those set forth herein. The above and other exemplary embodiments of the invention will become more apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains by referencing the detailed description of the invention given below.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a folding member including a first supporting member and a second supporting member, a plurality of joint units connected, on first sides thereof, to the first supporting member, connected, on second sides thereof, to the second supporting member, and coupled to one another to be rotatable along a first curved trajectory, a third supporting member disposed below the first supporting member, a fourth supporting member disposed below the second supporting member, and a hinge member providing first and second rotational axes, which are parallel to each other, to first sides of the third and fourth supporting members, respectively, that are opposite to each other.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of joint units includes a first guide part in an area on a bottom thereof, and each of the third and fourth supporting members includes, in an area thereof, a second guide part which guides the first guide part to rotate along the first curved trajectory.

In an exemplary embodiment, the folding member may further include a first and a second rear covers disposed below the third and fourth supporting members, respectively.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first guide part may include a tunnel unit which extends perpendicularly from a middle of a surface of a respective joint unit of the plurality of joint units, and a penetration may be defined in the tunnel unit.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second guide part may include a guide arm which overlaps with the tunnel unit and slides along the penetration.

In an exemplary embodiment, the guide arm may extend along the first curved trajectory to be in contact with ends of the first and second rear covers.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first guide part may include a sidewall which is disposed at an end of the tunnel unit to extend perpendicularly from the surface of the respective joint unit and a hook which extends perpendicularly from the sidewall toward the tunnel unit.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second guide part may include a rail unit which overlaps with the hook and allows the hook to slide.

In an exemplary embodiment, the rail unit may extend along the first curved trajectory to be in contact with ends of the first and second rear covers.

In an exemplary embodiment, a height from a top surface of the hook to the surface of the respective joint unit may be the same as a height of the penetration.

In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of joint units may be coupled by pin members.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of joint units may include an extension which extends in a first direction and protrusions which are disposed at each of both ends of the extension and be convexly curved.

In an exemplary embodiment, grooves which are concavely curved in an opposite direction to the protrusions in a second direction which intersects the first direction may be defined in the extension.

In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions may overlap with the grooves in the second direction and are rotatably coupled to the grooves.

In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of joint units may be coupled by metal plates.

In an exemplary embodiment, metal plate holes which are through holes may be defined in the protrusions, and the metal plates penetrate the metal plate holes.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the metal plates may include coupling areas and a bending area, the coupling areas may include coupling holes which are defined to correspond to coupling protrusions provided in the first and second supporting members, and the bending area may include a plurality of bending holes.

In an exemplary embodiment, link part grooves may be defined in areas of the protrusions. A link parts may be provided in areas of the link part grooves. The link parts and the link part grooves may overlap in the second direction and are rotatably coupled together.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first curved trajectory may be defined as a part of a reference circle, and a center of the reference circle may be apart from the first and second rotational axes.

In an exemplary embodiment, the hinge member may include a first gear which is connected to the first rotational axis, a second gear which is connected to the second rotational axis, and an idle gear which connects the first and second gears.

In an exemplary embodiment, the hinge member may include a rotary cam which performs a rectilinear motion, a fixed cam which converts the rectilinear motion of the rotary cam into a rotational motion, and an elastic member which firmly attaches the rotary cam and the fixed cam.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fixed cam may include three mountain-shaped parts and three valley-shaped parts.

In an exemplary embodiment, the rotary cam may form valley-shaped parts which engage with the mountain-shaped parts of the fixed cam to be in sliding surface contact with the mountain-shaped parts of the fixed cam and also form mountain-shaped parts on opposite sides of each of the valley-shaped parts of the rotary cam.

According to the aforementioned and other exemplary embodiments of the invention, a display panel foldable along a first curved trajectory in a folding area which is defined in a plan view, the display panel displaying an image and a folding member disposed below the display panel to support the display panel.

In an exemplary embodiment, the folding member may include first and second supporting members, a plurality of joint units connected, on first sides thereof, to the first supporting member, connected, on second sides thereof, to the second supporting member, and coupled to one another to be rotatable along a first curved trajectory, third and fourth supporting members disposed below the first and second supporting members, respectively, and a hinge member connected, on a first side thereof, to the third supporting member to be rotatable about a first rotational axis and connected, on a second side thereof, to the fourth supporting member to be rotatable about a second rotational axis.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of joint units may include a first guide part. Each of the third and fourth supporting members may include, in an area thereof, a second guide part which guides the first guide part to rotate along the first curved trajectory.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first guide part may include a tunnel unit which extends perpendicularly from a middle of a surface of a respective joint unit of the plurality of joint units and a penetration may be defined in the tunnel unit.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second guide part may include a guide arm which overlaps with the tunnel unit and slides along the penetration.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first guide part may include a sidewall which is disposed at an end of the tunnel unit to extend perpendicularly from the surface of the respective joint unit and a hook which extends perpendicularly from the sidewall toward the tunnel unit.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second guide part may include a rail unit which overlaps with the hook and allows the hook to slide.

In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of joint units may be coupled by pin members.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include a metal sheet disposed on the first supporting member, the second supporting member, and the plurality of joint units.

In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive layers may be interposed between the metal sheet, the first supporting member, the second supporting member, and the plurality of joint units.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of joint units may have a middle surface which is in contact with a surface of the metal sheet and two chamfered surfaces which are disposed on opposite sides of the middle surface.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of joint units may have a middle surface which is in contact with a surface of the metal sheet and two cut surfaces which are perpendicular to the middle surface.

Other features and embodiments may be apparent from the following detailed description, the drawings, and the claims.

The above and other exemplary embodiments and features of the invention will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the display device of FIG. 1 in its out-folded state;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the display device of FIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 4 and 5 are exploded perspective view illustrating a folding member of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating how a first supporting member and sliding units of FIG. 6 are connected;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II′ of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating one of hinge parts of FIGS. 4 and 5 and sub-connecting parts on one side of the corresponding hinge part;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary fixed cam;

FIG. 10B is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary rotary cam;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 12 is a side view illustrating joint units of FIGS. 4 and 5 as viewed from a second direction;

FIG. 13 is an exploded top view illustrating first joint units, second joint units, a third joint unit, and the first and second supporting members of FIGS. 4 and 5 ;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating one of the first joint units of FIG. 13 ;

FIG. 15 is a side view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 14 as viewed from the second direction;

FIG. 16 is a front view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 14 as viewed from a first direction;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating one of the second joint units of FIG. 13 ;

FIG. 18 illustrates how each pair of adjacent first joint units of FIG. 13 is connected;

FIG. 19 illustrates how each pair of adjacent second joint units of FIG. 13 is connected;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating the third joint unit of FIG. 13 ;

FIG. 21 illustrates how the third joint unit of FIG. 13 , a first joint unit adjacent to the third joint unit, and a second joint unit adjacent to the third joint unit are connected;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating a first side of the first supporting member of FIG. 13 ;

FIG. 23 illustrates how the first side of the first supporting member of FIG. 22 and a first joint unit adjacent to the first supporting member are connected;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating a first side of the second supporting member of FIG. 13 ;

FIG. 25 illustrates how the first side of the second supporting member of FIG. 24 and a second joint unit adjacent to the second supporting member are connected;

FIG. 26 is a plan view illustrating third and fourth supporting members of FIGS. 4 and 5 ;

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 26 , of the third supporting member of FIG. 26 ;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line C-C′ of FIG. 26 , of one of guide arms of FIG. 26 ;

FIG. 29 illustrates how second guide parts of FIG. 26 are coupled first guide parts of FIG. 16 ;

FIG. 30 is a side view illustrating how the first, second, third, and fourth supporting members, a connecting member, a hinge member, sliding units, and first and second rear covers of FIGS. 4 and 5 are coupled;

FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate the display device of FIG. 1 in its folded state;

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of the display device of FIG. 1 into which the first, second, third, and fourth supporting members, the connecting member, the hinge member, the sliding units, and the first and second rear covers of FIGS. 4 and 5 are all assembled;

FIGS. 34 and 35 are partial side views of the display device 1 in its folded state;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view illustrating how the sliding units of FIGS. 4 and 5 are arranged when the display device of FIG. 1 is unfolded, as illustrated in FIG. 30 ;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view illustrating how the sliding units of FIGS. 4 and 5 are arranged when the display device of FIG. 1 is folded, as illustrated in FIG. 32 ;

FIG. 38 is an enlarged side view illustrating the joint units of FIG. 30 ;

FIG. 39 is an enlarged side view illustrating the joint units of FIG. 32 ;

FIG. 40 illustrates first and second reference circles of FIG. 39 and third and fourth circles having first and second rotational axes, respectively, as their centers;

FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a body part of a hinge part according to the invention;

FIG. 42A is a perspective view illustrating a fixed cam of FIG. 41 ;

FIG. 42B is a perspective view illustrating a rotary cam of FIG. 41 ;

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV′ of FIG. 41 ;

FIG. 44A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of joint units according to the invention in their folded state;

FIG. 44B is a side view illustrating the joint units of FIG. 44A in their unfolded state;

FIG. 45 is an exploded top view illustrating first joint units, second joint units, a third joint unit, and first and second supporting members of FIG. 44A ;

FIG. 46A is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary metal plate in its unfolded state;

FIG. 46B is a perspective view illustrating the metal plate of FIG. 46A in its folded state;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary metal plate;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view illustrating one of the first joint units of FIG. 45 ;

FIG. 49 is a side view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 48 as viewed from the second direction;

FIG. 50 is a front view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 48 as viewed from the first direction;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view illustrating one of the second joint units of FIG. 45 ;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view illustrating the third joint unit of FIG. 45 ;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view illustrating a first side of the first supporting member of FIG. 45 ;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view illustrating a first side of the second supporting member of FIG. 45 ;

FIG. 55 is a plan view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of third and fourth supporting members according to the invention;

FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 55 , of the third supporting member of FIG. 55 ;

FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line C-C′ of FIG. 55 , of the third supporting member of FIG. 55 ;

FIGS. 58 and 59 illustrate the exemplary embodiment of a display device of FIG. 55 in its folded state;

FIG. 60 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state;

FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 60 in its folded state;

FIG. 62A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state;

FIG. 62B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 62A in its folded state;

FIG. 63A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state;

FIG. 63B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 63A in its folded state;

FIG. 64A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state; and

FIG. 64B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 64A in its folded state.

The advantages and features of the invention and methods for achieving the advantages and features will be apparent by referring to the exemplary embodiments to be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed hereinafter, but can be implemented in diverse forms. The matters defined in the description, such as the detailed construction and elements, are nothing but specific details provided to assist those of ordinary skill in the art in a comprehensive understanding of the invention, and the invention is only defined within the scope of the appended claims.

Where an element is described as being related to another element such as being “on” another element or “disposed/located on” a different layer or a layer, includes both a case where an element is disposed/located directly on another element or a layer and a case where an element is disposed/located on another element via another layer or still another element. In contrast, where an element is described as being is related to another element such as being “directly on” another element or “disposed/located directly on” a different layer or a layer, indicates a case where an element is disposed/located on another element or a layer with no intervening element or layer therebetween. In the entire description of the invention, the same drawing reference numerals are used for the same elements across various drawing figures.

It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may 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. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section described below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” and “including,” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the display device of FIG. 1 in its out-folded state.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , a display device 1000 may have a rectangular shape having a pair of long sides extending in a first direction DR 1 and a pair of short sides extending in a second direction DR 2 which intersects the first direction DR 1 , but the invention is not limited thereto. That is, the display device 1000 may have various shapes other than the rectangular shape. The display device 1000 may be a flexible display device that may be folded or unfolded along a folding axis FX which extends in the second direction DR 2 .

The display device 1000 may be divided into a plurality of areas depending on whether the display device 1000 is folded or unfolded. In an exemplary embodiment, the display device 1000 may be divided into a folding area FA in which the display device 1000 may be folded and two non-folding areas NFA which are flat, for example. The two non-folding areas NFA are arranged in the first direction DR 1 , and the folding area FA is disposed between the two non-folding areas NFA. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2 , a single folding area FA is defined in the display device 1000 , but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, multiple folding areas FA may be defined in the display device 1000 .

In order to provide a double rotational axis to the display device 1000 , the folding axis FX may include first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 which extend in the second direction DR 2 and are disposed adjacent to each other. The folding area FA may overlap with the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 , and the display device 1000 may be folded along the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 .

The display device 1000 includes a display module 100 and a folding member 200 which is disposed below the display module 100 . The top surface of the display module 100 may be defined as a display surface DS and may be a plane parallel to both the first and second directions DR 1 and DR 2 . Images IM generated by the display module 100 may be provided to a user via the display surface DS.

