Display Devices

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes: a first supporting member; a second supporting member; a coupling unit arranged along a first direction, extending in a second direction, and located between the first supporting member and the second supporting member; and a flexible display module located on the first supporting member, the second supporting member, and the coupling unit. Each coupling unit includes: a main body extending in the second direction; and a protrusion disposed on opposite sides of the main body, each protrusion having a fan-shaped shape and located on the upper end of the main body. Each protrusion includes a curved surface of an arc and a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface defined as a radius of the fan-shaped shape. The angle between the first inclined surface and the third direction is equal to the angle between the second inclined surface and the third direction. The curved surfaces of some protrusions located on the upper ends of the main body opposite to each other face each other.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0000839, filed on January 3, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0002] Exemplary embodiments relate generally to a support member and a display apparatus including the same, and more particularly, to a support member capable of achieving inward folding and outward folding and a display apparatus including the same. Background Art

[0003] Typically, electronic devices that provide images to users (such as smart phones, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation devices, and smart TVs) include a display device that displays images. The display device generates an image to provide the generated image to the user through a display screen. As the technology of display devices is developed, various types of display devices have emerged. For example, flexible display devices are deformable, foldable, and / or curlable into a curved shape. Flexible display devices that can be deformed into various shapes can be portable, thereby improving user convenience. In the case of a foldable folding display device, since the display device can only be folded in a specific direction, a display device that is foldable in both directions is required.

[0004] The above information disclosed in this section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure provides a support member capable of achieving inward folding and outward folding and a display device including the support member.

[0006] Additional aspects will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the disclosure, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concepts.

[0007] According to some exemplary embodiments, a display device includes a first support member, a second support member, a coupling unit and a display module. The second support member is arranged along a first direction from the first support member. The coupling unit is arranged along the first direction, extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and is disposed between the first support member and the second support member. The display module is disposed on the first support member, the second support member and the coupling unit. The display module is flexible. Each of the coupling units includes: a main body extending in the second direction; and a protrusion, when viewed in the first direction, the protrusion is disposed on opposite sides of the main body, when viewed in the second direction, each of the protrusions has a fan shape and is disposed on upper ends of the main body opposite to each other. Each of the protrusions includes: a curved surface, defined as an arc of a fan shape; a first inclined surface, defined as a first radius of the fan shape; and a second inclined surface, defined as a second radius of the fan shape. The angle formed between the first inclined surface and the third direction is equal to the angle formed between the second inclined surface and the third direction, and the third direction is perpendicular to a plane parallel to the first direction and the second direction. Curved surfaces of some of the protrusions provided on upper ends of the main body portion that are opposite to each other face each other.

[0008] According to various exemplary embodiments, the display device may be able to achieve inward folding and outward folding through the coupling unit of the supporting member, and the inwardly folded or outwardly folded display device may be restored to a flat state by an elastic member provided at the coupling unit of the supporting member.

[0009] The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the inventive concept, wherein the accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0012] Figure 2 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 1 A view showing the device folded outward.

[0013] Figure 3 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 1 A view showing the device folded inwards.

[0014] Figure 4According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 1 A view of the cross-sectional construction of the display device.

[0015] Figure 5 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 4 The equivalent circuit diagram of any pixel in the pixel layer in .

[0016] Figure 6 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 1 A perspective view of the support structure in FIG.

[0017] Figure 7 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A perspective view of one of the joining units in FIG.

[0018] Figure 8 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along section line II'.

[0019] Fig. 9 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 7 A sectional view taken along section line II-II'.

[0020] Fig.10 2 is a view illustrating a state in which bonding units adjacent to each other are connected according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0021] Fig.11 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A view of the structure of the side surface of the first supporting member.

[0022] Fig.12 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A view of the structure of the side surface of the second supporting member.

[0023] Fig.13 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A side view of a state in which the first supporting member and the second supporting member are connected to the engaging unit.

[0024] Fig.14 2 is a view illustrating a state in which a display device is folded outward according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0025] Fig.15 2 is a view illustrating a state in which a display device is folded inwardly according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0026] Fig.16 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A view of a bonding unit of a display device.

[0027] Fig.17 and Fig.18 is a view illustrating one of the coupling units of the display device according to various exemplary embodiments.

[0028] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 2 is a view illustrating a first supporting member and a second supporting member according to various exemplary embodiments.

[0029] Fig.21 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figures 17 to 20 A side view of a state in which the first supporting member and the second supporting member and the engaging unit are connected to each other.

[0030] Fig. 22 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.21 A view showing the device folded outward.

[0031] Fig.23 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.21 A view showing the device folded inwards.

[0032] Fig.24 is a view illustrating two bonding units adjacent to each other among bonding units of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0033] Fig.25 is a side view illustrating a configuration of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0034] Fig.26 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.25 A view showing the device folded outward.

[0035] Fig. 27 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.25 A view showing the device folded inwards.

[0036] Fig.28 and Fig.29 According to various exemplary embodiments, Fig.25 A view of a bonding unit of a display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments. However, it is apparent that various exemplary embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other cases, known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid making various exemplary embodiments unnecessarily obscure. In addition, various exemplary embodiments may be different, and need not be exclusive. For example, the specific shape, configuration, and characteristics of an exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0038] Unless otherwise specified, the illustrated exemplary embodiments will be understood as providing exemplary features of different details of some exemplary embodiments. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the various illustrated features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions, aspects, etc. (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as "elements" or "elements") may be further combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concept.

[0039] Cross hatching and / or shading are often used in the drawings to illustrate the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless otherwise specified, the presence or absence of cross hatching or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or demand for the specific material, material properties, size, ratio, commonality between the elements shown, and / or any other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc. of the elements. In addition, in the drawings, the size and relative size of the elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When the exemplary embodiments may be implemented differently, the specific process sequence may be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously or in an order opposite to the described sequence. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0040] When an element is referred to as "on" another element, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, the element may be directly on the other element, directly connected to or directly coupled to the other element, or there may be an intermediate element. However, when an element is referred to as "directly on" another element, "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element, there is no intermediate element. Other terms and / or phrases used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner, for example, "between..." and "directly between...", "adjacent to..." and "directly adjacent to...", "on..." and "directly on...", etc. In addition, the term "connected" may refer to physical connection, electrical connection and / or fluid connection. In addition, the D1 axis, the D2 axis, and the D3 axis are not limited to the three axes in the rectangular coordinate system, and may be interpreted with a wider meaning. For example, the D1 axis, the D2 axis, and the D3 axis may be perpendicular to each other, or may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purpose of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" may be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z (such as XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ for example). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0041] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another element. Therefore, without departing from the disclosed teachings, the first element discussed below may be named as the second element.

