Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a bracket, a display panel, a first force sensor, and a main circuit board. The display panel is disposed on the bracket. The first force sensor is disposed between the display panel and the bracket, adjacent to a first edge of the display panel. The main circuit board is disposed below the bracket such that the bracket is disposed between the display panel and the main circuit board. The bracket includes a first hole that exposes the main circuit board. The first force sensor is connected to the main circuit board through the first hole.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0089449, filed on Jul. 31, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0002] Example embodiments relate generally to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device including one or more force sensors. Background Art

[0003] Electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smartphones, tablet personal computers (PCs), digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation systems, smart TVs, etc., include display devices for displaying images. A display device generally includes a display panel that generates and displays images, and may include various input devices. For example, a touch panel that recognizes touch input can be applied to a display device, such as in combination with a smartphone and a tablet PC. Due to the convenience of the touch method, a touch panel can replace existing physical input devices such as keyboards. Research is also underway to include a force sensor in a display device and utilize the force sensor to replace existing physical buttons.

[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 constitute the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Some example embodiments can provide a display device including a force sensor that makes input relatively easy.

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

[0007] According to some exemplary embodiments, a display device includes a bracket, a display panel, a first force sensor, and a main circuit board. The display panel is disposed on the bracket. The first force sensor is disposed between the display panel and the bracket, adjacent to a first edge of the display panel. The main circuit board is disposed below the bracket such that the bracket is disposed between the display panel and the main circuit board. The bracket includes a first hole that exposes the main circuit board. The first force sensor is connected to the main circuit board through the first hole.

[0008] 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

[0009] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the inventive concept. 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.

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0011] Figure 2 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of an example of a display device.

[0012] Figure 3 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an example of a display device taken along section line AA'.

[0013] Figure 4 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A bottom view of an example of a display panel in a display device.

[0014] Figure 5 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of an example of a force sensor in a display device.

[0015] Figure 6 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 5 An example circuit diagram of a force sensor.

[0016] Figure 7 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 6 An enlarged layout diagram of area AA.

[0017] Figure 8 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of an example of the force sensor taken along section line BB'.

[0018] Figure 9 is a diagram showing a method according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Figure 7 A graph showing the resistance of the force sensing layer in a force sensor versus force.

[0019] Figure 10 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of another example of a force sensor in a display device.

[0020] Figure 11 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of an example of a bracket in a display device.

[0021] Figure 12 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of an example of a stent taken along section line CC'.

[0022] Figure 13 、 Figure 14 and Figure 15 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of various brackets in a display device.

[0023] Figure 16 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device.

[0024] Figure 17 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device.

[0025] Figure 18 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of an example of a display device taken along section line EE'.

[0026] Figure 19 and Figure 20 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of another example of the display device taken along the section line EE'.

[0027] Figure 21 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device.

[0028] Figure 22 and Figure 23 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a main circuit board in a display device.

[0029] Figure 24 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of another example of a display device.

[0030] Figure 25 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 24 A perspective view of an example of a bracket in a display device.

[0031] Figure 26 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 24 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device.

[0032] Figure 27 and Figure 28 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a method for transmitting a force signal to a Figure 1 A diagram of a display apparatus and method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various exemplary embodiments. However, it is apparent that the various exemplary embodiments can be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other cases, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid making the various exemplary embodiments unnecessarily obscure. In addition, the various exemplary embodiments can be different, but not necessarily exclusive. For example, the specific shape, configuration, and characteristics of the exemplary embodiment can be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0034] 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") may be further combined, separated, interchanged, and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concept.

[0035] It is generally provided that cross hatching and / or shading is used in the drawings to make the boundaries between adjacent elements clear. Thus, unless 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 sizes and relative sizes of the elements may be exaggerated for the purpose of clarity and / or description. Thus, the sizes and relative sizes of the various elements are not necessarily limited to the sizes and relative sizes shown in the drawings. When the exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, the specific process sequence can be performed differently from the described order. For example, two continuously described processes can be performed substantially simultaneously or in an order opposite to the described order. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0036] When an element is referred to as being "on" another element, "connected to" or "bound to" another element, the element may be directly on the other element, directly connected to or directly bound to the other element, or there may be an intermediate element. However, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, "directly connected to" or "directly bound 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" and "directly adjacent," "on..." and "directly above...", etc. In addition, the term "connected" may refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection and / or a fluid connection. For the purposes 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 any combination of only X, only Y, only Z or two of X, Y and Z or more (such as with XYZ, XYY, YZ and ZZ as examples). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0037] 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. Thus, the first element discussed below may be named the second element without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

[0038] For descriptive purposes, spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "beneath," "below," "above," "upper," "above," "higher," and "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall") may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element(s) as shown in the accompanying drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture in addition to the orientations depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is turned over, an element described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would subsequently be positioned "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can include both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), with the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0039] 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 "one (kind / person)" and "said (the)" in the singular are also intended to include plural forms. In addition, when the terms "comprise", "include" and variations thereof are used in this specification, explanations include the existence of stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups. It is also noted that, as used herein, terms "substantially", "approximately" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as degree terms, and are so used to explain the measured values, calculated values ​​and / or the inherent deviation of the values ​​that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0040] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views, axonometric views, perspective views, plan views, and / or exploded views that are schematic representations of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. As such, variations in the shapes of the illustrations due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the specific illustrated shapes of the regions, but rather are to include deviations in shapes due to, 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.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of which this disclosure is a part. Unless otherwise clearly 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 are not to be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0042] As is customary in the art, some exemplary embodiments are described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings in terms of functional blocks, units, and / or modules. 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, storage elements, wiring connections, etc., and these blocks, units, and / or modules can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing techniques or other manufacturing techniques. Where blocks, units, and / or modules are implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, they can be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and can optionally be driven by firmware and / or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit, and / or module can be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a combination of dedicated hardware that performs certain functions and a processor that performs other functions (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuits). In addition, without departing from the inventive concept, each block, unit, and / or module in some exemplary embodiments can be physically divided into two or more interactive and discrete blocks, units, and / or modules. Furthermore, without departing from the inventive concept, the blocks, units and / or modules in some exemplary embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules.

[0043] Hereinafter, various exemplary embodiments will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of an example of a display device. Figure 3 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 The section line A-A' is taken Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example of a display device. Figure 4 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A bottom view of an example of a display panel in a display device.

[0045] Reference Figure 1, the display device 1 may have a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view. The display device 1 may be shaped as a rectangle with right-angled corners or a rectangle with rounded corners in a plan view; however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The display device 1 may include two long sides LS1 and LS2 and two short sides SS1 and SS2. In the rectangular display device 1 or a component such as the display panel 30 included in the rectangular display device 1, the long side located on the right side in the plan view will be referred to as the first long side LS1, the long side located on the left side in the plan view will be referred to as the second long side LS2, the short side located on the upper side in the plan view will be referred to as the first short side SS1, and the short side located on the lower side in the plan view will be referred to as the second short side SS2. The long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 1 may be, but are not limited to, approximately 1.5 to 2.5 times the short sides SS1 and SS2.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined, the terms "above" and "upper surface" in the thickness direction as used herein refer to the display surface side of the display panel 30, and the terms "below" and "lower surface" in the thickness direction as used herein refer to the opposite side of the display panel 30 from the display surface side. In addition, the terms "above (upper)", "below (lower)", "left side", and "right side" in the planar direction refer to directions when the display surface placed in a certain position is viewed from above, for example, in a plan view.

