Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided, including a display panel, an intermediate frame, and a first pressure sensor. The intermediate frame is disposed below the display panel. The intermediate frame includes a first receiving groove extending along a first long side of the display panel. The first pressure sensor is disposed in the first receiving groove.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0089474, filed on July 31, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Exemplary embodiments relate generally to a display apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0003] A display apparatus for displaying an image can be used for various electronic devices such as a smart phone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a digital camera, a notebook computer, a navigation, a television, etc. that provide an image to a user. The display apparatus generally includes a display panel for generating and displaying an image and various input apparatuses. For example, in the field of smart phones and tablet PCs, a touch panel for recognizing a touch input has been applied to the display apparatus. The touch panel has a tendency to replace an existing physical input apparatus such as a keyboard, a joystick, etc. at least because of the convenience of a touch. In addition, continuous research is being conducted to implement various inputs by mounting a pressure sensor other than the touch panel on (or in) the display apparatus.

[0004] The above information disclosed in this section is only for the background of the inventive concept, and thus, the above information can contain information that does not constitute prior art. SUMMARY

[0005] Some exemplary embodiments provide a display apparatus capable of preventing water and dust from penetrating even when a pressure sensor is disposed at an edge of a display panel.

[0006] Additional aspects will be set forth in the detailed description to follow, and in part will be apparent from the disclosure or can be learned by practice of the inventive concept.

[0007] According to some exemplary embodiments, a display apparatus includes a display panel, an intermediate frame, and a first pressure sensor. The intermediate frame is disposed under the display panel. The intermediate frame includes a first accommodation groove extending along a first long side of the display panel. The first pressure sensor is disposed in the first accommodation groove.

[0008] The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject matter claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

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

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

[0011] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0012] Figure 3 is a bottom view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments, before an intermediate frame is assembled to the display device;

[0013] Figure 4 is a plan view of an intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0014] Figure 5 is a bottom view of an intermediate frame and a main circuit board according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0015] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line A-A' of Figure 1

[0016] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a second region of an intermediate frame of Figure 6

[0017] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a second region of an intermediate frame of Figure 6

[0018] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a second region of an intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0019] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of a second region of an intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0020] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a second region of an intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0021] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of a second region of an intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0022] Figure 13 ​​​This is a plan view showing a first pressure sensor, a first receiving recess cover, and a first waterproof component according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0023] Figure 14 This is a plan view illustrating a second pressure sensor, a second receiving recess cover, and a second waterproof component according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0024] Figure 15 This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 13 A plan view of area A;

[0025] Figure 16 It is based on some exemplary embodiments along Figure 15 The sectional view taken by the section line B-B';

[0026] Figure 17 It is based on some exemplary embodiments along Figure 1 A sectional view taken by section line A-A';

[0027] Figure 18 It is a plan view of an intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0028] Figure 19 This is based on some exemplary embodiments. Figure 17 The anatomical view of the second region;

[0029] Figure 20 This is based on some exemplary embodiments. Figure 17 A magnified view of the second region;

[0030] Figure 21 This is a anatomical view of the second region of the intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0031] Figure 22 This is based on some exemplary embodiments. Figure 21 An enlarged view of the second region in its assembled state is shown in the image.

[0032] Figure 23 It is based on some exemplary embodiments along Figure 1 A sectional view taken by section line A-A';

[0033] Figure 24 It is a plan view of an intermediate frame according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0034] Figure 25 This is based on some exemplary embodiments. Figure 23 The anatomical view of the second region;

[0035] Figure 26 This is based on some exemplary embodiments. Figure 23a second region of the intermediate frame according to some example embodiments;

[0036] Figure 27 a second region of the intermediate frame according to some example embodiments;

[0037] Figure 28 a second region of the intermediate frame according to some example embodiments; Figure 27 a second region of the intermediate frame according to some example embodiments;

[0038] Figure 29 and Figure 30 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of applying a pressure signal to a display device according to some example embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various example embodiments. It is apparent, however, that various example embodiments can be practiced without

[0040] Unless otherwise specified, the example embodiments shown are to be understood as providing exemplary features of different details of some example embodiments. Thus, unless otherwise specified, features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions, aspects, etc. (individually or collectively referred to as “elements”) of various examples can be additionally combined, divided, interchanged, and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concepts.

[0041] Generally, cross-hatching and / or shading are used in the drawings to establish boundaries of adjacent elements. As such, unless specified otherwise, the presence of cross-hatching or shading in a drawing is not intended to generically indicate a particular material, material property, dimension, ratio, etc. In addition, the size and relative sizes of the various elements in the drawings are intended to be exemplary only and can not be to scale unless specifically noted. Accordingly, the dimensions of the various elements in the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Where exemplary methods, techniques, and / or processes are described herein, it should be understood that the steps of the methods, techniques, and / or processes can be performed in an order different than the order described without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, two or more steps can be performed substantially concurrently or in the reverse order that is described. Additionally, the same reference numbers in different drawings can represent the same element or same concept.

[0042] When an element is referred to as being "on" another element, "connected to" another element, or "coupled to" another element, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to the other element or intervening elements can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element, there are no intervening elements present. Other terms of relationship can be interpreted similarly, such as "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," "on" versus "directly on," etc. In addition, the term "connected" can refer to physical or electrical and / or fluid connection. Additionally, the D1 axis, the D2 axis, and the D3 axis are not limited to the three axes of a rectangular coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the D1 axis, the D2 axis, and the D3 axis can be perpendicular to each other or can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purposes of the present disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" can be interpreted to include only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of any 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.

[0043] Although the terms "first," "second," etc. can 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, a first element discussed below could be termed a second element without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

[0044] For purposes of description, spatially relative terms such as "under", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", "on", "over", "higher", and "side" (e.g., as in "side wall") are used herein for describing the relative positioning of one element to another element as illustrated in the figures. The 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 figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "under" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0045] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "including", "includes", "having", "has", "with", or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and / or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising". Also, it is worth noting that the terms "substantially", "approximately", and other similar terms are used as synonyms for "about", and are used to account for inherent variations in measurements, calculations, and / or other sources of variation.

[0046] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional, planar, and / or perspective view illustrations that are schematic and for purposes of illustration only. Thus, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limited to the specific shapes and / or configurations of the regions as disclosed herein, but are to include deviations in shape that can result from, for example, manufacturing. For example, shapes resulting from manufacturing processes can cause regions to have a different shape than that depicted in the figures. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limited to the particular shapes and / or configurations of regions as disclosed herein, but are to include shapes that are within the scope of the exemplary embodiments. For example, the regions depicted in the figures can be circular, square, rectangular, or any other shape, and can be located in different positions and / or orientations than that depicted in the figures. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limited to the particular shapes and / or configurations of regions as disclosed herein, but are to include shapes that are within the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terms, such as "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "contains," "containing" or variations thereof do not specify an exhaustive or comprehensive list of elements or options for the techniques described herein. Unless explicitly recited otherwise, none of the elements or options are required. No single feature or combination of features should be treated as preferred or essential to the practice of the application unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0048] In accordance with the practices of the art, some exemplary embodiments are described herein in terms of functional blocks, units, and / or modules. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these blocks, units, and / or modules are nothing more than electronic (or optical) circuits (e.g., logic circuits) formed from semiconductors, discrete components, microprocessors, hardwired circuits, memory elements, and / or combinations thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. In this regard, each block, unit, and / or module can be implemented or performed with a variety of components, such as one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and / or any other devices suitable for retrieval and execution of instructions), storage (e.g., volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and / or any other storage device suitable for storing instructions), and / or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art should also appreciate that some exemplary embodiments can be implemented by a combination of dedicated hardware and software (e.g., one or more processors executing software instructions). Those skilled in the art should also appreciate that some exemplary embodiments can be implemented as a computer program product, which can include a computer-readable storage medium having stored computer program instructions to cause a processor to carry out the functions of some exemplary embodiments.

[0049] Hereinafter, various exemplary embodiments will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the display device of

[0051] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2The display device 10 according to some exemplary embodiments includes a cover window 100, a touch sensing unit 200, a touch circuit board 210, a touch driving unit 220, a display panel 300, a display circuit board 310, a display driving unit 320, a first waterproof member 410, a second waterproof member 420, a third waterproof member 430, a fourth waterproof member 440, a first accommodation groove cover MC1, a second accommodation groove cover MC2, a first pressure sensor 510, a second pressure sensor 520, an intermediate frame 600, a main circuit board 700, and a lower cover 900.

[0052] For the purpose of the present disclosure only, unless otherwise defined, the terms "on", "over", "upper", and "upper surface" in the thickness direction mean with respect to the display surface side or the third direction D3 side of the display panel 300, and the terms "under", "below", "lower", and "lower surface" mean with respect to the side opposite to the display surface side or the direction opposite to the third direction D3 side of the display panel 300. In addition, the terms "upper", "lower", "left", and "right" in the planar direction indicate the directions when viewed from above the display surface at a fixed position.

[0053] The display device 10 can have a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view. The display device 10 can have a rectangular shape having right angles (or sharp corners) or a rectangular shape having rounded corners. The display device 10 can include two long sides LS1 and LS2 extending in a first direction D1 and two short sides SS1 and SS2 extending in a second direction D2. In a plan view, the long side located at the right side is referred to as a first long side LS1, the long side located at the left side is referred to as a second long side LS2, the short side located at the upper side is referred to as a first short side SS1, and the short side located at the lower side is referred to as a second short side SS2. The lengths of the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 of the display device 10 can be in the range of 1.5 to 2.5 times the lengths of the first short side SS1 and the second short side SS2.