[0042] For descriptive purposes, spatially relative terms such as "under," "below," "below," "above," "upper," "on," "higher," "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall"), etc., may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings, the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is turned over, an element described as "under" or "beneath" other elements or features would subsequently be positioned as "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "under" can include both above and below orientations. Additionally, the device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and as such, the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0043] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments, and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "one", "one (kind / person)" and "said (the)" are also intended to include plural forms. In addition, when the terms "include", "comprise" and variations thereof are used in this specification, it is indicated that there are stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups, but one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups are not excluded from existence or addition. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially", "approximately" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms, and are not used as degree terms, so as to explain the inherent deviations of the measured values, calculated values ​​and / or provided values ​​that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0044] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or exploded views that are schematic diagrams of ideal exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. As such, variations in the shapes of the illustrations, such as those caused by manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are expected to occur. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as being limited to the specific illustrated shapes of the regions, but will include shape deviations caused by, for example, manufacturing. In this manner, the regions illustrated in the accompanying drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of the regions of the device, and as such, are not intended to be limiting.

[0045] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is a part. Unless expressly so defined herein, terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0046] According to the practice in the art, some exemplary embodiments are described in terms of functional blocks, units and / or modules and some exemplary embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art 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 and / or wiring connections, etc.) that can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing techniques or other manufacturing techniques. In the case where blocks, units and / or modules are implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, software (e.g., microcode) can be used to program and control the blocks, units and / or modules to perform the various functions discussed herein, and the blocks, units and / or modules can be selectively driven by firmware and / or software. It is also expected that each block, unit and / or module can be implemented by dedicated hardware or as a combination of dedicated hardware that performs some functions and processors that perform other functions (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and related circuits). In addition, without departing from the inventive concept, each block, unit and / or module of some exemplary embodiments can be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks, units and / or modules. Furthermore, the blocks, units and / or modules of some exemplary embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules without departing from the inventive concept.

[0047] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 1 A view showing the device folded outward. Figure 3 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 1 A view showing the device folded inwards.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to some exemplary embodiments, the display device 1000 may have a long side in a first direction DR1 and a short side in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the display device 1000 may have various shapes. The display device 1000 as a flexible display device 1000 may be a foldable or expandable foldable display device 1000.

[0049] The display device 1000 may be divided into a plurality of regions according to folding. For example, the display device 1000 may be divided into a folding region FA and two non-folding regions NFA, in which the display device 1000 is folded, and the two non-folding regions NFA are in a flat state. The non-folding regions NFA are arranged along a first direction DR1, and the folding region FA is disposed between the two non-folding regions NFA.

[0050] When the folding area FA of the display device 1000 is folded, the non-folding areas NFA may be folded to face each other. Figures 1 to 3 One folding area FA is defined in the display device 1000 shown in FIG. 1 , but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of folding areas may be defined in the display device 1000 .

[0051] The display device 1000 includes a display module 100 having flexibility and a support member 200 disposed under the display module 100. The display module 100 may have a top surface defined as a display surface DS and may be a plane parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Through the display surface DS, an image IM generated by the display module 100 may be provided to a user.

[0052] The display surface DS includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA disposed outside the display area DA (e.g., surrounding 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 define an edge of the display device 1000 printed in a certain color.

[0053] The display module 100 includes a display panel 110 and a touch sensing unit 120 disposed on the display panel 110. The display panel 110 may generate an image to provide the generated image to a user. The display panel 110 may be a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light emitting display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, or any one of various display panels capable of displaying an image.

[0054] The touch sensing unit 120 can sense an external input (a user's hand, a touch pen, etc.) to convert the external input into a predetermined input signal and provide the input signal to the display panel 110. The touch sensing unit 120 may include a plurality of touch sensor portions (not shown) to sense the external input. The touch sensor portion may sense the external input in a capacitive manner. The display panel 110 may receive an input signal from the touch sensing unit 120 to generate an image corresponding to the input signal.

[0055] The support member 200 may support the display module 100 and may be rotated to be folded by the joint units JU, which are combined to rotate with each other. When the support member 200 is folded, the display module 100 having flexibility may be folded by the support member 200. The support member 200 may fold the display device 1000 outwardly to expose the display module 100 to the outside. In addition, the support member 200 may fold the display device 1000 inwardly so that the display module 100 is not exposed to the outside.

[0056] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 6 to 15 The configuration of the support member 200 is described in more detail. Hereinafter, a direction crossing a plane parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as a third direction DR3. The third direction DR3 may be a direction crossing a plane parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 in a perpendicular manner.

[0057] Figure 4 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 1 A view of the cross-sectional construction of the display device.

[0058] Reference Figure 4 , the display panel 110 includes: a base layer BSL; a pixel layer PXL disposed on the base layer BSL; and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the base layer BSL to cover the pixel layer PXL. The base layer BSL may define a rear surface of the display module 100 and have flexibility.

[0059] The pixel layer PXL may include a plurality of pixels (not shown) and may be driven by receiving an electrical signal to generate an image IM. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may protect the pixel layer PXL, and the touch sensing unit 120 is disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be formed in multiple layers and include an organic insulating film and / or an inorganic insulating film.

[0060] Figure 5 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 4 The equivalent circuit diagram of any pixel in the pixel layer in .

[0061] although Figure 5 exemplarily shows the structure of one pixel PX, but other pixels may have the same Figure 5 The pixel PX in FIG. 1 has the same structure as that in FIG. 1 . In some exemplary embodiments, Figure 5 The pixel PX in FIG. 1 may be an organic light emitting element used in an organic light emitting display panel.

[0062] Reference Figure 5, the pixel PX is connected to the injection line Si, the data line Dj and the emission line Ei. Here, i and j are natural numbers. The pixel PX includes a light emitting element OLED, a driving transistor T1, a capacitor Cst, a switching transistor T2 and a light emitting control transistor T3. The light emitting element OLED can be defined as an organic light emitting diode.

[0063] The driving transistor T1 has a source terminal receiving the first voltage ELVDD and a drain terminal connected to the source terminal of the light emission control transistor T3. The driving transistor T1 has a gate terminal connected to the drain terminal of the switching transistor T2.

[0064] The switching transistor T2 has a gate terminal connected to the injection line Si and a source terminal connected to the data line Dj. The capacitive element Cst has a first electrode connected to the source terminal of the driving transistor T1 and a second electrode connected to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1.

[0065] The light emission control transistor T3 has a gate terminal connected to the light emission line Ei and a drain terminal connected to the anode electrode of the light emitting element OLED. The second voltage ELVSS is applied to the cathode electrode of the light emitting element OLED. The second voltage ELVSS may be less than the first voltage ELVDD.

[0066] The switching transistor T2 is turned on in response to the injection signal SS received through the injection line Si. The turned-on switching transistor T2 supplies the data voltage VD received through the data line Dj to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1. The capacitive element Cst charges the data voltage VD applied to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1 and maintains the data voltage VD even after the switching transistor T2 is turned off.

[0067] The gate terminal of the light emission control transistor T3 is turned on in response to the light emission signal EM received through the light emission line Ei. The turned-on light emission control transistor T3 is used to drive the current I flowing in the driving transistor T1. oled The pixel PX can emit light while being applied with the light emitting signal EM, and the light emitting element OLED can emit light according to the received current I oled The amount of light emitted varies with intensity.

[0068] Although the transistors T1 to T3 of the pixel PX are shown as PMOS transistors, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the transistors T1 to T3 of the pixel PX may be NMOS transistors.

[0069] Figure 6 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 1 A perspective view of the support structure in FIG.