[0047] The display device 1 may include a first region DR1 and a second region DR2 located in different planes. The first region DR1 is located in a first plane. The second region DR2 is connected to the first region DR1, but is bent or curved from the first region DR1. The second region DR2 may be located in a second plane set at a predetermined intersection angle with the first plane, or may have a curved surface. The second region DR2 of the display device 1 may be arranged around the first region DR1 (or adjacent to the first region DR1). The first region DR1 of the display device 1 may be used as a main display surface. The second region DR2 as well as the first region DR1 may be used as a display area of ​​the display device 1. The case where the first region DR1 of the display device 1 is a flat portion and the second region DR2 is a curved portion will be described below as an example.

[0048] The second region DR2, which is a curved portion, may have a constant curvature or a varying curvature. The second region DR2 may be provided at an edge of the display device 1. In some exemplary embodiments, the second region DR2 may be provided at two long edges (long sides LS1 and LS2) of the display device 1 facing each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the second region DR2 may be provided at one edge, two short edges (short sides SS1 and SS2), three edges, or all edges of the display device 1.

[0049] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The display device 1 includes a display panel 30 and force sensors 100 and 200 disposed near edges of the display panel 30. The display device 1 may further include a window 10 disposed above the display panel 30, a cover plate 40 disposed below the display panel 30, and a bracket 50 (or an intermediate frame or an intermediate mold frame) disposed below the cover plate 40.

[0050] The display panel 30 is a panel for displaying images and may be, for example, an organic light-emitting display panel. For ease of description and explanation, the case where an organic light-emitting display panel is used as the display panel 30 will be described as an example. However, other types of display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an electrophoretic display panel, may be used as the display panel 30. A display flexible circuit board 31 may be coupled to the display panel 30.

[0051] The display panel 30 includes a plurality of organic light emitting elements disposed on a substrate. The substrate may be a rigid substrate made of glass or quartz, or may be a flexible substrate made of, for example, polyimide or other polymer resins. When a polyimide substrate is used as the substrate, the display panel 30 may be bent, folded, and / or rolled. For example, Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the display panel 30 may include a bending area BA provided at the second short side SS2 and may be bent. The display flexible circuit board 31 may be attached to the bending area BA of the display panel 30. The display flexible circuit board 31 may include a display connector 35 formed at an end portion. Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the display flexible circuit board 31 may be placed on the lower surface of the display panel 30 by bending of the bending area BA (or bending of the display flexible circuit board 31 ).

[0052] The window 10 is disposed above the display panel 30. The window 10 is disposed above the display panel 30 to protect the display panel 30 and transmit light emitted from the display panel 30. The window 10 may be made of glass or transparent plastic; however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0053] The window 10 may be disposed so as to overlap the display panel 30 and cover the entire surface of the display panel 30. The window 10 may be larger than the display panel 30. For example, the window 10 may protrude outward from the display panel 30 at the two short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 1. The window 10 may also protrude outward from the display panel 30 at the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 1. However, the protruding distance of the window 10 may be greater at the two short sides SS1 and SS2.

[0054] In some exemplary embodiments, the display device 1 may further include a touch member 20 disposed between the display panel 30 and the window 10. The touch member 20 may be of a rigid panel type, a flexible panel type, or a film type. The touch member 20 may have a size substantially the same as that of the display panel 30 and may overlap with the display panel 30. The side surface of the touch member 20 may, but need not, be aligned with the side surface of the display panel 30 at all sides except the curved second short side SS2 of the display panel 30. The display panel 30 and the touch member 20, as well as the touch member 20 and the window 10, may be bonded together by transparent bonding layers 62 and 61, such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or an optically clear resin (OCR), respectively. The touch flexible circuit board 21 may be bonded to the touch member 20.

[0055] The touch member 20 may be omitted. In this case, the display panel 30 and the window 10 may be bonded together by OCA or OCR. In some exemplary embodiments, the display panel 30 may include a touch electrode portion.

[0056] The cover sheet 40 is disposed under the display panel 30. The cover sheet 40 may be attached to the lower surface of the display panel 30 through a bonding layer 71 such as a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer or an adhesive layer.

[0057] The cover sheet 40 is disposed to overlap the center portion of the display panel 30. The cover sheet 40 may have a size substantially similar to that of the display panel 30. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the embodiment, the cover sheet 40 is shown as having the same size as the display panel 30. However, this is merely an example, and the cover sheet 40 is not limited to this example. For example, the cover sheet 40 may expose the lower surface of the display panel 30 by a predetermined width near the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display panel 30. In this case, the force sensors 100 and 200 may be provided on the exposed lower surface of the display panel 30.

[0058] The cover plate 40 may perform a heat dissipation function, an electromagnetic wave shielding function, a pattern detection prevention function, a grounding function, a buffering function, a strength enhancement function, and / or a digitization function. The cover plate 40 may include a functional layer having at least one of the aforementioned functions. The functional layer may be provided in various forms such as at least one of a layer, a film, a membrane, a sheet, a plate, and a panel. The cover plate 40 may include one or more functional layers. For example, the cover plate 40 may include a buffer sheet, a graphite sheet, and a copper sheet stacked sequentially from top to bottom.

[0059] The force sensors 100 and 200 may be disposed so as to overlap at least one edge of the cover plate 40 (or the display panel 30). A plurality of force sensors 100 and 200 may be provided. As shown in the drawings, the force sensors 100 and 200 may include a first force sensor 100 overlapping a first long edge (e.g., first long side LS1) of the display panel 30 and a second force sensor 200 overlapping a second long edge (e.g., second long side LS2) of the display panel 30. The first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 may be disposed in the second region DR2 (e.g., the curved portion) of the display device 1. However, the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 do not necessarily need to be disposed in the second region DR2.

[0060] The first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 may be disposed in the second region DR2 of the display device 1 and may not be disposed in the first region DR1. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited to this, and the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 may be disposed in the second region DR2 and extend to a portion of the first region DR1 in the width direction.

[0061] Although the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 overlap with the display panel 30, in some exemplary embodiments, the area of ​​the display panel 30 overlapping with the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 may be a non-display area surrounding the display area. The outermost black matrix may be provided in the non-display area surrounding the display area of ​​the display panel 30. Furthermore, although the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 overlap with the touch member 20, the area of ​​the touch member 20 overlapping with the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 may be a peripheral area where no touch electrodes are provided.

[0062] In some exemplary embodiments, the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 may further include a first sensing flexible circuit board 150 and a second sensing flexible circuit board 250, respectively. The first sensing flexible circuit board 150 and the second sensing flexible circuit board 250 may connect the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 to the main circuit board 90 (which will be described later) and transmit a driving signal (or a sensing signal) between the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 and the main circuit board 90. The first sensing flexible circuit board 150 and the second sensing flexible circuit board 250 may respectively include a first sensing connector 160 and a second sensing connector (not shown) formed or provided at the end portions, and may be coupled to the main circuit board 90 through the first sensing connector 160 and the second sensing connector (not shown). Reference will be made later to Figures 5 to 10 A more specific configuration of the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 is described.