The display surface DS includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA which is on the periphery of the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image, and the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and may provide edge parts of the display device 1000 that are printed in a predetermined color.

The display module 100 has flexibility and includes a display panel 110 and a touch sensing unit 120 which is disposed on the display panel 110 . The display panel 110 generates an image and provides the generated image to the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel 110 may be one of a variety of display panels capable of displaying an image such as, for example, an organic light-emitting element display panel including organic light-emitting diodes (“OLEDs”) or quantum dot-electroluminescence (“QD-EL”) elements, an electrophoretic display panel, or an electrowetting display panel.

Quantum dots are a semiconductor material with a crystal structure of several nanometers in size and consist of hundreds to thousands of atoms. Since quantum dots are very small in size, they have a large surface area per unit volume, most of their atoms are provided on the surfaces of nanocrystals, and they provide a quantum confinement effect. Due to the quantum confinement effect, emission wavelengths may be controlled simply by adjusting the size of quantum dots, and excellent color purity and high photoluminescence (“PL”) emission efficiency may be provided. QD-EL elements may be three-layer elements including a quantum dot emission layer and a hole transport layer (“HTL”) and an electron transport layer (“ETL”) which are disposed on both ends of the quantum dot emission layer.

The touch sensing unit 120 may detect external input (such as a hand of the user or a touch pen), may convert the external input into a predetermined input signal, and may provide the input signal to the display panel 110 . The touch sensing unit 120 may include a plurality of touch sensors (not illustrated) for detecting the external input. The touch sensors may detect the external input in a capacitive manner. The display panel 110 may receive the input signal from the touch sensing unit 120 and may generate an image corresponding to the input signal.

The folding member 200 may support the display module 100 and may rotate with reference to the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 to be folded. As the folding member 200 is folded, the display module 100 , which has flexibility, may also be folded along with the folding member 200 . The folding member 200 may out-fold the display device 1000 such that the display surface DS of the display module 100 may be exposed.

The structure of the folding member 200 will be described later in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 . A direction that intersects the plane parallel to the first and second directions DR 1 and DR 2 may be defined as a third direction DR 3 . The third direction DR 3 may include an upward direction and a downward direction which is opposite to the upward direction.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the display device of FIG. 1 .

Referring to FIG. 3 , the display panel 110 includes a base layer BSL, a pixel layer PXL which is disposed on the base layer BSL, and a protective layer PTL which is disposed on the base layer BSL to cover the pixel layer PXL.

The base layer BSL defines the rear surface of the display module 100 and may have flexibility. The pixel layer PXL may include a plurality of pixels (not illustrated). The pixel layer PXL may receive electrical signals and may thus be driven to generate the images IM. The protective layer PTL may protect the pixel layer PXL, and the touch sensing unit 120 may be disposed on the protective layer PTL. The protective layer PTL may be provided as a multilayer film and may include an organic insulating film or an inorganic insulating film.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are exploded perspective view illustrating the folding member of FIG. 1 .

Specifically, FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the top of the folding member 200 , and FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the bottom of the folding member 200 .

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5 , the folding member 200 includes a first supporting member SM 1 , a second supporting member SM 2 , a third supporting member SM 3 , a fourth supporting member SM 4 , a connecting member CTM, a hinge member HGM, a plurality of sliding units SU, a first rear cover BSC 1 , and a second rear cover BSC 2 .

The first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 may be arranged along the first direction DR 1 , and the display module 100 is disposed on the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 and on the connecting member CTM. The connecting member CTM is disposed between the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 to connect first sides of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR 1 .

The first sides of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 may be opposite to each other. The folding area FA of the display module 100 is disposed on the connecting member CTM, and the non-folding areas NFA of the display module 100 are disposed on the top surfaces of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 .

The connecting member CTM includes joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) which are arranged along the first direction DR 1 and extend in the second direction DR 2 . The joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) are connected and rotatably coupled to the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 .

The joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) include a plurality of first joint units JP 1 , a plurality of second joint units JP 2 , and a third joint unit JP 3 . The third joint unit JP 3 is disposed between the first joint units JP 1 and the second joint units JP 2 . The first joint units JP 1 are disposed between the third joint unit JP 3 and the first supporting member SM 1 . The second joint units JP 2 are disposed between the third joint unit JP 3 and the second supporting member SM 2 .

The first sides of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 and the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) are rotatably coupled to one another. The joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) may be arranged along at least one curved trajectory when the display device 1000 is folded. The joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) will be described later in detail with reference to FIGS. 12 through 25 .

The term “hole”, as used herein, refers to a space defined in an object by penetration, and the term “groove”, as used herein, refers to a recess defined in an object to a predetermined depth.

The third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 are arranged along the first direction DR 1 . The third supporting member SM 3 is disposed below the first supporting member SM 1 , and the fourth supporting member SM 4 is disposed below the second supporting member SM 2 . A plurality of sliding holes SH defined in each of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . The sliding holes SH extend in the first direction DR 1 . The sliding units SU overlap one-to-one with the sliding holes SH.

The sliding units SU may be connected to the bottoms of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 via the sliding holes SH. Specifically, each of the sliding units SU includes an inserting part IP which extends in the first direction DR 1 to be inserted in one of the sliding holes SH and a supporting part SP which is connected to the bottom of the inserting part IP. The inserting parts IP of the sliding units SU are inserted in the sliding holes SH and are thus connected to the bottoms of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 .

As viewed from the third direction DR 3 , the supporting parts SP of the sliding units SU may be larger in size than the inserting parts IP of the sliding units SU. The width, in the second direction DR 2 , of the supporting parts SP of the sliding units SU may be greater than the width, in the second direction DR 2 , of the sliding holes SH. The length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the inserting parts IP of the sliding units SU may be smaller than the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the sliding holes SH.

Lower protrusions LP (refer to FIG. 6 ) are disposed below each of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 . The lower protrusions LP may protrude from the bottom of the first or second supporting member SM 1 or SM 2 in the downward direction. The inserting parts IP of the sliding units SU are connected one-to-one to the lower protrusions LP. As viewed from the third direction DR 3 , the inserting parts IP of the sliding units SU may have the same size as the lower protrusions LP. The length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the lower protrusions LP may be smaller than the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the sliding holes SH.

A plurality of first connecting holes CH 1 may be defined in each of the sliding units SU, and a plurality of connecting grooves CG may be defined in each of the lower protrusions LP. The inserting parts IP of the sliding units SU and the lower protrusions LP are inserted in the sliding holes SH, and the first connecting holes CH 1 overlap one-to-one with the connecting grooves CG. A plurality of first pin units PU 1 is inserted in the first connecting holes CH 1 and the connecting grooves CG such that the inserting parts IP of the sliding units SU and the lower protrusions LP may be connected. As a result, the sliding units SU may be connected to the bottoms of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 .

FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate four sliding units SU, four lower protrusions LP, and four sliding holes SH, but the numbers of sliding units SU, lower protrusions LP, and sliding holes SH are not particularly limited.

Each of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 may include one or more second guide parts. The second guide parts will be described later in detail with reference to FIGS. 26 through 29 .

The hinge member HGM overlaps with the connecting member CTM and is disposed between the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . The hinge member HGM is connected to first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR 1 . The hinge member HGM provides rotational axes (RX 1 and RX 2 ) to the first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . The rotational axes (RX 1 and RX 2 ) provided by the hinge member HGM include the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 , which are provided to the first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , respectively.

The hinge member HGM includes a plurality of hinge parts HGP which are arranged along the second direction DR 2 and are disposed between the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . In an exemplary embodiment, the hinge member HGM may include two hinge parts HGP, for example, but the number of hinge parts HGP is not particularly limited. In another example, the hinge member HGM may include only one hinge part HGP or may include more than two hinge parts HGP.

The hinge parts HGP are connected to the first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 to provide the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 to the first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , respectively. Each of the hinge parts HGP includes a body part BDP (refer to FIG. 9 ) which extends in the second direction DR 2 and a plurality of sub-connecting parts SCP (refer to FIG. 9 ) which are disposed on opposite sides, in the second direction DR 2 , of the body part BDP.

The body part BDP includes a first rotation unit RU 1 (refer to FIG. 9 ) which provides the first rotational axis RX 1 and a second rotation unit RU 2 (refer to FIG. 9 ) which provides the second rotational axis RX 2 . The first rotation unit RU 1 extends in the second direction DR 2 and rotates with reference to the first rotational axis RX 1 , and the second rotation unit RU 2 extends in the second direction DR 2 and rotates with reference to the second rotational axis RX 2 . In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 may have a D shape in a cross-sectional view, but the invention is not limited thereto. That is, the shape of the first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 is not particularly limited as long as the first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 and the sub-connecting parts SCP may be coupled to be able to rotate together. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 may have a circular shape with a pair of parallel cutting lines on both sides, for example.

The sub-connecting parts SCP are connected to the first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 . Specifically, two sub-connecting parts SCP may be disposed on each of two sides of the body part BDP, a first side of one of the two sub-connecting parts SCP may be connected to the first rotation unit RU 1 , and a first side of the other sub-connecting part SCP may be connected to the second rotation unit RU 2 . The first sides of the two sub-connecting parts SCP may be opposite to each other in the first direction DR 1 .

The sub-connecting parts SCP extend in the first direction DR 1 and are connected to the bottoms of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , close to the first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second pin units PU 2 may be inserted in a plurality of second connecting holes CH 2 which are defined in the sub-connecting parts SCP and may thus be connected to the bottoms of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , for example.

The first rear cover BSC 1 is disposed below the third supporting member SM 3 , and the second rear cover BSC 2 is disposed below the fourth supporting member SM 4 . The first and second rear covers BSC 1 and BSC 2 are connected to the bottoms of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 to cover the sliding units SU.

A plurality of third connecting holes CH 3 is defined in each of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , and a plurality of fourth connecting holes CH 4 is defined in each of the first and second rear covers BSC 1 and BSC 2 .

The fourth connecting holes CH 4 overlap one-to-one with the third connecting holes CH 3 . A plurality of third pin units PU 3 may be inserted in the fourth connecting holes CH 4 and the third connecting holes CH 3 such that the first and second rear covers BSC 1 and BSC 2 may be connected to the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , respectively.

The first rear cover BSC 1 includes a first bottom cover BC 1 and two first side covers SC 1 which extend upwardly from both sides of the first bottom cover BC 1 that are defined as being opposite to each other in the second direction DR 2 .

The second rear cover BSC 2 is symmetrical with the first rear cover BSC 1 . The second rear cover BSC 2 includes a second bottom cover BC 2 which is symmetrical with the first bottom cover BC 1 and second side covers SC 2 which are symmetrical with the first side covers SC 1 .

The fourth connecting holes CH 4 are defined in the first and second bottom covers BC 1 and BC 2 . The first side covers SC 1 cover opposite sides, in the second direction DR 2 , of the third supporting member SM 3 , and the second side covers SC 2 cover opposite sides, in the second direction DR 2 , of the fourth supporting member SM 4 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first side covers SC 1 and the second side covers SC 2 may cover the sidewalls of each of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) and the sub-connecting parts SCP of each of the hinge parts HGP of the hinge member HGM.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG. 5 . FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating how a first supporting member and sliding units of FIG. 6 are connected. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II′ of FIG. 5 .

FIGS. 6, 7, and 8 illustrate the first supporting member SM 1 , the third supporting member SM 3 , and a single sliding unit SU to explain how the first supporting member SM 1 and the sliding unit SU are connected.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, and 8 , an inserting part IP and a lower protruding part LP are inserted in a sliding hole SH, and first connecting holes CH 1 overlap with connecting grooves CG. First pin units PU 1 are inserted in the first connecting holes CH 1 and the connecting grooves CG so that the inserting part IP and the lower protruding part LP are connected.

Since the width, in the second direction DR 2 , of a supporting part SP is greater than the width, in the second direction DR 2 , of the sliding hole SH, the supporting part SP is not inserted in the sliding hole SH. The supporting part SP may be in contact with the bottom surface of the third supporting member SM 3 , adjacent to the sliding hole SH.

The length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the lower protruding part LP is smaller than the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the sliding hole SH, and the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the inserting part IP is smaller than the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the sliding hole SH. Thus, when the inserting part IP is connected to the lower protruding part LP, the inserting part IP and the lower protruding part LP may reciprocate in the first direction DR 1 within the sliding hole SH. As a result, the first supporting member SM 1 may reciprocate in the first direction DR 1 along the sliding hole SH.