[0054] The display device 10 can include a first area DR1 and a second area DR2 disposed on different planes. The first area DR1 is disposed in a first plane. The second area DR2 is connected to the first area DR1 and is bent or curved from the first area DR1. The second area DR2 can be disposed on a second plane having a predetermined intersection angle with the first plane, or can have a curved surface. In the display device 10, the second area DR2 is disposed around the first area DR1; however, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The first area DR1 of the display device 10 serves as a main display surface. In some exemplary embodiments, not only the first area DR1 but also the second area DR2 can serve as a display area of the display device 10. Hereinafter, a case where the first area DR1 of the display device 10 is a flat portion and the second area DR2 of the display device 10 is a curved portion will be described as an example, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0055] The second area DR2, which is a curved portion, can have a constant curvature, or can have a shape in which the curvature changes. The second area DR2 can be disposed at an edge of the display device 10. In some exemplary embodiments, the second area DR2 can be disposed at an edge of both the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 of the display device 10, which face each other. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the second area DR2 can be disposed at an edge of one side of the display device 10, can be disposed at both the first short side SS1 and the second short side SS2 of the display device 10, can be disposed at edges of three sides of the display device 10, or can be disposed at edges of all sides of the display device 10.

[0056] The cover window 100 can be disposed on the display panel 300 to cover an upper surface of the display panel 300. Accordingly, the cover window 100 can serve to protect the upper surface of the display panel 300. The cover window 100 can be attached to the touch sensing unit 200 by a first adhesive layer 810 as shown in FIG. 1B. Figure 6 The first adhesive layer 810 can be an optical clear adhesive (OCA) film or an optical clear resin (OCR) film.

[0057] The cover window 100 can include a light transmission portion DA100 corresponding to the display panel 300 and a light blocking portion NDA100 corresponding to an area other than the display panel 300. The cover window 100 can be disposed in the first area DR1 and the second area DR2, and the light transmission portion DA100 can be disposed in a portion of the first area DR1 and a portion of the second area DR2.

[0058] The cover window 100 can be larger than the display panel 300. For example, the cover window 100 can protrude outward from the display panel 300 at both the first and second short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 10. Although the cover window 100 can protrude from the display panel 300 even at both the first and second long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 10, the protruding distance at both the first and second short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 10 can be greater than the protruding distance at both the first and second long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 10.

[0059] The light blocking portion NDA 100 of the cover window 100 can be formed to be opaque, or the light blocking portion NDA 100 of the cover window 100 can be formed as a decorative layer having a pattern visible to a user when an image is not displayed. For example, a company logo such as "SAMSUNG" or various characters can be patterned on the light blocking portion NDA 100 of the cover window 100.

[0060] The cover window 100 can be made of glass, sapphire, and / or plastic; however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The cover window 100 can be rigid or flexible.

[0061] The touch sensing unit 200 can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the display panel 300. The touch sensing unit 200 can be disposed in the first and second regions DR1 and DR2. Accordingly, the touch sensing unit 200 can sense a user's touch in the second region DR2 as well as in the first region DR1. The touch sensing unit 200 can have substantially the same size as the display panel 300, and can be laminated with the display panel 300. For example, the side surface of the display panel 300 can be aligned with the side surface of the touch sensing unit 200. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The touch sensing unit 200 can be attached to the lower surface of the cover window 100 by a first adhesive layer 810. In order to prevent deterioration of visibility due to reflection of, for example, external light, the touch sensing unit 200 can be additionally disposed on the display panel 300 together with a polarizing film. In this case, the polarizing film can be attached to the lower surface of the cover window 100 by the first adhesive layer 810.

[0062] The touch sensing unit 200 is a unit for sensing a user's touch position, and can be implemented as a capacitive type such as a self-capacitance type or a mutual-capacitance type. When the touch sensing unit 200 is implemented as a self-capacitance type, the touch sensing unit 200 can include only a touch driving electrode, but when the touch sensing unit 200 is implemented as a mutual-capacitance type, the touch sensing unit 200 can include both a touch driving electrode and a touch sensing electrode. Hereinafter, the touch sensing unit 200 will be described, assuming that the touch sensing unit 200 is implemented as a mutual-capacitance type.

[0063] The touch sensing unit 200 can be a rigid panel type, a flexible panel type, or a film type. The touch sensing unit 200 can be attached to the display panel 300 through a second adhesive layer 820 (see Figure 6 ). The second adhesive layer 820 can be an optical clear adhesive (OCA) film or an optical clear resin (OCR) film. The touch sensing unit 200 can be integrally formed with the display panel 300. In this case, the touch driving electrodes and the touch sensing electrodes of the touch sensing unit 200 can be disposed inside or other portions of the display panel 300, for example, the touch sensing unit 200 can be disposed directly on the outermost surface of the display panel 300 without using a separate adhesive layer by forming the touch sensing unit 200 via a continuous process of forming the display panel 300.

[0064] The touch circuit board 210 can be attached to one side of the touch sensing unit 200. For example, the touch circuit board 210 can be attached to a pad (not shown) disposed on one side of the touch sensing unit 200 using an anisotropic conductive film. In addition, the touch circuit board 210 can be provided with a touch connection portion that can be connected to a connector of the display circuit board 310. The touch circuit board 210 can be a flexible printed circuit board; however, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0065] The touch driving unit 220 can apply a touch driving signal to the touch sensing unit 200, sense a sensing signal from the touch sensing unit 200, and analyze the sensing signal to calculate (or, otherwise determine) a touch position of a user. The touch driving unit 220 can be formed as an integrated circuit, and can be mounted on the touch circuit board 210.

[0066] The display panel 300 can be disposed under the touch sensing unit 200. The display panel 300 can be disposed to overlap the light transmission portion DA100 of the cover window 100. Accordingly, an image of the display panel 300 can be seen not only in the first area DR1 but also in the second area DR2.

[0067] The display panel 300 is a panel for displaying an image, and can be a light emitting display panel including a light emitting element. For example, the display panel 300 can include an organic light emitting display panel using an organic light emitting diode, an ultra-small light emitting diode display panel using a micro light emitting diode, or a quantum dot light emitting diode display panel using a quantum dot light emitting diode. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and different kinds of display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, etc. can be used. In the following description, the exemplary embodiments will be described in connection with a case where an organic light emitting display panel is applied as the display panel 300.

[0068] The display panel 300 includes a plurality of organic light emitting elements disposed on a substrate. The substrate can be a rigid substrate made of glass or quartz, etc. or a flexible substrate made of polyimide or other polymer resin. When a polyimide substrate is used as the substrate, the display panel 300 can be bent, twisted, folded, wound, etc., and thus, the display panel 300 can be implemented in various forms.

[0069] The display circuit board 310 can be attached to one side of the display panel 300. For example, the display circuit board 310 can be attached to a pad (not shown) provided on one side of the display panel 300 using an anisotropic conductive film. The touch circuit board 210 can also be bent to the lower surface of the display panel 300, and a touch connection portion provided at one end of the touch circuit board 210 can be connected to a connector of the display circuit board 310. More details of the display circuit board 310 will be described later with reference to Figure 3 and Figure 4 .

[0070] The display driving unit 320 outputs signals and voltages for driving the display panel 300 through the display circuit board 310. The display driving unit 320 can be formed as an integrated circuit and mounted on the display circuit board 310, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the display driving unit 320 can be attached to one side of the upper surface or the lower surface of the substrate of the display panel 300.

[0071] As shown in Figure 6 , a panel under member 330 can be provided under the display panel 300. The panel under member 330 can be attached to the lower surface of the display panel 300 by a third adhesive layer 830. The third adhesive layer 830 can be an optical clear adhesive (OCA) film or an optical clear resin (OCR) film.

[0072] The panel under member 330 can include at least one of a light absorbing layer for absorbing external light, a buffer layer for absorbing external impact, a heat dissipation layer for effectively dissipating heat of the display panel 300, and a light blocking layer for blocking external light.

[0073] A light absorbing member can be provided under the display panel 300. The light absorbing member suppresses transmission of light to prevent components provided under the light absorbing member, such as the first waterproof member 410, the second waterproof member 420, the third waterproof member 430, the fourth waterproof member 440, and the display circuit board 310, from being viewed from above the display panel 300. The light absorbing member can include a light absorbing material such as black pigment or dye.

[0074] A buffer member can be disposed under the light absorbing member. The buffer member absorbs an external impact to prevent the display panel 300 from being damaged. The buffer member can be composed of a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the buffer member can be formed of a polymer resin such as polyurethane, polycarbonate, polypropylene, or polyethylene, or can be formed of an elastic material such as rubber, urethane material, or a sponge formed by foaming an acrylic material. The buffer member can be a cushion layer.

[0075] A heat dissipation member can be disposed under the buffer member. The heat dissipation member can include a first heat dissipation layer including graphite or carbon nanotubes, and a second heat dissipation layer capable of blocking electromagnetic waves and formed of a metal thin film of copper, nickel, iron, or silver having excellent heat conductivity.

[0076] An intermediate frame 600 can be disposed under the panel lower member 330. The intermediate frame 600 can include synthetic resin, metal, or both synthetic resin and metal. The intermediate frame 600 includes a first area DR1 and a second area DR2 located on different planes with respect to the display device 10. The first area DR1 of the intermediate frame 600 can be provided with a camera hole CH into which a camera device is inserted, and a battery hole BH through which heat from a battery is released, and the second area DR2 of the intermediate frame 600 can be provided with a wire hole CAH through which a second connection wire 314 connected to the display circuit board 310 passes, as shown in FIG. 6B. For example, the wire hole CAH can be disposed at a right edge of the intermediate frame 600. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. Figure 3

[0077] The second area DR2 of the intermediate frame 600 can be provided with one or more accommodation grooves SH. The accommodation grooves SH can be disposed at left and right edges of the second area DR2. For example, a first accommodation groove SH1 can be disposed along the second long side LS2 at the left edge of the second area DR2, and a second accommodation groove SH2 can be disposed along the first long side LS1 at the right edge of the second area DR2. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and the accommodation grooves SH can be disposed at only any one of the left and right edges of the second area DR2 or at any other suitable positions.

