Display device

Abstract

Disclosed is a display device including: a display panel including a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in order in a first direction; a support plate disposed below the display panel and including an opening overlapping the folding area in a plan view; and an impact resistance enhancement layer disposed under the display panel. The support plate has a groove overlapping the folding region in a plan view. The impact resistance enhancing layer is disposed in the groove of the support plate and has a modulus in a range of about 3 GPa to about 6 GPa.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0108971 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on August 21, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure described herein relate to a display device, and, by way of example, to a display device including a support plate having a groove defined thereon and an impact-resistant reinforcing layer disposed in the groove. Background Art

[0004] Electronic devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, notebook computers, car navigation units, smart TVs, etc. that provide images to users include display devices for displaying images. The display devices generate images and provide the images to users through a display screen.

[0005] As display device technology develops, various forms of display devices are being developed. For example, various display devices that can be bent, folded, or rolled are being developed.

[0006] The flexible display device may include a flexible display panel and a support plate disposed below the flexible display panel. A plurality of holes for facilitating folding may be defined in the support plate.

[0007] It is to be understood that this background technology section is intended to provide, in part, a useful background for understanding the technology. However, this background technology section may also include ideas, concepts or understandings of parts that were not known or understood by a person skilled in the relevant art before the corresponding effective filing date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the invention

[0008] Embodiments provide a display device including a folding area having excellent impact resistance and folding reliability while reducing the thickness of the display device and lowering the unit cost.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a display device may include: a display panel including a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in sequence in a first direction; a support plate arranged below the display panel and including a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area in a plan view; and an impact-resistant reinforcing layer arranged below the display panel. The support plate has a groove overlapping the folding area in a plan view. The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is arranged in the groove of the support plate and has a modulus in a range of about 3 GPa to about 6 GPa.

[0010] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer may have a thickness in the range of about 30 μm to about 50 μm.

[0011] The support plate may include an upper surface adjacent to the display panel, and the groove may be defined on the upper surface of the support plate.

[0012] The display device may further include: a first adhesive layer disposed directly on the support plate; and a panel protection layer disposed directly on the first adhesive layer.

[0013] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer may be connected to the panel protective layer via a first adhesive layer.

[0014] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer may not be connected to the supporting plate.

[0015] The display device may further include: a second adhesive layer disposed directly below the anti-impact reinforcement layer and connecting the anti-impact reinforcement layer and the support plate.

[0016] The display device may also include: an adhesive layer 1-1, which is directly arranged on the support plate and overlaps with the first non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; an adhesive layer 1-2, which is directly arranged on the support plate and overlaps with the second non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; and a panel protective layer, which is directly arranged on the adhesive layer 1-1 and the adhesive layer 1-2.

[0017] The display device may further include: a second adhesive layer disposed under the anti-impact reinforcement layer and connecting the anti-impact reinforcement layer and the support plate.

[0018] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer may not be connected to the panel protective layer.

[0019] According to an embodiment, a display device may include: a display panel including a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in sequence in a first direction; a support plate arranged below the display panel and including a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area in a plan view; and an impact-resistant reinforcing layer arranged below the display panel. The support plate has a groove overlapping the folding area in a plan view, and the impact-resistant reinforcing layer is arranged in the groove of the support plate and has a thickness in a range of about 30 μm to about 50 μm.

[0020] The impact-reinforcing layer may have a modulus in a range of about 3 GPa to about 6 GPa.

[0021] The support plate may include an upper surface adjacent to the display panel, and the groove may be defined on the upper surface of the support plate.

[0022] The display device may further include: a first adhesive layer directly disposed on the support plate; and a panel protection layer directly disposed on the first adhesive layer, and the anti-impact reinforcement layer may be connected to the panel protection layer through the first adhesive layer.

[0023] The display device may also include: an adhesive layer 1-1, which is directly arranged on the support plate and overlaps with the first non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; an adhesive layer 1-2, which is directly arranged on the support plate and overlaps with the second non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; a panel protective layer, which is directly arranged on the adhesive layer 1-1 and the adhesive layer 1-2; and a second adhesive layer, which is arranged below the impact-resistant reinforcement layer and connects the impact-resistant reinforcement layer and the support plate.

[0024] The display device may also include: a first adhesive layer, which is directly arranged on the support plate; a panel protection layer, which is directly arranged on the first adhesive layer; and a second adhesive layer, which is directly arranged under the impact-resistant reinforcement layer and connects the impact-resistant reinforcement layer and the support plate.

[0025] According to an embodiment, a display device may include: a display panel including a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in sequence in a first direction; a support plate arranged below the display panel and including a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area in a plan view; and an impact-resistant reinforcing layer arranged below the display panel. The support plate may include an upper surface adjacent to the display panel. The support plate has a groove on the upper surface, the groove overlapping the folding area in a plan view. The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is arranged in the groove of the support plate.

[0026] The impact-reinforcing layer may have a modulus in a range of about 3 GPa to about 6 GPa.

[0027] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer may have a thickness in the range of about 30 μm to about 50 μm.

[0028] The display device may further include: a first adhesive layer disposed directly on the support plate; and a panel protection layer disposed directly on the first adhesive layer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The above and other objects and features of the present disclosure will become apparent by describing in detail embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the attached drawings.

[0030] Figure 1Ais a schematic perspective view illustrating a deployed state of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 1B is a schematic perspective view illustrating an inward folding process of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 1C is a schematic perspective view illustrating an outward folding process of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 2A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a deployed state of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2B is a schematic perspective view illustrating an inward folding process of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 4 is a block diagram of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of a display module according to an embodiment.

[0039] Fig. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0040] Figure 7B is a schematic perspective view of a support plate according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 7C is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a support plate according to an embodiment.

[0042] Fig. 8A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 8B and Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display device according to a comparative example.

[0044] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0045] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Various changes can be made to the present disclosure, and various embodiments can be implemented. Therefore, the embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described as examples in this article. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not interpreted as being limited to this, and covers all modifications, equivalents and substitutes that fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0047] In this specification, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0048] In this specification, the terms “comprises,” “comprsing,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “have,” “having” and variations thereof specify the presence of stated features, numbers, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, parts and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, parts and / or groups thereof.

[0049] In this specification, when a component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is referred to as being "on", "connected to" or "coupled to" another component, this means that the one component can be directly on, connected to or coupled to the other component, or a third component may be present therebetween.

[0050] In this specification, terms such as "below", "under", "above", and "over" are used to describe the relationship of components illustrated in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions illustrated in the drawings.

[0051] The term "overlap" or "overlapped" means that a first object can be above or below or to one side of a second object, and vice versa. Additionally, the term "overlap" may include stacking, stacking, facing or facing, extending over, covering or partially covering, or any other suitable term as will be recognized and understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0052] The terms "facing" and "facing" mean that a first element can be directly or indirectly opposite to a second element. In the case where a third element is between the first and second elements, the first and second elements can be understood to be indirectly opposite to each other, although still facing each other.