[0063] The bracket 50 is disposed below the first and second force sensors 100 and 200, as well as the cover plate 40. The bracket 50 may be a storage container or protective container for accommodating other components. For example, the bracket 50 may accommodate the window 10, the touch member 20, the display panel 30, the first and second force sensors 100 and 200, and the cover plate 40.

[0064] The bracket 50 may include a bottom 51 and side walls 52 extending from sides of the bottom 51 .

[0065] The bottom 51 of the bracket 50 faces the first force sensor 100, the second force sensor 200, and the cover sheet 40. The first force sensor 100, the second force sensor 200, and the cover sheet 40 can be attached to the bottom 51 of the bracket 50 via a bonding layer (not shown), such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer or an adhesive layer. In some exemplary embodiments, the bonding layer that attaches the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 to the bottom 51 of the bracket 50 can be a waterproof tape.

[0066] The sidewall 52 of the bracket 50 faces the side surface of the touch member 20, the side surface of the display panel 30, the side surface of the first force sensor 100, the side surface of the second force sensor 200, and the side surface of the cover plate 40. The upper end of the sidewall 52 of the bracket 50 faces the window 10. The outer surface of the bracket 50 can be aligned with the outer surface of the window 10. The window 10 can be attached to the bracket 50 using a waterproof tape 81.

[0067] The bracket 50 may include a connection hole H_F near the first long edge (e.g., the first long side LS1), through which the display connector 35 passes. The connection hole H_F may penetrate the bottom 51 of the bracket 50 in the thickness direction and may have a slit shape. The first force sensor 100 may have a notch-shaped groove NTH near the connection hole H_F of the bracket 50.

[0068] Additionally, the bracket 50 may include a first hole HOL1 that overlaps with the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 of the first force sensor 100, and a second hole HOL2 that overlaps with the second sensing flexible circuit board 250 of the second force sensor 200. The first and second holes HOL1, HOL2 may penetrate the bottom 51 of the bracket 50 in the thickness direction and may have a quadrilateral shape (or a slit shape). The first hole HOL1 may overlap with the end of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 of the first force sensor 100. In this case, the first sensing connector 160 formed at the end of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 may penetrate the bracket 50 through the first hole HOL1. Similarly, the second hole HOL2 may overlap with the end of the second sensing flexible circuit board 250 of the second force sensor 200. In this case, the second sensing connector (not shown) formed at the end of the second sensing flexible circuit board 250 may penetrate the bracket 50 through the second hole HOL2.

[0069] In some exemplary embodiments, the bracket 50 may include a groove overlapping the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200. Figure 3 As shown in , the bracket 50 may include a first guide groove G1F formed to correspond to the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 of the first force sensor 100 , and the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 may be disposed in the first guide groove G1F of the bracket 50 .

[0070] For reference, in Figure 2 In the embodiment, the window 10, the touch member 20, the display panel 30, and the cover plate 40 can be manufactured as a first structure, and the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200, the bracket 50, and the main circuit board 90 can be manufactured as a second structure (e.g., a lower panel structure). The display device 1 can then be manufactured by combining the first structure and the second structure. When the bracket 50 includes the first and second holes HOL1 and HOL2 and the groove (e.g., the first guide groove G1F), it is possible to easily align the first and second force sensors 100 and 200 with the bracket 50 and combine them with the bracket 50.

[0071] In addition, the bracket 50 may further include a sensor hole H_C and a battery hole H_B. Each of the sensor hole H_C and the battery hole H_B may penetrate the bracket 50. When the display device 1 includes a sensor such as a camera device, the camera device may be positioned to correspond to the sensor hole H_C. Similarly, when the display device 1 includes a battery device, the battery device may be positioned in the battery hole H_B.

[0072] The main circuit board 90 may be disposed under the bracket 50 and may include first connection terminals CT1 , second connection terminals CT2 , main connection terminals CT_F, and a main processor 92 .

[0073] The first connection terminal CT1 may overlap the first hole HOL1 and may be connected to the end portion of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 passing through the first hole HOL1. The second connection terminal CT2 may overlap the second hole HOL2 and may be connected to the end portion of the second sensing flexible circuit board 250 passing through the second hole HOL2. The main connection terminal CT_F may be connected to the display connector 35 of the display flexible circuit board 31 passing through the connection hole H_F.

[0074] The main processor 92 can control all functions of the display device 1. Figure 22 and Figure 23 The specific configuration of the main circuit board 90 will be described.

[0075] The first and second force sensors 100, 200, the bracket 50, and the main circuit board 90 will now be described in more detail. The second force sensor 200 is substantially the same as or similar to the first force sensor 100, except for the notch-shaped recess NTH. Therefore, the first and second force sensors 100, 200 will be described based on the first force sensor 100.

[0076] Figure 5 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of an example of a force sensor in a display device. Figure 6 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 5 An example circuit diagram of a force sensor. Figure 7 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 6 An enlarged layout diagram of area AA. Figure 8 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of an example of the force sensor taken along section line BB'. Figure 9 is a diagram showing a method according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Figure 7 A graph showing the resistance of the force sensing layer in a force sensor versus force.

[0077] First, refer to Figure 5, the first force sensor 100 extends in one direction in a plane. In this case, the length of the first force sensor 100 in the extending direction may be greater than the width of the first force sensor 100. The width of the first force sensor 100 may be approximately 2 mm to approximately 6 mm. The length of the first force sensor 100 may be substantially similar to the length of the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 of the display device 1. The length of the first force sensor 100 may be, but is not limited to, approximately 80% to approximately 98% of the length of the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 of the display device 1. In some exemplary embodiments, the length of the first force sensor 100 may be in a range of approximately 50 mm to approximately 300 mm (such as in a range of approximately 100 mm to approximately 150 mm). The shape of the first force sensor 100 may vary depending on the position of the first force sensor 100.

[0078] The first force sensor 100 includes a first substrate 110 and a second substrate 120 facing each other. The first substrate 110 includes a first base 111 and an electrode layer 112. The second substrate 120 includes a second base 121 and a force sensing layer 122 (or force sensitive layer). The first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 are bonded together by a bonding layer 130. The first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 may be, but are not limited to, films.

[0079] Each of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121 may include polyethylene, polyimide, polycarbonate, polysulfone, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl alcohol, polynorbornene, or a polyester-based material. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121 may be made of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film or a polyimide film.

[0080] The electrode layer 112 is provided on the surface of the first substrate 111. The surface of the first substrate 111 is the surface facing the second substrate 121. The thickness of the electrode layer 112 may be about 2 μm to about 8 μm. For example, the thickness of the electrode layer 112 may be about 4 μm. The electrode layer 112 may include a conductive material such as silver (Ag) or copper (Cu). The electrode layer 112 may be formed by a screen printing method.

[0081] The first base 111 may include a protrusion 111P formed on one side. A pad (also referred to as a "pad") may be formed on the protrusion 111P, and the first base 111 may be coupled to the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 through (or via) the protrusion 111P.