The connection between a single lower protruding part LP and a single sliding unit SU has been described above, but other lower protrusions LP and other sliding units SU may also be connected in the same manner described above with reference to FIGS. 6 through 8 .

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating one of hinge parts of FIGS. 4 and 5 and sub-connecting parts on one side of the corresponding hinge part. FIG. 10A is a perspective view an exemplary fixed cam. FIG. 10B is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary rotary cam. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 9 .

Referring to FIGS. 9 through 11 , first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 of a body part BDP of a hinge part HGP may extend in the second direction DR 2 and may rotate with reference to the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 , respectively. In the body part BDP, a first gear part GP 1 which provides the first rotational axis RX 1 , a second gear part GP 2 which provides the second rotational axis RX 2 , and third and fourth gear parts GP 3 and GP 4 which are disposed between the first and second gear parts GP 1 and GP 2 are disposed.

Referring to FIGS. 9, 10A, and 10B , a fixed cam FC is fixed, on a first side thereof, to the body part BDP and includes, on a second side thereof, mountain-shaped parts FC_a which are disposed on upper and lower parts of the second side and valley-shaped parts FC_b which are disposed on left and right parts of the second side. The rotary cam SC forms valley-shaped parts SC_b which engage with the mountain-shaped parts FC_a of the fixed cam FC to be in sliding surface contact with the mountain-shaped parts FC_a of the fixed cam FC. Thus, mountain-shaped parts SC_a are disposed on both sides of the array of the valley-shaped parts SC_b. An elastic member is installed at one side of the rotary cam SC to firmly attach the fixed cam FC and the rotary cam SC together. In an exemplary embodiment, the elastic member may be, for example, a compressed coil spring.

While the folding member 200 is being folded, the mountain-shaped parts FC_a of the rotary cam SC rotate toward the highest points of the mountain-shaped parts FC_a of the fixed cam FC, and the rotary cam SC moves in a first direction. As the mountain-shaped parts SC_a of the rotary cam SC pass by the highest points of the mountain-shaped parts FC_a of the fixed cam FC, the rotary cam SC moves in a second direction and rotates due to the force from the elastic member, and as a result, the folding member 200 may be automatically folded without the need to apply a force.

As illustrated in FIG. 11 , the first, second, third, and fourth gear parts GP 1 , GP 2 , GP 3 , and GP 4 , like the first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 , extend in the second direction DR 2 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the outer circumferences of the first, second, third, and fourth gear parts GP 1 , GP 2 , GP 3 , and GP 4 are gear-shaped, and the first, second, third, and fourth gear parts GP 1 , GP 2 , GP 3 , and GP 4 engage with one another.

The first gear part GP 1 is disposed on the same line as the first rotation unit RU 1 and is connected to the first rotation unit RU 1 . The first rotational axis RX 1 may form the central axis of the first rotation unit RU 1 and the first gear unit GP 1 that extend substantially in the second direction DR 2 . The second gear part GP 2 is disposed on the same line as the second rotation unit RU 2 and is connected to the second rotation unit RU 2 . The second rotation axis RX 2 may form the central axis of the second rotation unit RU 2 and the second gear part GP 2 that extend substantially in the second direction DR 2 .

Fifth connection holes CH 5 which extend in the second direction DR 2 are defined at one side of each of the sub-connecting parts SCP. The first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 are inserted in the fifth connection holes CH 5 of the sub-connecting parts SCP so that the sub-connecting parts SCP are connected to the first and second rotation units RU 1 and RU 2 . The first rotation unit RU 1 and the first gear part GP 1 rotate with reference to the first rotational axis RX 1 , and the second rotation unit RU 2 and the second gear part GP 2 rotate with reference to the second rotational axis RX 2 .

The third and fourth gear parts GP 3 and GP 4 , which are disposed between the first and second gear parts GP 1 and GP 2 , may be idle gears which perform two-axis rotation control by connecting two gears. That is, the third and fourth gear parts GP 3 and GP 4 engage with the first and second gear parts GP 1 and GP 2 and may thus allow the first and second gear parts GP 1 and GP 2 to rotate simultaneously, rather than independently. Accordingly, the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , which are connected to the first and second gear parts GP 1 and GP 2 , respectively, may be folded and unfolded symmetrically.

FIG. 12 is a side view illustrating the joint units of FIGS. 4 and 5 as viewed from the second direction. FIG. 13 is an exploded top view illustrating the first joint units, the second joint units, the third joint unit, and the first and second supporting members of FIGS. 4 and 5 . FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating one of the first joint units of FIG. 13 . FIG. 15 is a side view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 14 as viewed from the second direction. FIG. 16 is a front view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 14 as viewed from the first direction. FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating one of the second joint units of FIG. 13 .

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13 , the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ), the first side of the first supporting member SM 1 , a first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 , the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 , and a second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 may be rotatably coupled to one another.

Each of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) includes a first, second, or third extension EX 1 , EX 2 , or EX 3 and first and second protrusions P 1 and P 2 , third and fourth protrusions P 3 and P 4 , or fifth and sixth protrusions P 5 and P 6 disposed at each of both ends of the first, second, or third extension EX 1 , EX 2 , or EX 3 to be projected in the first direction DR 1 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first and second protrusions P 1 and P 2 may protrude in opposite directions, the third and fourth protrusions P 3 and P 4 may protrude in opposite directions, and the fifth and sixth protrusions P 5 and P 6 may protrude in opposite directions. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the first and second protrusions P 1 and P 2 may be alternately arranged not to overlap, and the third and fourth protrusions P 3 and P 4 may be alternately arranged not to overlap. In each pair of adjacent joint units, protrusions from different joint units may be coupled to each other to be able to rotate while overlapping with each other.

The structure of the protrusions of each of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ), the structure of first guide parts GD 1 , and the connection structure of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) will hereinafter be described.

The number of joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) may be an odd number, the number of first joint units JP 1 and the number of second joint units JP 2 may be even numbers, and the number of third joint units JP 3 may be an odd number. The structure of the first joint units JP 1 and the structure of the second joint units JP 2 may be symmetrical with each other.

The joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) are rotatably coupled by a plurality of coupling pins CP. The first side of the first supporting member SM 1 and the first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 are rotatably coupled by the coupling pins CP. Also, the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 and the second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 are rotatably coupled by the coupling pins CP.

Referring to FIG. 13 , each of the first joint units JP 1 includes a first extension EX 1 , a plurality of first protrusions P 1 , and a plurality of second protrusions P 2 . A plurality of first grooves G 1 and a plurality of second grooves G 2 are defined in the first extension EX 1 .

The first extension EX 1 extends in the second direction DR 2 and is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid as viewed from the second direction DR 2 . In the description that follows, both sides of the first extension EX 1 are defined as first and second sides of the first extension EX 1 that are opposite to each other. The first direction DR 1 may include a leftward direction and a rightward direction, which is opposite to the leftward direction.

The first protrusions P 1 are disposed at each of both ends of the first extension EX 1 to be projected in the first direction DR 1 . The second protrusions P 2 are disposed adjacent to the first protrusions P 1 to be projected in the first direction DR 1 . The first protrusions P 1 and the second protrusions P 2 protrude in opposite directions. In an exemplary embodiment, the first protrusions P 1 may protrude in the leftward direction, and the second protrusions P 2 may protrude in the rightward direction, for example.

An imaginary line extending from the center of the first extension EX 1 in the second direction DR 2 may be defined as a reference line RL. The first protrusions P 1 may be projected in the leftward direction from the reference line RL, and the second protrusions P 2 may be projected in the rightward direction from the reference line RL.

Referring to FIGS. 14 through 16 , as viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first protrusions P 1 and the second protrusions P 2 may be symmetrical. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the first protrusions P 1 and the second protrusions P 2 may be alternately arranged not to overlap. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the second protrusions P 2 may be disposed on the inside of the first protrusions P 1 with respect to the first extension EX 1 , but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the first protrusions P 1 may be disposed on the inside of the second protrusions P 2 with respect to the first extension EX 1 .

In an exemplary embodiment, one first protrusion P 1 and one second protrusion P 2 may be alternately arranged at each of two sides of the first extension EX 1 , for example, but the invention is not limited thereto. In another example, multiple first protrusions P 1 and multiple second protrusions P 2 may be alternately arranged at each of the two sides of the first extension EX 1 .

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first extension EX 1 is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid having an upper side which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 , a lower side which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 and is longer than the upper side, and two lateral sides which connect the upper and lower sides.

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first protrusions P 1 and the second protrusions P 2 protrude beyond the upper side of the first extension EX 1 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first protrusions P 1 protrude beyond the left side of the first extension EX 1 in the leftward direction, and the second protrusions P 2 protrude beyond the right side of the first extension EX 1 in the rightward direction.

The first extension EX 1 includes a top surface which extends from the upper side of the inverted trapezoidal shape of the first extension EX 1 in the second direction DR 2 , a bottom surface which extends from the lower side of the first extension EX 1 in the second direction DR 2 , and side surfaces which extend from the two lateral sides of the first extension EX 1 in the first direction DR 1 . The side surface on the left of the first extension EX 1 may be defined as a left-side surface, and the side surface on the right of the first extension EX 1 may be defined as a right-side surface.

The first grooves G 1 are defined in the first extension EX 1 on the right sides of the first protrusions P 1 , and the second grooves G 2 are defined in the first extension EX 1 on the left sides of the second protrusions P 2 . The first grooves G 1 may be defined as recesses from parts of the top surface and right-side surface of the first extension EX 1 that are on the right sides of the first protrusions P 1 . The second grooves G 2 may be defined as recesses from parts of the top surface and left-side surface of the first extension EX 1 that are on the left sides of the second protrusions P 2 . Parts of the first extension EX 1 that define the first grooves G 1 and the second grooves G 2 may be concavely curved.

First holes H 1 which are cylindrical in shape and extend in the second direction DR 2 are defined in the first protrusions P 1 , and second holes H 2 which are cylindrical in shape and extend in the second direction DR 2 are defined in the second protrusions P 2 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , a vertex connecting the upper side and the left side of the first extension EX 1 may overlap with the center of each of the first holes H 1 , and a vertex connecting the upper side and the right side of the first extension EX 1 may overlap with the center of each of the second holes H 2 .

Referring back to FIGS. 13 through 16 , each of the first joint units JP 1 further includes one or more first guide parts GD 1 which extend from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 in the third direction DR 3 . The first guide parts GD 1 guide second guide parts GD 2 (refer to FIGS. 24 to 26 ), which are included in each of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , to be folded along a predetermined curved trajectory.

The first guide parts GD 1 include sidewalls SW which extend from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 , at each of both ends of the first extension EX 1 , in the third direction DR 3 and hooks HK which extend from the sidewalls SW in the second direction DR 2 .

As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , outer sides of the sidewalls SW may have a predetermined slope with respect to the bottom surface of the respective first joint unit JP 1 and may extend slantingly in the third direction DR 3 , and inner sides of the sidewalls SW may extend perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the respective first joint unit JP 1 in the third direction DR 3 . However, the invention is not limited to this. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the outer sides and inner sides of the sidewalls SW may be parallel and may extend either slantingly or perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the respective first joint unit JP 1 in the third direction DR 3 .

The hooks HK may extend from the sidewalls SW in the second direction DR 2 . Upper sides of the hooks HK may be parallel to the upper side of the first extension EX 1 . The top surfaces of the hooks HK may be in contact with the second guide parts GD 2 , which are included in each of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , and may be flat or curved for smooth sliding of the second guide parts GD 2 .

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the hooks HK may be in the shape of a rectangle, an inverted trapezoid, a circle, or a semicircle. The flatter the top surfaces of the hooks HK are, the more firmly the hooks HK may support the second guide parts GD 2 , and the more curved the top surfaces of the hooks HK are, the more smoothly the second guide parts GD 2 may slide.

Each of the first joint units JP 1 further includes protrusions PT which extend from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 , at each of both ends of the first extension EX 1 , in the third direction DR 3 . The protrusions PT may be a predetermined distance apart from the hooks HK. In this case, as viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the protrusions PT may substantially form rectangular holes. As a result, shakes in the second guide parts GD 2 during the sliding of the second guide parts GD 2 along the hooks HK may be prevented.

Each of the first joint units JP 1 may further include a tunnel unit TU which extends from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 , in the middle of the first extension EX 1 , in the third direction DR 3 .

As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the tunnel unit TU may be in the shape of an inverted trapezoid, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, as viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the tunnel unit TU may be in the shape of a rectangle or an ellipse. The thickness, in the first direction DR 1 , of the tunnel unit TU may be substantially the same as the thickness, in the first direction DR 1 , of the first extension EX 1 .