[0053] When an element is described as "not overlapping" or "non-overlapping" another element, this may include the elements being spaced apart, offset, or disposed beside each other, or any other suitable terminology as one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize and appreciate.

[0054] In the present specification, the expression “disposed on” may mean that it is disposed not only on an upper portion of any one member but also on a lower portion of any one member.

[0055] In this specification, the expression "directly arranged" may mean that there is no additional layer, film, region or plate between one part (such as a layer, film, region or plate) and another part. For example, the expression "directly arranged" may mean arranging two layers or two members without an additional member such as a bonding member therebetween.

[0056] In this specification and claims, for the purpose of its meaning and interpretation, the term "and / or" is intended to include any combination of the terms "and" and "or". For example, "A and / or B" may be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B". The terms "and" and "or" may be used in the sense of conjunctions or disjunctions, and may be understood to be equivalent to "and / or".

[0057] In the specification and claims, for the purpose of its meaning and interpretation, the phrase "at least one of" is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from the group of". For example, "at least one of A and B" can be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B".

[0058] In this specification, terms such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, a first component can be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component can also be referred to as a first component.

[0059] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the errors associated with the measurements and with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the stated value.

[0060] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical terms and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. Such terms (such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries) are interpreted as having the same meaning as the contextual meaning in the relevant technical field, and are not interpreted as having an idealized or overly formal meaning, unless explicitly defined in this application as having such a meaning.

[0061] The embodiments may be described and illustrated in the figures in terms of functional blocks, units and / or modules.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will recognize that these blocks, units and / or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuits (such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hard-wired circuits, memory elements, wiring connections, etc., which can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing technologies or other manufacturing technologies).

[0063] Where blocks, units and / or modules are implemented by a microprocessor or other similar hardware, the blocks, units and / or modules may be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and the blocks, units and / or modules may optionally be driven by firmware and / or software.

[0064] It is also contemplated that each block, unit and / or module may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or as a combination of dedicated hardware to perform certain functions and a processor (eg, one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuits) to perform other functions.

[0065] Each block, unit and / or module of the embodiments may be physically divided into two or more interacting and discrete blocks, units and / or modules without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0066] Furthermore, the blocks, units and / or modules of the embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] The same reference numerals refer to the same components. In the drawings, the thickness, proportion and size of components are exaggerated for efficient description.

[0068] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0069] Figure 1A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a deployed state of the display device ED according to the embodiment. Figure 1B is a schematic perspective view illustrating an inward folding process of the display device ED according to the embodiment. Figure 1C is a schematic perspective view illustrating an outward folding process of the display device ED according to the embodiment.

[0070] The display device ED may be a device activated according to an electrical signal. For example, the display device ED may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a car navigation unit, a game console, or a wearable device. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Figures 1A to 1C An example in which the display device ED is a mobile phone is illustrated.

[0071] Despite Figure 1A The first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are illustrated in the following drawings, but directions indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 described in the present specification may be relative concepts and may be changed to other directions.

[0072] refer to Figures 1A to 1C , the display device ED according to the embodiment may include a display surface FS defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. The display device ED may provide an image IM to a user through the display surface FS. The display device ED may display the image IM on the display surface FS in a third direction DR3 parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In this specification, the front surface (or upper surface) and the rear surface (or lower surface) of the component are defined based on the direction on which the image IM is displayed.

[0073] The display device ED may sense an external input applied from the outside. The external input may include various forms of input provided from outside the display device ED. For example, the external input may include not only contact through a part of the user's body (such as the user's hand), but also an external input applied close to the display device ED or applied adjacent to the display device ED at a given distance (e.g., hovering). Within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the external input may have various forms such as force, pressure, temperature, light, etc.

[0074] The display surface FS of the display device ED may include an active area F-AA and a peripheral area F-NAA. The active area F-AA may be an area activated according to an electrical signal. The display device ED may display an image IM through the active area F-AA. The active area F-AA may sense various forms of external inputs. The peripheral area F-NAA is adjacent to the active area F-AA. The peripheral area F-NAA may have a given color. The peripheral area F-NAA may surround the active area F-AA. Therefore, the shape of the active area F-AA may be substantially defined by the peripheral area F-NAA. However, this is illustrative, and the peripheral area F-NAA may be arranged to be adjacent to only one side or side of the active area F-AA, or may be omitted. The display device ED may include active areas having various shapes, and is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0075] The sensing area SA may be included in the active area F-AA. Various electronic modules may be arranged in the sensing area SA. For example, the electronic module may include at least one of a camera module, a speaker, a light detection sensor, and a heat detection sensor. The sensing area SA may sense an external object received through the display surface FS, or may provide a sound signal such as voice to the outside through the display surface FS. The electronic module may include a plurality of components and is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0076] The sensing area SA may be surrounded by the active area F-AA and the peripheral area F-NAA. However, not limited thereto, the sensing area SA may be arranged in the active area F-AA and is not limited to any one embodiment. Figure 1A One sensing area SA is shown in FIG. 8 , but the number of sensing areas SA is not limited thereto.

[0077] The sensing area SA may be part of the active area F-AA. Therefore, the display device ED may display an image through the sensing area SA. When the electronic module arranged in the sensing area SA is disabled, the sensing area SA may be used as a display surface FS and may display a video or an image.

[0078] The rear surface RS of the display device ED may be a surface facing away from the display surface FS. In an embodiment, the rear surface RS may be an outer surface of the display device ED, and the video or image may not be displayed on the rear surface RS. However, not limited to this, the rear surface RS may be used as a second display surface on which the video or image is displayed. The display device ED may further include a sensing area SA arranged on the rear surface RS. A camera, a speaker, a light detection sensor, etc. may be arranged in the sensing area SA arranged on the rear surface RS.

[0079] The display device ED may include a folding area FA1 and first and second non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2. The display device ED may include a plurality of first and second non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2. The display device ED may include first and second non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 with the folding area FA1 arranged therebetween. Figures 1A to 1C An example is illustrated in which the display device ED may include one folding area FA1, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and a plurality of folding areas FA1 may be defined in the display device ED. The display device ED may be folded around a plurality of folding axes so that portions of the display surface FS face each other, and the number of folding axes and the number of non-folding areas are not particularly limited.

[0080] refer to Figure 1B and Figure 1C , the display device ED can be folded around the first folding axis FX1. Figure 1B and Figure 1CThe first folding axis FX1 illustrated in FIG. 1 may be a virtual axis extending in the first direction DR1. The first folding axis FX1 may be parallel to the direction of the long side of the display device ED. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the extending direction of the first folding axis FX1 is not limited to the first direction DR1.

[0081] The first folding axis FX1 may extend in the first direction DR1 above the display surface FS, or may extend in the first direction DR1 below the rear surface RS. Figure 1B In an embodiment, the display device ED may be folded in an inner folding manner so that the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other and the display surface FS is not exposed to the outside. Figure 1C In an embodiment, the display device ED can be folded about the first folding axis FX1 and can be changed to an external folding state, in which an area of ​​the rear surface RS or an overlapping area of ​​the rear surface RS with the first non-folding area NFAl and an opposite area of ​​the rear surface RS overlapping with the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other.