[0070] Reference Figure 6, the support member 200 includes: a first support member SM1; a second support member SM2; a plurality of joint units JU, disposed between the first support member SM1 and the second support member SM2; and a plurality of connection units CU (see Fig.10 ), the first supporting member SM1 and the second supporting member SM2 are coupled to the joining unit JU. The first supporting member SM1 and the second supporting member SM2 are arranged along the first direction DR1. The joining unit JU is arranged along the first direction DR1 and extends in the second direction DR2.

[0071] The first support member SM1, the second support member SM2, and the joint unit JU are combined to rotate with each other through the connection unit CU. The joint units JU are combined to rotate with each other, and the first support member SM1 is combined to the joint unit JU disposed adjacent to the first support member SM1 among the joint units JU to rotate with each other. The second support member SM2 is combined to the joint unit JU disposed adjacent to the second support member SM2 among the joint units JU to rotate with each other. The rotation axis allowing the first support member SM1, the second support member SM2, and the joint unit JU to rotate with each other can be parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0072] The display module 100 is disposed on the first supporting member SM1, the second supporting member SM2 and the joining unit JU. The folding area FA of the display module 100 may be disposed on the joining unit JU, and the non-folding area NFA of the display module 100 may be disposed on the first supporting member SM1 and the second supporting member SM2, respectively.

[0073] As the first supporting member SM1, the second supporting member SM2, and the coupling unit JU are rotated with each other, the display module 100 may be folded inwardly or outwardly, and this operation will be described in more detail below.

[0074] Figure 7 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A perspective view of one of the joining units in FIG. Figure 8 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along section line II'. Fig. 9 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 7 A sectional view taken along section line II-II'. Fig.10 2 is a view illustrating a state in which bonding units adjacent to each other are connected according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0075] For ease of description, Figure 8 and Fig. 9 FIG. 2 shows a cross section of two adjacent joint units JU. Fig.10 2 shows side surfaces of two joining units JU adjacent to each other.

[0076] Reference Figures 7 to 10 , when viewed from the first direction DR1, each of the joining units JU includes a main body portion BD extending in the second direction DR2 and a plurality of protrusions P1 and P2 provided at both sides of the main body portion BD. When viewed from the second direction DR2, the protrusions P1 and P2 are provided on the upper left end and the upper right end of the main body portion BD, respectively. When viewed from the second direction DR2, each of the protrusions P1 and P2 may have a fan-shaped shape. When viewed from the second direction DR2, the main body portion BD may have an inverted trapezoidal shape.

[0077] The sector shape has an arc and two radii. The arc is defined as a portion of the circumference of a circle, and the radius is defined as a line connecting the center of the circle to a point on the circumference or the distance between the center of the circle and a point on the circumference.

[0078] Each of the protrusions P1 and P2 includes a curved surface CS and a first inclined surface SP1 and a second inclined surface SP2, the curved surface CS being defined as an arc of a fan shape, and the first inclined surface SP1 and the second inclined surface SP2 being defined as two radii of the fan shape, respectively. The first inclined surface SP1 is disposed on the second inclined surface SP2. The curved surfaces CS of the protrusions P1 and P2 disposed on the upper left and upper right ends of the main body portion BD are arranged to face each other.

[0079] The angle θ formed between the first inclined surface SP1 and the third direction DR3 is the same as the angle θ formed between the second inclined surface SP2 and the third direction DR3. Therefore, the first angle θ1 formed between the first inclined surfaces SP1 of the bonding units JU adjacent to each other may be the same as the second angle θ2 formed between the second inclined surfaces SP2 of the bonding units adjacent to each other.

[0080] The protrusions P1 and P2 provided on the upper end of the main body BD include a first protrusion P1 and a second protrusion P2, and when viewed from the second direction DR2, the first protrusion P1 is provided on one of the two sides of the upper end of the main body BD, and the second protrusion P2 is provided on the other of the two sides of the upper end of the main body BD. The first protrusion P1 and the second protrusion P2 may have the same shape and may be symmetrical to each other. For example, the curved surface CS of the first protrusion P1 and the curved surface CS of the second protrusion P2 face each other, and the first inclined surface SP1 and the second inclined surface SP2 of the first protrusion P1 and the first inclined surface SP1 and the second inclined surface SP2 of the second protrusion P2 face opposite directions to each other.

[0081] The vertex of the second inclined surface SP2 connecting the first inclined surface SP1 of the first protrusion P1 to the first protrusion P1 overlaps with the vertex of one side surface S1 connecting the top surface of the main body BD to the main body BD. The second inclined surface SP2 of the first protrusion P1 overlaps with the one side surface S1 of the main body BD. The vertex of the second inclined surface SP2 connecting the first inclined surface SP1 of the second protrusion P2 to the second protrusion P2 overlaps with the vertex of the other side surface S2 connecting the top surface of the main body BD to the main body BD. The second inclined surface SP2 of the second protrusion P2 overlaps with the other side surface S2 of the main body BD.

[0082] In the following, Figure 8 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the figure, among the joining units JU adjacent to each other, the joining unit JU disposed at the left side is defined as a first joining unit JU1, and the joining unit JU disposed at the right side is defined as a second joining unit JU2.

[0083] The center point of the fan-shaped shape of the first protrusion P1 and the center point of the fan-shaped shape of the second protrusion P2, which are disposed adjacent to each other among the first protrusion P1 and the second protrusion P2 of the joint unit JU, are disposed adjacent to each other. For example, the center point of the fan-shaped shape of the first protrusion P1 disposed on one side of the upper end of the first joint unit JU1 is adjacent to the center point of the fan-shaped shape of the second protrusion P2 disposed on the other side of the upper end of the second joint unit JU2.

[0084] The center point of the fan-shaped shape of the first protrusion P1 is defined as the vertex connecting the first inclined surface SP1 of the first protrusion P1 to the second inclined surface SP2 of the first protrusion P1. The center point of the fan-shaped shape of the second protrusion P2 is defined as the vertex connecting the first inclined surface SP1 of the second protrusion P2 to the second inclined surface SP2 of the second protrusion P2.

[0085] The first protrusion P1 of the first joining unit JU1 and the second protrusion P2 of the second joining unit JU2 adjacent to the first protrusion P1 of the first joining unit JU1 are inserted into corresponding connection units CU in the connection units CU. The connection unit CU has an annular shape, and the inner side surface of the connection unit CU contacts the curved surface CS of the first protrusion P1 of the first joining unit JU1 and the curved surface CS of the second protrusion P2 of the second joining unit JU2.

[0086] The curved surface CS of the first protrusion P1 of the first joining unit JU1 may be connected to the connection unit CU. For example, when the curved surface CS of the first protrusion P1 of the first joining unit JU1 is attached to the inner surface of the connection unit CU by the adhesive member AD, the first protrusion P1 of the first joining unit JU1 may be connected to the connection unit CU. The second protrusion P2 may rotate along the inner surface of the connection unit CU, and thus, the first joining unit JU1 and the second joining unit JU2 may rotate relative to a rotation axis extending in the second direction DR2 at the center point of the annular shape of the connection unit CU.