[0078] In some exemplary embodiments, the accommodation grooves SH can be disposed along the first short side SS1 at an upper edge of the first area DR1 or along the second short side SS2 at a lower edge of the first area DR1, the accommodation grooves SH can be disposed along both the first short side SS1 at the upper edge of the first area DR1 and the second short side SS2 at the lower edge of the first area DR1, and the accommodation grooves SH can be disposed at the upper and lower edges of the first area DR1 and at the left and right edges of the second area DR2, respectively.

[0079] ​According to some example embodiments, at least one of the first accommodation recess SH1 and the second accommodation recess SH2 can be provided to bypass the cable hole CAH, and thus can include a first notch NTH1 formed in a notch shape. Hereinafter, a case where the second accommodation recess SH2 includes the first notch NTH1 will be described as an example, but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0080] The first pressure sensor 510, the first accommodation recess cover MC1, and the first waterproof member 410 can be disposed above the first accommodation recess SH1. For example, the first pressure sensor 510 can be installed inside the first accommodation recess SH1, the first accommodation recess cover MC1 can be used to cover the first accommodation recess SH1 in which the first pressure sensor 510 can be installed, and the first waterproof member 410 can be attached to an area where the first accommodation recess SH1 and the first accommodation recess cover MC1 are engaged with each other.

[0081] In some example embodiments, the first pressure sensor 510 can have a smaller size than the first accommodation recess SH1 to be installed in the first accommodation recess SH1, the first accommodation recess cover MC1 can have the same size or a smaller size than the first accommodation recess SH1 to be engaged with the first accommodation recess SH1, and the first waterproof member 410 can have a larger size than the first accommodation recess SH1 to prevent moisture from penetrating into the first accommodation recess SH1. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0082] To engage the first accommodation recess SH1 and the first accommodation recess cover MC1, the first accommodation recess SH1 and the first accommodation recess cover MC1 can further include engaging members, and the first accommodation recess SH1 and the first accommodation recess cover MC1 can be attached to each other by an adhesive member.

[0083] The second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation recess cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 can be disposed above the second accommodation recess SH2. For example, the second pressure sensor 520 can be installed inside the second accommodation recess SH2, the second accommodation recess cover MC2 can be used to cover the second accommodation recess SH2 in which the second pressure sensor 520 can be installed, and the second waterproof member 420 can be attached to an area where the second accommodation recess SH2 and the second accommodation recess cover MC2 are engaged with each other.

[0084] In some example embodiments, each of the second pressure sensor 520, the second housing recess cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 can be provided with a second concave portion NTH2 corresponding to a first concave portion NTH1 of the second housing recess SH2. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto, and only some of the second pressure sensor 520, the second housing recess cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 can be provided with the second concave portion NTH2 according to the position of the second concave portion NTH2 and the second housing recess SH2, and each of the second pressure sensor 520, the second housing recess cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 can not be provided with the second concave portion NTH2.

[0085] In some example embodiments, the second pressure sensor 520 can have a smaller size than the second housing recess SH2 to be mounted in the second housing recess SH2, the second housing recess cover MC2 can have the same size or a smaller size than the second housing recess SH2 to be engaged with the second housing recess SH2, and the second waterproof member 420 can have a larger size than the second housing recess SH2 to prevent moisture from penetrating into the second housing recess SH2. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0086] To engage the second housing recess SH2 and the second housing recess cover MC2, the second housing recess SH2 and the second housing recess cover MC2 can further include an engaging member, and the second housing recess SH2 and the second housing recess cover MC2 can be attached to each other by the adhesive member.

[0087] Because the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 are disposed in the second area DR2 of the middle frame 600, when pressure is applied to the second area DR2, the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 can sense the applied pressure. Also, because the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 are mounted in the first housing recess SH1 and the second housing recess SH2 of the middle frame 600, respectively, a step can be eliminated according to the arrangement of the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520. Accordingly, the sensitivity of the pressure sensor is improved, and malfunction due to moisture penetration is prevented.

[0088] The panel lower member 330 of the display panel 300, the third waterproof member 430, and the fourth waterproof member 440 are disposed in the first area DR1 of the middle frame 600. That is, the first waterproof member 410 and the second waterproof member 420 are disposed in the second area DR2 in which the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 of the middle frame 600 are disposed, and the third waterproof member 430, the fourth waterproof member 440, and the panel lower member 330 are disposed in the first area DR1.

[0089] The first waterproof member 410 is attached to the lower surface of the lower panel member 330 disposed under the display panel 300, the upper surface of the middle frame 600, and the upper surface of the first accommodation groove cover MC1. Accordingly, the left edge of the display panel 300, the left edge of the middle frame 600, and the first accommodation groove cover MC1 can be attached to each other by the first waterproof member 410. The second waterproof member 420 is attached to the lower surface of the lower panel member 330 disposed under the display panel 300, the upper surface of the middle frame 600, and the upper surface of the second accommodation groove cover MC2. Accordingly, the right edge of the display panel 300, the right edge of the middle frame 600, and the second accommodation groove cover MC2 can be attached to each other by the second waterproof member 420. In addition, the third waterproof member 430 can be disposed under the display panel 300 at the upper edge of the display panel 300, and the fourth waterproof member 440 can be disposed under the display panel 300 at the lower edge of the display panel 300. The third waterproof member 430 and the fourth waterproof member 440 can be disposed to face each other.

[0090] Each of the first waterproof member 410, the second waterproof member 420, the third waterproof member 430, and the fourth waterproof member 440 can include a base film and an adhesive layer disposed on both sides of the base film. The base film can be a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, a cushion layer, or a polyethylene foam (PE-foam). The adhesive layer can be a pressure sensitive adhesive layer.

[0091] The main circuit board 700 can be disposed under the middle frame 600. The main circuit board 700 can be a printed circuit board or a flexible printed circuit board. The main circuit board 700 can include a main processor 710, a camera device 720, and a main connector 730. The main processor 710 can be disposed on one surface of the main circuit board 700 facing the middle frame 600, and the main connector 730 can be disposed on the other surface of the main circuit board 700 facing the lower cover 900. The camera device 720 can be disposed on both the one surface and the other surface of the main circuit board 700. In this case, the upper surface of the camera device 720 can be disposed on the other surface of the main circuit board 700, and the lower surface thereof can be disposed on the one surface of the main circuit board 700.

[0092] The main processor 710 can control all or some of the functions of the display device 10. For example, the main processor 710 can output image data to the display driving unit 320 of the display circuit board 310 so that the display panel 300 displays an image. As another example, the main processor 710 can receive touch data from the touch driving unit 220, determine a user's touch position, and execute an application represented by an icon displayed at the user's touch position. In addition, the main processor 710 can receive pressure sensing data from the touch driving unit 220 or the display driving unit 320 and can control the display device 10 to output a home screen, a volume of sound controlling the display device 10, implement haptic feedback, etc. The main processor 710 can be an application processor, a central processing unit, or a system on chip including an integrated circuit.

[0093] The camera device 720 processes an image frame (such as a still image or a dynamic image obtained by an image sensor) in a camera mode and outputs the processed image frame to the main processor 710.

[0094] As Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 6B, the second connection wire 314 that has passed through the wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600 can be connected to the main connector 730 provided on the lower surface of the main circuit board 700 through a gap between the middle frame 600 and the main circuit board 700. Accordingly, the main circuit board 700 can be electrically connected to the display circuit board 310 and the touch circuit board 210.

[0095] In addition, the main circuit board 700 can further be provided with a mobile communication module capable of receiving a wireless signal from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server and capable of transmitting a wireless signal to at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server. The wireless signal can include various types of data associated with transmission / reception of a voice signal, a video call signal, a text / multimedia message, etc. In addition, the main circuit board 700 can further be provided with an acoustic output device capable of outputting sound and a vibration device capable of generating vibrations for haptic implementation.

[0096] A lower cover 900 can be disposed under the middle frame 600 and the main circuit board 700. The lower cover 900 can form a lower surface appearance of the display device 10. The lower cover 900 can include plastic and / or metal.

[0097] Figure 3 is a bottom view of a display device before a middle frame is assembled to the display device according to some example embodiments. Figure 4 is a plan view of a middle frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 5 is a bottom view of a middle frame and a main circuit board according to some example embodiments.

[0098] Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference toFigure 3 to Figure 5 To describe the connection relationship between the display circuit board 310 and the pressure sensing circuit board 550 and the connection relationship between the second connection wire 314 and the main connector 730 of the main circuit board 700 in more detail. Meanwhile, because Figure 4 is a plan view, and Figure 3 and Figure 5 are bottom views, it should be noted that Figure 3 and Figure 5 illustrate the left side and the right side of the display device 10 in Figure 4 are reversed. For convenience of explanation, in Figure 4 , the display circuit board 310 is represented by a dotted line.

[0099] Referring to Figure 3 to Figure 5 , the display circuit board 310 can include a first circuit board 311, a second circuit board 312, a first connection wire 313, a second connection wire 314, and a connector connection portion 315. The first circuit board 311 can be attached to one side of the upper surface or the lower surface of the base of the display panel 300 and can be curved toward the lower surface of the base of the display panel 300. As shown in Figure 4 , the first circuit board 311 can be fixed to a fixing hole FH formed in the middle frame 600 by a fixing member. The first circuit board 311 can include a display driving unit 320, a pressure sensing unit 322, a first connector 311a, and a second connector 311b. The display driving unit 320, the pressure sensing unit 322, the first connector 311a, and the second connector 311b can be disposed on one surface of the first circuit board 311. The first connector 311a can be connected to one end of the first connection wire 313 connected to the second circuit board 312. Accordingly, the display driving unit 320 and the pressure sensing unit 322 mounted on the first circuit board 311 can be electrically connected to the second circuit board 312 through the first connection wire 313. The second connector 311b can be connected to one end of the pressure sensing circuit board 550 connected to the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520. Accordingly, the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 can be electrically connected to the pressure sensing unit 322.