[0082] Figure 2A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a deployed state of the display device ED-a according to the embodiment. Figure 2B is a schematic perspective view illustrating an inward folding process of the display device ED-a according to the embodiment.

[0083] The display device ED-a may be folded about a second folding axis FX2 extending in one direction or in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. Figure 2B An example in which the extending direction of the second folding axis FX2 is parallel to the extending direction of the short side of the display device ED-a is illustrated. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0084] The display device ED-a may include at least one folding area FA2 and first and second non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 adjacent to the folding area FA2. The first and second non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 may be spaced apart from each other with the folding area FA2 therebetween.

[0085] The folding area FA2 has a given curvature and a given radius of curvature. In an embodiment, the display device ED-a may be folded in an inward-folding manner such that the first non-folding area NFA3 and the second non-folding area NFA4 face each other and the display surface FS is not exposed to the outside.

[0086] In an embodiment, in the unfolded state of the display device ED-a, the display surface FS may be visible to the user, and in the inwardly folded state of the display device ED-a, the rear surface RS may be visible to the user. Figure 2BDifferent from the figure shown in FIG, in the embodiment, the display device ED-a can be folded in an outward folding manner so that the display surface FS is exposed to the outside.

[0087] The display device ED-a may include a second display surface (which may be a rear surface RS), and the second display surface may be defined as a surface opposite to at least a portion of the first display surface FS (i.e., display surface FS). In the inner folded state, the second display surface may be visible to the user. The second display surface may include an electronic module area EMA in which electronic modules including various components are arranged. In an embodiment, an image may be provided by the second display surface.

[0088] In an embodiment, the display device ED and the display device ED-a may be configured so that the inner folding operation and the outer folding operation are repeatedly performed in the unfolded state. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, the display device ED and the display device ED-a may be configured to select one of the unfolding operation, the inner folding operation, and the outer folding operation.

[0089] exist Figures 1A to 2B In the embodiment, the display device ED and the display device ED-a are illustrated as foldable display devices that can be folded. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the display device ED and the display device ED-a may be flexible display devices that can be bent or rolled.

[0090] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device ED according to an embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram of a display device ED according to an embodiment.

[0091] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The display device ED may include a window module WM, a display module DM, a first electronic module EM1, a second electronic module EM2, a power module PM and a housing HAU. The display device ED may also include a mechanical structure for controlling a folding operation.

[0092] The window module WM may provide a front surface of the display device ED. The display module DM may include at least a display panel DP. The display module DM may generate an image and may sense an external input.

[0093] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment, the display module DM is illustrated as being the same as the display panel DP. However, the display module DM may be substantially a stacked structure in which a plurality of components including the display panel DP are stacked on each other. The stacked structure of the display module DM will be described in detail below.

[0094] The display panel DP may include active areas F-AA (refer to Figure 1A) and peripheral region F-NAA (ref. Figure 1A ) corresponds to a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA. The expression “one area / portion corresponds to another area / portion” used herein means that a plurality of areas / portions overlap each other and are not limited to having the same area.

[0095] The display area DP-DA may include a first area A1 and a second area A2. The first area A1 may be aligned with the sensing area SA (refer to FIG. Figure 1A ) overlap or correspond. Although the first area A1 is illustrated as a circular shape in this embodiment, the first area A1 may have various shapes (such as a polygonal shape, an elliptical shape, a shape having at least one curved edge, or an irregular shape) and is not limited to any one embodiment. The first area A1 may be referred to as a component area, and the second area A2 may be referred to as a main display area or a normal display area.

[0096] The first area A1 may have a higher transmittance than the second area A2. By way of example, the first area A1 may have a lower resolution than the second area A2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first area A1 may have a higher transmittance than the second area A2, but may have substantially the same resolution as the second area A2. The first area A1 may overlap with the camera module CMM to be described below. In an embodiment, a portion of the display panel DP corresponding to the first area A1 may be removed. Therefore, the image may not be displayed on the first area A1.

[0097] The display panel DP may include a display layer 100 and a sensor layer 200 .

[0098] The display layer 100 may be a component that substantially generates an image. The display layer 100 may be an emissive display layer. For example, the display layer 100 may be an organic light-emitting display layer, an inorganic light-emitting display layer, an organic-inorganic light-emitting display layer, a quantum dot display layer, a micro-LED display layer, or a nano-LED display layer.

[0099] The sensor layer 200 may be disposed on the display layer 100. The sensor layer 200 may sense an external input applied from the outside. The external input may be a user input. The user input may include various forms of external input, such as a part of the user's body, light, heat, a pen, or pressure.

[0100] The display module DM may further include an anti-reflection layer (not shown) arranged on the sensor layer 200. In the case of manufacturing the display module DM, the anti-reflection layer may be formed directly on the sensor layer 200. The anti-reflection layer may be defined as a film for preventing reflection of external light. The anti-reflection layer may reduce the reflectivity of external light incident from above the display device ED toward the display panel DP. For example, the sensor layer 200 may be formed directly on the display layer 100, and the anti-reflection layer may be formed directly on the sensor layer 200. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the sensor layer 200 may be manufactured separately and attached to the display layer 100 by an adhesive layer, and the anti-reflection layer may be manufactured separately and attached to the sensor layer 200 by an adhesive layer.

[0101] The display module DM may include a data driver DDV disposed on the non-display area DP-NDA. The display module DM may further include a flexible circuit film FCB coupled (or connected) to the non-display area DP-NDA.

[0102] The data driver DDV may include a driving element (eg, a data driving circuit) for driving the pixels of the display panel DP. Figure 3 A structure in which the data driver DDV is mounted on the display panel DP is illustrated, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the data driver DDV may be mounted on a flexible circuit film FCB.

[0103] The power module PM may supply power required for overall operation of the display device ED. The power module PM may include a battery module.

[0104] The first electronic module EM1 and the second electronic module EM2 may include various functional modules for operating the display device ED. Each of the first electronic module EM1 and the second electronic module EM2 may be directly mounted on a main board electrically connected to the display panel DP, or may be mounted on a separate substrate and electrically connected to the main board through a connector (not shown).

[0105] The first electronic module EM1 may include a control module CM, a wireless communication module TM, an image input module IIM, a sound input module AIM, a memory MM, and an external interface IF.

[0106] The control module CM may control the overall operation of the display device ED. The control module CM may be a microprocessor. For example, the control module CM activates or deactivates the display panel DP. The control module CM may control other modules such as the image input module IIM or the sound input module AIM based on a touch signal received from the display panel DP.

[0107] The wireless communication module TM can communicate with an external electronic device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a cellular network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN)). The communication module included in the wireless communication module TM can be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip), or can be implemented using multiple components (e.g., multiple chips) separated from each other. The wireless communication module TM can send / receive sound signals using a universal communication line. The wireless communication module TM may include a transmitter TM1 that modulates a signal to be sent and sends the modulated signal, and a receiver TM2 that demodulates a received signal.