One or more penetrations PN may be defined in the tunnel unit TU. The penetrations PN are holes that penetrate both sides of the tunnel unit TU in the first direction DR 1 and are passages that guide arms GA of the second guide parts GD 2 slide along. The top surfaces and the bottom surfaces of the penetrations PN may be substantially parallel to the top surface of the first extension EX 1 .

Two penetrations PN may be disposed, one at each of two sides of the tunnel unit TU, symmetrically, but the invention is not limited thereto. The number and locations of penetrations PN may vary depending on the size of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . The penetrations PN may be in the shape of rectangles, inverted trapezoids, or rectangles with semicircular shapes on both sides in a cross-sectional view.

A height HT 1 from the top surfaces of the hooks HK to the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 may be the same as a height HT 2 from the bottom surfaces of the penetrations PN to the top surfaces of the penetrations PN. A width W 1 , in the second direction DR 2 , of the hooks HK may be the same as a width W 2 , in the second direction DR 2 , of the penetrations PN. That is, the size of rectangular openings defined by the sidewalls SW, the hooks HK, and the protrusions PT may be the same as the size of the penetrations PN defined in the tunnel unit TU, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the size of the rectangular openings defined by the sidewalls SW, the hooks HK, and the protrusions PT may differ from the size of the penetrations PN defined in the tunnel unit TU depending on the shape of the second guide parts GD 2 .

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 17 , the second joint units JP 2 have substantially the same structure as the first joint units JP 1 and are disposed symmetrically with the first joint units JP 1 . That is, when the second joint units JP 2 are rotated 180 degrees, the structure of the second joint units JP 2 become the same as the structure of the first joint units JP 1 . Each of the second joint units JP 2 includes a second extension EX 2 which is symmetrical with the first extension EX 1 , a plurality of third protrusions P 3 which are symmetrical with the first protrusions P 1 , and a plurality of fourth protrusions P 4 which are symmetrical with the second protrusions P 2 .

The second extension EX 2 has substantially the same structure as the first extension EX 1 . In the second extension EX 2 , a plurality of third grooves G 3 which are symmetrical with the first grooves G 1 and a plurality of fourth grooves G 4 which are symmetrical with the second grooves G 2 are defined. In the third protrusions P 3 , a plurality of third holes H 3 which are symmetrical with the first holes H 1 are defined, and in the fourth protrusions P 4 , a plurality of fourth holes H 4 which are symmetrical with the second holes H 2 are defined.

FIG. 18 illustrates how each pair of adjacent first joint units of FIG. 13 are connected. FIG. 19 illustrates how each pair of adjacent second joint units of FIG. 13 are connected.

For convenience, FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate parts of two first joint units JP 1 or parts of two second joint units JP 2 .

Referring to FIG. 18 , a (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1 may be disposed on the right side of a k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k . Second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k are disposed in second grooves G 2 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1, and first protrusions P 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1 are disposed in first grooves of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k.

Accordingly, the first protrusions P 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1 overlap with the second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k . Second holes H 2 defined in the second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k overlap with first holes H 1 defined in the first protrusions P 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1. Referring to FIG. 13 , in order to be placed in first grooves G 1 and second grooves G 2 , the first protrusions P 1 and the second protrusions may be convexly curved to correspond to parts of first extensions EX 1 that are concavely curved to define the first grooves G 1 and the second grooves G 2 .

Referring back to FIG. 18 , first coupling pins CP 1 which are coupling pins CP for coupling the k-th and (k+1)-th first joint units JP 1 _ k and JP 1 _ k +1 are inserted in the first holes H 1 of the first protrusions P 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1 and in the second holes H 2 of the second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k . For convenience, FIG. 18 illustrates only one first coupling pin CP 1 , but two first coupling pins CP 1 may actually be provided at both ends of each of the k-th and (k+1)-th first joint units JP 1 _ k and JP 1 _ k +1. The first coupling pins CP 1 are connected to the second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k.

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , each of the first coupling pins CP 1 includes a head part HP which is larger than the first holes H 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1 and the second holes H 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k and a coupling part CTP which extends from the head part HP in the second direction DR 2 . Other coupling pins CP have the same structure as the first coupling pins CP 1 . The coupling parts CTP of the first coupling pins CP 1 may be cylindrical in shape.

The coupling parts CTP of the first coupling pins CP 1 are inserted in the first holes H 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1 and in the second holes H 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k , which overlaps with the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1, and are thus connected to the second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k . The coupling parts CTP of the first coupling pins CP 1 are not connected to the first protrusions P 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1.

In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling parts CTP of the first coupling pins CP 1 and the inner sides of the second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k that define the second holes H 2 may be in the shape of bolts and nuts and may be coupled together, for example. The head parts HP of the first coupling pins CP 1 are not inserted in the first holes H 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1, but are in contact with the sides of the first protrusions P 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP_k+1.

Since the first coupling pins CP 1 are not connected to the first protrusions P 1 of the (k+1)-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k +1, but connected to the second protrusions P 2 of the k-th first joint unit JP 1 _ k , the k-th and (k+1)-th first joint units JP 1 _ k and JP 1 _ k +1 may rotate together with reference to the first coupling pins CP 1 .

Referring to FIG. 19 , the second joint units JP 2 are connected substantially in the same manner as the first joint units JP 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, a (j+1)-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j +1 is disposed on the left side of a j-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j , and fourth protrusions P 4 of the j-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j are disposed in fourth grooves G 4 of the (j+1)-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j +1, for example. Third protrusions P 3 of the (j+1)-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j +1 are disposed in third grooves G 3 of the j-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j.

Accordingly, the third protrusions P 3 of the (j+1)-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j +1 overlap with the fourth protrusions P 4 of the j-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j . Third holes H 3 defined in the third protrusions P 3 of the (j+1)-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j +1 overlap with fourth holes H 4 defined in the fourth protrusions P 4 of the j-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j.

Second coupling pins CP 2 which are coupling pins CP for coupling the j-th and (j+1)-th second joint units JP 2 _ j and JP 2 _ j +1 are inserted in the third holes H 3 of the third protrusions P 3 of the (j+1)-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j +1 and in the fourth holes H 4 of the fourth protrusions P 4 of the j-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j , which overlaps with the (j+1)-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j +1, and are thus connected to the fourth protrusions P 4 of the j-th second joint unit JP 2 _ j . Thus, the j-th and (j+1)-th second joint units JP 2 _ j and JP 2 _ j +1 may rotate together with reference to the second coupling pins CP 2 .

FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a third joint unit of FIG. 13 . FIG. 21 illustrates how the third joint unit of FIG. 13 , a first joint unit adjacent to the third joint unit, and a second joint unit adjacent to the third joint unit are connected.

For convenience, FIG. 21 illustrates parts of first, second, and third joint units JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 that are adjacent to one another.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 20 , the third joint unit JP 3 includes a third extension EX 3 , a plurality of fifth protrusions P 5 , and a plurality of sixth protrusions P 6 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the third extension EX 3 is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid. The fifth protrusions P 5 and the sixth protrusions P 6 protrude in the first direction DR 1 at both ends of the third extension EX 3 , which are defined as being opposite to each other in the second direction DR 2 .

The fifth protrusions P 5 have the same structure as first protrusions P 1 of a first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 and overlap with the first protrusions P 1 , as viewed from the first direction DR 1 . The sixth protrusions P 6 have the same structure as third protrusions P 3 of a second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 and overlap with the third protrusions P 3 , as viewed from the first direction DR 1 . The fifth protrusions P 5 and the sixth protrusions P 6 protrude in opposite directions at both ends of the third extension EX 3 . The fifth protrusions P 5 protrude in the leftward direction, and the sixth protrusions P 6 protrude in the rightward direction.

Fifth holes H 5 which extend in the second direction DR 2 are defined in the fifth protrusions P 5 , and sixth holes H 6 which extend in the second direction Dr 2 are defined in the sixth protrusions P 6 . The fifth holes H 5 and the sixth holes H 6 have the same shapes as the first holes H 1 and the third holes H 3 , respectively.

Fifth grooves G 5 which have the same shape as second grooves G 2 of the first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 and sixth grooves G 6 which have the same shape as fourth grooves G 4 of the second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 are defined in the third extension EX 3 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the second grooves G 2 overlap with the fifth grooves G 5 , and the fourth grooves G 4 overlap with the sixth grooves G 6 .

The first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 will hereinafter be referred to as a first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 , and the second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 will hereinafter be referred to as a second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 .

Referring to FIG. 21 , the third joint unit JP 3 , the first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 , and the second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 are connected substantially in the same manner as the first joint units JP 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, second protrusions P 2 of the first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 are disposed in the fifth grooves G 5 , and the fifth protrusions P 5 are disposed in first grooves G 1 of the first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 , for example. Fourth protrusions P 4 of the second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 are disposed in the sixth grooves G 6 , and the sixth protrusions P 6 are disposed in third grooves G 3 of the second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 .

The second protrusions P 2 of the first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 overlap with the fifth protrusions P 5 , and the fourth protrusions P 4 of the second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 overlap with the sixth protrusions P 6 . Third coupling pins CP 3 which are coupling pins CP for coupling the third joint unit JP 3 and the first and second sub-joint units JP 1 _ 1 and JP 2 _ 1 are inserted in the fifth holes H 5 of the third joint unit JP 3 and in the second holes H 2 of the first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 , which overlaps with the third joint unit JP 3 , and are also inserted in the sixth holes H 6 of the third joint unit JP 3 and in the fourth holes H 4 of the second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 , which also overlaps with the third joint unit JP 3 .

The third coupling pins CP 3 are connected to the second protrusions P 2 of the first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 and the fourth protrusions P 4 of the second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 . Thus, the third joint unit JP 3 , the first sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 1 , and the second sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 1 may be rotatably connected to one another.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating the first side of the first supporting member of FIG. 13 . FIG. 23 illustrates how the first side of the first supporting member of FIG. 22 and a first joint unit adjacent to the first supporting member are connected.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 22 , the first supporting member SM 1 includes a plurality of seventh protrusions P 7 which are projected from the first side of the first supporting member SM 1 and have the same structure as second protrusions P 2 of a first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the seventh protrusions P 7 overlap the second protrusions P 2 . The seventh protrusions P 7 protrude substantially from the first guide parts GD 1 .

A plurality of seventh grooves G 7 which have the same shape as first grooves G 1 of the first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 are defined on the first side of the first supporting member SM 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the seventh grooves G 7 overlap with the first grooves G 1 . Seventh holes H 7 which extend in the second direction DR 2 are defined in the seventh protrusions P 7 . The seventh holes H 7 have the same shape as second holes H 2 of the first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 .

The first joint unit JP 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 will be referred to as a third sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 2 .

Referring to FIG. 23 , first protrusions P 1 of the third sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 2 are disposed in the seventh grooves G 7 , and the seventh protrusions P 7 are disposed in second grooves G 2 of the third sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 2 . The first protrusions P 1 of the third sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 2 overlap with the seventh protrusions P 7 .

Fourth coupling pins CP 4 which are coupling pins CP for coupling the first side of the first supporting member SM 1 and the third sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 2 are inserted in the first holes H 1 of the third sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 2 , which overlaps with the first supporting member SM 1 , and in the seventh holes H 7 of the first supporting member SM 1 , and are thus connected to the seventh protrusions P 7 . Thus, the first side of the first supporting member SM 1 and the third sub-joint unit JP 1 _ 2 may be rotatably connected to each other.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating the first side of the second supporting member of FIG. 13 . FIG. 25 illustrates how the first side of the second supporting member of FIG. 24 and a second joint unit adjacent to the second supporting member are connected.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 24 , the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 is symmetrical with the first side of the first supporting member SM 1 . The second supporting member SM 2 includes a plurality of eighth protrusions P 8 which are projected from the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 and have the same structure as fourth protrusions P 4 of a second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the eighth protrusions P 8 overlap with the fourth protrusions P 4 .

A plurality of eighth grooves G 8 which have the same shape as third grooves G 3 of the second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 are defined on the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the eighth grooves G 8 overlap with the third grooves G 3 . Eighth holes H 8 which extend in the second direction DR 2 are defined in the eighth protrusions P 8 . The eighth holes H 8 have the same shape as fourth holes H 4 of the second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 .

The second joint unit JP 2 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 will hereinafter be referred to as a fourth sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 2 .

Referring to FIG. 25 , third protrusions P 3 of the fourth sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 2 are disposed in the eighth grooves G 8 , and the eighth protrusions P 8 are disposed in fourth grooves G 4 of the fourth sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 2 . The third protrusions P 3 of the fourth sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 2 overlap with the eighth protrusions P 8 .

