Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a flexible display module and a support member located below the flexible display module. The support member includes a first support member and a second support member. A portion of each of the first support member and the second support member adjacent to a bending axis is bent to have a curvature.

Description

[0001] This patent application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0111530 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 18, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] An aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a display device. Background Art

[0003] The display device displays various images on a display screen to provide information to a user. Typically, the display device displays information within an allocated screen.

[0004] In recent years, flexible display devices including bendable flexible display panels have been developed. Unlike flat panel display devices, flexible display devices can be folded, rolled, or bent like paper. Flexible display devices with variable shapes can be carried regardless of the traditional screen size, and thus improve user convenience. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to an aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device is provided in which a folding portion has improved durability. According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable display device is provided, which has improved yield of a manufacturing process and improved durability of a product by improving the strength of a portion corresponding to a folding axis.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of the inventive concept, a display device includes a flexible display module and a support member. The flexible display module includes a first display area and a second display area adjacent to the first display area, and is foldable about a boundary line between the first display area and the second display area. The support member includes a first support member overlapping the first display area and a second support member overlapping the second display area, and is located below the flexible display module.

[0007] The first support member includes a first base support portion, a first connection support portion extending from the first base support portion, positioned adjacent to the boundary line and bent to have a curvature, and a first extension support portion extending from the first connection support portion and overlapping the first base support portion.

[0008] The second support member includes: a second base support portion; a second connection support portion extending from the second base support portion, positioned adjacent to the boundary line and bent to have a curvature; and a second extension support portion extending from the second connection support portion and overlapping the second base support portion.

[0009] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a shock absorbing member between the flexible display module and the supporting member.

[0010] In an embodiment, the display device may further include an adhesive member, the adhesive member including a first adhesive member and a second adhesive member, the adhesive member being located between the impact absorbing member and the supporting member. The first base supporting portion may be coupled to the impact absorbing member by the first adhesive member, and the second base supporting portion may be coupled to the impact absorbing member by the second adhesive member.

[0011] In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first connection support portion, the first extension support portion, at least a portion of the second connection support portion, and the second extension support portion may be spaced apart from the adhesive member.

[0012] In an embodiment, the first bonding member may be spaced apart from the second bonding member.

[0013] In embodiments, at least a portion of a surface of the first base support portion may contact at least a portion of a surface of the first extension support portion, and at least a portion of a surface of the second base support portion may contact at least a portion of a surface of the second extension support portion.

[0014] In an embodiment, each of the first extension support portion and the second extension support portion may be bent to have a curvature, the first extension support portion may be spaced apart from the first base support portion, and the second extension support portion may be spaced apart from the second base support portion.

[0015] In an embodiment, the first base support portion may have the same area as the first extension support portion, and the second base support portion may have the same area as the second extension support portion.

[0016] In an embodiment, the first base support portion may have an area greater than an area of ​​the first extension support portion, and the second base support portion may have an area greater than an area of ​​the second extension support portion.

[0017] In an embodiment, the bonding member may further include a third bonding member between the first bonding member and the second bonding member and a fourth bonding member spaced apart from the third bonding member.

[0018] In an embodiment, the third adhesive member may be bonded to only one surface of the first supporting member, and the fourth adhesive member may be bonded to only one surface of the second supporting member.

[0019] In an embodiment, each of the third bonding member and the fourth bonding member may have a black color.

[0020] In an embodiment, each of the first support member and the second support member may include metal.

[0021] In an embodiment, the flexible display module may include a plurality of pixels each including a light emitting element and a driving circuit configured to provide a data signal to the plurality of pixels. The driving circuit may be located under the supporting member.

[0022] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a housing configured to accommodate the flexible display module, the impact absorbing member, the adhesive member, and the supporting member. The housing may support the first base supporting portion and the second base supporting portion, and the first connection supporting portion and the second connection supporting portion may be accommodated in a space defined in the housing.

[0023] In an embodiment, when the flexible display module is folded about the boundary line, the first connection support portion and the second connection support portion may be spaced apart from the housing. In an embodiment, when the flexible display module is folded about the boundary line, the first connection support portion and the second connection support portion may always be spaced apart from the housing.