[0108] The image input module IIM may process the image signal to convert the image signal into image data that can be displayed on the display panel DP. The sound input module AIM may receive an external sound signal through a microphone in a voice recording mode or a voice recognition mode and may convert the external sound signal into electronic voice data.

[0109] The external interface IF may include a connector capable of physically connecting the display device ED and an external electronic device. For example, the external interface IF may be used as an interface connected to an external charger, a wired / wireless data port, or a card (e.g., a memory card or a SIM / UIM card) socket.

[0110] The second electronic module EM2 may include an audio output module AOM, a light emitting module LTM, a light receiving module LRM and a camera module CMM. The audio output module AOM may convert audio data received from the wireless communication module TM or audio data stored in the memory MM and may output the converted data to the outside.

[0111] The light emitting module LTM may generate and output light. The light emitting module LTM may output infrared light. The light emitting module LTM may include an LED element. The light receiving module LRM may sense infrared light. When infrared light above a given level is sensed, the light receiving module LRM may be activated. The light receiving module LRM may include a CMOS sensor. After the infrared light generated by the light emitting module LTM is output, the infrared light may be reflected by an external object (e.g., a finger or face of a user), and the reflected infrared light may be incident on the light receiving module LRM.

[0112] The camera module CMM can take still images and videos. The camera module CMM may include a plurality of camera modules. A portion of the camera module CMM may overlap with the first area A1. External input (e.g., light) may be provided to the camera module CMM through the first area A1. For example, the camera module CMM may take external images by receiving natural light through the first area A1.

[0113] The housing HAU may accommodate the display module DM, the first and second electronic modules EM1 and EM2, and the power module PM. The housing HAU may protect the components accommodated in the housing HAU, such as the display module DM, the first and second electronic modules EM1 and EM2, and the power module PM. The housing HAU may be coupled (or connected) to the window module WM.

[0114] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel DP according to an embodiment.

[0115] Figure 5 Pictured Figure 3 and Figure 4 Display panel DP. Figure 5 In the example, the sensor layer 200 is omitted (refer to Figure 4 ), and illustrates a display layer 100.

[0116] refer to Figure 5 The display panel DP may include a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA around the display area DP-DA. The display panel DP may include a base layer BS, a circuit layer CL, a light emitting element layer OLED, and an encapsulation layer TFE.

[0117] The base layer BS may provide a base surface on which the circuit layer CL is arranged. The base layer BS may be a flexible substrate that can be bent, folded or curled. The base layer BS may include a plastic substrate, a glass substrate, a metal substrate or an organic / inorganic composite substrate. The base layer BS may have a multilayer structure. For example, the base layer BS may include an inorganic layer, a synthetic resin layer or a composite layer.

[0118] The circuit layer CL may be arranged on the base layer BS. The circuit layer CL may include at least one insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, and a conductive pattern. The insulating layer, the semiconductor pattern, and the conductive pattern of the circuit layer CL may be formed by forming the insulating layer, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer by coating or deposition, and then patterning the insulating layer, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer by performing a photolithography process multiple times. The insulating layer, the semiconductor pattern, and the conductive pattern contained in the circuit layer CL may form a driving element (e.g., a transistor), a signal line, and a pad in the circuit layer CL.

[0119] The light emitting element layer OLED may be disposed on the circuit layer CL. The light emitting element layer OLED may include a light emitting element. The light emitting element of the light emitting element layer OLED may be electrically connected to the driving element of the circuit layer CL and may display an image by generating light according to a signal provided by the driving element.

[0120] The encapsulation layer TFE may be arranged on the light emitting element layer OLED and may seal the light emitting element. The encapsulation layer TFE may include at least one thin film for improving the optical efficiency of the light emitting element layer OLED or protecting the light emitting element layer OLED. The encapsulation layer TFE may protect the light emitting element layer OLED from moisture, oxygen, and external foreign matter.

[0121] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of a display module DM according to an embodiment.

[0122] refer to Figure 6 , the display module DM may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and an emission driver EDV.

[0123] The display panel DP may include a first area AA1, a second area AA2, and a bending area BA therebetween. The bending area BA may extend in a first direction DR1, and the first area AA1, the bending area BA, and the second area AA2 may be disposed in a second direction DR2.

[0124] The first area AA1 may include a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA around the display area DP-DA. The non-display area DP-NDA may surround the display area DP-DA. The display area DP-DA may be an area where an image is displayed, and the non-display area DP-NDA may be an area where an image is not displayed. The second area AA2 and the bending area BA may be areas where an image is not displayed.

[0125] When viewed in the first direction DR1 , the first area AA1 may include a first non-folding area NFA1 , a second non-folding area NFA2 , and a folding area FA between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 .

[0126] The display panel DP may include a plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines SL1 to SLm, a plurality of data lines DL1 to DLn, a plurality of emission lines EL1 to ELm, a first control line CSL1 and a second control line CSL2, a power line PL, a plurality of connection lines CNL, and a plurality of pads PD. Here, "m" and "n" are natural numbers greater than 0. The pixels PX may be arranged in the display area DP-DA and may be connected to the scan lines SL1 to SLm, the data lines DL1 to DLn, and the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0127] The scan driver SDV and the emission driver EDV may be arranged in the non-display area DP-NDA. The scan driver SDV and the emission driver EDV may be arranged in the non-display area DP-NDA adjacent to opposite sides of the first area AA1 away from each other in the first direction DR1. The data driver DDV may be arranged in the second area AA2. The data driver DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and may be mounted on the second area AA2.

[0128] The scan lines SL1 to SLm may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be connected to the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the data driver DDV through the bending area BA. The emission lines EL1 to ELm may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be connected to the emission driver EDV.

[0129] The power line PL may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the non-display area DP-NDA. The power line PL may be arranged between the display area DP-DA and the emission driver EDV. However, not limited thereto, the power line PL may be arranged between the display area DP-DA and the scan driver SDV.

[0130] The power line PL may extend to the second area AA2 via the bending area BA. When viewed from above a plane, the power line PL may extend toward a lower end of the second area AA2. The power line PL may receive a driving voltage.

[0131] The connection line CNL may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be disposed in the second direction DR2. The connection line CNL may be connected to the power line PL and the pixel PX. A driving voltage may be applied to the pixel PX through the power line PL and the connection line CNL connected to each other.

[0132] The first control line CSL1 may be connected to the scan driver SDV and may extend toward the lower end of the second area AA2 via the bending area BA. The second control line CSL2 may be connected to the emission driver EDV and may extend toward the lower end of the second area AA2 via the bending area BA. The data driver DDV may be disposed between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0133] The pad PD may be disposed adjacent to a lower end of the second area AA2 when viewed from above in a plane. The data driver DDV, the power line PL, the first control line CSL1, and the second control line CSL2 may be connected to the pad PD.

[0134] The data lines DL1 to DLn may be connected to corresponding pads PD through a data driver DDV. For example, the data lines DL1 to DLn may be connected to the data driver DDV, and the data driver DDV may be connected to the pads PD corresponding to the data lines DL1 to DLn.