[0082] The force sensing layer 122 is provided on the surface of the second substrate 121. The surface of the second substrate 121 is the surface facing the first substrate 111. The force sensing layer 122 may include a force sensitive material. The force sensitive material may include metal nanoparticles such as nickel, aluminum, tin, or copper, or may include carbon. The force sensitive material may be provided in the form of particles in a polymer resin, but is not limited to the form of particles. Figure 9 As shown in FIG, the resistance of the force sensing layer 122 decreases as the force increases. By utilizing this characteristic of the force sensing layer 122, the first force sensor 100 can sense whether a force has been applied (or whether a force is applied) and the magnitude of the force.

[0083] The force sensing layer 122 may be thicker than the electrode layer 112. The force sensing layer 122 may have a thickness of about 4 μm to about 12 μm. For example, the force sensing layer 122 may have a thickness of about 8 μm.

[0084] The first force sensor 100 may further include a bonding layer 130 disposed between the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121 to bond the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121. The bonding layer 130 may be disposed along the periphery of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121. In some exemplary embodiments, the bonding layer 130 may completely surround the periphery of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121 to seal the first force sensor 100. In other words, the bonding layer 130 may function as a gasket. The bonding layer 130 may also function as a spacer that maintains a constant gap between the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121. The bonding layer 130 may not overlap with the electrode layer 112 or the force sensing layer 122. The thickness of the bonding layer 130 may be in the range of about 5 μm to about 50 μm (such as in the range of about 12 μm to about 30 μm).

[0085] The bonding layer 130 may be made of a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer or an adhesive layer. In the process of assembling the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121, the bonding layer 130 may be first attached to one of the surfaces of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121, and then the bonding layer may be attached to the other of the surfaces of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121. Alternatively, in the process of assembling the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121, a bonding layer may be provided on each of the surfaces of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121, and then the bonding layers of the first substrate 111 and the second substrate 121 may be attached to each other.

[0086] The first force sensor 100 can be placed in the display device 1 so that the first base 111 having the electrode layer 112 faces the display panel 30. That is, the other surface (outer surface) of the first base 111 can be attached to the lower surface of the display panel 30, and the other surface (outer surface) of the second base 121 can be attached to the bracket 50. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the arrangement direction of the first base 111 and the second base 121 in the display device 1 can be opposite to the aforementioned direction.

[0087] Reference Figure 6 The first force sensor 100 includes a driving line TL, first to p-th sensing lines RL1 to RLp (where p is an integer of 2 or greater), a driving pad TP, first to p-th sensing pads RP1 to RPp, and force sensing cells CE1 to CEp. The driving pad TP and the first to p-th sensing pads RP1 to RPp may be referred to as a pad unit PAD_S.

[0088] The force sensing units CE1 to CEp can independently sense the force at their corresponding positions. Figure 6 In the embodiment, the force sensing units CE1 to CEp are arranged in a row. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this case. The force sensing units CE1 to CEp may also be arranged in multiple rows or any other suitable arrangement or pattern. In addition, the force sensing units CE1 to CEp may be arranged in a row as shown in FIG. Figure 6 The predetermined intervals shown in , or may be arranged continuously or randomly.

[0089] The force sensing cells CE1 to CEp may have different areas depending on their use. For example, when the force sensing cells CE1 to CEp are used to replace physical buttons (such as volume control buttons) provided on the side surface of the display device 1, the force sensing cells CE1 to CEp may be formed to have an area similar to that of the physical buttons.

[0090] Each of the force sensing cells CE1 to CEp may be connected to at least one driving line and at least one sensing line. Figure 6 As shown in FIG, force sensing cells CE1 to CEp can be commonly connected to a single drive line TL and can be connected one-to-one to sensing lines RL1 to RLp. The first force sensing cell CE1 can be connected to the drive line TL and the first sensing line RL1, and the i-th force sensing cell CEi (where "i" is a positive integer equal to or greater than 2 and less than "p") can be connected to the drive line TL and the i-th sensing line RLLi. In addition, the i+1-th force sensing cell CEi+1 can be connected to the drive line TL and the i+1-th sensing line RLLi+1, and the p-th force sensing cell CEp can be connected to the drive line TL and the p-th sensing line RLp.

[0091] The driving line TL may be connected to the driving pad TP, and the first to p-th sensing lines RL1 to RLp may be connected one-to-one to the first to p-th sensing pads RP1 to RPp. The first sensing line RL1 may be connected to the first sensing pad RP1, the i-th sensing line RLi may be connected to the i-th sensing pad RPi, the i+1-th sensing line RLi+1 may be connected to the i+1-th sensing pad RPi+1, and the p-th sensing line RLp may be connected to the p-th sensing pad RPp. The driving pad TP and the first to p-th sensing pads RP1 to RPp may be disposed on the protrusion 111P of the first base 111 and may be connected to the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 (see FIG. 1 ) through, for example, an anisotropic conductive film. Figure 2 Since the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 is connected to the center portion of the first force sensor 100, the driving pad TP may be located between the i-th sensing pad RPi and the (i+1)-th sensing pad RPi+1. In this case, the driving line TL may be provided between the i-th force sensing cell CEi and the (i+1)-th force sensing cell CEi+1, may extend along a side of the first force sensor 100 (e.g., a side opposite to the side on which the protrusion 111P is provided), and may be electrically connected to the first force sensing cells CE1 to the p-th force sensing cells CEp.

[0092] The first force sensor 100 may be based on a slave force sensing unit (not shown) (eg, a force sensing unit mounted on the main circuit board 90) through the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 (see FIG. Figure 2 The force sensing unit may apply a driving voltage to the driving line TL through the driving pad TP and sense a current value or a voltage value from the sensing lines RL1 to RLp through the sensing pads RP1 to RPp, thereby sensing the force applied to the force sensing cells CE1 to CEp.

[0093] Reference Figure 7 Each of the force sensing cells CE1 to CEp includes a driving connection electrode TCE, a sensing connection electrode RCE, a first driving electrode TE1 , a first sensing electrode RE1 and a force sensing layer 122 .

[0094] The drive connection electrode TCE (or first stem electrode) is connected to the drive line TL and the first drive electrode TE1 (or first branch electrode). The drive connection electrode TCE extends in a longitudinal direction (e.g., vertical direction) and is connected to the drive line TL through an end portion (e.g., lower end portion). The first drive electrode TE1 may branch from the drive connection electrode TCE in a width direction (e.g., horizontal direction) of the drive connection electrode TCE.

[0095] The sensing connection electrode RCE (or the second dry electrode) is connected to the sensing lines RL1 to RLp (where, as an example, Figure 7Where p is 8) and the first sensing electrode RE1 (or the second branch electrode). For example, the sensing connection electrode TCE is connected to any one of the sensing lines RL1 to RL8 at one end in the longitudinal direction. The first sensing electrode RE1 may branch from the sensing connection electrode RCE in the width direction (e.g., horizontal direction) of the sensing connection electrode RCE.

[0096] like Figure 8 As shown in FIG, the first driving electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 may be provided on the same layer. The first driving electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 may be made of the same material. The first driving electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 may include Figure 5 The electrode layer 112 is described.