Fifth coupling pins CP 5 which are coupling pins CP for coupling the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 and the fourth sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 2 are inserted in the third holes H 3 of the fourth sub-joint unit JP 22 , which overlaps with the second supporting member SM 2 , and in the eighth holes H 8 of the second supporting member SM 2 and are thus connected to the eighth protrusions P 8 . Thus, the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 and the fourth sub-joint unit JP 2 _ 2 may be rotatably connected to each other.

FIG. 26 is a plan view illustrating the third and fourth supporting members of FIGS. 4 and 5 . FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 26 , of the third supporting member of FIG. 26 . FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line C-C′ of FIG. 26 , of one of guide arms of FIG. 26 . FIG. 29 illustrates how second guide parts of FIG. 26 are coupled first guide parts of FIG. 16 .

Referring to FIGS. 26 through 29 , the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 may be opposite to each other, and one or more second guide parts GD 2 may be provided on the first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 that are opposite to each other.

The second guide parts GD 2 include rail units RU which overlap with the hooks HK of the first guide parts GD 1 and along which the hooks HK may slide. The rail units RU may be disposed symmetrically on both sides of the array of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 .

Each of the rail units RU may be divided into a first area A 1 including a sidewall SW 1 and a second area A 2 not including the sidewall SW 1 . The total length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the first and second regions A 1 and A 2 may be the same as the total length of the first joint units JP 1 when unfolded completely. In an exemplary embodiment, when there are provided four first joint units JP 1 , the length of the first area A 1 may be the same as the total length of three first joint units JP 1 , and the length of the second area A 2 may be the same as the length of a single first joint unit JP 1 , for example. However, the lengths of the first and second areas A 1 and A 2 may vary depending on the size of the first guide parts GD 1 .

A blocking wall EW may be disposed at one end of the first area A 1 . The blocking wall EW may extend perpendicularly from the sidewall SW 1 of the first area A 1 in the second direction DR 2 . Due to the presence of the sidewall SW 1 and the blocking wall EW, a height difference may be generated between the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 .

The second guide parts GD 2 may further include one or more guide arms GA which overlap with the tunnel units TU of the first joint units JP 1 and slide along the penetrations PN of each of the tunnel units TU. The guide arms GA may be disposed in the middle of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . In an exemplary embodiment, two guide arms GA may be disposed symmetrically in the middle of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , for example.

A thickness TH 1 , in the third direction DR 3 , of the guide arms GA may be smaller than a thickness TH 2 , in the third direction DR 3 , of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 . Due to the thickness difference between the guide arms GA and the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , a height difference may be generated between the guide arms GA and the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , and as a result, the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 may be prevented from advancing further when the folding member 200 is unfolded.

Ends of the guide arms GA and ends of the rail units RU may be aligned with imaginary lines connecting the penetrations PN and the hooks HK. As a result, when the folding member 200 is switched from its unfolded state to its folded state, the ends of the guide arms GA and the ends of the rail units RU may slide into the penetrations PN and the hooks HK, respectively, at the same time.

In an exemplary embodiment, the ends of the guide arms GA and the ends of the rail units RU may be semicircular in shape in a cross-sectional view. The ends of the guide arms GA and the ends of the rail units RU may be placed in contact with the top surfaces of the penetrations PN and the top surfaces of the hooks HK, respectively, when the folding member 200 is switched from its unfolded state to its folded state. Accordingly, for smooth sliding, the ends of the guide arms GA and the ends of the rail units RU may be rounded.

FIG. 30 is a side view illustrating how the first, second, third, and fourth supporting members, the connecting member, the hinge member, the sliding units, and the first and second rear covers of FIGS. 4 and 5 are coupled. FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate how the display device of FIG. 1 is folded.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 30 , the display module 100 is disposed on the top surfaces of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 and on the first extensions EX 1 , the second extensions EX 2 , and the third extension EX 3 .

Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32 , the display device 1000 may be folded about the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 of the hinge member HGM. The folding member 200 may out-fold the display device 1000 such that the display surface DS of the display module 100 may be exposed.

When the display device 1000 is out-folded, the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 and the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 may slide in relatively opposite directions. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 may move toward the center of the display device 1000 , and the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 may move in the opposite direction to the moving direction of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 , for example.

The top surfaces of the hooks HK of the first guide parts GD 1 of each of the first joint units JP 1 or the second joint units JP 2 and the bottom surfaces of the rail units RU of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 are firmly attached and may thus slide against one another. As a result, the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) may be prevented from rotating beyond a predefined curved trajectory when folded or unfolded.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of the display device of FIG. 1 into which the first, second, third, and fourth supporting members, the connecting member, the hinge member, the sliding units, and the first and second rear covers of FIGS. 4 and 5 are all assembled. FIGS. 34 and 35 are partial side views of the display device 1 in its folded state.

Referring to FIGS. 33 through 35 , the bottom surfaces of the penetrations PN of the first guide parts GD 1 of each of the first joint units JP 1 or the second joint units JP 2 and the bottom surfaces of the guide arms GA of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 are firmly attached and may thus slide against one another. As a result, the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) may be prevented from rotating beyond a predefined curved trajectory when folded or unfolded.

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view illustrating how the sliding units of FIGS. 4 and 5 are arranged when the display device of FIG. 1 is unfolded, as illustrated in FIG. 30 . FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view illustrating how the sliding units of FIGS. 4 and 5 are arranged when the display device of FIG. 1 is folded, as illustrated in FIG. 32 .

Specifically, FIGS. 36 and 37 , like FIG. 7 , are cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG. 5 .

Referring to FIG. 36 , when the display device 1000 is unfolded, the sliding units SU and the lower protrusions LP are disposed on first sides of the sliding holes SH.

Referring to FIG. 37 , when the display device 1000 is out-folded, the sliding units SU and the lower protrusions LP move in an opposite direction to the second supporting member SM 2 . As a result, the sliding units SU and the lower protrusions LP move along the sliding holes SH to be disposed on second sides of the sliding holes SH.

If the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 are connected and fixed to the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , the display device 1000 cannot be folded. However, since the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 may slide against the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 and may thus move in an opposite direction to the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 and SM 4 , the display device 1000 may be folded properly.

FIG. 38 is an enlarged side view illustrating the joint units of FIG. 30 . FIG. 39 is an enlarged side view illustrating the joint units of FIG. 32 . FIG. 40 illustrates first and second reference circles of FIG. 39 and third and fourth circles having first and second rotational axes, respectively, as their centers.

Referring to FIGS. 38, 39, and 40 , the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) may be arranged along one or more curved trajectories when the folding member 200 rotates with reference to the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 . The curved trajectories may be defined as parts of reference circles. In the description that follows, it is assumed that there are provided two curved trajectories which are defined as parts of two reference circles.

When the folding member 200 rotates with reference to the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 to fold the display module 100 , the first joint units JP 1 rotate together and are thus arranged along a first curved trajectory CT 1 , and the second joint units JP 2 rotate together and are thus arranged along a second curved trajectory CT 2 . The first curved trajectory CT 1 may be symmetrical with the second curved trajectory CT 2 . The two reference circles may include first and second reference circles C 1 and C 2 . The first curved trajectory CT 1 may be defined as a part of the first reference circle C 1 , and the second curved trajectory CT 2 may be defined as a part of the second reference circle C 2 .

The folding area FA of the display module 100 may be bent by the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ). When the folding member 200 is folded, the first extensions EX 1 of the first joint units JP 1 may be placed in contact with one another on their sides, and the second extensions EX 2 of the second joint units JP 2 may be placed in contact with one another on their sides.

A first center CD 1 of the first reference circle C 1 , which is obtained by extending the first curved trajectory CT 1 , does not overlap with the first rotational axis RX 1 , and a second center CD 2 of the second reference circle C 2 , which is obtained by extending the second curved trajectory CT 2 , does not overlap with the second rotational axis RX 2 . The first and second centers CD 1 and CD 2 are spaced apart from the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 . The distance between the first and second centers CD 1 and CD 2 is smaller than the distance between the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 .

The first and second circles C 1 and C 2 having the first and second centers CD 1 and CD 2 , respectively, may have a first curvature, and third and fourth circles C 3 and C 4 having the first and second rotational axes RX 1 and RX 2 , respectively, as their centers may have a second curvature. The first and second circles C 1 and C 2 may be larger than the third and fourth circles C 3 and C 4 . Since the larger a circle is, the smaller the curvature of the circle becomes, the first curvature is smaller than the second curvature.

When the folding area FA of the display module 100 is bent, stress may be generated in the folding area FA. The more bent the folding area FA (i.e., the smaller the curvature of the folding area FA), the more the stress in the folding area FA, and the more likely the folding area FA is to be deformed. The stress in the folding area FA decreases when the folding area FA is bent with the first curvature than when the folding area FA is bent with the second curvature, and as a result, the deformation of the folding area FA may be reduced.

In short, when the display module 100 is folded, the first joint units JP 1 and the second joint units JP 2 are arranged along the first and second curved trajectories CT 1 and CT 2 , respectively, having the second curvature, and thus, the folding area FA of the display module 100 may be smoothly folded. Accordingly, the display device 1000 may reduce the deformation of the folding area FA by reducing the stress in the folding area FA.

Other exemplary embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described, focusing mainly on differences with the above-described embodiment.

FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a body part of a hinge part according to the invention. FIG. 42A is a perspective view illustrating a fixed cam of FIG. 41 . FIG. 42B is a perspective view illustrating a rotary cam of FIG. 41 . FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV′ of FIG. 41 .

Referring to FIGS. 41 through 43 , a body part BDP_ 1 differs from the body part BDP of FIG. 9 in that part of a fixed cam FC_ 1 is rotatable, that parts of a rotary cam SC_ 1 which are disposed in first and second rotation units RU 1 _ 1 and RU 2 _ 1 are connected, that the fixed cam FC_ 1 and the rotary cam SC_ 1 include three mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a and three mountain-shaped parts SC_ 1 a , respectively, and that the body part BDP_ 1 further includes a fixing member BL and E-rings ER which support elastic members SP.

Specifically, the fixed cam FC_ 1 may include a coupling part FC_ 11 which is coupled to a hinge case CS and rotating parts FC_ 12 which are rotatably coupled to the coupling part FC_ 11 . The coupling part FC_ 11 may be coupled to a hinge part top surface CS 1 and a hinge part bottom surface CS 2 by a fourth pin unit PU 4 .

The first and second rotation units RU 1 _ 1 and RU 2 _ 1 may be coupled through the fixed cam FC_ 1 . The rotating parts FC_ 12 may be rotatably coupled to the first and second rotation units RU 1 _ 1 and RU 2 _ 1 , which are coupled to the fixed cam FC_ 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 43 , the rotating part FC_ 12 coupled to the first rotation unit RU 1 _ 1 may rotate clockwise, and the rotating part FC_ 12 coupled to the second rotation unit RU 2 _ 1 may rotate counterclockwise, for example.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the rotating parts FC_ 12 may include mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a which are arranged at intervals of 120 degrees, valley-shaped parts FC_ 12 b which are disposed between the mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a , and a stopper part FC_ 12 c which determines the rotation angle of the rotating parts FC_ 12 . A direction in which the mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a and the valley-shaped parts FC_ 12 b are disposed may be in consideration of an angle at which a folding member 200 is opened and closed. The distance between the mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a is not particularly limited. In an exemplary embodiment, the mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a may be disposed at intervals of about 90 degrees, for example.

The rotary cam SC_ 1 includes valley-shaped parts SC_ 1 b which engage with the mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a of the fixed cam FC_ 1 to be in slidable surface contact with the mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a of the fixed cam FC_ 1 . Accordingly, the mountain-shaped parts SC_ 1 a are disposed on both sides of each of the valley-shaped parts SC_ 1 b.

In an exemplary embodiment, the folding angle of the folding member 200 may be 180 degrees. That is, the folding degree between parts of the fixed cam FC_ 1 and the rotary cam SC_ 1 that are coupled to the first rotation unit RU 1 _ 1 may be 90 degrees, and the folding degree between parts of the fixed cam FC_ 1 and the rotary cam SC_ 1 that are coupled to the second rotation unit RU 2 _ 1 may be 90 degrees. In a case where the mountain-shaped parts FC_ 12 a of each of the rotating parts FC_ 12 and the mountain-shaped parts SC_ 1 a of the rotary cam SC_ 1 are disposed at intervals of 120 degrees, the operational range of the fixed cam FC_ 1 and the rotary cam SC_ 1 may be 90 degrees, the preload range of the fixed cam FC_ 1 and the rotary cam SC_ 1 may be 15 degrees, and the afterload range of the fixed cam FC_ 1 and the rotary cam SC_ 1 may be 15 degrees. Accordingly, the folding member 200 may maintain its folded state when folded and may maintain its unfolded state when unfolded.