[0100] The second circuit board 312 can include a touch connector 312a, a first connection connector 312b, and a second connection connector 312c. The first connection connector 312b and the second connection connector 312c can be disposed on one surface of the second circuit board 312, and the touch connector 312a can be disposed on the other surface of the second circuit board 312. The touch connector 312a can be connected to one end of the touch circuit board 210. Accordingly, the touch driving unit 220 can be electrically connected to the second circuit board 312. The first connection connector 312b can be connected to the other end of the first connection electric wire 313 connected with the first circuit board 311. Accordingly, the display driving unit 320 and the pressure sensing unit 322 mounted on the first circuit board 311 can be electrically connected to the second circuit board 312 through the first connection electric wire 313. The second connection connector 312c can be connected to one end of the second connection electric wire 314 connected with the main connector 730 of the main circuit board 700. Accordingly, the second circuit board 312 can be electrically connected to the main circuit board 700 through the second connection electric wire 314.

[0101] A connector connection portion 315 can be formed at the other end of the second connection electric wire 314. The connector connection portion 315 of the second connection electric wire 314 can extend to the lower surface of the middle frame 600 through the electric wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Because each of the second waterproof member 420, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second pressure sensor 520 can be provided with the second concave portion NTH2 having a notched shape in an area corresponding to the electric wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600, the electric wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600 can be exposed without being covered by the second waterproof member 420, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second pressure sensor 520. Further, because a gap between the middle frame 600 and the main circuit board 700 is formed in an area corresponding to the electric wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600, the connector connection portion 315 of the second connection electric wire 314 that has passed through the electric wire hole CAH can come out from the gap between the middle frame 600 and the main circuit board 700 and can extend to the lower surface of the main circuit board 700. The connector connection portion 315 of the second connection electric wire 314 can be connected to the main connector 730 disposed on the lower surface of the main circuit board 700.

[0102] As described above, according to some example embodiments, the second accommodation groove SH2 can have a first notch NTH1 configured to bypass the wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600, each of the second waterproof member 420, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second pressure sensor 520 disposed on the second accommodation groove SH2 can have a second notch NTH2 having a notch shape so as not to cover the wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600. Accordingly, the second connection wire 314 connected to the display circuit board 310 can extend to the back surface of the middle frame 600 through the wire hole CAH and can be connected to the main connector 730 of the main circuit board 700. However, such connection and configuration are merely illustrative, and the example embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0103] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the section line A-A' of Figure 1 . Figure 7 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a second region of a middle frame of Figure 6 . Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a second region of a middle frame of Figure 6 .

[0104] Referring to Figure 6 to Figure 8 , the display device 10 according to some example embodiments includes a cover window 100, a touch sensing unit 200, a display panel 300, a sub- panel 330, and a middle frame 600. The sub-panel 330 (e.g., a back cover) can be coupled to the middle frame 600, and the display panel 300 can be coupled to the middle frame 600 via the sub-panel 330. The middle frame 600 can be coupled to the cover window 100, and the touch sensing unit 200 can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the middle frame 600. Figure 2A lower cover 900 in the display device 10 can also be disposed under the middle frame 600. The touch sensing unit 200 and the cover window 100 are attached and fixed by the first adhesive layer 810, the display panel 300 and the touch sensing unit 200 are attached and fixed by the second adhesive layer 820, and the display panel 300 and the panel lower member 330 are attached and fixed by the third adhesive layer 830. In some exemplary embodiments, the panel lower member 330 can be supported by the middle frame 600 disposed under the panel lower member 330, and the first waterproof member 410 can be disposed between the middle frame 600 and the panel lower member 330. For example, in the display device 10, the first waterproof member 410 can be disposed between the middle frame 600 and the panel lower member 330 in correspondence with the second area DR2 which is a bending area. The first waterproof member 410 can be disposed in the entire (or substantially the entire) second area DR2 between the middle frame 600 and the panel lower member 330, and can also be disposed only in a portion of the second area DR2 between the middle frame 600 and the panel lower member 330. The accommodation groove SH is disposed in the second area DR2 of the middle frame 600 of some exemplary embodiments. As described, the accommodation grooves SH can be respectively disposed at the left and right edges of the second area DR2. For example, the first accommodation groove SH1 can be disposed along the second long side LS2 at the left edge of the second area DR2, and the second accommodation groove SH2 can be disposed along the first long side LS1 at the right edge of the second area DR2.

[0105] With Figure 1 The area corresponding to the section line A-A' in the display device 10 corresponds to the left edge area. Hereinafter, a description will be made with reference to this portion of the display device 10. Unless otherwise specified, the right edge area on a section line similar to the section line A-A' has substantially the same structure as the left edge area, except for the concave portions (e.g., the first and second concave portions NHT1 and NHT2) having a notched shape.

[0106] The first pressure sensor 510, the first accommodation groove cover MC1, and the first waterproof member 410 are disposed above the first accommodation groove SH1 disposed in the second area DR2 of the middle frame 600. The first area DR1 of the middle frame 600 can include a flat bottom surface BS and a flat top surface TS. The second area DR2 of the middle frame 600 can include a flat first surface a1 extending from the flat bottom surface BS of the first area DR1 and a curved second surface a2 connected to an end of the first surface a1. The second surface a2 can be provided with the first accommodation groove SH1. The first accommodation groove SH1 can include a fourth surface a4 on which the first pressure sensor 510 is disposed, and third and fifth surfaces a3 and a5 which are side surfaces connecting the fourth surface a4 and the second surface a2 of the middle frame 600. In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1 can be a curved surface having a constant curvature. For example, the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1 can be a curved surface having the same curvature as the second surface a2 of the middle frame 600. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1 can be a flat surface. When the first accommodation groove SH1 consists of a flat surface, there is an advantage that the first pressure sensor 510 can be more easily installed in the first accommodation groove SH1. The cross section of the first accommodation groove SH1 can have various shapes in which the first pressure sensor 510 can be installed.

[0107] The first adhesive member CP1 is disposed on a lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 disposed on the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1, so that the first pressure sensor 510 is attached and fixed to the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1. The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be disposed on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. The width of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be narrower than the width of the first pressure sensor 510, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can concentrate the pressure caused by the external force in the pressure sensing layer in each sensing area without dispersing the pressure. Accordingly, the sensitivity of the first pressure sensor 510 can be improved. The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can have a rectangular shape in cross-section, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto, and the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can have various shapes such as a semi-spherical shape and a polygonal shape other than the rectangular shape. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 can be disposed on the pressure concentration protrusion 530. The second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on a lower surface of the first accommodation groove cover MC1 to attach and fix the first accommodation groove cover MC1 to the pressure concentration protrusion 530. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 can be made of the same material as that of the intermediate frame 600, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 has a constant curvature, and can cover the first accommodation groove SH1. For example, the first accommodation groove cover MC1 can have the same curvature as the second surface a2 of the intermediate frame 600, and can cover the first accommodation groove SH1. Accordingly, in the second region DR2 of the intermediate frame 600, the second surface a2 of the intermediate frame 600 and the first accommodation groove cover MC1 are connected to each other to form a curved surface having no step. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first accommodation groove cover MC1 can protrude from or be recessed from the second surface a2 of the intermediate frame 600.

[0108] The first waterproof member 410 can be disposed in the second area DR2 of the middle frame 600 including the first accommodation groove cover MC1. The first waterproof member 410 can include a base film 411, a first adhesive layer 412 disposed on one surface of the base film 411, and a second adhesive layer 413 disposed on the other surface of the base film 411. The base film 411 can be at least one of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, a cushion layer, and a polyethylene foam (PE-foam). The first adhesive layer 412 and the second adhesive layer 413 can be pressure sensitive adhesive layers, but the example embodiments are not limited thereto. The first waterproof member 410 can cover the entire surface of the second area DR2 of the middle frame 600 including the first accommodation groove cover MC1, but the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the first waterproof member 410 can cover a portion of the second area DR2 of the middle frame 600. The first waterproof member 410 of some example embodiments can extend to cover the first surface a1 which is the lower surface of the middle frame 600, and can also extend to cover a portion of the first area DR1 of the middle frame 600. Furthermore, in some example embodiments, the first waterproof member 410 can be disposed on the first pressure sensor 510 and the pressure concentration protrusion 530 by omitting the first accommodation groove cover MC1.

[0109] Figure 9 FIG. 10 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a second area of a middle frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 10 FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a second area of a middle frame according to some example embodiments.

[0110] Referring to Figure 9 and Figure 10The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be disposed on a lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 and on a fourth surface a4 of the first receiving groove SH1 of the middle frame 600. A first adhesive member CP1 can be disposed on a lower surface of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 to attach and fix the pressure concentration protrusion 530 and the first pressure sensor 510 disposed on the pressure concentration protrusion 530 to the fourth surface a4 of the first receiving groove SH1. A width WC of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be smaller than a width WSH of the first receiving groove SH1, and in this case, one side surface of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 and the other side surface of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be separated from the third surface a3 of the first receiving groove SH1 and the fifth surface a5 of the first receiving groove SH1, respectively. A first receiving groove cover MC1 can be disposed on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. A second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on a lower surface of the first receiving groove cover MC1 to attach and fix the first receiving groove cover MC1 to the upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. Since the pressure concentration protrusion 530 is disposed on the lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510, the attachment area of the first receiving groove cover MC1 and the first pressure sensor 510 is increased, and thus, the first receiving groove cover MC1 and the first pressure sensor 510 can be stably fixed.

[0111] Figure 11 FIG. 7 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a second area of a middle frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 12 FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a second area of a middle frame according to some example embodiments.