[0024] According to one or more embodiments of the inventive concept, a display device includes a flexible display module and a support member. The flexible display module includes a flexible display panel and an input sensing circuit located on the flexible display panel, and the flexible display module is foldable about a bending axis. The support member includes a first support member located below the flexible display module and a second support member adjacent to the first support member. The bending axis is defined by a boundary line between the first support member and the second support member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings, together with the description, illustrate some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and are used to explain the principles of the inventive concept. In the drawings:

[0026] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0027] Figures 2A to 2G are exemplarily shown Figure 1 A view showing a state where the display device is folded;

[0028] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0029] Figure 4A and Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display module of a display device according to some embodiments of the inventive concept;

[0030] Figure 5 is a plan view showing a display panel according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0031] Figure 6 is an equivalent circuit diagram showing a pixel according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0032] Figure 7 is an example showing the application to Figure 6 A view of a light emitting control signal and a scanning signal of a pixel in FIG.

[0033] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a pixel according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0034] Fig.9A is shown along Figure 1 A view of a portion of a cross section taken along line II';

[0035] Fig. 9B is shown along Figure 2A A view of a portion of a cross section taken along line II-II';

[0036] Fig. 9C are shown separately Fig.9A A view of the supporting structure in FIG.

[0037] Fig.10 and Fig.11 are views each showing a supporting member according to some embodiments of the inventive concept;

[0038] Fig. 12A is shown along with Figure 1 A view of a portion of a cross section taken along a line corresponding to line II';

[0039] Fig. 12B is shown along with Figure 2A A view of a portion of a cross section taken along a line corresponding to line II-II'; and

[0040] Fig.13 are views illustrating a supporting member and a housing according to an embodiment of the inventive concept. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Here, some embodiments of the inventive concept will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Furthermore, in the drawings, the thickness, proportion, and size of components may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration.As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0043] The meaning of “include” or “comprising” specifies a property, a fixed number, a step, an operation, an element, a component or a combination thereof, but does not exclude other properties, fixed numbers, steps, operations, elements, components or a combination thereof.

[0044] When an element is described as being associated with another element (such as being “on” another element or being “located on” a different element or layer), this includes both the case where the element is directly on the other element or layer and the case where the element is located on the other element via another layer or yet another element. Conversely, when an element is described as being associated with another element (such as being “directly on” another element or being “directly on” a different element or layer), this means the case where the element is located on the other element or layer without intervening elements or layers therebetween.

[0045] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same or similar components.

[0046] It will be understood that, although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another element, component, region, layer, or part. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first part discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second part.

[0047] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "under", "below", "below", "above", "on", etc. may be used here to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another (other) element or feature as shown in the figure. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is turned over, the element described as "below" or "below" other elements or features will then be positioned as "above" other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" can include both above and below orientations. The device can be positioned otherwise (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used here are interpreted accordingly.

[0048] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit exemplary embodiments. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a (kind) (person)" and "the (the)" are also intended to include plural forms.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts belong. It will also be understood that, unless expressly defined as such herein, terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept. Figure 1 As shown in , the display surface IS on which the image IM is displayed is parallel to the surface defined by the first direction axis DR1 and the second direction axis DR2. The normal direction of the display surface IS (i.e., the thickness direction of the display device DD) represents the third direction axis DR3. The front surface (or top surface) and the rear surface (or bottom surface) of each component are distinguished by the third direction axis DR3. However, the directions indicated by the first direction axis DR1, the second direction axis DR2, and the third direction axis DR3 may be relative concepts and may be converted relative to each other. Here, the first direction to the third direction may be directions indicated by the first direction axis DR1, the second direction axis DR2, and the third direction axis DR3 and respectively represented by the same reference numerals.

[0051] The display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be a foldable display device. The display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be used for large electronic devices such as televisions and monitors and small and medium-sized electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablet PCs, navigation units for vehicles, game consoles, and smart watches.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown in , the display surface IS of the display device DD may include a plurality of regions. The display device DD includes a display region DD-DA on which an image IM is displayed and a non-display region DD-NDA disposed adjacent to the display region DD-DA. The non-display region DD-NDA may be a region on which no image is displayed. Figure 1 An icon of an application and a clock window are shown as examples of the image IM. In an embodiment, the display area DD-DA may have a rectangular shape, and the non-display area DD-NDA may surround the display area DD-DA. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, the display area DD-DA and the non-display area DD-NDA may be designed in a related manner in shape.

[0053] The display device DD may include a housing HS. The housing HS may be provided at the outside of the display device DD and accommodate components therein.

[0054] Figures 2A to 2G are exemplarily shown Figure 1 A view of a state in which the display device DD is folded.

[0055] Reference Figure 2A , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be folded inwardly about a bending axis BX parallel to the second direction DR2. Figure 2B , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be folded outward about a bending axis BX parallel to the second direction DR2. Figure 2C , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be folded inward from the end of the display device DD. Figure 2D , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be folded outward from the end of the display device DD. Figure 2E , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be folded in a diagonal direction.