[0135] Although not shown, a printed circuit board may be connected to the pad PD, and a timing controller and a voltage generator may be arranged on the printed circuit board. The timing controller may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and may be mounted on the printed circuit board. The timing controller and the voltage generator may be connected to the pad PD through the printed circuit board.

[0136] The timing controller may control operations of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV. The timing controller may generate a scan control signal, a data control signal, and an emission control signal in response to a control signal received from the outside. The voltage generator may generate a driving voltage.

[0137] The scan control signal may be provided to the scan driver SDV through the first control line CSL1. The emission control signal may be provided to the emission driver EDV through the second control line CSL2. The data control signal may be provided to the data driver DDV. The timing controller may receive an image signal from the outside, may convert the data format of the image signal according to the specification of the interface with the data driver DDV, and may provide the converted signal to the data driver DDV.

[0138] The scan driver SDV may generate a plurality of scan signals in response to the scan control signal. The scan signals may be applied to the pixels PX through the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The scan signals may be applied to the pixels PX in sequence.

[0139] The data driver DDV may generate a plurality of data voltages corresponding to the image signal in response to the data control signal. The data voltages may be applied to the pixels PX through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The emission driver EDV may generate a plurality of emission signals in response to the emission control signal. The emission signals may be applied to the pixels PX through the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0140] The pixel PX may receive a data voltage in response to a scan signal. The pixel PX may display an image by emitting light having brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to an emission signal. The light emission time of the pixel PX may be controlled by the emission signal.

[0141] Fig. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a display device ED-a according to an embodiment. Figure 7B is a schematic perspective view of a support plate PLT-a according to an embodiment. Figure 7Cis an enlarged plan view of a portion of the support plate PLT-a according to the embodiment.

[0142] Fig. 7A The diagram is similar to Figure 3 1 and 2 , line II′ corresponds to an embodiment of a cut cross section of the display device ED. Figure 7B Pictured Fig. 7A Schematic perspective view of the support plate PLT-a. Figure 7C yes Figure 7B An enlarged plan view of area AA.

[0143] refer to Fig. 7A , the display device ED-a may include a window module WM and a display module DM-a. The display device ED-a may include adhesive layers AL1, AL2, AL3, AL4, and AL5 between the window module WM and the display module DM-a and between a plurality of layers included in the window module WM or the display module DM-a. The adhesive layers AL1, AL2, AL3, AL4, and AL5 may be omitted.

[0144] The adhesive layers AL1 , AL2 , AL3 , AL4 , and AL5 may include one of an optically clear adhesive (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), and a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0145] The window module WM may be arranged on the display module DM-a. The window module WM may mitigate external impact while transmitting an image from the display module DM-a. Therefore, the window module WM may prevent damage or malfunction of the display module DM-a due to external impact.

[0146] The window module WM may include a window WIN, a window protection layer WPL disposed on the window WIN, and an adhesive layer AL1 disposed between the window WIN and the window protection layer WPL. The window protection layer WPL or the adhesive layer AL1 may be omitted.

[0147] The window WIN may be arranged on the display module DM-a. The window WIN may protect the display module DM-a from external scratches. The window WIN may have an optically transparent property. The window WIN may include glass. However, without limitation thereto, the window WIN may include a synthetic resin film. The window WIN may have a multilayer structure or a single-layer structure. For example, the window WIN may include a plurality of synthetic resin films coupled (or connected) by an adhesive, or may include a glass substrate and a synthetic resin film coupled (or connected) by an adhesive.

[0148] The window protection layer WPL may be disposed on the window WIN. The window protection layer WPL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. A hard coating layer (not shown) may be disposed on the window protection layer WPL.

[0149] The window module WM may include a functional layer including at least one of a hard coating layer (not shown) and an anti-fingerprint layer (not shown) arranged on the window protection layer WPL. By way of example, the window module WM may include a functional layer that serves as both a hard coating layer and an anti-fingerprint layer. The hard coating layer may be a layer for providing physical strength to the window module WM. The anti-fingerprint layer may be a layer that prevents external contamination such as fingerprints and suppresses wear caused by external friction. Each of the plurality of functional layers may also include an anti-reflection function or an anti-glare function.

[0150] The display module DM-a may include a display panel DP. The display module DM-a may include an impact absorbing layer DL arranged on the display panel DP. The display module DM-a may include a panel protection layer PF and a support plate PLT-a arranged under (or below) the display panel DP, and the support plate PLT-a may have a groove GV defined thereon. The display module DM-a may include an impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL arranged in the groove GV of the support plate PLT-a.

[0151] Reference above Figures 1A to 6 The described contents may be equally applicable to the display panel DP.

[0152] The impact absorbing layer DL may be arranged on the display panel DP. The impact absorbing layer DL may protect the display panel DP by absorbing external impact applied from above the display device ED-a toward the display panel DP. The impact absorbing layer DL may be made in the form of a stretchable film. The impact absorbing layer DL may include a flexible plastic material. The flexible plastic material may be defined as a synthetic resin film. For example, the impact absorbing layer DL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The impact absorbing layer DL may be coupled (or connected) to the display panel DP via an adhesive layer AL3.

[0153] The panel protection layer PF may be disposed under the display panel DP. The panel protection layer PF disposed under the display panel DP may protect the lower portion of the display panel DP. The panel protection layer PF may include a flexible plastic material. For example, the panel protection layer PF may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The panel protection layer PF may be coupled (or connected) to the display panel DP through an adhesive layer AL4.

[0154] The support plate PLT-a may be arranged under the display panel DP. The support plate PLT-a may be arranged under the panel protection layer PF. The support plate PLT-a may be coupled (or connected) to the panel protection layer PF through an adhesive layer AL5. The support plate PLT-a arranged under the display panel DP may support the display panel DP.

[0155] The support plate PLT-a may include a material having a high modulus. The support plate PLT-a may include a metal material or a polymer material. For example, the support plate PLT-a may include stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. By way of example, the support plate PLT-a may include a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the support plate PLT-a may include a non-metallic material, plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, or glass.

[0156] The support plate PLT-a may have a plurality of openings OP defined therein. The support plate PLT-a may include an opening pattern OP-PT including the plurality of openings OP. When viewed from above in a plane, the opening pattern OP-PT may correspond to the folding area FA. Figure 7B and Figure 7C The plurality of openings OP and the opening patterns OP-PT are described in detail.

[0157] The support plate PLT-a may include an upper surface US-PLT adjacent to the display panel DP (eg, adhesive layer AL5). A groove GV may be defined on the upper surface US-PLT of the support plate PLT-a. The groove GV may be referred to as a recessed portion. The groove GV may be formed by an etching process.

[0158] Since the groove GV is defined on the upper surface US-PLT of the support plate PLT-a, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL to be described below can be arranged in the groove GV. Therefore, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL can fully support the display panel DP and protect the display panel DP from the display surface FS (refer to FIG. 1 ) of the display device ED-a. Figure 1A )The influence of external impact applied to the folding area FA.