[0097] The first drive electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 are arranged adjacent to each other but are not connected to each other. The first drive electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 may be arranged parallel to each other. The first drive electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 may be alternately arranged in the longitudinal direction of the drive connection electrode TCE and the sensing connection electrode RCE. That is, the first drive electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 may be repeatedly arranged in the order of first drive electrode TE1, first sensing electrode RE1, first drive electrode TE1, and first sensing electrode RE1 in the longitudinal direction of the drive connection electrode TCE and the sensing connection electrode RCE.

[0098] As mentioned above Figure 5 As described above, the force sensing layer 122 is disposed on a surface of the second base 121. The force sensing layer 122 may overlap the first driving electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1.

[0099] When no force is applied to the second base 121 in the thickness direction of the first force sensor 100, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown in FIG, there are gaps between the force sensing layer 122 and the first driving electrode TE1 and between the force sensing layer 122 and the first sensing electrode RE1. That is, when no force is applied to the second base 121, the force sensing layer 122 is separated from the first driving electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1.

[0100] When a force is applied to the second base 121 in the thickness direction of the first force sensor 100, the force sensing layer 122 contacts the first driving electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1. Therefore, the first driving electrode TE1 and the first sensing electrode RE1 can be physically connected to each other through the force sensing layer 122, and the force sensing layer 122 can function as a resistor.

[0101] In some exemplary embodiments, the first force sensor 100 may further include a bump member 140. Figure 10 The bump member 140 will be described.

[0102] Figure 10 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of another example of a force sensor in a display device.

[0103] Reference Figure 10 The bump member 140 may be disposed on the surface of the first force sensor 100_1. The bump member 140 may include a plurality of first bump members 141 separated from each other. The first bump members 141 may overlap with the force sensing layer 122. Each of the first bump members 141 may partially overlap with a corresponding portion of the force sensing layer 122.

[0104] The bump member 140 can effectively transmit externally applied force to the first force sensor 100_1. In other words, the bump member 140 concentrates the touch force input by the user on the first force sensor 100_1. To this end, the bump member 140 can be made of a flexible metal such as copper. However, the material of the bump member 140 is not particularly limited and the bump member 140 can also be made of a flexible material such as plastic or rubber.

[0105] exist Figure 10 In the embodiment, the bump member 140 is provided on the upper surface of the first force sensor 100_1 (i.e., provided on the surface of the second base 121). However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the bump member 140 may be provided on the lower surface of the first force sensor 100_1 (i.e., the surface of the first base 111) or on both the upper and lower surfaces of the first force sensor 100_1.

[0106] Figure 11 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of an example of a bracket in a display device. Figure 12 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 11 For ease of description, the cross-sectional view of the example of the bracket is taken along the section line CC'. Figure 12 , the first force sensor 100_1 is shown as being disposed on a flat portion rather than on a curved portion. Figure 12 Described in conjunction with the first force sensor 100_1, but various features apply similarly to reference Figures 5 to 9 A first force sensor 100 is described.

[0107] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12The bracket 50 may include a first hole HOL1 and a second hole HOL2. Furthermore, the bracket 50 may further include first and second guide grooves G1F and G2F, and first and second fixing grooves G1S and G2S. The first and second holes HOL1 and HOL2 may be spaced apart from each other between the sensor hole H_C and the battery hole H_B, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0108] The first guide groove G1F may extend from the first hole HOL1 toward the first long side LS1 of the bracket 50. The first guide groove G1F may overlap with the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 of the first force sensor 100_1 and have an area (or width and / or length) larger than the area (or width and / or length) of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150. The second depth H2 of the first guide groove G1F may be greater than the bottom 51 (see FIG. Figure 3 ) has a small thickness.

[0109] One end of the first guide groove G1F may be connected to the first fixing groove G1S, and the first fixing groove G1S may extend along the first long side LS1. The first fixing groove G1S may be connected to the first force sensor 100_1 (eg, Figure 10 The first force sensor 100_1 shown in FIG1 is overlapped with the sensor portion thereof and has an area (or width and / or length) greater than the area (or width and / or length) of the sensor portion. The first depth H1 of the first fixing groove G1S may be, but is not limited to, equal to the second depth H2. A connection hole H_F may be formed in the first fixing groove G1S.

[0110] The second guide groove G2F and the second fixing groove G2S are substantially the same as or similar to the first guide groove G1F and the first fixing groove G1S, respectively. Therefore, redundant descriptions will not be repeated.

[0111] In some exemplary embodiments, the first depth H1 of the first fixing groove G1S may be smaller than the thickness of the first force sensor 100_1 by a first gap D1 (e.g., the gap between the electrode layer 112 and the force sensing layer 122) or greater. In this case, the first force sensor 100_1 may protrude from the bracket 50 by a second gap D2 that is larger than the first gap D1. Therefore, when a force is applied to the first force sensor 100_1, the external force can be fully (or at least primarily) transmitted to the first force sensor 100_1 without being dispersed to the bracket 50.

[0112] like Figure 12 As shown in FIG, the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 may be coupled to the protrusion 111P (see FIG. Figure 10). The thickness of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 may be greater than that of the first force sensor 100_1. However, since the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 is spaced apart from the first force sensor 100_1 (or the first bump member 141 of the first force sensor 100_1), it may not affect the operation (e.g., force sensing) of the first force sensor 100_1.

[0113] Because as mentioned above Figure 11 and Figure 12 As described, the bracket 50 includes the first guide groove G1F and the second guide groove G2F and the first fixing groove G1S and the second fixing groove G2S, so the first force sensor 100_1 and the second force sensor 200 can be easily arranged on the bracket 50, and the display panel 30 (see Figure 2 ), the first force sensor 100_1 and the second force sensor 200 and the bracket 50 can be easily combined with each other.

[0114] Although not in Figure 11 and Figure 12 , but an adhesive layer may be provided on the first and second fixing grooves G1S and G2S, and the first and second force sensors 100_1 and 200 may be fixed to the first and second fixing grooves G1S and G2S, respectively, via the adhesive layer.

[0115] Figures 13 to 15 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of various brackets in a display device. Figures 13 to 15 In the figure, it is shown that Figure 12 The sectional view corresponding to the sectional view.

[0116] First refer to Figure 13 , bracket 50_1 and Figure 12 The difference between the bracket 50 and the embodiment of the present invention is that, at least because the first force sensor 100_2 further includes the second bump member 142 , the bracket 50_1 includes a relatively deep first fixing groove G1S_1 and a relatively deep first guide groove G1F_1 .

[0117] The first depth H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S_1 may be determined based on the thickness of the first force sensor 100_2. For example, the first depth H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S_1 may be set to be smaller than the thickness of the first force sensor 100_2 by a preset gap (eg, a first gap D1).

[0118] Reference Figure 14 , bracket 50_2 and Figure 12The difference between the bracket 50 and the bracket 50_2 is that the bracket 50_2 includes a first guide groove G1F_2 having a second depth H2_2 different from the first depth H1 of the first fixing groove G1S.