[0087] Although the configuration in which the first protrusion P1 is connected to the connection unit CU by the adhesive member AD is exemplarily described, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the first protrusion P1 may be connected to the connection unit CU by various connection structures. Alternatively, the second protrusion P2 may be connected to the connection unit CU instead of the first protrusion P1.

[0088] The supporting member 200 includes a plurality of first elastic members ELM1 and a plurality of second elastic members ELM2 disposed on the coupling unit JU. The first elastic members ELM1 are respectively disposed in a plurality of first grooves G1 defined in one side surface S1 of the body portion BD. The second groove G2 is defined in the first inclined surface SP1 of each of the first protrusions P1, and each of the second elastic members ELM2 is disposed in a corresponding second groove G2 in the second grooves G2. Each of the first elastic members ELM1 and the second elastic members ELM2 extends in the first direction DR1.

[0089] Although two first elastic members ELM1 are provided on one body portion BD and one second elastic member ELM2 is provided on one first protrusion portion P1 as an example, exemplary embodiments are not limited to the number of the first elastic members ELM1 and the second elastic members ELM2 .

[0090] Each of the first elastic members ELM1 includes a first elastic unit ELU1 and a first pushing unit PU1, the first elastic unit ELU1 is disposed in a corresponding first groove G1 in the first groove G1, and the first pushing unit PU1 is disposed on an end of the first elastic unit ELU1 and is exposed to the outside through the corresponding first groove G1. The first pushing unit PU1 is disposed adjacent to the other side surface S2 of the main body BD of the coupling unit JU adjacent to the first pushing unit PU1. For example, the first pushing unit PU1 of the first coupling unit JU1 moves in the first direction DR1 through the first elastic unit ELU1, and is disposed adjacent to the other side surface S2 of the main body BD of the second coupling unit JU2.

[0091] Each of the second elastic members ELM2 includes a second elastic unit ELU2 and a second pushing unit PU2, the second elastic unit ELU2 is disposed in a corresponding second groove G2 in the second groove G2, and the second pushing unit PU2 is disposed on an end of the second elastic unit ELU2 and is exposed to the outside through the corresponding second groove G2. The second pushing unit PU2 is disposed adjacent to the first inclined surface SP1 of the second protrusion P2 of the engaging unit JU adjacent to the second pushing unit PU2. For example, the second pushing unit PU2 of the first engaging unit JU1 moves in the first direction DR1 through the second elastic unit ELU2 and is disposed adjacent to the first inclined surface SP1 of the second protrusion P2 of the second engaging unit JU2.

[0092] The first pushing unit PU1 of the first engaging unit JU1 is used to push the main body BD of the second engaging unit JU2 through the first elastic unit ELU1. The second pushing unit PU2 of the first engaging unit JU1 is used to push the second protrusion P2 of the second engaging unit JU2 through the second elastic unit ELU2.

[0093] Fig.11 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A view of the structure of the side surface of the first supporting member. Fig.12 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A view of the structure of the side surface of the second supporting member.

[0094] Reference Fig.11 and Fig.12 The support member 200 includes a plurality of third and fourth protrusions P3 and P4 and a plurality of third and fourth elastic members ELM3 and ELM4 disposed on the first and second support members SM1 and SM2, respectively.

[0095] When viewed from the first direction DR1, a plurality of third protrusions P3 are provided on both sides of the first support member SM1. One third protrusion P3 may be provided on each of the two sides of the first support member SM1. When viewed from the second direction DR2, the third protrusion P3 is provided on the upper end of one side of the first support member SM1. Each of the third protrusions P3 may have the same shape as that of the first protrusion P1. One side of the first support member SM1 corresponds to one side surface S1_1 of the first support member SM1.

[0096] When viewed from the first direction DR1, a plurality of fourth protrusions P4 are provided on both sides of the second support member SM2. One fourth protrusion P4 may be provided on each side of both sides of the second support member SM2. When viewed from the second direction DR2, the fourth protrusion P4 is provided on the upper end of one side of the second support member SM2. Each of the fourth protrusions P4 may have the same shape as that of the second protrusion P2. One side of the second support member SM2 corresponds to one side surface S1_2 of the second support member SM2. Therefore, the one side of the first support member SM1 faces the one side of the second support member SM2.

[0097] One side surface S1_1 of the first supporting member SM1 may be an inclined surface symmetrical to the other side surface S2 of the main body BD of the bonding unit JU adjacent to the first supporting member SM1. One side surface S1_2 of the second supporting member SM2 may be an inclined surface symmetrical to the one side surface S1 of the main body BD of the bonding unit JU adjacent to the second supporting member SM2.

[0098] A plurality of third elastic members ELM3 are disposed in a plurality of third grooves G3 defined in one side surface S1_1 of the first supporting member SM1. A fourth elastic member ELM4 is disposed in a fourth groove G4 defined in the first inclined surface SP1 of each of the third protrusions P3. The third groove G3 and the third elastic member ELM3 may have a structure substantially the same as that of the first groove G1 and the first elastic member ELM1. The fourth groove G4 and the fourth elastic member ELM4 may have a structure substantially the same as that of the second groove G2 and the second elastic member ELM2.

[0099] Each of the third elastic members ELM3 includes a third elastic unit ELU3 disposed in a corresponding third groove G3 in the third groove G3 and a third pushing unit PU3 disposed on an end of the third elastic unit ELU3 and exposed to the outside through the corresponding third groove G3. The third pushing unit PU3 is disposed adjacent to the other side surface S2 of the main body BD of the engaging unit JU adjacent to the third pushing unit PU3.

[0100] Each of the fourth elastic members ELM4 includes a fourth elastic unit ELU4 and a fourth pushing unit PU4, the fourth elastic unit ELU4 is disposed in a corresponding fourth groove G4 in the fourth groove G4, the fourth pushing unit PU4 is disposed on an end of the fourth elastic unit ELU4 and is exposed to the outside through the corresponding fourth groove G4. The fourth pushing unit PU4 is disposed adjacent to the first inclined surface SP1 of the second protrusion P2 of the engaging unit JU adjacent to the fourth pushing unit PU4.

[0101] Fig.13 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A side view of a state in which the first supporting member and the second supporting member are connected to the engaging unit.

[0102] Reference Figure 6 and Fig.13 , the folding area FA of the display module 100 is disposed on the main body portion BD of the joint unit JU, and the non-folding area NFA of the display module 100 is disposed on the first supporting member SM1 and the second supporting member SM2, respectively. Fig.10 As described in , the joining unit JU is connected to the connection unit CU to rotate with each other. Although six joining units JU are exemplarily shown for convenience of description, exemplary embodiments are not limited to the number of joining units JU provided in the display device 1000.

[0103] The third protrusion P3 of the first supporting member SM1 and the second protrusion P2 of the joint unit JU adjacent to the third protrusion P3 are inserted into the corresponding joint unit CU in the joint units CU. The fourth protrusion P4 of the second supporting member SM2 and the first protrusion P1 of the joint unit JU adjacent to the fourth protrusion P4 are inserted into the corresponding joint unit CU in the joint units CU.