The parts of the rotary cam SC_ 1 that are coupled to the first and second rotation units RU 1 _ 1 and RC 2 _ 1 may be unitary. The rotary cam SC of FIG. 10B is coupled to each of the first and second rotation units RU 1 _ 1 and RU 2 _ 1 and rotates independently, but the rotary cam SC_ 1 of FIG. 41 does not rotate, but slides back and forth along the second direction DR 2 . That is, torque loss may be reduced when the rotating parts FC_ 12 of the fixed cam FC_ 1 rotate and the rotary cam SC_ 1 only slides than when the rotary cam SC_ 1 both rotates and slides. As a result, the folding member 200 may be smoothly folded.

The elastic members SP are installed on one side of the rotary cam SC_ 1 and firmly attach the fixed cam FC_ 1 and the rotary cam SC_ 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, the elastic members SP may be, for example, compressed coil springs. The fixing member BL and the E-rings ER may be provided on one side of the elastic members SP. The first and second rotation units RU 1 _ 1 and RU 2 _ 1 may be coupled through the fixing member BL. A surface that supports the elastic member SP may be provided on one side of the fixing member BL, and a surface that is in contact with the E-rings ER may be provided on the other side of the fixing member BL. The E-rings ER, which are E-shaped rings, may be inserted and coupled into grooves defined in the first and second rotation units RU 1 _ 1 and RU 2 _ 1 .

FIG. 44A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of joint units according to the invention in their folded state. FIG. 44B is a side view illustrating the joint units of FIG. 44A in their unfolded state. FIG. 45 is an exploded top view illustrating first joint units, second joint units, a third joint unit, and first and second supporting members of FIG. 44A . FIG. 46A is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary metal plate in its unfolded state. FIG. 46B is a perspective view illustrating the metal plate of FIG. 46A in its folded state. FIG. 47 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary metal plate. FIG. 48 is a perspective view illustrating one of the first joint units of FIG. 45 . FIG. 49 is a side view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 48 as viewed from the second direction. FIG. 50 is a front view illustrating the first joint unit of FIG. 48 as viewed from the first direction. FIG. 51 is a perspective view illustrating one of the second joint units of FIG. 45 .

The exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 44A, 44B, and 45 through 47 differs from the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13 in that joint units (JP 1 _ 1 , JP 2 _ 1 , and JP 3 _ 1 ), a first side of a first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 and a first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 , a first side of a second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 , and a second joint unit JP 2 _ 1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 are all rotatably coupled to one another using metal plates MP.

Specifically, each of the joint units (JP 1 _ 1 , JP 2 _ 1 , and JP 3 _ 1 ) includes an extension (EX 1 _ 1 , EX 2 _ 1 , or EX 3 _ 1 ) which extends in the second direction DR 2 and protrusions (P 1 _ 1 , P 2 _ 1 , or P 3 _ 1 ) which are disposed at both ends of the extension (EX 1 _ 1 , EX 2 _ 1 , or EX 3 _ 1 ) to be projected in the first direction DR 1 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , first protrusions P 1 _ 1 which are disposed at both ends of each of first extensions EX 1 _ 1 of first joint units JP 1 _ 1 and protrusions P 2 _ 1 which are disposed at both ends of each of second extensions EX 2 _ 1 of second joint units JP 2 _ 1 may protrude in opposite directions. As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , third and fourth protrusions P 3 _ 1 and P 4 _ 1 which are disposed at both ends of a third extension EX 3 _ 1 of a third joint unit JP 3 _ 1 may protrude in two directions. Protrusions (P 1 _ 1 and P 1 _ 1 , P 1 _ 1 and P 3 _ 1 , or P 2 _ 1 and P 3 _ 1 ) at each of both ends of the extensions (EX 1 _ 1 and EX 1 _ 1 , EX 1 _ 1 and EX 3 _ 1 , and EX 2 _ 1 and EX 3 _ 1 ) of each pair of adjacent joint units (JP 1 _ 1 and JP 1 _ 1 , JP 1 _ 1 and JP 3 _ 1 , or JP 2 _ 1 and JP 3 _ 1 ) may be coupled to be able to rotate while overlapping with one another.

The structures of the protrusions (P 1 _ 1 , P 2 _ 1 , P 3 _ 1 , or P 4 _ 1 ) of each of the joint units (JP 1 _ 1 , JP 2 _ 1 , and JP 3 _ 1 ), the structure of the metal plates MP, and how the joint units (JP 1 _ 1 , JP 2 _ 1 , and JP 3 _ 1 ) are connected to one another will hereinafter be described.

The number of joint units (JP 1 _ 1 , JP 2 _ 1 , and JP 3 _ 1 ) may be an odd number, the numbers of first joint units JP 1 _ 1 and second joint units JP 2 _ 1 may be even numbers, and the number of third joint units JP 3 _ 1 may be an odd number. The structure of the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 and the structure of the second joint units JP 2 _ 1 may be symmetrical with each other.

The joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) are rotatably coupled by the metal plates MP. The first side of the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 and a first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 are rotatably coupled by the metal plates MP. Also, the first side of the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 and a second joint unit JP 2 _ 1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 are rotatably coupled by the metal plates MP.

Referring to FIG. 45 , each of the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 includes a first extension EX 1 _ 1 , first protrusions P 1 _ 1 , first grooves G 1 _ 1 , and link parts LK 1 .

The first extension EX 1 _ 1 extends in the second direction DR 2 and is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid as viewed from the second direction DR 2 . In the description that follows, both sides of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 are defined as first and second sides of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 that are opposite to each other. The first direction DR 1 may include the leftward direction and the rightward direction, which is opposite to the leftward direction.

The first protrusions P 1 _ 1 may protrude in the first direction DR 1 at both ends of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 . The first grooves G 1 _ 1 may be defined at both ends of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 to be opposite to the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 may protrude in the leftward direction, and the first grooves G 1 _ 1 may be defined in the rightward direction, for example.

As illustrated in FIG. 46A , the metal plates MP may be superelastic metal sheets extending in the first direction DR 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, the metal plates MP may include a superelastic metal alloy such as nickel titanium/nitinol, for example. However, the metal plates MP are not limited to being in the form of metal sheets, but may be in the form of, for example, wires. The metal plates MP allow the folding member 200 to remain unfolded due to their characteristic of maintaining their shape. As illustrated in FIG. 46B , the metal plates MP may be bent along at least one curved trajectory when the folding member 200 is folded by an external force. However, once the external force is removed, the metal plates MP may return to their original shape due to their characteristic of maintaining their shape. That is, the metal plates MP may return to the state as illustrated in FIG. 46A .

Each of the metal plates MP includes coupling areas ASA and a bending area BDA. Each of the coupling areas ASA may include a plurality of coupling holes ASH. The coupling holes ASH may be circular holes that penetrate the top and bottom surfaces of the respective metal plate MP. As illustrated in FIGS. 46A and 46B , the coupling holes ASH may be defined, two at each of both ends of the respective metal plate MP. However, the number and shape of coupling holes ASH are not particularly limited.

A plurality of coupling protrusions ASP may be disposed on each of the first and second supporting members SM 1 _ 1 and SM 2 _ 1 to correspond to the coupling holes ASH. The metal plates MP may be coupled to the first and second supporting members SM 1 _ 1 and SM 2 _ 1 by inserting the coupling protrusions ASP into the coupling holes ASH.

A plurality of bending holes BDH may be defined in the bending area BDA. The shape and the number of bending holes BDH, which are means for controlling the elastic force of the metal plates MP, may be designed in consideration of the elastic force that the metal plates MP are desired of. The greater the number of bending holes BDH, the weaker the elastic force of the metal plates MP, and the less the number of bending holes BDH, the stronger the elastic force of the metal plates MP. That is, as the number of bending holes BDH decreases, the folding member 200 increasingly tends to maintain its unfolded state, and as the number of bending holes BDH increases, the folding member 200 increasingly tends to maintain its folded state.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bending holes BDH are circular in shape. The bending holes BDH may be defined in succession along the first direction DR 1 , two in each row in the first direction DR 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, two circular bending holes BDH may be defined in every two rows in the first direction DR 1 , and one circular bending hole BDH and two semicircular bending holes BDH may be defined in the alternating rows in the first direction DR 1 , for example. In this manner, the bending holes BDH may be defined in the bending area BDA along the first direction DR 1 .

A metal plate MP_ 1 of FIG. 47 differs from the metal plate MP of FIGS. 46A and 46B in that bending holes BDH are not defined in a bending area BDA_ 1 .

Specifically, referring to FIG. 47 , the metal plate MP_ 1 may include coupling areas ASA and the bending area BDA_ 1 . Each of the coupling areas ASA may include a plurality of coupling holes ASH. The coupling holes ASH may be circular holes that penetrate the top and bottom surfaces of the metal plate MP_ 1 . As illustrated in FIG. 47 , the coupling holes ASH may be defined, two at each of both ends of the metal plate MP_ 1 . However, the number and shape of coupling holes ASH are not particularly limited.

A plurality of coupling protrusions ASP may be disposed on each of the first and second supporting members SM 1 _ 1 and SM 2 _ 1 to correspond to the coupling holes ASH of the metal plate MP_ 1 . The metal plates MP_ 1 may be coupled to the first and second supporting members SM 1 _ 1 and SM 2 _ 1 by inserting the coupling protrusions ASP into the coupling holes ASH of the metal plate MP_ 1 .

The bending area BDA_ 1 may not include a plurality of bending holes BDH. In an exemplary embodiment, the metal plate MP_ 1 of FIG. 47 may be thinner than the metal plate MP of FIGS. 46A and 46B , for example. By controlling the thickness of the metal plate MP_ 1 , the elastic force of the metal plate MP_ 1 may be controlled. The thicker the metal plate MP_ 1 , the stronger the elastic force of the metal plate MP_ 1 , and the thinner the metal plate MP_ 1 , the weaker the elastic force of the metal plate MP_ 1 . That is, as the thickness of the metal plate MP_ 1 increases, the folding member 200 increasingly tends to maintain its unfolded state, and as the thickness of the metal plate MP_ 1 decreases, the folding member 200 increasingly tends to maintain its folded state.

Referring to FIGS. 48 through 50 , the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 differ from the first joint units JP 1 of FIGS. 14 through 16 in that metal plate holes MH, first link parts LK 1 , and first link part grooves LH_ 1 are further provided, and that the structures of the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 and the first grooves G 1 _ 1 differ from the structures of their respective counterparts.

Specifically, the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 may include first metal plate holes MH 1 which may be penetrated by the metal plates MP. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the cross-sectional area of the first metal plate holes MH 1 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the metal plates MP. As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first metal plate holes MH 1 may be holes that penetrate the left and right sides of the respective first protrusions P 1 _ 1 .

The first link parts LK 1 may be disposed on the rear surfaces of the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 to prevent the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 and the third joint unit JP 3 _ 1 from being spaced apart from one another in the second direction DR 2 when the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 and the third joint unit JP 3 _ 1 are coupled to one another. The first link parts LK 1 may extend in the first direction DR 1 from the rear surfaces of the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 . The length by which the first link parts LK 1 extend in the first direction DR 1 may be smaller than the length by which the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 extend in the first direction DR 1 .

The first link part grooves LH 1 may be defined to correspond to the first link parts LK 1 of a corresponding adjacent first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the first link parts LK 1 and the first link part grooves LH 1 may overlap. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the cross-sectional area of the first link part grooves LH 1 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the first link parts LK 1 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first link part grooves LH 1 may not penetrate the left and right sides of the respective first protrusions P 1 _ 1 . That is, the first link part grooves LH 1 may be recesses that are defined in the left sides of the respective first protrusions P 1 _ 1 .

The first extension EX 1 _ 1 is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid having an upper side which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 , a lower side which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 and is shorter than the upper side, and two lateral sides which connect the upper and lower sides.

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 protrude beyond the upper side of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 protrude beyond the left side of the first extension EX 1 in the leftward direction.

The first extension EX 1 _ 1 includes a top surface which extends from the upper side of the inverted trapezoidal shape of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 in the second direction DR 2 , a bottom surface which extends from the lower side of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 in the second direction DR 2 , and side surfaces which extend from the two lateral sides of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 in the first direction DR 1 . The side surface on the left of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 may be defined as a left-side surface, and the side surface on the right of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 may be defined as a right-side surface.