[0119] As mentioned above Figure 12 and Figure 13 As described above, the first depth H1 (or H1_1) of the first fixing groove G1S (or G1S_1) may be determined by the thickness of the first force sensor 100_1 (or 100_2). Figure 14 The first depth H1 of the first fixing groove G1S described above may be equal to the reference Figure 12 The first fixing groove G1S is described as having a first depth H1.

[0120] The second depth H2_2 of the first guide groove G1F_2 may be smaller than the first depth H1 of the first fixing groove G1S. For example, the second depth H2_2 of the first guide groove G1F_2 may be smaller than the first depth H1 of the first fixing groove G1S by the step height of the pad unit PAD_S. In this case, the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 may be flat without being bent.

[0121] Reference Figure 15 , bracket 50_3 and Figure 12 The difference between the bracket 50 and the bracket 50_3 is that the bracket 50_3 includes a first guide groove G1F_3 having a second depth H2_3 different from the first depth H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S_1.

[0122] The second depth H2_3 of the first guide groove G1F_3 may be greater than the first depth H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S_1. For example, the second depth H2_3 of the first guide groove G1F_3 may be greater than the first depth H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S_1 by the step height of the pad unit PAD_S.

[0123] like Figure 15As shown in FIG, the second base 121 of the first force sensor 100_3 can be positioned adjacent to the bracket 50_3. In this case, the pad unit PAD_S can be positioned on the lower surface of the first base 111, and the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 can be positioned below the first base 111. When the second depth H2_3 of the first guide groove G1F_3 is less than or equal to the first depth H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S_1, the first force sensor 100_3 does not fully contact the bracket 50_3 but is partially separated from the bracket 50_3 due to the thickness of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150. Therefore, the second depth H2_3 of the first guide groove G1F_3 can be greater than the first depth H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S_1, allowing the first force sensor 100_3 to be fully supported by the bracket 50_3 and preventing malfunction of the first force sensor 100_3.

[0124] As mentioned above Figures 13 to 15 As described, the first depth H1 or H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S or G1S_1 can be determined by the thickness of the first force sensor 100, 100_1, 100_2 or 100_3, and the second depth H2, H2_1, H2_2 or H2_3 of the first guide groove G1F, G1F_1, G1F_2 or G1F_3 can be equal to the first depth H1 or H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S or G1S_1 or different from the first depth H1 or H1_1 of the first fixing groove G1S or G1S_1 according to the position of the first force sensor 100, 100_1, 100_2 or 100_3.

[0125] Figure 16 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device.

[0126] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 16 , bracket 50_4 and Figure 11 The difference between the bracket 50 and the bracket 50_4 is that the bracket 50_4 includes a first guide groove G1F_4 and a second guide groove. In addition, the bracket 50_4 may not include Figure 11 In other words, the bottom 51_1 may not have the fixing grooves G1S and G2S. In addition to the first guide groove G1F_4, the second guide groove and the fixing grooves G1S and G2S, the bracket 50_4 may be connected to the bottom 51_1. Figure 11 The bracket 50 is substantially the same or similar. In addition, since the second guide groove is substantially the same as the first guide groove G1F_4, redundant descriptions are not repeated.

[0127] If combined Figure 3As described and shown, the first force sensor 100 can be directly fixed by the cover plate 40 and the bracket 50_4. On the other hand, the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 (see FIG. Figure 3 ) can be spaced apart from the cover plate 40, and therefore, can be fixed without being fixed by the cover plate 40. In this way, not only can the first force sensor 100 (or the first sensing flexible circuit board 150) be fixed during the process of coupling the first force sensor 100 to the bracket 50_4 through the first guide groove G1F_4, but movement or displacement of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 can also be reduced or prevented after the first force sensor 100 is coupled to the bracket 50_4.

[0128] In some exemplary embodiments, the first guide groove G1F_4 may have two ends with different depths. Figure 16 As shown in FIG, the depth of one end of the first guide groove G1F_4 connected to the first hole HOL1 may be greater than the depth of the other end in contact with the first force sensor (not shown). The depth of the other end of the first guide groove G1F_4 in contact with the first force sensor 100 may be substantially zero. In addition, the depth of the first guide groove G1F_4 may increase toward the first hole HOL1 and decrease toward the first force sensor 100 (e.g., Figure 5 Therefore, the stress on the connection portion of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 can be reduced by the step height of the first guide groove G1F_4 on the sensor portion side of the first force sensor 100.

[0129] Figure 17 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device. Figure 18 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of an example of a display device taken along section line EE'.

[0130] Reference Figure 11 、 Figure 17 and Figure 18 , the bracket 50_5 (or the display device 1) and Figure 11 The difference between the bracket 50 and the bracket 50_5 is that the bracket 50_5 further includes a first protection member SLD1 and a second protection member SLD2. Since the second protection member SLD2 is substantially the same as or similar to the first protection member SLD1 except for its position, a redundant description will not be repeated.

[0131] The first and second protective members SLD1 and SLD2 may be disposed on the bottom 51 of the bracket 50_5. The first protective member SLD1 may overlap the first hole HOL1 and have a size larger than that of the first hole HOL1 (e.g., a planar surface area). Similarly, the second protective member SLD2 may cover the second hole HOL2. The first and second protective members SLD1 and SLD2 are protective films and may include, but are not limited to, insulating materials.

[0132] like Figure 18 As shown in FIG, the first protective member SLD1 may cover the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 located in the first hole HOL1 (or cover the area including the first hole HOL1) and contact the upper surface of the bracket 50_5 (e.g., the upper surface of the bracket 50_5 adjacent to the edge of the first hole HOL1). The first protective member SLD1 may be bonded to the upper surface of the bracket 50_5 by an adhesive or tape.

[0133] The first protective member SLD1 can prevent the first sensing flexible circuit board 150 and the first connector 151 from moving upward, and strengthen the connection between the first connector 151 and the main circuit board 90 (see FIG. Figure 3 ) between them.

[0134] Figure 19 and Figure 20 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of another example of the display device taken along the section line EE'.

[0135] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 19 , bracket 50_6 (or display device 1) and Figure 18 The difference between the bracket 50_5 and the bracket 50_6 is that the bracket 50_6 further includes a first intermediate member AD1.

[0136] The first intermediate member AD1 may be disposed between the first protective member SLD1 and the cover plate 40 and may be located above the first hole HOL1 to remove a gap between the first protective member SLD1 and the cover plate 40. The first intermediate member AD1 may be an adhesive such as a resin or a filler. The first intermediate member AD1 may cover the first protective member SLD1 and may be in direct contact with the upper surface of the bracket 50_6.

[0137] In addition, despite Figure 19 In the embodiment, the first intermediate member AD1 has been described as being located on the first hole HOL1, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this case. The first intermediate member AD1 may also be disposed on the second hole HOL2 (see FIG. Figure 17 ) and the second protection member SLD2 (see Figure 17). In addition, although the first intermediate member AD1 has been described as covering the first protective member SLD1, exemplary embodiments are not limited to this case. The first intermediate member AD1 may also partially overlap with the first protective member SLD1.

[0138] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 20 , bracket 50_7 (or display device 1) and Figure 18 The difference between the bracket 50_5 and the bracket 50_7 is that the bracket 50_7 further includes a second intermediate member AD2.