[0056] Reference Figure 2F , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be folded inwardly about a bending axis BX parallel to the first direction DR1. Figure 2G , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be folded outward about a bending axis BX parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0057] As described above, the bending axis BX can be variously changed in direction.

[0058] Despite Figures 2A to 2G Some methods of folding the display device DD are exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 8 , but embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0059] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept; Figure 4A and Figure 4B The invention is a diagram showing some embodiments of the invention. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the display modules DM and DM-1 in FIG. Figure 3 A cross section defined by the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR3 is shown.

[0060] The display device DD may include a display module DM, a plurality of functional layers FC1 to FC3, a base film BF, a shock absorbing member CSH, a supporting member PT, a plurality of adhesive members AD1 to AD6. In other embodiments of the inventive concept, one or more components of the display device DD may be omitted.

[0061] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, each of the adhesive members AD1 to AD6 may be a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0062] Functional layers FC1 to FC3 may be disposed over the display module DM.

[0063] The first functional layer FC1 may be attached to the display module DM by the first adhesive member AD1. The second functional layer FC2 may be attached to the first functional layer FC1 by the second adhesive member AD2. The third functional layer FC3 may be attached to the second functional layer FC2 by the third adhesive member AD3.

[0064] In an embodiment, each of the functional layers FC1 to FC3 may include a polymer material. Each of the functional layers FC1 to FC3 may be a film type. In an embodiment, each of the functional layers FC1 to FC3 may have a modulus of about 2 GPa or more and about 100 GPa or less.

[0065] In an embodiment, each of the functional layers FC1 to FC3 may have a thickness of about 35 μm or more and about 60 μm or less. When each of the functional layers FC1 to FC3 has a thickness less than about 35 μm, the performance of the originally intended function may be degraded, and when greater than about 60 μm, the flexibility of the display device DD may be reduced. In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first functional layer FC1 may be a polarizing functional layer that polarizes incident light. The second functional layer FC2 may be an impact absorbing functional layer for absorbing impacts applied from the outside. The third functional layer FC3 may be a window functional layer that provides an external shape of the display device DD. In another embodiment of the inventive concept, one or more of the first to third functional layers FC1 to FC3 may be omitted.

[0066] The base film BF, the shock absorbing member CSH, and the supporting member PT are disposed under the display module DM.

[0067] The base film BF may be attached to the display module DM by the fourth adhesive member AD4. The base film BF may include a polymer material.

[0068] The shock absorbing member CSH may be attached to the base film BF through the fifth adhesive member AD5. The shock absorbing member CSH may include a polymer material. The shock absorbing member CSH may be a layer for absorbing shock applied from the outside.

[0069] The supporting member PT may be attached to the shock absorbing member CSH by the sixth adhesive member AD6. The supporting member PT may support the display module DM. The supporting member PT may include a hinge (not shown) for folding or bending the display module DM. The supporting member PT may have a rigid property.

[0070] Reference Figure 4AIn an embodiment, the display module DM may include a display panel DP and an input sensing circuit ISC. The input sensing circuit ISC may detect a touch and / or pressure applied from the outside.

[0071] In an embodiment, the input sensing circuit ISC may be directly disposed on a thin film encapsulation layer (not shown) of the display panel DP. Here, the feature of "directly disposed" means that the input sensing circuit ISC is disposed on the display panel DP without an additional adhesive member therebetween.

[0072] Reference Figure 4B In another embodiment, the display module DM-1 may include a display panel DP, an input sensing circuit ISC, and a seventh adhesive member AD7. The display panel DP and the input sensing circuit ISC may be attached by the seventh adhesive member AD7.

[0073] Figure 5 is a plan view showing a display panel DP according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0074] The display panel DP includes a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA on a plane. In an embodiment, the non-display area DP-NDA may be defined along an edge of the display area DP-DA. The display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA of the display panel DP are respectively Figure 1 The display area DD-DA and the non-display area DD-NDA of the display device DD in the display device DD correspond.

[0075] The display panel DP may include a scan driving unit 100, a data driving unit 200, a plurality of scan lines SL, a plurality of emission control lines ECL, a plurality of data lines DL, a plurality of power lines PL, and a plurality of pixels PX (hereinafter, referred to as pixels). The pixels PX are arranged on the display area DP-DA. In an embodiment, each pixel PX includes an organic light emitting element OLED (refer to Figure 6 ) and a pixel circuit CC connected to the organic light emitting element OLED (refer to Figure 6 ).