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the first grooves G 1 _ 1 are defined in the first extension EX 1 on the right sides of the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 . The first grooves G 1 _ 1 may be defined as recesses from parts of the top surface and right-side surface of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 that are on the right sides of the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 . Parts of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 that define the first grooves G 1 _ 1 may be concavely curved.

Referring back to FIGS. 45 through 50 , as viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the cross-sectional area of the first link part grooves LH 1 may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the first metal plate holes MH 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the first metal plate holes MH 1 may be disposed closer than the first link part grooves LH 1 to the first extension EX 1 _ 1 . That is, the first metal plate holes MH 1 may be disposed between the first extension EX 1 _ 1 and the first link part grooves LH 1 .

Each of the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 further includes one or more first guide parts GD 1 which extend from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 in the third direction DR 3 . The first guide parts GD 1 guide second guide parts GD 2 (refer to FIGS. 24 to 26 ), which are included in each of third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 , to be folded along a predetermined curved trajectory.

The first guide parts GD 1 include sidewalls SW which extend from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 , at each of both ends of the first extension EX 1 , in the third direction DR 3 and hooks HK which extend from the sidewalls SW in the second direction DR 2 .

As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , outer sides of the sidewalls SW may have a predetermined slope with respect to the bottom surface of the respective first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 and may extend slantingly in the third direction DR 3 , and inner sides of the sidewalls SW may extend perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the respective first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 in the third direction DR 3 . However, the invention is not limited to this. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer sides and inner sides of the sidewalls SW may be parallel and may extend either slantingly or perpendicularly from the bottom surface of the respective first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 in the third direction DR 3 , for example.

The hooks HK may extend from the sidewalls SW in the second direction DR 2 . Upper sides of the hooks HK may be parallel to the upper side of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 . The top surfaces of the hooks HK may be in contact with the second guide parts GD 2 , which are included in each of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 , and may be flat or curved for smooth sliding of the second guide parts GD 2 .

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the hooks HK may be in the shape of a rectangle, an inverted trapezoid, a circle, or a semicircle. The flatter the top surfaces of the hooks HK are, the more firmly the hooks HK may support the second guide parts GD 2 , and the more curved the top surfaces of the hooks HK are, the more smoothly the second guide parts GD 2 may slide.

Each of the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 further includes protrusions PT (refer to FIG. 14 ) which extend from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 , at each of both ends of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 , in the third direction DR 3 . The protrusions PT may be a predetermined distance apart from the hooks HK. In this case, as viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the protrusions PT may substantially form rectangular holes. As a result, shakes in the second guide parts GD 2 during the sliding of the second guide parts GD 2 along the hooks HK may be prevented.

Each of the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 may further include a tunnel unit TU which extends from the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 , in the middle of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 , in the third direction DR 3 .

As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the tunnel unit TU may be in the shape of an inverted trapezoid, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, as viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the tunnel unit TU may be in the shape of a rectangle or an ellipse. The thickness, in the first direction DR 1 , of the tunnel unit TU may be substantially the same as the thickness, in the first direction DR 1 , of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 .

One or more penetrations PN may be defined in the tunnel unit TU. The penetrations PN are holes that penetrate both sides of the tunnel unit TU in the first direction DR 1 and are passages that guide arms GA of the second guide parts GD 2 slide along. The top surfaces and the bottom surfaces of the penetrations PN may be substantially parallel to the top surface of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 .

Two penetrations PN may be defined, one at each of two sides of the tunnel unit TU, symmetrically, but the invention is not limited thereto. The number and locations of penetrations PN may vary depending on the size of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 . The penetrations PN may be in the shape of rectangles, inverted trapezoids, or rectangles with semicircular shapes on both sides in a cross-sectional view.

A height L 1 from the top surfaces of the hooks HK to the bottom surface of the first extension EX 1 _ 1 may be the same as a height L 2 from the bottom surfaces of the penetrations PN to the top surfaces of the penetrations PN. A width W 1 , in the second direction DR 2 , of the hooks HK may be the same as a width W 2 , in the second direction DR 2 , of the penetrations PN. That is, the size of rectangular openings defined by the sidewalls SW, the hooks HK, and the protrusions PT may be the same as the size of the penetrations PN defined in the tunnel unit TU, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the size of the rectangular openings defined by the sidewalls SW, the hooks HK, and the protrusions PT may differ from the size of the penetrations PN defined in the tunnel unit TU depending on the shape of the second guide parts GD 2 .

Referring to FIGS. 45 and 51 , the second joint units JP 2 _ 1 have substantially the same structure as the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 and are disposed symmetrically with the first joint units JP 1 _ 1 . That is, when the second joint units JP 2 _ 1 are rotated 180 degrees, the structure of the second joint units JP 2 _ 1 becomes the same as the structure of the first joint units JP 1 . Each of the second joint units JP 2 _ 1 includes a second extension EX 2 _ 1 which is symmetrical with the first extension EX 1 _ 1 and second protrusions P 2 _ 1 which are symmetrical with the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 .

The second extension EX 2 _ 1 has substantially the same structure as the first extension EX 1 . In the second extension EX 2 _ 1 , second grooves G 2 _ 1 which are symmetrical with the first grooves G 1 _ 1 are defined. In the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 , second holes H 2 _ 1 which are symmetrical with first holes H 1 _ 1 are defined.

Second metal plate holes MH 2 that the metal plates MP may penetrate may be defined in the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the cross-sectional area of the second metal plate holes MH 2 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the metal plates MP. As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the second metal plate holes MH 2 may be holes that penetrate the right and left sides of the respective second protrusions P 2 _ 1 .

Second link parts LK 2 may be disposed on the rear surfaces of the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 to prevent the second joint units JP 2 _ 1 and the third joint unit JP 3 _ 1 from being spaced apart from one another in the second direction DR 2 when the second joint units JP 2 _ 1 and the third joint unit JP 3 _ 1 are coupled to one another. The second link parts LK 2 may extend in the first direction DR 1 from the rear surfaces of the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 . The length by which the second link parts LK 2 extend in the first direction DR 1 may be smaller than the length by which the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 extend in the first direction DR 1 .

In an exemplary embodiment, second link part grooves may be defined to correspond to the second link parts LK 2 of a corresponding adjacent second joint unit JP 2 _ 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the second link parts LK 2 and the second link part grooves may overlap. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the cross-sectional area of the second link part grooves may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the second link parts LK 2 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the second link part grooves may not penetrate the left and right sides of the respective second protrusions P 2 _ 1 . That is, the second link part grooves may be recesses that are defined on the left sides of the respective second protrusions P 2 _ 1 .

The second extension EX 2 _ 1 is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid having an upper side which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 , a lower side which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 and is shorter than the upper side, and two lateral sides which connect the upper and lower sides.

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 protrude beyond the upper side of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 protrude beyond the right side of the second extension EX 2 in the rightward direction.

The second extension EX 2 _ 1 includes a top surface which extends from the upper side of the inverted trapezoidal shape of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 in the second direction DR 2 , a bottom surface which extends from the lower side of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 in the second direction DR 2 , and side surfaces which extend from the two lateral sides of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 in the first direction DR 1 . The side surface on the left of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 may be defined as a left-side surface, and the side surface on the right of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 may be defined as a right-side surface.

As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the second grooves G 2 _ 1 are defined in the second extension EX 2 _ 1 on the right sides of the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 . The second grooves G 2 _ 1 may be defined as recesses from parts of the top surface and right-side surface of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 that are on the left sides of the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 . Parts of the second extension EX 2 _ 1 that define the second grooves G 2 _ 1 may be concavely curved.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view illustrating the third joint unit of FIG. 45 .

Referring to FIGS. 45 and 52 , the third joint unit JP 3 _ 1 includes a third extension EX 3 _ 1 , third protrusions P 3 _ 1 , and fourth protrusions P 4 _ 1 . As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the third extension EX 3 _ 1 is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid. The third protrusions P 3 _ 1 and the fourth protrusions P 4 _ 1 protrude in the first direction DR 1 at both ends of the third extension EX 3 _ 1 , which are defined as being opposite to each other when viewed from the second direction DR 2 .

The third protrusions P 3 _ 1 have the same structure as the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 and overlap with the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 , as viewed from the first direction DR 1 . The fourth protrusions P 4 _ 1 have the same structure as the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 and overlap with the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 , as viewed from the first direction DR 1 . The third protrusions P 3 _ 1 and the fourth protrusions P 4 _ 1 protrude in opposite directions at both ends of the third extension EX 3 _ 1 . The third protrusions P 3 _ 1 protrude in the leftward direction, and the fourth protrusions P 4 _ 1 protrude in the rightward direction.

The third protrusions P 3 _ 1 and the fourth protrusions P 4 _ 1 may include third metal plate holes MH 3 that the metal plates MP may penetrate. As viewed from the second direction DR 2 , the third metal plate holes MH 3 may be holes that penetrate the left and right sides of the respective third or fourth protrusions P 3 _ 1 or P 4 _ 1 .

Third link part grooves LH 3 may be defined in the third protrusions P 3 _ 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the third link part grooves LH 3 may overlap with the first link parts LK 1 . Fourth link part grooves LH 4 may be defined in the fourth protrusions P 4 _ 1 . As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the fourth link part grooves LH 4 may overlap with second link parts LK 2 of a second joint unit JP 2 _ 1 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 _ 1 .

FIG. 53 is a perspective view illustrating the first side of the first supporting member of FIG. 45 .

Referring to FIGS. 45 and 53 , the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 may include metal plate guide parts MG which are disposed at both ends, in the second direction DR 2 , of the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 . The metal plate guide parts MG may include metal plate holes (not shown), third link parts LK 3 , and third grooves G 3 _ 1 in areas where the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 is coupled to a first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 . As illustrated in FIG. 53 , coupling protrusions ASP which are coupled to the coupling holes ASH in each of the coupling areas ASA of each of the metal plates MP may be provided on the inside of each of the metal plate guide parts MG.

In the areas where the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 is coupled to the first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 , the third grooves G 3 _ 1 , which have the same shape as first grooves G 1 _ 1 of the first joint unit JP 1 _ 1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM 1 _ 1 , are defined. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the third grooves G 3 _ 1 overlap with the first protrusions P 1 _ 1 .

FIG. 54 is a perspective view illustrating the first side of the second supporting member of FIG. 45 .

Referring to FIGS. 45 and 54 , the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 may include metal plate guide parts MG which are disposed at both ends, in the second direction DR 2 , of the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 . The metal plate guide parts MG may include fourth metal plate holes MH 4 , fourth link parts LK 4 , and fourth grooves G 4 _ 1 in areas where the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 is coupled to a second joint unit JP 2 _ 1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 . As illustrated in FIG. 54 , coupling protrusions ASP which are coupled to the coupling holes ASH in each of the coupling areas ASA of each of the metal plates MP may be provided on the inside of each of the metal plate guide parts MG.

In the areas where the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 is coupled to the second joint unit JP 2 _ 1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 , the fourth grooves G 4 _ 1 , which have the same shape as second grooves G 2 _ 1 of the second joint unit JP 2 _ 1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM 2 _ 1 , are defined. As viewed from the first direction DR 1 , the fourth grooves G 4 _ 1 overlap with the second protrusions P 2 _ 1 .

FIG. 55 is a plan view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of third and fourth supporting members according to the invention. FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 55 , of the third supporting member of FIG. 55 . FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line C-C′ of FIG. 55 , of the third supporting member of FIG. 55 . FIGS. 58 and 59 illustrate a display device according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 55 in its folded state.

The exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 55 through 59 differs from the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 26 through 29 in that a second area A 2 _ 1 of a rail unit RU_ 1 is bent at the end thereof to be placed in contact with first and second rear covers BSC 1 _ 1 and BSC 2 _ 1 and thus to form a closed curve, and that a fourth area A 4 _ 1 of a guide arm GA_ 1 , which extends from a third area A 3 _ 1 of the guide arm GA_ 1 , is bent at the end thereof to be placed in contact with the first and second rear covers BSC 1 _ 1 and BSC 2 _ 1 and thus to form a closed curve. Also, the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 55 through 59 differs from the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 33 through 35 in that the bottom surface of a third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 has a rib structure, and that first and second joint units JP 1 _ 2 and JP 2 _ 2 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 do not include first guide parts GD 1 .

Specifically, the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 may be opposite to each other, and one or more second guide parts GD 2 _ 1 may be provided on the first sides of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 that are opposite to each other.