[0139] The second intermediate member AD2 can be the same as that mentioned above except for its position. Figure 19 The first intermediate member AD1 described above is substantially the same as or similar to the first intermediate member AD2. However, the second intermediate member AD2 may not overlap with the first protective member SLD1. The second intermediate member AD2 may be positioned between the cover plate 40 and the bracket 50_7, along the edge of the first protective member SLD1 (or the first hole HOL1). The second intermediate member AD2 prevents relative movement between the cover plate 40 and the bracket 50_7, and prevents lateral displacement of the first protective member SLD1.

[0140] Figure 21 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device.

[0141] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 21 , bracket 50_8 and Figure 17 The difference between the bracket 50_5 and the bracket 50_8 is that the bracket 50_8 includes a third protective member SLD3.

[0142] The third protective member SLD3 can be the same as that mentioned above except for its size. Figure 17 The first protective member SLD1 described above is substantially the same or similar. However, the third protective member SLD3 may cover the first hole HOL1 and the second hole HOL2. When the first hole HOL1 and the second hole HOL2 are formed adjacent to each other, one third protective member SLD3 may cover the first hole HOL1 and the second hole HOL2. This may simplify one or more manufacturing processes.

[0143] Figure 22 and Figure 23 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a main circuit board in a display device.

[0144] Reference Figure 2 、 Figure 22 and Figure 23The main circuit board 90 may include a substrate 91 , connection terminals CT1 , CT2 , CT_F, and CT_D, and a main processor 92 .

[0145] The base 91 does not overlap the battery hole H_B of the bracket 50 and may have an “L” shape (or a rotated “L” shape).

[0146] The first connection terminal CT1 may be provided or formed on a first surface (e.g., an upper surface) of the substrate 91 so as to overlap with the first hole HOL1 of the bracket 50. The first connection terminal CT1 may be exposed through the first hole HOL1 and may be connected to or coupled to the first connector 151 of the first sensing flexible circuit board 150. For example, the first connection terminal CT1 may be a connection hole into which the first connector 151 may be inserted and connected. However, this is merely an example, and the coupling relationship between the first connection terminal CT1 and the first connector 151 is not limited to this example. For example, each of the first connection terminal CT1 and the first connector 151 may include a pad, and the first connection terminal CT1 and the first connector 151 may be coupled to each other by ultrasonic welding, an anisotropic conductive film, or the like.

[0147] Similarly, the second connection terminal CT2 may be disposed on the first surface of the substrate 91 to overlap the second hole HOL2 of the bracket 50 . The second connection terminal CT2 may be exposed through the second hole HOL2 and connected to or coupled to the second connector 251 of the second sensing flexible circuit board 250 .

[0148] The main connection terminal CT_F may be provided on the second surface (eg, lower surface) of the substrate 91 to be adjacent to the connection hole H_F of the bracket 50, but may not overlap with the connection hole H_F. Figure 23 As shown in FIG, the display connector 35 of the display flexible circuit board 31 can pass through the connection hole H_F of the bracket 50 and can be bent at one side under the base 91 to be connected to the main connection terminal CT_F. However, the main connection terminal CT_F is not limited to this example. For example, the main connection terminal CT_F can also be provided on the first surface of the base 91 so as to overlap with the connection hole H_F.

[0149] The dummy connection terminal CT_D may be coupled to another device or a circuit board provided in the display apparatus 1 .

[0150] The main processor 92 can control all functions of the display device 1. For example, the main processor 92 can output image data to a display driver (not shown) of the display flexible circuit board 31, enabling the display panel 30 to display an image. Furthermore, the main processor 92 can receive touch data from a touch driver (not shown) (e.g., a touch driver mounted on the display flexible circuit board 31 or the touch flexible circuit board 21) and determine the user's touch location. The main processor 92 can execute an application (or function) indicated by an icon displayed at the user's touch location; however, any other suitable input can be associated with a touch interaction. Furthermore, the main processor 92 can receive force sensing data from a force sensing unit (not shown) (e.g., a touch driver mounted on the display flexible circuit board 31 or the touch flexible circuit board 21) and display the main screen, control the volume of the display device 1, control haptic functions to be implemented based on the force sensing data, and / or perform any other suitable function or control. The main processor 92 can be an application processor, a central processing unit, a system-on-chip implemented as an integrated circuit, etc.

[0151] Figure 24 According to some exemplary embodiments Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of another example of a display device.

[0152] Reference Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 24 , display device 1_1 and Figure 2 The display device 1 is different in that the display device 1_1 includes a sensing flexible circuit board 150_1, a bracket 50_9 and a main circuit board 90_1.

[0153] The sensing flexible circuit board 150_1 includes a first connector that connects the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 and overlaps the third hole HOL3 in the bracket 50_9. The bracket 50_9 includes a third hole HOL3 located between the sensor hole H_C and the battery hole H_B. The main circuit board 90_1 includes a third connector CT3 that overlaps the third hole HOL3. In this way, the first force sensor 100 and the second force sensor 200 can be connected to the main circuit board 90_1 via a single sensing flexible circuit board 150_1 that passes through the third hole HOL3.

[0154] Figure 25 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 24 A perspective view of an example of a bracket in a display device.

[0155] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 25 , bracket 50_9 and Figure 11The difference between the bracket 50 and the bracket 50_9 is that the bracket 50_9 includes a third hole HOL3 instead of the first hole HOL1 and the second hole HOL2. The third hole HOL3 is the same as the above reference except for its size and position. Figure 11 The described first hole HOL1 is substantially the same or similar, and therefore, a redundant description will not be repeated.

[0156] exist Figure 25 In the embodiment, the bracket 50_9 includes a first guide groove G1F_5 and a second guide groove G2F_5 and a first fixing groove G1S and a second fixing groove G2S. The first guide groove G1F_5 and the second guide groove G2F_5 and the first fixing groove G1S and the second fixing groove G2S can be compared to Figure 11 The first guide groove G1F and the second guide groove G2F and the first fixing groove G1S and the second fixing groove G2S are long. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this case. For example, Figures 16 to 21 The configurations of the brackets 50_4 to 50_8 described above can also be applied to the bracket 50_9. Figure 25 , the third hole HOL3 is provided between the sensor hole H_C and the battery hole H_B. However, this is merely an example, and exemplary embodiments are not limited to this example.

[0157] Figure 26 According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 24 A perspective view of another example of a bracket in a display device.

[0158] Reference Figure 25 and Figure 26 , bracket 50_10 and Figure 25 Bracket 50_9 differs from bracket 50_10 in that it includes a fourth hole HOL4 instead of the third hole HOL3. The fourth hole HOL4 can be positioned between the battery hole H_B and the first long side LS1. In this case, the second guide groove G2F_6 can be formed discontinuously with respect to the battery hole H_B. However, this is merely an example, and exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the second guide groove G2F_6 can extend along the edge of the battery hole H_B to connect to the second fixing groove G2S.

[0159] Figure 27 and Figure 28 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a method of transmitting a force signal to a Figure 1 A diagram of a display apparatus and method.

[0160] exist Figure 27 and Figure 28, the display device 1 applied as a smartphone is shown as an example, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In the display device 1, the physical input buttons on the long sides are omitted, and force sensors are provided at corresponding positions instead of the physical input buttons.