[0112] Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 In the middle frame 600 of another example embodiment, a first pressure concentration protrusion 530a can be disposed on a lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 disposed on the fourth surface a4 of the first receiving groove SH1, and a second pressure concentration protrusion 530b can be disposed on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510 attached to the first receiving groove cover MC1. The widths WC of the first pressure concentration protrusion 530a and the second pressure concentration protrusion 530b can be equal to each other, and the width WC of each of the first pressure concentration protrusion 530a and the second pressure concentration protrusion 530b can be narrower than the width of the first pressure sensor 510, but the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the first pressure concentration protrusion 530a and the second pressure concentration protrusion 530b can have different widths WC from each other, any one of the first pressure concentration protrusion 530a and the second pressure concentration protrusion 530b can have the same width WC as the width of the first pressure sensor 510, and the other one of the first pressure concentration protrusion 530a and the second pressure concentration protrusion 530b can have a width WC narrower than the width of the first pressure sensor 510.

[0113] A first adhesive member CP1 can be disposed on the lower surface of the first pressure concentrating protrusion 530a to attach and fix the first pressure concentrating protrusion 530a and the first pressure sensor 510 disposed on the first pressure concentrating protrusion 530a to the fourth surface a4 of the first receiving groove SH1. A second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on the lower surface of the first receiving groove cover MC1 to attach and fix the first receiving groove cover MC1 to the second pressure concentrating protrusion 530b. Thus, because the first pressure concentrating protrusion 530a is disposed on the lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure concentrating protrusion 530b is disposed on the upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510, the pressure of the external force can be further concentrated on the pressure sensing layer in each sensing area, thereby further improving the sensitivity of the first pressure sensor 510. In some exemplary embodiments, the width WC of each of the first pressure-concentrating protrusion 530a and the second pressure-concentrating protrusion 530b may be smaller than the width WSH of the first receiving groove SH1. In this case, one side surface of each of the first pressure-concentrating protrusion 530a and the second pressure-concentrating protrusion 530b and the other side surface of each of the first pressure-concentrating protrusion 530a and the second pressure-concentrating protrusion 530b may be separated from the third surface a3 and the fifth surface a5 of the first receiving groove SH1, respectively.

[0114] Figure 13 This is a plan view illustrating a first pressure sensor, a first receiving recess cover, and a first waterproof component according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0115] Reference Figure 13 The first pressure sensor 510, installed in the first receiving groove SH1, can have a rectangular planar shape having a long side in the first direction D1 and a short side in the second direction D2. However, the planar shape of the first pressure sensor 510 is not limited to this and can be changed depending on the application location. The first pressure sensor 510 includes a plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. Although in Figure 13 The diagram shows that the first pressure sensor 510 includes seven pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1, but the number of pressure sensing units is not limited to this.

[0116] Each of the pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 can individually sense the pressure at its corresponding location. Although Figure 13 The diagram shows pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 arranged in a row, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. Pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 can be arranged in multiple rows. Each pressure sensing unit CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 can be arranged as follows...Figure 13 The plurality of first sensing regions SR1 can be arranged at a predetermined interval from each other, or can be arranged continuously or variably.

[0117] The regions in which pressure is sensed by the pressure sensing units CE1 and CEp+1 are defined as a first sensing region SR1 and a second sensing region SR2, respectively. For example, the region in which pressure is sensed by the first pressure sensing unit CE1 provided at the upper end side of the first pressure sensor 510 is defined as the first sensing region SR1, and the region in which pressure is sensed by the second pressure sensing unit CEp+1 provided at the lower end side of the first pressure sensor 510 is defined as the second sensing region SR2.

[0118] The plurality of sensing regions SR1 and SR2 can have different areas according to an application to be used. For example, the first sensing region SR1 can be used as a physical button such as a volume control button VB+ or VB- or a power button PB provided on a side surface of the display device 10. The second sensing region SR2 can be used as a button SQB for sensing a pinching pressure of a user. In this case, the second sensing region SR2 can be formed to have a larger area than the first sensing region SR1. The second sensing region SR2 can be formed to be longer than the first sensing region SR1 in the first direction D1 of the first pressure sensor 510.

[0119] Further, although Figure 13 Although the plurality of first sensing regions SR1 used as physical buttons are formed to have the same area in FIG. 10, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. That is, the areas of the plurality of first sensing regions SR1 can be different from each other, or the areas of some of the plurality of first sensing regions SR1 can be equal to each other and the areas of other of the plurality of first sensing regions SR1 can be equal to each other, but the area of each of the some of the first sensing regions SR1 can be different from the area of each of the other of the first sensing regions SR1. The pressure concentration protrusions 530 can be provided on the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 to be stacked with the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. The pressure concentration protrusions 530 function to press the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 according to a pressure of a user when the pressure of the user is applied. Each of the pressure concentration protrusions 530 can be formed to have an area smaller than an area of each of the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. The area of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be proportional to the area of the pressure sensing unit. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the pressure concentration protrusions 530 can be provided on the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 to be stacked with the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. Figure 13As shown in FIG. 10, when the area of the second pressure sensing unit CEp+1 is greater than the area of each of the first pressure sensing units CE1, the area of the pressure concentration bump 530 superposed with the second pressure sensing unit CEp+1 can be greater than the area of each of the pressure concentration bumps 530 superposed with the first pressure sensing units CE1.

[0120] The first accommodation groove cover MC1 is disposed on the first pressure sensor 510 and can have a rectangular planar shape having a long side in the first direction D1 and a short side in the second direction D2. However, the planar shape of the first accommodation groove cover MC1 is not limited thereto and can vary according to the shape and size of the first accommodation groove SH1. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 can have an area greater than that of the first pressure sensor 510. In some exemplary embodiments, the first pressure sensor 510 can have a first width W1 in the second direction D2 and a first height H1 in the first direction D1. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 can have a second width W2 greater than the first width W1 in the second direction D2 and can have a second height H2 greater than the first height H1 in the first direction D1. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 covers the upper portion of the first pressure sensor 510 in a state in which the first pressure sensor 510 is installed in the first accommodation groove SH1 of the middle frame 600. To prevent moisture or dust from penetrating between the display panel 300 and the first pressure sensor 510, the first waterproof member 410 can be attached to the upper surface of the first accommodation groove cover MC1, in which case the area of the first waterproof member 410 can be greater than that of the first accommodation groove cover MC1. For example, the first waterproof member 410 can have a third width W3 greater than the second width W2 in the second direction D2 and can have a third height H3 greater than the second height H2 in the first direction D1. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0121] Figure 14 FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a second pressure sensor, a second accommodation groove cover, and a second waterproof member according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 14 The second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 shown in FIG. 11 are different from the first pressure sensor 510, the first accommodation groove cover MC1, and the first waterproof member 410 shown in FIG. 10 in that each of the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 is provided with a second notch NTH2. Figure 13 The second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 shown in FIG. 11 are different from the first pressure sensor 510, the first accommodation groove cover MC1, and the first waterproof member 410 shown in FIG. 10 in that each of the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 is provided with a second notch NTH2. Figure 13 Similar to the case shown in FIG. 10, the second pressure concentration bump 540 can be disposed on the upper surface of the second pressure sensor 520. Hereinafter, redundant descriptions will be omitted and only differences will be mainly described.

[0122] Referring to Figure 14 In order not to cover the wire hole CAH of the middle frame 600 (corresponding to the first notch NTH1 of the second accommodation groove SH2), each of the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 is provided with a second notch NTH2. For example, the second notch NTH2a of the second pressure sensor 520 having a notched shape can be formed in a region corresponding to the first notch NTH1 of the second accommodation groove SH2, the second notch NTH2b of the second accommodation groove cover MC2 having a notched shape can be formed in a region corresponding to the first notch NTH1 of the second accommodation groove SH2, and the second notch NTH2c of the second waterproof member 420 having a notched shape can be formed in a region corresponding to the first notch NTH1 of the second accommodation groove SH2. Since the second notch NTH2 does not cover the first notch NTH1, the width of the second notch NTH2 in the first direction D1 can be greater than the width of the first notch NTH1 in the first direction D1 in consideration of process errors. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first notch NTH1 and the second notch NTH2 can have the same width.

[0123] In some exemplary embodiments, the widths of the second notches NTH2 provided in the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420, respectively, in the first direction D1 can be different from each other. For example, the second notch NTH2a of the second pressure sensor 520 can have a fourth width W4 in the first direction D1, the second notch NTH2b of the second accommodation groove cover MC2 can have a fifth width W5 greater than the fourth width W4 in the first direction D1, and the second notch NTH2c of the second waterproof member 420 can have a sixth width W6 greater than the fifth width W5 in the first direction D1. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The widths of the second notches NTH2 provided in the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420, respectively, can be equal to each other, or two of the second notches NTH2 provided in the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420, respectively, can have the same width, and the other one of the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420 can have a different width.

[0124] Further, the second recessed portions NTH2 provided in the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420, respectively, can have different areas from each other. For example, considering a process error, the area of the second recessed portion NTH2b of the second accommodation groove cover MC2 can be greater than the area of the second recessed portion NTH2a of the second pressure sensor 520, and the area of the second recessed portion NTH2c of the second waterproof member 420 can be greater than the area of the second recessed portion NTH2b of the second accommodation groove cover MC2. The exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The areas of the second recessed portions NTH2a, NTH2b, and NTH2c provided in the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420, respectively, can be equal to each other, and the area of the first recessed portion NTH1 formed in the second accommodation groove SH2 can be equal to each of the areas of the second recessed portions NTH2a, NTH2b, and NTH2c provided in the second pressure sensor 520, the second accommodation groove cover MC2, and the second waterproof member 420, respectively.

[0125] Figure 15 is a plan view of a region A of Figure 13 according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along a section line B-B' of Figure 15 according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0126] Referring to Figure 15 and Figure 16 The first pressure sensor 510 includes a first substrate SUB1, a second substrate SUB2, a driving line TL, first to eighth sensing lines RL1 to RL8, a driving pad TP, first to eighth sensing pads RP1 to RP8, and first to eighth pressure sensing units CE1 to CE8. For convenience of explanation, Figure 15 a fourth pressure sensing unit CE4, a fifth pressure sensing unit CE5, and a pad region PAD are shown.