[0159] When viewed from above the plane, the groove GV may correspond to the folding area FA. For example, the length of the groove GV in the second direction DR2 may be equal to the length (width) W of the folding area FA in the second direction DR2. FA Here, based on the second direction DR2, the width W of the folding area FA is FA It may refer to the length of a region of the support plate PTL-a in which the opening pattern OP-PT is arranged.

[0160] Without being limited thereto, the groove GV may overlap not only the folding area FA but also partially overlap the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. For example, the length of the groove GV in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the width W of the folding area FA. FA .

[0161] The impact resistance reinforcing layer RFL may be disposed in the groove GV of the support plate PLT-a. The shape of the impact resistance reinforcing layer RFL may correspond to the shape of the groove GV of the support plate PLT-a.

[0162] When viewed from above the plane, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may correspond to the folding area FA. For example, the width W of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be RFL Can be equal to the width W of the folding area FA FA Here, the width W of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL is RFL It may refer to the length in the second direction DR2.

[0163] Without being limited thereto, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may overlap not only the folding area FA but also a portion of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. RFL Can be larger than the width W of the folding area FA FA For example, the width W of the impact-resistant reinforcement layer RFL is RFL Can be greater than the width W of the folding area FA FA 2mm to 4mm larger.

[0164] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be coupled (or connected) to the panel protection layer PF through an adhesive layer AL5. The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may include an upper surface US-RFL adjacent to the panel protection layer PF and a lower surface LS-RFL adjacent to the opening pattern OP-PT of the support plate PLT-a. The upper surface US-RFL of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be arranged directly under the adhesive layer AL5 and may be coupled (or connected) to the panel protection layer PF. The adhesive layer AL5 arranged between the panel protection layer PF and the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be referred to as a first adhesive layer.

[0165] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may have a thickness T in the range of about 30 μm to about 50 μm. RFL The thickness of the impact-resistant reinforcement layer RFL is RFL When the thickness T of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL is less than 30 μm, the impact resistance of the folding area FA is very low. RFL The impact resistance of the folding area FA can be improved by increasing the thickness T of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL. RFLIn the case of exceeding about 50 μm, the impact resistance of the folding area FA may be saturated. In addition, when the thickness T of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL is RFL In the case of increase, cracks may occur due to stress during folding, which may lead to folding defects.

[0166] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may have a modulus in a range of about 3 GPa to about 6 GPa. In the case where the modulus of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL is less than about 3 GPa, the impact resistance of the folding area FA is very low. As the modulus of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL increases, the impact resistance of the folding area FA may be improved. However, in the case where the modulus of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL exceeds about 6 GPa, the impact resistance of the folding area FA may be saturated. In addition, in the case where the modulus of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL increases, cracks may occur due to stress during folding, which may cause folding defects.

[0167] The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may include a polymer material. For example, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may include polyimide or PET. However, not limited thereto, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may include a material having the aforementioned modulus regardless of its type. The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may have a color. For example, the color of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be black.

[0168] The display device ED-a according to the present disclosure may include an opening pattern OP-PT defined in the support plate PLT-a, and thus may be easily folded. In addition, the display device ED-a may include a groove GV defined on the upper surface US-PLT of the support plate PLT-a and an impact-resistant reinforcement layer RFL arranged in the groove GV, and thus may improve the impact resistance of the folding area FA.

[0169] By eliminating the barrier layer BRL (reference Figure 8C ) and for coupling (or connecting) the barrier layer BRL (reference Figure 8C ) due to the increase in thickness caused by the adhesive layer, and the barrier layer BRL (reference Figure 8C ) is provided separately between the support plate PLT-a and the panel protection layer PF, the display device ED-a can have a small thickness. In addition, compared with the case where the barrier layer BRL (reference Figure 8C ) compared to the case where the bending stiffness can be improved and the unit cost can be reduced.

[0170] The display device ED-a may further include a lower member (not shown) arranged below the support plate PLT-a. For example, the lower member may include at least one of a support layer, a buffer layer, and a shielding layer. The configuration of the lower member may vary according to the size, shape, or operating characteristics of the display device ED-a. The lower member may further include a digitizer.

[0171] The support layer may include a metal material or a polymer material. The support layer may be arranged under the support plate PLT-a and may support the layers arranged on the support layer. For example, the support layer may be a thin metal substrate.

[0172] The buffer layer may be arranged under the supporting layer. The buffer layer may prevent the supporting plate PLT-a from being squeezed and plastically deformed by external impact and force. Therefore, the buffer layer may also improve the impact resistance of the display device ED-a. The buffer layer may include an elastomer such as a sponge, an expanded foam, or a polyurethane resin. In addition, the buffer layer may include at least one of an acrylic polymer, a polyurethane polymer, a silicon polymer, and an imide polymer. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0173] The shielding layer may be arranged below the buffer layer. The shielding layer may be an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding layer or a heat dissipation layer.

[0174] refer to Figure 7B , the support plate PLT-a may include a plurality of openings OP. The plurality of openings OP may be referred to as a plurality of holes. The plurality of openings OP may be formed through the support plate PLT-a in the third direction DR3. The plurality of openings OP may be formed by a laser process or a micro-impact process.

[0175] The plurality of openings OP may be arranged according to a selectable rule. The plurality of openings OP may be arranged in a lattice form, and may form a lattice pattern in the folding area FA.

[0176] Since a plurality of openings OP are defined, the area of ​​the support plate PLT-a corresponding to the folding area FA can be reduced, and thus the rigidity of the support plate PLT-a corresponding to the folding area FA can be reduced. Therefore, compared with a case where a plurality of openings OP are not defined in the support plate PLT-a, in the case where a plurality of openings OP are defined, the flexibility of the support plate PLT-a corresponding to the folding area FA can be increased. Therefore, the support plate PLT-a can be easily folded.

[0177] refer to Figure 7C The plurality of openings OP may include a plurality of first openings OP1 and a plurality of second openings OP2. The plurality of first openings OP1 and the plurality of second openings OP2 may be referred to as a plurality of first holes OP1 and a plurality of second holes OP2, respectively.

[0178] A plurality of first openings OP1 may be disposed in the first direction DR1. A plurality of second openings OP2 may be disposed in the first direction DR1. The first openings OP1 and the second openings OP2 may be alternately disposed in the second direction DR2. The first openings OP1 and the second openings OP2 may be staggered relative to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0179] The support plate PLT-a corresponding to the folding area FA may include a first branch portion BR1 disposed between the plurality of first openings OP1 or the plurality of second openings OP2. The first branch portion BR1 may be disposed between the plurality of first openings OP1 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 or between the plurality of second openings OP2 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0180] The support plate PLT-a corresponding to the folding area FA may include a second branch portion BR2 disposed between the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2. The second branch portion BR2 may be disposed between the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0181] Fig. 8A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display device ED-ex according to an embodiment. Figure 8B and Figure 8C : is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display device ED-r1 and a display device ED-r2 according to a comparative example.