[0161] Reference Figure 27 , the display device 1 may include sensing regions SR1 and SR2. The sensing regions SR1 and SR2 may be included in the first force sensor 100 (see Figure 2 ) and the second force sensor 200 (see Figure 2 ). Sensing regions SR1 and SR2 are regions capable of sensing force. Sensing regions SR1 and SR2 can sense force at their corresponding positions independently of each other.

[0162] The sensing regions SR1 and SR2 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the display device 1. In some exemplary embodiments, the sensing regions SR1 and SR2 may be arranged in columns on each long side. Adjacent sensing regions SR1 and SR2 may be arranged continuously. Alternatively, adjacent sensing regions SR1 and SR2 may be spaced apart from each other. In other words, a non-sensing region may be provided between the sensing regions SR1 and SR2.

[0163] exist Figure 27 In FIG. 5 , the first sensing region SR1 is shown as a pressing recognition region. Figure 27 In the embodiment, the user presses a specific position with the index finger while gripping the display device 1 with other fingers. At the specific position, the first sensing area SR1 of the first force sensor 100 or the second force sensor 200 is set. When the first sensing area SR1 receives the force, the reference Figure 5 The resistance of the force sensing layer 122 described above can be measured, and based on the change in resistance, it can be identified whether a force has been applied to a specific location and the magnitude of the force. Then, a pre-programmed operation of the display device 1 can be output according to the force applied to the specific location and / or the magnitude of the force. For example, pre-programmed functions such as screen adjustment, screen lock, screen conversion, application call, application execution, photo taking, phone call answering, etc. can be performed. Different operations can be pre-programmed for different first sensing areas SR1. Therefore, as the number of first sensing areas SR1 increases, the display device 1 can easily generate more types of inputs and / or outputs.

[0164] exist Figure 28 In FIG. 5 , the second sensing region SR2 is shown as a squeezing recognition region. Figure 28In the example, a user squeezes a relatively large area with their palm and fingers while gripping the display device 1. A second sensing area SR2 is provided in the area where squeezing is performed to sense whether a force has been applied by squeezing and the magnitude of the force. Thus, pre-programmed operations of the display device 1 can be performed based on the sensing result of the squeezing operation.

[0165] The user can perform a squeeze operation by naturally applying force to their entire hand while gripping the display device 1. Since the user can quickly perform a squeeze operation while gripping the display device 1 without requiring delicate hand movements, input can be simpler and faster. Therefore, the second sensing region SR2 can be used as an input medium for frequently used functions or programs requiring quick execution, such as snapshots.

[0166] According to various exemplary embodiments, a display device may include a force sensor disposed adjacent to an edge of a display panel and a main circuit board connected to the force sensor to sense force, thereby providing a simple input method.

[0167] 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 skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Bracket; A display panel is arranged on the bracket; a first force sensor, disposed between the display panel and the bracket, wherein the first force sensor is adjacent to a first edge of the display panel; a main circuit board, disposed below the bracket, such that the bracket is disposed between the display panel and the main circuit board; as well as A display flexible circuit board is coupled to the display panel and disposed between the display panel and the bracket. The bracket includes a first hole that exposes the main circuit board and is disposed between the display panel and the main circuit board, and the first force sensor is connected to the main circuit board through the first hole. The display device further includes: a first sensing flexible circuit board connected to the first force sensor and the main circuit board, and The bracket further comprises: a first guide groove and a first fixing groove formed in the upper surface of the bracket, the first sensing flexible circuit board is arranged in the first guide groove, and the first force sensor is arranged in the first fixing groove. Wherein, the first fixing groove extends in a first direction at the edge of the bracket, The bracket further includes a connection hole, the connection hole being spaced apart from the main circuit board in a view perpendicular to the display panel, and the end of the display flexible circuit board is coupled to the main circuit board through the connection hole, and The connection hole is formed in the first fixing groove.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The display panel includes: flat portion; and A first curved portion is connected to one side of the flat portion, and the first force sensor is overlapped with the first curved portion.

3. The display device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a second force sensor disposed adjacent to a second edge of the display panel, The bracket further includes a second hole for exposing the main circuit board, and the second force sensor is connected to the main circuit board through the second hole.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first sensing flexible circuit board includes an end portion connected to the first force sensor and another end portion connected to the main circuit board via the first hole.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein A first depth of the first fixing groove from the upper surface of the bracket is equal to a second depth of the first guide groove from the upper surface of the bracket. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein: A first depth of the first fixing groove from the upper surface of the bracket is different from a second depth of the first guide groove from the upper surface of the bracket.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein A depth of the first guide groove on a side adjacent to the first hole is different from the depth of the first guide groove on another side adjacent to the first force sensor.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The depth of the first guide groove increases toward the first hole and decreases toward the first force sensor.

9. The display device according to claim 4, further comprising: A first protective member is provided on the bracket, and covers the first hole and the first sensing flexible circuit board.

10. The display device according to claim 9, further comprising: A spacer member is provided between the first protection member and the display panel.

11. The display device according to claim 9, further comprising: A spacing member is provided along an edge of the first protection member so that the spacing member is provided between the bracket and the display panel.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The first force sensor extends along the first edge and includes a groove at an inner long side adjacent to the connecting hole.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The end portion of the display flexible circuit board is coupled to the lower surface of the main circuit board through the connection hole. The lower surface of the main circuit board faces away from the upper surface of the main circuit board and faces the bracket, The first sensing flexible circuit board includes an end portion coupled to the first force sensor and another end portion coupled to the upper surface of the main circuit board via the first hole.

14. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a second force sensor disposed adjacent to a second edge of the display panel, Wherein, the second force sensor is connected to the main circuit board through the first hole.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The first sensing flexible circuit board is connected to each of the first force sensor and the second force sensor, and the first sensing flexible circuit board is connected to the main circuit board through the first hole.

16. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first force sensor comprises: a first substrate; a second substrate facing the first substrate; a first electrode disposed on a surface of the first substrate, the surface of the first substrate facing the second substrate; a second electrode disposed on the surface of the first substrate and separated from the first electrode; and a force sensing layer disposed on a surface of the second substrate, the surface of the second substrate facing the first substrate, and In response to a force applied to the first edge of the display panel, the first electrode and the second electrode are configured to contact the force sensing layer.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein: The first force sensor includes a first force sensing cell and a second force sensing cell configured to sense force independently of each other. The force sensing layer is disposed throughout the first force sensing unit and the second force sensing unit, and The first electrode and the second electrode are provided in each of the first force sensing cell and the second force sensing cell.

18. The display device according to claim 16, wherein: The first electrode comprises: a first dry electrode extending in a first direction; and a plurality of first branch electrodes branching from the first stem electrode, and The second electrode comprises: a second dry electrode facing the first dry electrode; and A plurality of second branch electrodes are branched from the second dry electrode, and the plurality of first branch electrodes and the plurality of second branch electrodes are alternately arranged between the first dry electrode and the second dry electrode.

19. The display device according to claim 16, wherein: The first force sensor further includes a protrusion member provided on another surface of the second substrate, the other surface facing away from the surface of the second substrate, and The bump member partially overlaps the force sensing layer.

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