[0104] Each of the structures in which the third protrusion P3 and the second protrusion P2 are connected to rotate with each other and the structures in which the fourth protrusion P4 and the first protrusion P1 are connected to rotate with each other is similar to the structure in which the third protrusion P3 and the second protrusion P2 are connected to rotate with each other. Fig.10 The structures in which the first protrusion P1 and the second protrusion P2 are connected to rotate with each other are substantially the same.

[0105] Fig.14 2 is a view illustrating a state in which a display device is folded outward according to some exemplary embodiments. Fig.15 2 is a view illustrating a state in which a display device is folded inwardly according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0106] Reference Fig.14 , when the display device 1000 is folded outward so that the joint unit JU and the first and second supporting members SM1 and SM2 are rotated to expose the display module 100 to the outside, the second inclined surfaces SP2 of the first protrusion P1, the second protrusion P2, the third protrusion P3, and the fourth protrusion P4 may contact each other, and one side surface S1 and the other side surface S2 of the joint unit JU may contact each other. In addition, one side surface S1_1 of the first supporting member SM1 and the other side surface S2 of the joint unit JU adjacent to the first supporting member SM1 may contact each other. In addition, one side surface S1_2 of the second supporting member SM2 and one side surface S1 of the joint unit JU adjacent to the second supporting member SM2 may contact each other.

[0107] Reference Fig.15 When the display device 1000 is folded inwardly so that the joint unit JU and the first and second supporting members SM1 and SM2 are rotated to prevent the display module 100 from being exposed to the outside, the first inclined surfaces SP1 of the first protrusion P1, the second protrusion P2, the third protrusion P3, and the fourth protrusion P4 may contact each other. In this way, the display module 100 may be easily folded outwardly and inwardly. The display device 1000 may be folded outwardly and inwardly by an external force.

[0108] In some exemplary embodiments, the first elastic member ELM1 pushes the main body BD of the joining unit JU adjacent to it, the second elastic member ELM2 pushes the second protrusion P2 of the joining unit JU adjacent to it, and the first elastic member ELM1 and the second elastic member ELM2 of the joining unit JU adjacent to the second supporting member SM2 push the second supporting member SM2 and the fourth protrusion P4 respectively.

[0109] The third elastic member ELM3 pushes the main body BD of the joint unit JU adjacent thereto, and the fourth elastic member ELM4 pushes the second protrusion P2 of the joint unit JU adjacent thereto. Therefore, when the display device 1000 is no longer subjected to external force after being folded outward or inward by external force, the display device 1000 can be easily restored to a flat state.

[0110] Therefore, the display device 1000 according to various exemplary embodiments can be easily folded inward and outward by the coupling unit JU, and the display device 1000 folded inward or outward can be restored to a flat state by the first elastic member ELM1 and the second elastic member ELM2 set in the coupling unit JU and the third elastic member ELM3 and the fourth elastic member ELM4 set in the first supporting member SM1.

[0111] Fig.16 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 A view of a bonding unit of a display device.

[0112] For ease of description, Fig.16 Shown with Fig.10 The side surface corresponding to the side surface in FIG. Fig.16 The first joint unit JU1_1 and the second joint unit JU2_1 in Fig.10 Components of the first joining unit JU1 and the second joining unit JU2 are different components, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0113] Reference Fig.16, the second elastic member ELM2 is not provided in the first joint unit JU1_1 and the second joint unit JU2_1. Except for the second elastic member ELM2, the other components of the first joint unit JU1_1 and the second joint unit JU2_1 are the same as those of the first joint unit JU1_1 and the second joint unit JU2_1. Fig.10 The other components of the first joining unit JU1 and the second joining unit JU2 are the same.

[0114] The elastomer ELD is disposed between the first inclined surface SP1 of the first protrusion P1 of the first engaging unit JU1_1 and the first inclined surface SP1 of the second protrusion P2 of the second engaging unit JU2_1. The elastomer ELD may include a material having certain elasticity. Although the elastomer ELD may include rubber as an example, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0115] Since the elastic elastomer ELD is disposed between the first inclined surfaces SP1 of the first protrusion P1 and the first inclined surfaces SP1 of the second protrusion P2 adjacent to each other instead of the second elastic member ELM2, the display device 1000 can be restored to a flat state by the elastomer ELD after being folded inward.

[0116] Fig.17 and Fig.18 is a view illustrating one of the coupling units of the display device according to various exemplary embodiments. Fig.19 and Fig. 20 2 is a view illustrating a first supporting member and a second supporting member according to various exemplary embodiments.

[0117] Although for ease of description Fig.17 and Fig.18 A joint unit JU_1 is shown in FIG, but Figure 6 Similarly, a plurality of joint units JU_1 may be provided as part of the display device 2000 and may be provided at Fig.19 and Fig. 20 Between the first supporting member SM1_1 and the second supporting member SM2_1.

[0118] Hereinafter, components of the joining unit JU_1 and the first and second supporting members SM1_1 and SM2_1 that are different from those of the joining unit JU and the first and second supporting members SM1 and SM2 of the display apparatus 1000 will be mainly described, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0119] Reference Fig.17 and Fig.18The engaging unit JU_1 includes a first body portion BD1 extending in the second direction DR2, a first guide portion GD1 disposed on both sides of the first body portion BD1 when viewed from the first direction DR1, and a plurality of protrusions P1 and P2 disposed on both sides of the first guide portion GD1 when viewed from the second direction DR2.

[0120] Two protrusions are provided on both sides of each of the first guides GD1. The first protrusion P1 is provided on one side of each of the first guides GD1, and the second protrusion P2 is provided on the other side of each of the first guides GD1. The first protrusion P1 has a Figure 7 The first protrusion P1 has the same structure as the second protrusion P2. Figure 7 Therefore, descriptions about the first protrusion P1 and the second protrusion P2 will be omitted.

[0121] The first body portion BD1 may have a plane parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The folding area FA of the display module 100 is disposed on the first body portion BD1 of the coupling unit JU_1. When viewed from the second direction DR2, each of the first guide portions GD1 may have a hexagonal shape. In the third direction DR3, each of the first guide portions GD1 may have a thickness greater than that of the first body portion BD1. The first protrusion P1 and the second protrusion P2 are disposed on an outer surface of the first guide portion GD1, and the outer surface of the first guide portion GD1 is opposite to the inner surfaces of the first guide portion GD1 facing each other.

[0122] Each of the first guide portions GD1 includes a top surface US, a bottom surface BS, a first side surface SS1, a second side surface SS2, a third side surface SS3, and a fourth side surface SS4. The top surface US extends in the first direction DR1, is parallel to the first body portion BD1, and is disposed higher than the first body portion BD1. The bottom surface BS extends in the first direction DR1, is parallel to the first body portion BD1, overlaps with the top surface US, and is disposed lower than the first body portion BD1.

[0123] When viewed from the second direction DR2, the first side surface SS1 is connected to one side of the top surface US. When viewed from the second direction DR2, the second side surface SS2 is connected to an end of the first side surface SS1 and a side of the bottom surface BS disposed below the one side of the top surface US. When viewed from the second direction DR2, the third side surface SS3 is connected to the other side of the top surface US, the other side of the top surface US being the opposite side to the one side of the top surface US. When viewed from the second direction DR2, the fourth side surface SS4 is connected to an end of the third side surface SS3 and the other side of the bottom surface BS, the other side of the bottom surface BS being the opposite side to the one side of the bottom surface BS.