[0182] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C A stack structure for evaluating the anti-impact characteristics of the display device ED-ex, the display device ED-r1, and the display device ED-r2 is illustrated. Fig. 8A This is called implementation mode 1. Figure 8B is referred to as Comparative Example 1, and Figure 8C This is referred to as Comparative Example 2.

[0183] and FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C For descriptions of the same or similar components in the components, refer to the above description. The display device ED-ex of embodiment 1 may include a buffer layer (approximately 200 μm), a support plate PLT-ex (approximately 150 μm), an adhesive layer AL1 (approximately 25 μm), a panel protection layer PF (approximately 50 μm), an adhesive layer AL2 (approximately 25 μm), a display panel DP (approximately 30 μm), an adhesive layer AL3 (approximately 25 μm), an impact absorption layer DL (approximately 50 μm), an adhesive layer AL4 (approximately 25 μm), a window WIN (approximately 30 μm), an adhesive layer AL5 (approximately 50 μm), a window protection layer WPL (approximately 65 μm) and a hard coating layer (approximately 5 μm). The groove GV is defined on the upper surface US-PLT of the support plate PLT-ex, and the impact reinforcement layer RFL (approximately 50 μm) is arranged in the groove GV. Fig. 8A In the figure, only the supporting plate PLT-ex, the adhesive layer AL5 and the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL are illustrated.

[0184] The display device ED-r1 of Comparative Example 1 has the same stacking structure as the display device ED-ex of Embodiment 1, except that the groove GV is not defined on the support plate PLT-r and the display device ED-r1 does not include the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL. Figure 8B In the figure, only the supporting plate PLT-r and the adhesive layer AL5 are shown.

[0185] The display device ED-r2 of comparative example 2 has the same stacking structure as the display device ED-ex of embodiment 1, except that the groove GV is not defined on the support plate PLT-r and the display device ED-r2 does not include the impact-resistant reinforcement layer RFL and may also include a barrier layer BRL and a barrier adhesive layer ALB. The barrier layer BRL may be arranged under the panel protection layer PF in the folding area FA and the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2, and may be used to protect the display panel DP from external impacts. The barrier layer BRL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. Figure 8C , only the supporting plate PLT-r, the adhesive layer AL5, the barrier layer BRL and the barrier adhesive layer ALB are illustrated.

[0186] Table 1 shows the results obtained by evaluating the anti-impact characteristics of the display device ED-ex of Embodiment 1, the display device ED-r1 of Comparative Example 1, and the display device Ed-r2 of Comparative Example 2. By way of example, a pen drop test was performed in the folding area FA and the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 to measure the height at which a defect occurs. In the pen drop test, a pen having 0.3π and 5.8 g was applied.

[0187] [Table 1]

[0188]

[0189] Referring to Table 1, the display device ED-ex of Embodiment 1 has higher anti-impact characteristics in both the folding area FA and the first and second non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 than the display device ED-r1 of Comparative Example 1 and the display device ED-r2 of Comparative Example 2. By way of example, since the display device ED-ex of Embodiment 1 may include the anti-impact reinforcing layer RFL in the folding area FA, the anti-impact characteristics in the folding area FA are improved.

[0190] On the contrary, since the opening pattern OP-PT exists in the folding area FA of the display device ED-r1 of Comparative Example 1, the impact resistance of the folding area FA is low. The display device ED-r2 of Comparative Example 2 may include the barrier layer BRL and thus ensure the impact resistance. However, the thickness of the display device ED-r2 is increased due to the barrier layer BRL and the barrier adhesive layer ALB.

[0191] Table 2 shows the evaluation conditions and evaluation results of the impact resistance characteristics of the display devices according to Embodiments A to C and Comparative Examples A to C. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C The pen drop test was performed in the same manner as described.

[0192] Table 3 shows the results obtained by evaluating the strain of the folding reliability of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer of the display device according to Embodiments A to C and Comparative Examples A to C. 1.4R (folding radius of 1.4 mm) inner folding evaluation was performed on the outer surface (surface adjacent to the support plate) and the inner surface (surface adjacent to the panel protective layer) of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer.

[0193] The display devices of Embodiments A to C and Comparative Examples A to C have the same characteristics as those of the above reference examples. Fig. 8A The display devices ED-ex described in Embodiment 1 have the same structure. However, as shown in Table 2, the impact-reinforcing layers have different moduli and / or thicknesses.

[0194] [Table 2]

[0195]

[0196] [Table 3]

[0197]

[0198]

[0199] Referring to Table 2, when Embodiment A and Embodiment C were compared with Comparative Example A (in which the impact-reinforced layer had the same thickness) with each other, the display device of Comparative Example A including the impact-reinforced layer having a low modulus had very low impact resistance characteristics.

[0200] When Embodiment A and Embodiment C are compared with Comparative Example C (in which the impact-resistant reinforcing layer has the same thickness), it can be seen that in the case where the modulus exceeds about 6 GPa, a high saturation of defects occurs therein in the folding region. For example, the impact resistance is saturated. In the case of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer having a high modulus of Comparative Example C, as shown in Table 3, cracks occur during folding.

[0201] In the case of the display device of Embodiment C, the height at which the defect occurs in the folding region is greater than that in the case of the display device of Embodiment A. For example, it can be seen that in the case where the impact-resistant reinforcing layer has the same thickness, the display device including the impact-resistant reinforcing layer having a higher modulus has better impact resistance characteristics up to about 6 GPa.

[0202] Referring to Table 2, when Embodiment A and Embodiment B are compared with Comparative Example B (in which the impact-resistant reinforcing layer has the same modulus), it can be seen that in the case where the thickness of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer exceeds about 50 μm, a high saturation of defects occurs therein in the folding region. For example, the impact resistance is saturated. In the case of the impact-resistant reinforcing layer having a large thickness of Comparative Example B, as shown in Table 3, cracks occur during folding.

[0203] Table 4 shows the results obtained by evaluating the folding reliability of the display device of Embodiment A under various environments.

[0204] [Table 4]

[0205]

[0206] Referring to Table 4, it can be seen that the display device according to Embodiment A of the present disclosure not only has excellent anti-impact characteristics but also has excellent folding reliability under various environments.

[0207] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a display device ED-b according to an embodiment. Fig. 9 The diagram is similar to Figure 3 1 and 2 , line II′ corresponds to an embodiment of a cut cross section of the display device ED.

[0208] In with Fig. 7A Compared with the case of display device ED-a, Fig. 9 The display device ED-b may further include an adhesive layer AL6 arranged between the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL and the opening pattern OP-PT of the support plate PLT-b. The adhesive layer AL6 arranged between the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL and the opening pattern OP-PT of the support plate PLT-b may be referred to as a second adhesive layer. The contents of the above-mentioned adhesive layer AL1, adhesive layer AL2, adhesive layer AL3, adhesive layer AL4 and adhesive layer AL5 may also apply to the material of the adhesive layer AL6. The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be coupled (or connected) to the support plate PLT-b through the adhesive layer AL6. By way of example, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be coupled (or connected) to the opening pattern OP-PT of the support plate PLT-b. For example, the adhesive layer AL6 may have a thickness in the range of about 15 μm to about 25 μm. The display module DM-b may include an impact absorbing layer DL, adhesive layers AL3 and AL4, a display panel DP, a panel protection layer PF and a support plate PLT-b.