The second guide parts GD 2 _ 1 include rail units RU_ 1 which overlap with hooks HK of the first guide parts GD 1 and along which the hooks HK may slide. The rail units RU_ 1 may be disposed symmetrically on both sides of the array of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 .

Each of the rail units RU_ 1 may be divided into a first area A 1 _ 1 including a sidewall SW 1 and a second area A 2 _ 1 not including the sidewall SW 1 . The second area A 2 _ 1 may extend from the first area A 1 _ 1 and may be bent along a predetermined curved trajectory. The end of the second area A 2 _ 1 may be in contact with the first and second rear covers BSC 1 _ 1 and BSC 2 _ 1 to form a closed curve.

A blocking wall EW may be disposed at one end of the first area A 1 _ 1 . The blocking wall EW may extend perpendicularly from the sidewall SW 1 of the first area A 1 _ 1 in the second direction DR 2 . Due to the presence of the sidewall SW 1 and the blocking wall EW, a height difference may be generated between the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 (refer to FIG. 55 ).

The second guide parts GD 2 _ 1 may further include one or more guide arms GA_ 1 which overlap with tunnel units TU of first joint units JP 1 _ 2 and slide along the penetrations PN of each of the tunnel units TU. The guide arms GA_ 1 may be disposed in the middle of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 . In an exemplary embodiment, two guide arms GA_ 1 may be disposed symmetrically in the middle of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 , for example.

Each of the guide arms GA_ 1 includes a third area A 3 _ 1 which extends in parallel to the first direction Dr 1 and a fourth area A 4 _ 1 which extends from the third area A 3 _ 1 . The fourth area A 4 _ 1 may extend from the third area A 3 _ 1 and may be bent along the predetermined curved trajectory. The end of the fourth area A 4 _ 1 may be in contact with the first and second rear covers BSC 1 _ 1 and BSC 2 _ 1 to form a closed curve.

The length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the third area A 3 _ 1 of each of the guide arms GA_ 1 and the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the first area A 1 _ 1 of each of the rail units RU_ 1 may be the same, and the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the fourth area A 4 _ 1 of each of the guide arms GA_ 1 and the length, in the first direction DR 1 , of the second area A 2 _ 1 of each of the rail units RU_ 1 may be the same.

The thickness, in the third direction DR 3 , of the guide arms GA_ 1 may be smaller than the thickness, in the third direction DR 3 , of the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 . Due to the thickness difference between the guide arms GA_ 1 and the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 , a height difference may be generated between the guide arms GA_ 1 and the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 , and as a result, the third and fourth supporting members SM 3 _ 1 and SM 4 _ 1 may be prevented from advancing further when a folding member 200 is unfolded.

Since the second area A 2 _ 1 of each of the rail units RU_ 1 and the fourth area A 4 _ 1 of each of the guide arms GA_ 1 are placed in contact with the first and second rear covers BSC 1 _ 1 and BSC 2 _ 1 to form closed curves, the hooks HK of the first guide parts GD 1 may be prevented from escaping the rail units RU_ 1 of the third supporting members SM 3 _ 1 , and the penetrations PN of each of the first joint units JP 1 _ 2 may be prevented from escaping the guide arms GA_ 1 of the third supporting member SM 3 _ 1 . As a result, the folding member 200 may be prevented from being damaged and may be properly folded or unfolded.

Referring to FIGS. 58 and 59 , the bottom surface of the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 has a rib structure. Here, the rib structure is disposed at the bottom of the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 and is defined as a groove extending in parallel to the second direction DR 2 to be inclined with respect to the third direction DR 3 .

The first joint unit JP 1 _ 2 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 may have a protruding structure that extends in the first direction DR 1 to complementarily engage with the rib structure of the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 when the folding member 200 is folded. The second joint unit JP 2 _ 2 adjacent to the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 may have a protruding structure that extends in the first direction DR 1 to complementarily engage with the rib structure of the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 when the folding member 200 is folded. Accordingly, when the folding member 200 is unfolded, a flat surface may be maintained. The fourth joint unit JP 4 _ 2 may be disposed between the first joint unit JP 1 _ 2 and the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 , and the fifth joint unit JP 5 _ 2 may be disposed between the second joint unit JP 2 _ 2 and the third joint unit JP 3 _ 2 .

FIG. 60 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state. FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 60 in its folded state.

Referring to FIGS. 60 and 61 , a display device 2000 differs from the display device 1000 of FIGS. 4 and 5 in that it further includes a protective member 300 disposed between a display module 100 and a folding member 200 . The display device 2000 may provide almost the same benefits as the display device 1000 of FIGS. 4 and 5 .

Specifically, the protective member 300 are disposed on the top surfaces of a first supporting member SM 1 , a second supporting member SM 2 , and a plurality of joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) to overlap the first supporting member SM 1 , the second supporting member SM 2 , and the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ). Since the protective member 300 is disposed on the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ), the risk of the display panel 100 being pressed by the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) in a folding area FA may be further reduced.

The protective member 300 may be provided as a metal sheet having sufficient rigidity to withstand the folding and unfolding of the display module 100 . In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the metal sheet is preferably 0.1 millimeter (mm) or less, for example. The metal sheet may include an invar alloy, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the metal sheet may include steel use stainless (“SUS”), for example.

Specifically, the protective member 300 may support the bottom surface of the display module 100 and may cover the first supporting member SM 1 , the second supporting member SM 2 , and the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ). That is, the protective member 300 may correspond to the size of the display module 100 and may be provided to have a size corresponding to the area occupied by the display module 100 over the first supporting member SM 1 , the second supporting member SM 2 , and the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ).

The folding member 200 faces the bottom surface of the protective member 300 and is coupled to the protective member 300 . The folding member 200 may include two supporting members, i.e., the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 , and the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ), which correspond to the folding area FA.

The joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) may be arranged side by side in the first direction DR 1 and may be in the shape of rods extending in the second direction DR 2 , which intersects the first direction DR 1 . The height of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) may be smaller than the height of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 .

Each of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) has a first supporting surface SS 1 that faces the display module 100 , and each of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 has a second supporting surface SS 2 that faces the display module 100 . The folding area FA of the display module 100 is disposed on the first supporting surfaces SS 1 of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ), and non-folding areas NFA of the display module 100 are disposed on the second supporting surfaces SS 2 of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 . When the display device 2000 is unfolded, the first supporting surfaces SS 1 of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ) and the second supporting surfaces SS 2 of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 are arranged side by side in the first direction DR 1 and are placed at the same height.

Flat areas NFA of the protective member 300 may be attached to the second supporting surfaces SS 2 of the first and second supporting members SM 1 and SM 2 by adhesive layers (not illustrated), but a folding area FA of the protective member 300 is not attached to the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ). That is, the flat areas NFA may be fixed to the second supporting surfaces SS 2 , but the folding area FA may remain either in contact with, or slightly apart from, the first supporting surfaces SS 1 of the joint units (JP 1 , JP 2 , and JP 3 ).

The folding member 200 and the protective member 300 may be coupled to each other by an organic/inorganic material-based adhesive layer, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the folding member 200 and the protective member 300 may be coupled by a thermal bonding film (“TBF”).

FIG. 62A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state. FIG. 62B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 62A in its folded state.

Referring to FIGS. 62A and 62B , a display device 3000 differs from the display device 2000 of FIGS. 60 and 61 in that a plurality of fourth joint units JP 4 thereof do not include protrusions (P 1 and P 2 ). The display device 3000 may provide almost the same benefits as the display device 2000 of FIGS. 60 and 61 .

Specifically, a protective member 300 overlaps with a first supporting member SM 1 , a second supporting member SM 2 , and the fourth joint units JP 4 of a folding member 200 . The fourth joint units JP 4 are directly coupled to the protective member 300 by adhesive layers.

The fourth joint units JP 4 are coupled to the protective member 300 by the adhesive layers to be able to rotate along two rotational axes RX 3 . When the display device 3000 is unfolded, the rotational axes RX 3 may be placed at the same height as first supporting surfaces SS 1 and second supporting surfaces SS 2 that face a display module 100 .

When the display device 3000 is folded, a folding area FA of the display module 100 is deformed by being bent by 180 degrees, and a relatively large amount of stress is generated at each of multiple points PO 1 and PO 2 where each pair of adjacent first supporting surfaces SS 1 adjoin each other. As a result, some of multiple layers that form the display module 100 may be damaged.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display module 100 may include multiple layers such as a flexible substrate, a display unit, a sealing layer, a touch sensor unit, a polarizing film, a cover window, and the like, for example. A hard coating layer of the cover window or an inorganic insulating layer of the display unit is brittle and is thus highly likely to be damaged by tensile deformation. Accordingly, some layers of the display module 100 are highly likely to be damaged due to an increase in stress when the display device 3000 is folded.

Both ends of each of the first supporting surfaces SS 1 of the fourth joint units JP 4 may be rounded to have a predetermined curvature. When the display device 3000 is folded, the multiple points PO 1 and PO 2 may be disposed inside an imaginary arc ISC connecting the second supporting surfaces SS 2 . Thus, the fourth joint units JP 4 may be prevented from deforming the display module 100 by pushing the display module 100 away from a curvature center C of the imaginary arc ISC at the multiple points PO 1 and PO 2 .

FIG. 63A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state. FIG. 63B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 63A in its folded state.

Referring to FIGS. 63A and 63B , a display device 4000 differs from the display device 3000 of FIGS. 62A and 62B in that each of a plurality of first supporting surfaces SS 1 includes two chamfered surfaces CS on both sides thereof. The display device 4000 may provide almost the same benefits as the display device 3000 of FIGS. 62A and 62B .

Specifically, each of the first supporting surfaces SS 1 may include a middle surface MS which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 when the display device 4000 is unfolded, and two chamfered surfaces CS which are disposed on both sides of the middle surface MS. The two chamfered surfaces CS may have the same width and may have the same chamfer angle. In this case, each of the first supporting surfaces SS 1 may be bilaterally symmetrical.

Since each of the first supporting surfaces SS 1 includes two chamfered surfaces CS, multiple points where each pair of first supporting surfaces SS 1 adjoin each other in a folded state may be closer than the multiple points PO 1 and PO 2 of FIGS. 62A and 62B to a curvature center C of a folding area FA.

That is, in the display device 3000 of FIGS. 62A and 62B in its folded state, a pair of adjacent first supporting surfaces SS 1 may adjoin each other at a point PO 3 . On the contrary, in the display device 4000 in its folded state, a pair of adjacent first supporting surfaces SS 1 may adjoin each other at a point PO 4 , which is closer than the point PO 3 to the curvature center C.

The display device 4000 may separate the first supporting surfaces SS 1 of fifth joint units JP 5 from the display module 100 by a distance “gap 1 ” between the points PO 3 and PO 4 . Accordingly, when the display device 4000 is folded, the fifth joint units JP 5 may minimize the generation of stress in the display module 100 substantially without causing the deformation of the display module 100 .

FIG. 64A is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the invention in its unfolded state. FIG. 64B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device of FIG. 64A in its folded state.

Referring to FIGS. 64A and 64B , a display device 5000 differs from the display device 4000 of FIGS. 63A and 63B in that each of a plurality of first supporting surfaces SS 1 includes two vertical surfaces VS on both sides thereof. The display device 5000 may provide almost the same benefits as the display device 4000 of FIGS. 63A and 63B .

Specifically, each of the first supporting surfaces SS 1 includes a middle surface MS_ 1 which is parallel to the first direction DR 1 when the display device 5000 is unfolded, and two vertical surfaces VS which are disposed on both sides of the middle surface MS_ 1 . The two vertical surfaces VS may have the same width. In this case, each of the first supporting surfaces SS 1 may be bilaterally symmetrical.

Since each of the first supporting surfaces SS 1 includes two vertical surfaces VS, multiple points where each pair of adjacent first supporting surfaces SS 1 adjoin each other may be closer than their counterparts of FIGS. 63A and 63B to a curvature center C of a folding area FA.

That is, in the display device 4000 of FIGS. 63A and 63B in its folded state, a pair of adjacent first supporting surfaces SS 1 may adjoin each other at a point PO 4 . On the contrary, in the display device 4000 in its folded state, a pair of adjacent first supporting surfaces SS 1 may adjoin each other at a point PO 5 , which is closer than the point PO 4 to the curvature center C.

The display device 5000 may separate the first supporting surfaces SS 1 of sixth joint units JP 6 from a display module 100 by a distance “gap 2 ” between the points PO 4 and PO 5 . Accordingly, when the display device 5000 is folded, the sixth joint units JP 6 may minimize the generation of stress in the display module 100 substantially without causing the deformation of the display module 100 .