[0124] Each of the angles between the first side surface SS1 and the second side surface SS2 and the angle between the third side surface SS3 and the fourth side surface SS4 is less than about 180°. The vertex of each of the first protrusions P1 connecting the first inclined surface SP1 to the second inclined surface SP2 overlaps with the vertex of each of the first guides GD1 connecting the first side surface SS1 to the second side surface SS2. The vertex of each of the second protrusions P2 connecting the first inclined surface SP1 to the second inclined surface SP2 overlaps with the vertex of each of the first guides GD1 connecting the third side surface SS3 to the fourth side surface SS4.

[0125] The first inclined surface SP1 of each of the first protrusions P1 is parallel to the first side surface SS1 of each of the first guides GD1, and the second inclined surface SP2 of each of the first protrusions P1 is parallel to the second side surface SS2 of each of the first guides GD1. The first inclined surface SP1 of each of the second protrusions P2 is parallel to the third side surface SS3 of each of the first guides GD1, and the second inclined surface SP2 of each of the second protrusions P2 is parallel to the fourth side surface SS4 of each of the first guides GD1.

[0126] A plurality of first elastic members ELM1_1 are respectively disposed in a plurality of first grooves G1_1 defined in the first side surface SS1, and a plurality of second elastic members ELM2_1 are respectively disposed in a plurality of second grooves G2_1 defined in the fourth side surface SS4. One first elastic member ELM1_1 is disposed in the first groove G1_1 defined in the first side surface SS1 of each of the first guide portions GD1, and one second elastic member ELM2_1 is disposed in the second groove G2_1 defined in the fourth side surface SS4 of each of the first guide portions GD1.

[0127] Each of the first and second elastic members ELM1_1 and ELM2_1 extends in the first direction DR1. The first elastic member ELM1_1 may have substantially the same configuration as that of the second elastic member ELM2_1, except that the first and second elastic members ELM1_1 and ELM2_1 are disposed in opposite directions to each other.

[0128] Each of the first elastic members ELM1_1 includes a first elastic unit ELU1_1 disposed in a corresponding first groove G1_1 in the first grooves G1_1 and a first pushing unit PU1_1 disposed on an end of the first elastic unit ELU1_1 and exposed to the outside through the corresponding first groove G1_1. The first pushing unit PU1_1 is disposed adjacent to a third side surface SS3 of a first guide portion GD1 of a coupling unit JU_1 adjacent to the first pushing unit PU1_1.

[0129] Each of the second elastic members ELM2_1 includes a second elastic unit ELU2_1 and a second pushing unit PU2_1, the second elastic unit ELU2_1 is disposed in a corresponding second groove G2_1 in the second groove G2_1, the second pushing unit PU2_1 is disposed on an end of the second elastic unit ELU2_1 and is exposed to the outside through the corresponding second groove G2_1. The second pushing unit PU2_1 is disposed adjacent to the second side surface SS2 of the first guide portion GD1 of the engaging unit JU_1 adjacent to the second pushing unit PU2_1.

[0130] Reference Fig.19 and Fig. 20 , the first supporting member SM1_1 includes a second body portion BD2, a plurality of second guide portions GD2, a plurality of third protrusions P3, and a plurality of third elastic members ELM3_1. The second supporting member SM2_1 includes a third body portion BD3, a plurality of third guide portions GD3, a plurality of fourth protrusions P4, and a plurality of fourth elastic members ELM4_1. Each of the second body portion BD2 and the third body portion BD3 has a plane parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, and the non-folding area NFA of the display module 100 is respectively disposed on the second body portion BD2 and the third body portion BD3.

[0131] When viewed from the first direction DR1, the second guide portions GD2 are respectively disposed on both sides of the second body portion BD2 and extend in the first direction DR1. When viewed from the second direction DR2, each of the third protrusions P3 has the same shape as that of each of the first protrusions P1 and is disposed on one side of each of the second guide portions GD2.

[0132] When viewed from the first direction DR1, the third guide portions GD3 are respectively provided on both sides of the third body portion BD3 and extend in the first direction DR1. When viewed from the second direction DR2, each of the fourth protrusions P4 has the same shape as that of each of the second protrusions P2 and is provided on one side of each of the third guide portions GD3. The one side of each of the second guide portions GD2 faces the one side of each of the third guide portions GD3.

[0133] One side surface of each of the second guide portions GD2 includes a fifth side surface SS5 symmetrical to the third side surface SS3 and a sixth side surface SS6 symmetrical to the fourth side surface SS4. One side surface of each of the third guide portions GD3 facing the one side surface of each of the second guide portions GD2 includes a seventh side surface SS7 symmetrical to the first side surface SS1 and an eighth side surface SS8 symmetrical to the second side surface SS2.

[0134] A third groove G3_1 is defined in each of the fifth side surfaces SS5, and a third elastic member ELM3_1 corresponding to the third groove G3_1 is disposed in the third groove G3_1. Each of the third elastic members ELM3_1 includes a third elastic unit ELU3_1 disposed in a corresponding third groove G3_1 in the third groove G3_1, and a third pushing unit PU3_1 disposed on an end of the third elastic unit ELU3_1 and exposed to the outside through the corresponding third groove G3_1.

[0135] A fourth groove G4_1 is defined in each of the eighth side surfaces SS8, and a fourth elastic member ELM4_1 corresponding to the fourth groove G4_1 is disposed in the fourth groove G4_1. Each of the fourth elastic members ELM4_1 includes a fourth elastic unit ELU4_1 disposed in a corresponding fourth groove G4_1 in the fourth groove G4_1 and a fourth pushing unit PU4_1 disposed on an end of the fourth elastic unit ELU4_1 and exposed to the outside through the corresponding fourth groove G4_1.

[0136] The third pushing unit PU3_1 is disposed adjacent to the third side surface SS3 of the first guide portion GD1 of the engaging unit JU_1 adjacent to the third pushing unit PU3_1. The fourth pushing unit PU4_1 is disposed adjacent to the second side surface SS2 of the first guide portion GD1 of the engaging unit JU_1 adjacent to the fourth pushing unit PU4_1.

[0137] Fig.21 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figures 17 to 20A side view of a state in which the first supporting member and the second supporting member and the engaging unit are connected to each other. Fig. 22 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.21 A view showing the device folded outward. Fig.23 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.21 A view showing the device folded inwards.

[0138] Reference Fig.21 The first supporting member SM1_1, the second supporting member SM2_1 and the joint unit JU_1 are connected to each other by the connection unit CU to rotate with each other. Fig.13 The configuration in which the first supporting member SM1 and the second supporting member SM2 and the engaging unit JU are coupled by the connecting unit CU to rotate with each other is basically the same.

[0139] A first angle θ1 between the first side surface SS1 and the third side surface SS3 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to each other and a second angle θ2 between the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to each other are identical to each other. Therefore, an angle formed between the first side surface SS1 and the third direction DR3 may be identical to an angle formed between the second side surface SS2 and the third direction DR3.