[0209] In with Fig. 7A Compared with the case of the adhesive layer AL5 of the display device ED-a, Fig. 9The adhesive layer AL5 of the display device ED-b may include an adhesive layer 1-1AL5-1 and an adhesive layer 1-2AL5-2 spaced apart from each other. The adhesive layer 1-1AL5-1 may be arranged to correspond to the first non-folding area NFA1, and the adhesive layer 1-2AL5-2 may be arranged to correspond to the second non-folding area NFA2. The adhesive layer 1-1AL5-1 and the adhesive layer 1-2AL5-2 may not overlap the folding area FA. The impact-resistant reinforcement layer RFL may be arranged between the adhesive layer 1-1AL5-1 and the adhesive layer 1-2AL5-2.

[0210] In addition to those described above, Fig. 7A The same content of the display device ED-a can also be applied to Fig. 9 Display device ED-b.

[0211] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view of a display device ED-c according to an embodiment. Fig.10 The diagram is similar to Figure 3 1 and 2 , line II′ corresponds to an embodiment of a cut cross section of the display device ED.

[0212] and Fig. 9 Similar to the display device ED-b, Fig. 7A Compared with the case of display device ED-a, Fig.10 The display device ED-c may also include an adhesive layer AL6 arranged between the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL and the opening pattern OP-PT of the support plate PLT-c. The adhesive layer AL6 arranged between the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL and the opening pattern OP-PT of the support plate PLT-c may be referred to as a second adhesive layer. The contents regarding the above-mentioned adhesive layer AL1, adhesive layer AL2, adhesive layer AL3, adhesive layer AL4 and adhesive layer AL5 may also be applicable to the material of the adhesive layer AL6. The impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be coupled (or connected) to the support plate PLT-c through the adhesive layer AL6. By way of example, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL may be coupled (or connected) to the opening pattern OP-PT of the support plate PLT-c. In addition, as in Fig. 7A In the display device ED-a, the impact-resistant reinforcing layer RFL can be Fig.10 The adhesive layer AL5 of the display device ED-c is coupled (or connected) to the panel protection layer PF. The display module DM-c may include an impact absorbing layer DL, adhesive layers AL3, AL4 and AL5, a display panel DP, a panel protection layer PF and a support plate PLT-c.

[0213] In addition to those described above, Fig. 7A The same content of the display device ED-a can also be applied to Fig.10 Display device ED-c.

[0214] As described above, the display device according to the present disclosure may include an impact-resistant reinforcement layer disposed in the folding area, and thus the display device may have excellent impact resistance and folding reliability.

[0215] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A display panel comprising a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in sequence in a first direction; a support plate, the support plate being arranged below the display panel, the support plate comprising a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area in a plan view; as well as an impact-resistant reinforcement layer, the impact-resistant reinforcement layer being arranged below the display panel, wherein the support plate has a groove overlapping the folding area in a plan view, The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is arranged in the groove of the support plate, and The impact-reinforcing layer has a modulus in the range of 3 GPa to 6 GPa.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The impact-resistant reinforcing layer has a thickness in the range of 30 μm to 50 μm.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The support plate includes an upper surface adjacent to the display panel, and The groove is defined on the upper surface of the support plate.

4. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first adhesive layer, the first adhesive layer being directly disposed on the support plate; as well as A panel protection layer is directly disposed on the first adhesive layer.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is connected to the panel protection layer through the first adhesive layer.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is not connected to the supporting plate.

7. The display device according to claim 5, further comprising: A second adhesive layer is disposed directly below the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and connects the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and the support plate.

8. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: an adhesive layer 1-1, the adhesive layer 1-1 being directly arranged on the support plate, wherein the adhesive layer 1-1 overlaps with the first non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; an adhesive layer 1-2, the adhesive layer 1-2 being directly arranged on the support plate, wherein the adhesive layer 1-2 overlaps with the second non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; and A panel protection layer is directly disposed on the adhesive layer 1 - 1 and the adhesive layer 1 - 2 .

9. The display device according to claim 8, further comprising: A second adhesive layer is disposed below the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and connects the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and the support plate.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein: The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is not connected to the panel protective layer.

11. A display device, comprising: A display panel comprising a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in sequence in a first direction; a support plate, the support plate being arranged below the display panel, the support plate comprising a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area in a plan view; as well as an impact-resistant reinforcement layer, the impact-resistant reinforcement layer being arranged below the display panel, wherein the support plate has a groove overlapping the folding area in a plan view, The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is arranged in the groove of the support plate, and The impact-resistant reinforcing layer has a thickness in the range of 30 μm to 50 μm.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The impact-reinforcing layer has a modulus in the range of 3 GPa to 6 GPa.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The support plate includes an upper surface adjacent to the display panel, and The groove is defined on the upper surface of the support plate.

14. The display device according to claim 11, further comprising: a first adhesive layer, the first adhesive layer being directly disposed on the support plate; as well as a panel protection layer, the panel protection layer being arranged directly on the first adhesive layer, Wherein, the impact-resistant reinforcement layer is connected to the panel protection layer through the first adhesive layer.

15. The display device according to claim 11, further comprising: an adhesive layer 1-1, the adhesive layer 1-1 being directly arranged on the support plate, wherein the adhesive layer 1-1 overlaps with the first non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; an adhesive layer 1-2, the adhesive layer 1-2 being directly arranged on the support plate, wherein the adhesive layer 1-2 overlaps with the second non-folding area and does not overlap with the folding area in a plan view; a panel protection layer, the panel protection layer being directly disposed on the adhesive layer 1 - 1 and the adhesive layer 1 - 2; and A second adhesive layer is disposed below the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and connects the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and the support plate.

16. The display device according to claim 11, further comprising: a first adhesive layer, the first adhesive layer being directly disposed on the support plate; a panel protection layer, the panel protection layer being directly disposed on the first adhesive layer; as well as A second adhesive layer is disposed directly below the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and connects the impact-resistant reinforcing layer and the support plate.

17. A display device comprising: A display panel comprising a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in sequence in a first direction; a support plate, the support plate being arranged below the display panel, the support plate comprising a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area in a plan view; as well as an impact-resistant reinforcement layer, the impact-resistant reinforcement layer being arranged below the display panel, Wherein, the support plate includes an upper surface adjacent to the display panel, The support plate has a groove on the upper surface, the groove overlapping the folding area in a plan view, and The impact-resistant reinforcing layer is arranged in the groove of the support plate.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: The impact-reinforcing layer has a modulus in the range of 3 GPa to 6 GPa.

19. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: The impact-resistant reinforcing layer has a thickness in the range of 30 μm to 50 μm.

20. The display device according to claim 17, further comprising: a first adhesive layer, the first adhesive layer being directly disposed on the support plate; as well as A panel protection layer is directly disposed on the first adhesive layer.

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