[0127] The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 are disposed to face each other. Each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 can include at least one of polyethylene, polyimide, polycarbonate, polysulfone, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl alcohol, poly norbornene, and polyester. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 can be formed of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film or a polyimide film.

[0128] The first to eighth pressure sensing units CE1 to CE8 are disposed between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. The drive line TL, the first to eighth sense lines RL1 to RL8, the drive pad TP, and the first to eighth sense pads RP1 to RP8 are disposed on the first substrate SUB1 facing the second substrate SUB2. Each of the first to eighth pressure sensing units CE1 to CE8 can be connected to at least one drive line and at least one sense line. For example, the first to eighth pressure sensing units CE1 to CE8 can be commonly connected to one drive line TL, and the first to eighth pressure sensing units CE1 to CE8 can be one-to-one connected to the first to eighth sense lines RL1 to RL8. As shown in FIG. 6, the fourth pressure sensing unit CE4 can be connected to the drive line TL and the fourth sense line RL4, and the fifth pressure sensing unit CE5 can be connected to the drive line TL and the fifth sense line RL5. Figure 15

[0129] The drive line TL can be connected to the drive pad TP, and the first to eighth sense lines RL1 to RL8 can be one-to-one connected to the first to eighth sense pads RP1 to RP8. The first sense line RL1 can be connected to the first sense pad RP1, the second sense line RL2 can be connected to the second sense pad RP2, the third sense line RL3 can be connected to the third sense pad RP3, and the fourth sense line RL4 can be connected to the fourth sense pad RP4. The fifth sense line RL5 can be connected to the fifth sense pad RP5, the sixth sense line RL6 can be connected to the sixth sense pad RP6, the seventh sense line RL7 can be connected to the seventh sense pad RP7, and the eighth sense line RL8 can be connected to the eighth sense pad RP8.

[0130] The pad region PAD can protrude from one side of the first substrate SUB1. The one side of the first substrate SUB1 can be a long side of the first pressure sensor 510. Although Figure 15 ​The illustration shows a pad region PAD protruding from the central portion of the long side of the first substrate SUB1, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. That is, the pad region PAD may protrude from one end or the other end of the long side of the first substrate SUB1. A drive pad TP and first sensing pads RP1 to eighth sensing pads RP8 may be disposed within the pad region PAD. The drive pad TP and first sensing pads RP1 to eighth sensing pads RP8 may be connected one-to-one to the drive lead TL_F and first sensing lead RL1_F to eighth sensing lead RL8_F of the pressure sensing circuit board 550 via an anisotropic conductive film. The drive pad TP may be connected to the drive lead TL_F, the first sensing pad RP1 may be connected to the first sensing lead RL1_F, the second sensing pad RP2 may be connected to the second sensing lead RL2_F, the third sensing pad RP3 may be connected to the third sensing lead RL3_F, and the fourth sensing pad RP4 may be connected to the fourth sensing lead RL4_F. In addition, the fifth sensing pad RP5 can be connected to the fifth sensing lead RL5_F, the sixth sensing pad RP6 can be connected to the sixth sensing lead RL6_F, the seventh sensing pad RP7 can be connected to the seventh sensing lead RL7_F, and the eighth sensing pad RP8 can be connected to the eighth sensing lead RL8_F.

[0131] Because the pressure sensing circuit board 550, such as Figure 3 As shown, the pressure sensing circuit board 550 is connected to the display circuit board 310, so the pressure sensing circuit board 550 can be electrically connected to the pressure sensing unit 322 mounted on the display circuit board 310. The pressure sensing unit 322 applies a driving voltage to the driving line TL through the driving lead TL_F of the pressure sensing circuit board 550 and the driving pad TP of the first pressure sensor 510, and senses the current or voltage value from the first sensing line RL1 to the eighth sensing line RL8 through the first sensing lead RL1_F to the eighth sensing lead RL8_F connected to the first sensing pad RP1 to the eighth sensing pad RP8 of the first pressure sensor 510, thereby sensing the pressure applied to at least one of the first pressure sensing units CE1 to the eighth pressure sensing units CE8.

[0132] Although not shown, the first pressure sensor 510 can further include a bonding layer disposed between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 to bond the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 to each other. The bonding layer can be a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer or an adhesive layer. The bonding layer can be disposed along the periphery of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. In some example embodiments, the bonding layer can be used to encapsulate the inside of the first pressure sensor 510 by completely surrounding the edges of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. Also, the bonding layer can function as a spacer that maintains a constant distance between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. The bonding layer can not be laminated with the drive line TL, the first to eighth sense lines RL1 to RL8, the first to eighth pressure sensing units CE1 to CE8, the drive pad TP, and the first to eighth sense pads RP1 to RP8.

[0133] The bonding layer can be first attached to one surface of the first substrate SUB1 or one surface of the second substrate SUB2, and attached to one surface of the other substrate in a process of attaching the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. As another example, the bonding layer can be disposed on one surface of the first substrate SUB1 and one surface of the second substrate SUB2, respectively, and the bonding layer of the first substrate SUB1 and the bonding layer of the second substrate SUB2 can be attached to each other in a process of attaching the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2.

[0134] As shown in Figure 13 and Figure 15 Each of the first to eighth pressure sensing units CE1 to CE8 includes a drive connection electrode TCE, a sense connection electrode RCE, a drive electrode TE1, a sense electrode RE1, and a pressure sensing layer PSL. The drive connection electrode TCE, the sense connection electrode RCE, the drive electrode TE1, and the sense electrode RE1 can be disposed on the first substrate SUB1 facing the second substrate SUB2. The drive connection electrode TCE is connected to the drive line TL and the drive electrode TE1. For example, the drive connection electrode TCE is connected to the drive line TL at one end in the first direction D1. The drive electrode TE1 can be a branch of the drive connection electrode TCE in the second direction D2. The sense connection electrode RCE is connected to any one of the first to eighth sense lines RL1 to RL8 and the sense electrode RE1. For example, the sense connection electrode RCE is connected to any one of the first to eighth sense lines RL1 to RL8 at one end in the first direction D1. The sense electrode RE1 can be a branch of the sense connection electrode RCE in the second direction D2.

[0135] The driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can be disposed on the same layer. The driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can be made of the same material. For example, the driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can include conductive materials such as silver (Ag) or copper (Cu). The driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can be formed on the first substrate SUB1 by screen printing.

[0136] The driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 are arranged adjacent to each other but not connected. The driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can be arranged parallel to each other. The driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can be arranged alternately along the length direction (e.g., the D1 axis direction) of the driving connection electrode TCE and the sensing connection electrode RCE. That is, the driving electrode TE1, the sensing electrode RE1, and the driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can be arranged repeatedly in this order along the length direction (D1 axis direction) of the driving connection electrode TCE and the sensing connection electrode RCE.

[0137] A pressure sensing layer (PSL) is disposed on the surface of the second substrate SUB2 facing the first substrate SUB1. The PSL can be stacked with the driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1. The PSL can include a pressure-sensitive material and a polymer resin in which the pressure-sensitive material is disposed. The pressure-sensitive material can include fine metal particles (or metal nanoparticles) of at least one of nickel, aluminum, titanium, tin, and copper. For example, the PSL can be a quantum tunneling composite (QTC).

[0138] like Figure 16 As shown, when pressure is not applied to the second substrate SUB2 along the third direction D3 of the first pressure sensor 510, there are gaps between the pressure sensing layer PSL and the driving electrode TE1, and between the pressure sensing layer PSL and the sensing electrode RE1. That is, when pressure is not applied to the second substrate SUB2, the pressure sensing layer PSL is separated from the driving electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1.

[0139] When pressure is applied to the second substrate SUB2 on the third direction D3 of the first pressure sensor 510, the pressure sensing layer PSL can contact the drive electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1. In this case, at least one drive electrode TE1 and at least one sensing electrode RE1 can be physically connected through the pressure sensing layer PSL, which can function as a resistor.

[0140] Accordingly, since the contact area between the pressure sensing layer PSL and the drive electrode TE1 and the sensing electrode RE1 can be changed according to the pressure applied to the first pressure sensor 510, the resistance value of the sensing line electrically connected to the sensing electrode RE1 can be changed. Figure 3The pressure sensing unit 322 of the first pressure sensor 510 senses a change in a current value or a voltage value from the first to eighth sensing lines RL1 to RL8, thereby sensing a pressure pressed by, for example, a user's hand. Meanwhile, because the second pressure sensor 520 is substantially the same as the first pressure sensor 510 shown in Figure 15 and Figure 16 , a detailed description of the second pressure sensor 520 will be omitted.

[0141] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along a cross-sectional line A-A' of Figure 1 according to some example embodiments.

[0142] Figure 18 is a plan view of an intermediate frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 19 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a second region of Figure 17 according to some example embodiments. Figure 20 is an enlarged view of a second region of Figure 17 according to some example embodiments.

[0143] Another example embodiment to be described with reference to Figure 17 to Figure 20 differs from the example embodiment described with reference to at least Figure 6 in that the first protrusion PP1 is disposed in the first receiving groove SH1_1 of the intermediate frame 600_1. As such, redundant descriptions will be omitted and differences will be mainly described.

[0144] Referring to Figure 17 , the example embodiment described with reference to Figure 17 differs from the example embodiment described with reference to Figure 6 in that the first protrusion PP1 is disposed in the first receiving groove SH1_1 disposed in the second region DR2 of the intermediate frame 600_1, and the first pressure sensor 510 is disposed on an upper surface of the first protrusion PP1. When the first protrusion PP1 is described with reference to Figure 18 , the first receiving groove SH1_1 can be disposed at a left edge of the second region DR2 of the intermediate frame 600_1, and the second receiving groove SH2_1 can be disposed at a right edge of the second region DR2 of the intermediate frame 600_1. A plurality of first protrusions PP1 spaced apart from each other in the first direction D1 can be disposed in each of the first and second receiving grooves SH1_1 and SH2_1.