[0140] Reference Fig. 22 When the joining unit JU_1 and the first and second supporting members SM1_1 and SM2_1 rotate to fold the display device 2000 outward, the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to each other may contact each other, and the second inclined surfaces SP2 of the first protrusion P1 and the second protrusion P2 adjacent to each other may contact each other. In addition, the sixth side surface SS6 of the first supporting member SM1_1 may contact the fourth side surface SS4 of the joining unit JU_1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM1_1, and the eighth side surface SS8 of the second supporting member SM2_1 may contact the second side surface SS2 of the joining unit JU_1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM2_1.

[0141] Reference Fig.23When the joining unit JU_1 and the first and second supporting members SM1_1 and SM2_1 rotate to fold the display device 2000 inward, the first side surface SS1 and the third side surface SS3 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to each other may contact each other, and the first inclined surfaces SP1 of the first protrusion P1 and the second protrusion P2 adjacent to each other may contact each other. In addition, the fifth side surface SS5 of the first supporting member SM1_1 may contact the third side surface SS3 of the joining unit JU_1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM1_1, and the seventh side surface SS7 of the second supporting member SM2_1 may contact the first side surface SS1 of the joining unit JU_1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM2_1.

[0142] In some exemplary embodiments, the first elastic member ELM1_1 pushes the third side surface SS3 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to the first elastic member ELM1_1, and the second elastic member ELM2_1 pushes the second side surface SS2 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to the second elastic member ELM2_1. The second elastic member ELM2_1 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to the first supporting member SM1_1 pushes the sixth side surface SS6 of the second guide portion GD2, and the first elastic member ELM1_1 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to the second supporting member SM2_1 pushes the seventh side surface SS7 of the third guide portion GD3. The third elastic member ELM3_1 pushes the third side surface SS3 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to the third elastic member ELM3_1, and the fourth elastic member ELM4_1 pushes the second side surface SS2 of the first guide portion GD1 adjacent to the fourth elastic member ELM4_1.

[0143] Therefore, the display device 2000 according to various exemplary embodiments can be easily folded inward and outward by the joining unit JU_1, and the display device 2000 folded inward or outward can be restored to a flat state by the first elastic member ELM1_1 and the second elastic member ELM2_1 set in the joining unit JU_1, the third elastic member ELM3_1 set in the first supporting member SM1_1, and the fourth elastic member ELM4_1 set in the second supporting member SM2_1.

[0144] Fig.24 is a view illustrating two bonding units adjacent to each other among bonding units of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments. Fig.25 is a side view illustrating a configuration of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0145] The display device 3000 is configured similarly to the display device 3000 except for the first side surface SS1′, SS1″ and the third side surface SS3′, SS3″ of the coupling unit JU_2 and the fifth side surface SS5′ and the seventh side surface SS7′ of the first supporting member SM1_2 and the second supporting member SM2_2. Fig.21 Therefore, hereinafter, the components of the display device 3000 will be mainly described, especially the first side surface SS1', SS1" and the third side surface SS3', SS3" of the joining unit JU_2 and the fifth side surface SS5' of the first supporting member SM1_2 and the seventh side surface SS7' of the second supporting member SM2_2, and the same components will be represented by the same reference numerals.

[0146] Reference Fig.24 , a first angle θ1′ between the first side surface SS1′ and the third side surface SS3′ of the bonding units JU_2 adjacent to each other is greater than a second angle θ2 between the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 of the bonding units JU_2 adjacent to each other.

[0147] Reference Fig.25 , the third side surface SS3'' of each of the first guide portions GD1' of the joining unit JU1_2 adjacent to the first supporting member SM1_2 among the joining units JU_2 is parallel to the fifth side surface SS5' of the first supporting member SM1_2 in the third direction DR3. The first side surface SS1'' of each of the first guide portions GD1' of the joining unit JU2_2 adjacent to the second supporting member SM2_2 among the joining units JU_2 is parallel to the seventh side surface SS7' of the second supporting member SM2_2 in the third direction DR3.

[0148] When the joining unit JU_2 and the first and second supporting members SM1_2 and SM2_2 are arranged in a flat manner, the third side surface SS3" of the joining unit JU1_2 and the fifth side surface SS5' of the first supporting member SM1_2 may contact each other. In addition, the first side surface SS1" of the joining unit JU2_2 and the seventh side surface SS7' of the second supporting member SM2_2 may contact each other.

[0149] Although five joining units JU_2 are exemplarily illustrated for convenience of description, exemplary embodiments are not limited to the number of joining units JU_2 provided as a part of the display device 3000 .

[0150] Fig.26 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.25 A view showing the device folded outward. Fig. 27 According to some exemplary embodiments, Fig.25 A view showing the device folded inwards.

[0151] Reference Fig.26 and Fig. 27 , as the coupling unit JU_2 and the first and second supporting members SM1_2 and SM2_2 rotate, the display device 3000 can be folded outward or inward. The first angle θ1' formed between the first side surface SS1' and the third side surface SS3' adjacent to each other is greater than the second angle θ2 formed between the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 adjacent to each other. Therefore, compared with when folding outward, the display device 3000 is bent more when folding inward. That is, the curvature of the folding area FA when the display device 3000 is folded inward is greater than the curvature of the folding area FA when the display device 3000 is folded outward.

[0152] Since the display device 3000 is folded outward or inward at different curvatures, the convenience of the user can be enhanced. In addition, the display device 3000 can be easily folded inward or outward, and can be easily restored to a flat state after being folded inward or outward.

[0153] Fig.28 and Fig.29 According to various exemplary embodiments, Fig.25 A view of a bonding unit of a display device.

[0154] In the following, we will mainly describe Fig.28 and Fig.29 The components of the joining units JU_3 and JU_4 in particular Fig.24 The components of the joining unit JU_2 are different components.

[0155] Reference Fig.28 , a plurality of elastic bodies ELD1 are respectively disposed between the first inclined surface SP1 of the first protrusion P1 and the first inclined surface SP1 of the second protrusion P2 adjacent to each other and between the second inclined surface SP2 of the first protrusion P1 and the second inclined surface SP2 of the second protrusion P2 adjacent to each other. In addition to the additional provision of the elastic body ELD1, the joint unit JU_3 has Fig.24 The components of the bonding unit JU_2 in the display device are the same components. After the display device is folded inward or outward, the display device can be further easily restored to a flat state by the elastic body ELD1.

[0156] Reference Fig.29, a plurality of first magnet units MG1 having the same polarity as each other are arranged in a plurality of fifth grooves G5 defined in the first side surface SS1' and the third side surface SS3' of the joint unit JU_4. A plurality of second magnet units MG2 having the same polarity as each other are arranged in a plurality of sixth grooves G6 defined in the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 of the joint unit JU_4. The first magnet unit MG1 and the second magnet unit MG2 have opposite polarities to each other. Fig.24 Unlike the joining unit JU_2 in FIG. 4 , the first elastic member ELM1_1 and the second elastic member ELM2_1 are not provided in the joining unit JU_4 .