[0076] The scan driving unit 100 may include a scan driving part and a light emission control driving part.

[0077] The scan driving part generates scan signals and sequentially outputs the generated scan signals to the scan lines SL. The light emission control driving part generates light emission control signals and outputs the generated light emission control signals to the light emission control lines ECL.

[0078] In another embodiment of the inventive concept, the scan driving part and the light emission control driving part may be integrated into one circuit without being separated from each other in the scan driving unit 100 .

[0079] In an embodiment, the scan driving unit 100 may include a plurality of thin film transistors formed through the same process as a driving circuit of each pixel PX, for example, a low temperature polysilicon (LTPS) process or a low temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) process.

[0080] The data driving unit 200 outputs a data signal to the data line DL. The data signal is an analog voltage corresponding to a grayscale value of image data.

[0081] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the data driving unit 200 may be mounted to a printed circuit board FPCB, and the printed circuit board FPCB may be connected to a pad (also called a "pad") provided on one end of the data line DL. However, the embodiment of the inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, the data driving unit 200 may be directly mounted to the display panel DP.

[0082] The scan lines SL may extend in the second direction DR2 and be arranged in the first direction DR1 crossing the second direction DR2. Although the second direction DR2 and the first direction DR1 may be perpendicular to each other in embodiments of the inventive concept, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0083] The light emission control lines ECL may extend in the second direction DR2 and be arranged in the first direction DR1. That is, each of the light emission control lines ECL may be arranged parallel to a corresponding scan line of the scan lines SL.

[0084] The data lines DL may extend in a first direction DR1 and be arranged in a second direction DR2 crossing the first direction DR1. The data lines DL may provide data signals to corresponding pixels PX.

[0085] The power lines PL may extend in the first direction DR1 and be arranged in the second direction DR2. The power lines PL may provide the first power ELVDD to the corresponding pixels PX.

[0086] Each of the plurality of pixels PX is connected to a corresponding scan line among the scan lines SL, a corresponding light emission control line among the light emission control lines ECL, a corresponding data line among the data lines DL, and a corresponding power line among the power lines PL.

[0087] The non-display area DP-NDA of the display panel DP may include a bending area BA. When the display panel DP is bent about the bending area BA, the surface area of ​​the non-display area DP-NDA may be reduced on a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 to provide a display device DD having a narrow frame. Figure 1 The non-display area DD-NDA in the display device DD has a small surface area.

[0088] Figure 6 is an equivalent circuit diagram showing a pixel PX according to an embodiment of the inventive concept; Figure 7 is an example showing the application to Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the light emission control signal Ei and the scanning signals Si-1, Si, and Si+1 of the pixel PX. Figure 6 , a pixel PX connected to an i-th scan line SLi and an i-th emission control line ECLi is exemplarily shown.

[0089] The pixel PX may include an organic light emitting element OLED and a pixel circuit CC. The pixel circuit CC may include a plurality of transistors T1 to T7 and a capacitor CP. The pixel circuit CC controls the amount of current flowing through the organic light emitting element OLED in response to a data signal.

[0090] The organic light emitting element OLED may emit light having brightness (eg, predetermined brightness) in response to the amount of current supplied from the pixel circuit CC. To this end, the first power ELVDD may have a level higher than that of the second power ELVSS.

[0091] Each of the plurality of transistors T1 to T7 may include an input electrode (or source electrode), an output electrode (or drain electrode), and a control electrode (or gate electrode). In this specification, for convenience, one of the input electrode and the output electrode may be referred to as a first electrode, and the other of the input electrode and the output electrode may be referred to as a second electrode.

[0092] The first transistor T1 includes a first electrode connected to the first power ELVDD through a fifth transistor T5 and a second electrode connected to the anode electrode of the organic light emitting element OLED through a sixth transistor T6. The first transistor T1 may be referred to as a driving transistor in this specification.

[0093] The first transistor T1 controls the amount of current flowing through the organic light emitting element OLED in response to a voltage applied to the control electrode.

[0094] The second transistor T2 is connected between the data line DL and the first electrode of the first transistor T1. In addition, the control electrode of the second transistor T2 is connected to the i-th scan line SLi. The second transistor T2 is turned on when the i-th scan signal Si is provided to the i-th scan line SLi and electrically connects the data line DL to the first electrode of the first transistor T1.