[0145] Although Figure 18The plurality of first protrusions PP1 and the plurality of second protrusions PP2 are arranged in one row as shown in FIG. 10, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The plurality of first protrusions PP1 and the plurality of second protrusions PP2 can be arranged in a plurality of rows. Also, the plurality of first protrusions PP1 and the plurality of second protrusions PP2 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval, or can be continuously or variably arranged. The plurality of first protrusions PP1 and the plurality of second protrusions PP2 can include a plurality of first protrusions PP1 arranged on the upper end side of the first accommodation groove SH1_1 and the second accommodation groove SH2_1, and a plurality of second protrusions PP2 disposed on the lower end side of the first accommodation groove SH1_1 and the second accommodation groove SH2_1. The first protrusions PP1 and the second protrusions PP2 can have different areas. For example, the second protrusions PP2 can have a larger area than the first protrusions PP1. The second protrusions PP2 can be longer than the first protrusions PP1 in the first direction D1, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0146] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be disposed to have the same area, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. That is, the areas of the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be different from each other, or the areas of some of the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be equal to each other and the areas of other of the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be equal to each other, but each of the areas of the some of the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be different from each of the areas of the other of the plurality of first protrusions PP1.

[0147] The first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 are disposed on the first protrusions PP1 and the second protrusions PP2. The first protrusions PP1 and the second protrusions PP2 can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval, or can be continuously or variably arranged. Figure 13 and Figure 14The plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 through CEp and CEp+1 are correspondingly arranged to be overlaid with the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 through CEp and CEp+1. For example, the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be overlaid with the plurality of first pressure sensing units CE1 through CEp, respectively, and the second protrusion PP2 can be overlaid with the second pressure sensing unit CEp+1. Accordingly, when a user's pressure is applied, the first protrusion PP1 and the second protrusion PP2 serve to press the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 through CEp and CEp+1 according to the user's pressure. Each of the plurality of first protrusions PP1 and the second protrusion PP2 can be formed to have an area smaller than that of each of the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 through CEp and CEp+1. As such, the first protrusion PP1 and the second protrusion PP2 are disposed in the first accommodation groove SH1_1 and the second accommodation groove SH2_1, respectively, such that it has an advantage that the pressure concentration bump 530 disposed on the lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 can be omitted.

[0148] When referring to the first pressure sensor 510 disposed on the first protrusion PP1 of the first accommodation groove SH1_1, the first accommodation groove cover MC1, and the first waterproof member 410, Figure 19 and Figure 20 In consideration of the first pressure sensor 510 disposed on the first protrusion PP1 of the first accommodation groove SH1_1, the first accommodation groove cover MC1, and the first waterproof member 410, the first protrusion PP1 can be disposed on the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1_1, and the first pressure sensor 510, the first accommodation groove cover MC1, and the first waterproof member 410 can be disposed on the first protrusion PP1.

[0149] In some example embodiments, the width WPP of the first protrusion PP1 (defined as the width of the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1) can be smaller than the width WSH of the first accommodation groove SH1_1, and thus, one side surface of the first protrusion PP1, the third surface a3 of the first accommodation groove SH1_1, the other side surface of the first protrusion PP1, and the fifth surface a5 of the first accommodation groove SH1_1 can be spaced apart from each other. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0150] In some example embodiments, the first protrusion PP1 can have an inverted trapezoidal shape in cross-section, but example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first protrusion PP1 can have various shapes protruding from the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1_1. In addition, the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1 can be a curved surface. For example, the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1 can be a curved surface having the same curvature as the fourth surface a4 of the first accommodation groove SH1_1. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto. The upper surface of the first protrusion PP1 can be a curved surface having a different curvature from the fourth surface a4, and the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1 can be a flat surface. When the first protrusion PP1 has a flat upper surface, there is an advantage that the first pressure sensor 510 can be stably fixed.

[0151] The first adhesive member CP1 can be disposed on the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1, and the first pressure sensor 510 can be fixed to the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1 by the first adhesive member CP1. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first adhesive member CP1 can be disposed on the lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 to attach and fix the first protrusion PP1 and the first pressure sensor 510 to each other. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 can be disposed on the first pressure sensor 510. The second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on the lower surface of the first accommodation groove cover MC1 to attach and fix the first accommodation groove cover MC1 to the first pressure sensor 510, and the first waterproof member 410 can be disposed in the second region DR2 of the middle frame 600_1 including the first accommodation groove cover MC1.

[0152] Figure 21 FIG. 17 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a second region of a middle frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 22 FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a second region according to some example embodiments. Figure 21 FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of the second region in an assembled state.

[0153] Another example embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 21 and Figure 22 Another example embodiment described with reference to Figure 17 described example embodiment is that a pressure concentration protrusion 530 is disposed on the upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. As such, redundant descriptions will be omitted, and differences will be mainly described.

[0154] Reference will be made to Figure 21 and 22In some example embodiments, the first protrusion PP1 is disposed in the first accommodation groove SH1_1 disposed in the second region DR2 of the middle frame 600_1, the first pressure sensor 510 is disposed on an upper surface of the first protrusion PP1, the pressure concentration protrusion 530 is disposed on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510, and the first accommodation groove cover MC1 is disposed on an upper surface of the pressure concentration protrusion 530. The first adhesive member CP1 can be disposed on the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1, and a lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 can be attached and fixed to the upper surface of the first protrusion PP1 by the first adhesive member CP1.

[0155] The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be disposed on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. A width of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be narrower than a width of the first pressure sensor 510. The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can correspond to each of the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B, and can be disposed to be overlapped with the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. For example, the plurality of pressure concentration protrusions 530 can be respectively overlapped on the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1, and the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be respectively overlaid under the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be disposed on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. A width of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be narrower than a width of the first pressure sensor 510. The pressure concentration protrusion 530 can correspond to each of the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B, and can be disposed to be overlapped with the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. For example, the plurality of pressure concentration protrusions 530 can be respectively overlapped on the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1, and the plurality of first protrusions PP1 can be respectively overlaid under the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1.

[0156] A cross-sectional shape of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can be a shape symmetrical to the first protrusion PP1. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the cross-sectional shape of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 and the cross-sectional shape of the first protrusion PP1 can be asymmetrical to each other, or can be different from each other. The first accommodation groove cover MC1 can be disposed on the pressure concentration protrusion 530. The second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on a lower surface of the first accommodation groove cover MC1 to attach and fix the first accommodation groove cover MC1 to the pressure concentration protrusion 530. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on an upper surface of the pressure concentration protrusion 530 to be attached to the first accommodation groove cover MC1. The first waterproof member 410 can be disposed in the second region DR2 of the middle frame 600_1 including the first accommodation groove cover MC1.

[0157] Figure 23 is disposed alongFigure 1 a cross-sectional view taken along a cross-sectional line A-A' of FIG. 6.

[0158] Figure 24 is a plan view of an intermediate frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 25 is a plan view of an intermediate frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 23 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a second region of FIG. 6. Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along a cross-sectional line A-A' of FIG. 6. Figure 23 is an enlarged view of a second region of FIG. 6.

[0159] Other example embodiments described in conjunction with Figure 23 to Figure 26 differ from the example embodiments shown in Figure 17 in that the protrusions (e.g., first protrusions BP1 and second protrusions BP2) are provided on the accommodation recess covers (e.g., first accommodation recess cover MC1_1). As such, redundant descriptions will be omitted, and differences will be mainly described.

[0160] Referring to Figure 23 , the first protrusions PP1 are provided in the first accommodation recess SH1_1 provided in the second region DR2 of the intermediate frame 600_1, and the first protrusions BP1 are provided on the lower surface of the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1.

[0161] When considering the first protrusions BP1 and the second protrusions BP2 in conjunction with Figure 24 , the first accommodation recess SH1_1 can be provided at the left edge of the second region DR2 of the intermediate frame 600_1, and the second accommodation recess SH2_1 can be provided at the right edge of the second region DR2 of the intermediate frame 600_1. The first protrusions PP1 and the second protrusions PP2, which are spaced apart from each other in the first direction D1, are provided in the first accommodation recess SH1_1 and the second accommodation recess SH2_1. The first protrusions BP1 and the second protrusions BP2, which are spaced apart from each other in the first direction D1, can be provided on the lower surfaces of the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 and the second accommodation recess cover MC2_1, which cover the first accommodation recess SH1_1 and the second accommodation recess SH2_1, respectively. Although Figure 24 a plurality of first protrusions BP1 and second protrusions BP2 are arranged in a row is shown in , example embodiments are not limited thereto. If necessary, a plurality of first protrusions BP1 and second protrusions BP2 can be arranged in multiple rows. A plurality of first protrusions BP1 and second protrusions BP2 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval, or can be continuously or variably arranged. A plurality of first protrusions BP1 and second protrusions BP2 can include a plurality of first protrusions BP1 provided at the upper end side of the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 and the second accommodation recess cover MC2_1, and a plurality of second protrusions BP2 provided at the lower end side of the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 and the second accommodation recess cover MC2_1.

[0162] The first bumps BP1 and the second bump BP2 can have different areas. For example, the second bump BP2 can be provided to have an area greater than that of the first bumps BP1. The second bump BP2 can be longer than the first bumps BP1 in the first direction D1, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of first bumps BP1 can be provided to have the same area, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. That is, the areas of the first bumps BP1 can be different from each other, or the areas of some of the plurality of first bumps BP1 can be equal to each other and the areas of other of the plurality of first bumps BP1 can be equal to each other, but the area of each of the some of the first bumps BP1 can be different from the area of each of the other of the first bumps BP1.