[0157] Since the first magnet unit MG1 having the same polarity is disposed on the first side surface SS1' and the third side surface SS3' adjacent to each other, a repulsive force may be applied to the first side surface SS1' and the third side surface SS3'. Since the second magnet unit MG2 having the same polarity is disposed on the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 adjacent to each other, a repulsive force may be applied to the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4. Therefore, the display device may be restored to a flat state by the first magnet unit MG1 and the second magnet unit MG2 after the display device is folded inward or outward.

[0158] According to various exemplary embodiments, the display device can be folded inwardly and outwardly by the coupling unit of the supporting member. In addition, the display device folded inwardly or outwardly can be restored to a flat state by an elastic member or a magnetic member provided in the coupling unit of the supporting member and the first supporting member and the second supporting member.

[0159] Although certain exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the appended claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: a first support member; a second supporting member arranged along a first direction from the first supporting member; a bonding unit arranged along the first direction, extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and disposed between the first supporting member and the second supporting member; as well as a display module, disposed on the first supporting member, the second supporting member and the bonding unit, wherein the display module is flexible, Wherein, each of the engagement units includes: a main body extending in the second direction; and protrusions, which are arranged on opposite sides of the main body when viewed in the first direction, and each of the protrusions has a fan-shaped shape and is arranged on an upper end of the main body when viewed in the second direction. wherein each of the protrusions comprises: a curved surface defined as an arc of the sector shape; a first inclined surface defined as a first radius of the sector shape; and a second inclined surface defined as a second radius of the sector shape, an angle formed between the first inclined surface and a third direction being equal to an angle formed between the second inclined surface and the third direction, the third direction being perpendicular to a plane parallel to the first direction and the second direction, and The curved surfaces of the protrusions provided on the upper ends of the main body facing each other face each other.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: Each joint unit includes: a first protrusion of the protrusions, the first protrusion being disposed on one of opposite sides of an upper end of the main body portion when viewed in the second direction; and A second protrusion of the protrusions is provided on the other of the opposite sides of the upper end of the main body portion when viewed in the second direction.

3. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising: A plurality of connecting units are provided to connect the engaging units in a mutually rotatable manner, The first protrusion of a first joining unit among the joining units and the second protrusion of a second joining unit adjacent to the first joining unit among the joining units are provided in one of the plurality of connecting units.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A vertex of the fan-shaped shape of the first protrusion of the first engaging unit and a vertex of the fan-shaped shape of the second protrusion of the second engaging unit are adjacent to each other.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: Each of the connection units has a ring shape; the curved surface of the first protrusion of the first engaging unit provided in the one connecting unit is connected to the one connecting unit; as well as The first engaging unit and the second engaging unit rotate with each other about a rotation axis extending in the second direction at a center point of the annular shape of the one connecting unit.

6. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The first inclined surface is disposed on the second inclined surface; When viewed in the second direction, the main body has an inverted trapezoidal shape; When viewed in the second direction, a vertex connecting the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface of the first protrusion overlaps with a vertex connecting the top surface and one side surface of the main body, and the second inclined surface of the first protrusion overlaps with an upper portion of the one side surface of the main body; and When viewed in the second direction, the vertex of the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface connecting the second protrusion overlaps with the vertex connecting the top surface and the other side surface of the main body, the other side surface is the opposite side surface of the one side surface of the main body, and the second inclined surface of the second protrusion overlaps with the upper part of the other side surface of the main body.

7. The display device according to claim 6, further comprising: first elastic members, respectively disposed in first grooves defined in the one side surface of the main body; as well as A second elastic member is disposed in a second groove defined in the first inclined surface of the first protrusion.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: Each of the first elastic members comprises: a first elastic unit, disposed in a corresponding first groove in the first grooves; and The first pushing unit is arranged on the end of the first elastic unit and is exposed to the outside through the corresponding first groove. The first pushing unit is arranged adjacent to the other side surface of the main body of the coupling unit adjacent to the first pushing unit among the coupling units.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The second elastic member comprises: A second elastic unit is disposed in the second groove; and A second pushing unit is disposed on an end portion of the second elastic unit and is exposed to the outside through the second groove, and the second pushing unit is disposed adjacent to the first inclined surface of the second protrusion adjacent to the second pushing unit.

10. The display device according to claim 6, further comprising: a third protrusion, the third protrusion being provided on each of opposite sides of the first supporting member when viewed in the first direction, the third protrusion being provided on an upper end of one side of the first supporting member when viewed in the second direction, and having the same shape as that of the first protrusion; a fourth protrusion provided on each of opposite sides of the second supporting member when viewed in the first direction, provided on an upper end of one side of the second supporting member when viewed in the second direction, and having the same shape as that of the second protrusion; as well as connecting units, some of which couple the third protrusion to the second protrusion of the engaging unit adjacent to the third protrusion in the engaging unit in a mutually rotatable manner, and some of which couple the fourth protrusion to the first protrusion of the engaging unit adjacent to the fourth protrusion in the engaging unit in a mutually rotatable manner, Wherein, the one side of the first supporting member faces the one side of the second supporting member.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: One side surface of the first supporting member is symmetrical with the other side surface of the main body of the engaging unit adjacent to the first supporting member among the engaging units; and One side surface of the second supporting member facing the one side surface of the first supporting member is symmetrical to one side surface of the main body portion of a bonding unit adjacent to the second supporting member among the bonding units.

12. The display device according to claim 11, further comprising: third elastic members, respectively disposed in third grooves defined in the one side surface of the first supporting member; as well as A fourth elastic member is disposed in a fourth groove defined in the first inclined surface of one of the third protrusions.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the third elastic members comprises: A third elastic unit is disposed in a corresponding third groove in the third groove; and The third pushing unit is arranged on the end of the third elastic unit and is exposed to the outside through the corresponding third groove. The third pushing unit is arranged adjacent to the other side surface of the main body of the coupling unit adjacent to the third pushing unit in the coupling unit.

14. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: The fourth elastic member comprises: a fourth elastic unit, disposed in the fourth groove; and A fourth pushing unit is disposed on an end portion of the fourth elastic unit and is exposed to the outside through the fourth groove. The fourth pushing unit is disposed adjacent to the first inclined surface of the second protrusion adjacent to the fourth pushing unit.

15. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: When the display module is folded outward so that the display module is exposed to the outside, the second inclined surfaces of the first protrusion, the second protrusion, the third protrusion, and the fourth protrusion contact each other, the one side surface and the other side surface of the main body of the joining unit contact each other, and the one side surface of the first supporting member and the other side surface of the joining unit adjacent to the first supporting member contact each other; and When the display module is folded inwardly so that the display module is not exposed to the outside, the first inclined surfaces of the first protrusion, the second protrusion, the third protrusion, and the fourth protrusion contact each other.

16. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The display module comprises: A first unfolded area, disposed on the first supporting member; A second unfolded area is provided on the second supporting member; and A folding area is provided between the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area, and the folding area is provided on the main body of the joining unit.

17. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising: an elastic body disposed between the first inclined surface of the first protrusion of the first engaging unit in the engaging units and the second inclined surface of the second protrusion of the second engaging unit in the engaging units, The first protrusion of the first engaging unit and the second protrusion of the second engaging unit are adjacent to each other.

Images