[0163] The first bumps BP1 and the second bump BP2 can be arranged to correspond to the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1 shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14 , to be laminated with the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. For example, the plurality of first bumps BP1 can be respectively laminated with the plurality of first pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp, and the second bump BP2 can be laminated with the second pressure sensing unit CEp+1. In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of first bumps BP1 can correspond to the plurality of first protrusions PP1, and the second bump BP2 can correspond to the second protrusion PP2. For example, the plurality of first bumps BP1 and the second bump BP2 can be respectively laminated on the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1, and the plurality of first protrusions PP1 and the second protrusion PP2 can be respectively laminated under the plurality of pressure sensing units CE1 to CEp and CEp+1. Accordingly, even when the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 are not provided with the pressure concentration bumps 530, the first bumps BP1 and the second bump BP2 and the first protrusions PP1 and the second protrusion PP2 can be provided to concentrate pressure on the pressure sensing layer PSL in each sensing region due to an external force without dispersing the pressure. Accordingly, the sensitivity of the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 can be effectively improved.

[0164] Referring to Figure 25 and Figure 26 , the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 can include a first surface b1 on which the first waterproof member 410 is disposed, a third surface b3 opposite the first surface b1, and a first side surface b2 and a second side surface b4 connecting the first surface b1 and the third surface b3. The third surface b3 of the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 can be provided with the first bump BP1.

[0165] In some example embodiments, the first protrusion BP1 can have an inverted trapezoidal shape in cross section, but example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first protrusion BP1 can have various shapes protruding from the third surface b3 of the first receiving groove cover MC1_1. The lower surface of the first protrusion BP1 can be a curved surface. For example, the lower surface of the first protrusion BP1 can be a curved surface having the same curvature as the first surface b1 of the first receiving groove cover MC1_1. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto. The lower surface of the first protrusion BP1 can be a curved surface having a different curvature from the first surface b1 of the first receiving groove cover MC1_1, and the lower surface of the first protrusion BP1 can be a flat surface. When the first protrusion BP1 has a flat lower surface, there is an advantage that the first pressure sensor 510 can be stably fixed.

[0166] The second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on the lower surface of the first protrusion BP1 of the first receiving groove cover MC1_1 to attach and fix the first receiving groove cover MC1_1 to the first pressure sensor 510. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the second adhesive member CP2 can be disposed on the upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510 to attach and fix the first protrusion BP1 and the first pressure sensor 510 to each other. The first waterproof member 410 can be disposed in the second region DR2 of the middle frame 600_1 including the first receiving groove cover MC1_1.

[0167] The width of the first protrusion PP1 and the width of the first protrusion BP1 can be equal to each other. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the width of the first protrusion PP1 and the width of the first protrusion BP1 can be different from each other. The cross-sectional shape of the first protrusion BP1 can be a shape symmetrical to the first protrusion PP1. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the cross-sectional shape of the first protrusion BP1 and the cross-sectional shape of the first protrusion PP1 can be asymmetrical to each other or can be different from each other.

[0168] Figure 27 FIG. 13 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a second region of a middle frame according to some example embodiments. Figure 28 FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a second region according to some example embodiments. Figure 27 FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of the second region in an assembled state.

[0169] Other example embodiments described in connection with Figure 27 and Figure 28 differ from the example embodiments described in connection with Figure 23 in that no protrusion is disposed in the receiving groove (e.g., the first receiving groove SH1) of the middle frame 600. As such, redundant descriptions will be omitted, and differences will be mainly described.

[0170] Referring to Figure 27 and Figure 28 In some example embodiments, the first accommodation recess SH1 is provided in the second region DR2 of the middle frame 600, the first pressure sensor 510 is provided on an upper surface of the first accommodation recess SH1, and the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 is provided on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. The first adhesive member CP1 can be provided on a lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510, and the lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 can be attached and fixed to the upper surface of the first accommodation recess SH1 by the first adhesive member CP1. The first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 can be provided on the upper surface of the first pressure sensor 510. The first protrusion BP1 can be provided on a third surface b3 of the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1. The second adhesive member CP2 can be provided on a lower surface of the first protrusion BP1 to attach and fix the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 to the first pressure sensor 510. The first waterproof member 410 can be provided in the second region DR2 of the middle frame 600 including the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1. The lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 can be provided in the first accommodation recess SH1 to stably fix the first pressure sensor 510, and the first accommodation recess cover MC1_1 can be provided with the first protrusion BP1 to improve the sensitivity of the first pressure sensor 510. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto. In some example embodiments, the pressure concentration protrusion 530 can also be provided on the lower surface of the first pressure sensor 510 corresponding to the first protrusion BP1.

[0171] Figure 29 and Figure 30 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of applying a pressure signal to a display device according to some example embodiments.

[0172] Figure 29 and Figure 30 A display device 10 to which the application is applied is illustrated. In the display device 10, Figure 29 and Figure 30 In the display device 10, a physical input button is omitted at a long side of the display device 10, and a pressure sensor is provided at that position in place of the physical input button. Figure 29 A case in which the first sensing region SR1 is used as a press operation recognition region is illustrated. That is, Figure 29A state in which a position is pressed with a finger while gripping the display device 10 with a finger is shown. The first sensing region SR1 of the first pressure sensor 510 and the second pressure sensor 520 is disposed at the position. When pressure is applied to the first sensing region SR1, the resistance of the pressure sensing layer PSL changes, and the sensing electrodes RE1 and RE2 sense the resistance change to determine whether pressure is applied to the position and determine the intensity of the pressure. A pre-programmed operation of the display device 10 can be output according to the pressure applied to the specific position and / or the intensity of the pressure. For example, a pre-programmed function such as screen adjustment, screen locking, screen transition, application call, application execution, photographing, and call reception can be performed. Different operations can be pre-programmed for different first sensing regions SR1. Accordingly, as the number of first sensing regions SR1 increases, more various outputs of the display device 10 can be easily generated.

[0173] Figure 30 A case in which the second sensing region SR2 is used as a pinching operation recognition region is shown. That is, Figure 30 A state in which a relatively large region is pinched using a palm and a finger while gripping the display device 10 with a finger is shown. The second sensing region SR2 is disposed in a region in which pinching is performed to determine whether pressure is applied by pinching and determine the intensity of the pressure. Accordingly, a pre-programmed operation of the display device 10 can be performed. Pinching can be performed by an action of naturally applying force to the entire hand while gripping the display device 10. The pinching operation can be quickly performed without a delicate hand action while gripping the display device 10, and thus, a simpler and faster input is possible. Accordingly, the second sensing region SR2 can be used as an input method for frequently used functions or urgently needed programs such as a quick photograph.

[0174] According to various exemplary embodiments, the sensitivity of a pressure sensor of a display device can be improved, and malfunction due to moisture penetration can be prevented. Also, an input method can be simplified. The effects of the inventive concept are not limited to the foregoing, and other various effects are contemplated herein.

[0175] While certain example embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Accordingly, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but rather the scope of the inventive concept is to be accorded the broadest scope as is deemed reasonable by the artisan in light of the foregoing disclosure, and various obvious modifications and equivalents.

Claims

1. A display apparatus comprising: a lower cover; a display panel including a first area and a second area and disposed on the lower cover; an intermediate frame disposed between the display panel and the lower cover, the intermediate frame including a first accommodation groove extending along a first long side of the display panel, wherein the intermediate frame includes a flat portion overlapping the first area and a curved portion overlapping the second area in a thickness direction of the display panel, the first accommodation groove being disposed in the curved portion; a first pressure sensor disposed in the first accommodation groove; a first accommodation groove cover disposed on the first pressure sensor in the first accommodation groove; and a first waterproof member disposed on the first accommodation groove cover, wherein the second area of the display panel is a display area for displaying an image, wherein the display panel, the first waterproof member, the first accommodation groove cover, and the first pressure sensor are sequentially disposed in the thickness direction of the display panel, and wherein the first pressure sensor overlaps the second area of the display panel in the thickness direction of the display panel. 2.The display apparatus of claim 1, wherein: an upper surface of the first waterproof member is attached to the display panel; and a lower surface of the first waterproof member is attached to the first accommodation groove cover.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein An area of the first waterproof member is greater than an area of the first accommodation groove cover. 4.The display apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the curved portion has a first curvature.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The first pressure sensor includes a plurality of pressure sensing units.

6. The display device according to claim 4, wherein The first accommodation groove cover has a second curvature equal to the first curvature.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein The first accommodation groove includes a plurality of protrusions corresponding to the plurality of pressure sensing units.

8. The display device according to claim 5, wherein The first accommodation groove cover includes a plurality of lugs corresponding to the plurality of pressure sensing units.

9. The display device according to claim 5, wherein A plurality of pressure concentration lugs corresponding to the plurality of pressure sensing units are disposed on an upper surface of the first pressure sensor.

10. The display device according to claim 5, wherein A plurality of pressure concentration lugs corresponding to the plurality of pressure sensing units are disposed on a lower surface of the first pressure sensor.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The intermediate frame further includes: a second accommodation groove extending along a second long side of the display panel facing the first long side; and a second pressure sensor disposed in the second accommodation groove. 12.The display apparatus of claim 11, further comprising: a second accommodation groove cover disposed on the second pressure sensor in the second accommodation groove. 13.The display apparatus of claim 12, further comprising: a second waterproof member disposed on the second accommodation groove cover.

14. The display device of claim 1, wherein, The intermediate frame includes: a wire hole penetrating the intermediate frame; and a first concave portion adjacent to one side of the first accommodation groove and exposing the wire hole.

15. The display device of claim 14, wherein, Each of the first accommodation groove cover and the first pressure sensor includes a second concave portion adjacent to one side thereof and exposing the wire hole.

16. The display device of claim 15, wherein, A width of the first concave portion is smaller than a width of the second concave portion. 17.The display device of claim 16, further comprising: a display circuit board attached to one side of the display panel and bent toward a lower surface of the display panel; and a wire connected to the display circuit board and passing through the wire hole. 18.The display device of claim 17, further comprising: a main circuit board disposed on a lower surface of the middle frame, wherein the wire is connected to a main connector disposed on the lower surface of the main circuit board. ​

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