[0095] The third transistor T3 is connected between the second electrode and the control electrode of the first transistor T1. The control electrode of the third transistor T3 is connected to the i-th scan line SLi. The third transistor T3 is turned on when the i-th scan signal Si is provided to the i-th scan line SLi and electrically connects the second electrode of the first transistor T1 to the control electrode of the first transistor T1. Therefore, when the third transistor T3 is turned on, the first transistor T1 is connected in a diode form.

[0096] The fourth transistor T4 is connected between the node ND and the initialization power generating part (not shown). In addition, the control electrode of the fourth transistor T4 is connected to the i-1th scan line SLi-1. The fourth transistor T4 is turned on when the i-1th scan signal Si-1 is provided to the i-1th scan line SLi-1 and provides the initialization voltage Vint to the node ND.

[0097] The fifth transistor T5 is connected between the power line PL and the first electrode of the first transistor T1. A control electrode of the fifth transistor T5 is connected to the i-th light emission control line ECLi.

[0098] The sixth transistor T6 is connected between the second electrode of the first transistor T1 and the anode electrode of the organic light emitting element OLED. In addition, a control electrode of the sixth transistor T6 is connected to the i-th light emission control line ECLi.

[0099] The seventh transistor T7 is connected between the initialization power generating part (not shown) and the anode electrode of the organic light emitting element OLED. In addition, the control electrode of the seventh transistor T7 is connected to the i+1th scan line SLi+1. The seventh transistor T7 is turned on when the i+1th scan signal Si+1 is provided to the i+1th scan line SLi+1 and provides the initialization voltage Vint to the anode electrode of the organic light emitting element OLED.

[0100] The seventh transistor T7 can improve the black performance of the pixel PX. When the seventh transistor T7 is turned on, the parasitic capacitor (not shown) of the organic light emitting element OLED is discharged. Then, when black brightness is achieved, the organic light emitting element OLED does not emit light due to the leakage current from the first transistor T1, and thus the black performance can be improved.

[0101] In addition, despite the Figure 6 The control electrode of the seventh transistor T7 is connected to the i+1th scan line SLi+1, but the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In another embodiment of the inventive concept, the control electrode of the seventh transistor T7 may be connected to the i-th scan line SLi or the i-1th scan line SLi-1.

[0102] Although the PMOS Figure 6, but the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In another embodiment of the inventive concept, the pixel PX may include an NMOS. In another embodiment of the inventive concept, the pixel PX may include a combination of an NMOS and a PMOS.

[0103] The capacitor CP is provided between the power line PL and the node ND. The capacitor CP stores a voltage corresponding to the data signal. When the fifth transistor T5 and the sixth transistor T6 are turned on, the amount of current flowing through the first transistor T1 may be determined based on the voltage stored in the capacitor CP.

[0104] However, the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited to Figure 6 In other embodiments of the inventive concept, the pixel PX may be implemented in any one of various shapes for allowing the organic light emitting element OLED to emit light.

[0105] Reference Figure 7 , the light emission control signal Ei may have a high level E-HIGH or a low level E-LOW. Each of the scan signals Si-1, Si, and Si+1 may have a high level S-HIGH or a low level S-LOW.

[0106] When the light emission control signal Ei has a high level E-HIGH, the fifth transistor T5 and the sixth transistor T6 are turned off. When the fifth transistor T5 is turned off, the first electrode of the first transistor T1 and the power line PL are electrically cut off. When the sixth transistor T6 is turned off, the second electrode of the first transistor T1 and the anode electrode of the organic light emitting element OLED are electrically cut off. Therefore, during the time period in which the light emission control signal Ei having a high level E-HIGH is provided to the i-th light emission control line ECLi, the organic light emitting element OLED does not emit light.

[0107] Thereafter, when the i-1th scan signal Si-1 supplied to the i-1th scan line SLi-1 has a low level S-LOW, the fourth transistor T4 is turned on. When the fourth transistor T4 is turned on, the initialization voltage Vint is supplied to the node ND.

[0108] When the i-th scan signal supplied to the i-th scan line SLi has a low level S-LOW, the second transistor T2 and the third transistor T3 are turned on.

[0109] When the second transistor T2 is turned on, the data signal is provided to the first electrode of the first transistor T1. Here, since the node ND is initialized by the initialization voltage Vint, the first transistor T1 is turned on. When the first transistor T1 is turned on, a voltage corresponding to the data signal is provided to the node ND. Here, the capacitor CP stores a voltage corresponding to the data signal.

[0110] When the i+1th scan signal Si+1 supplied to the i+1th scan line SLi+1 has the low level S-LOW, the seventh transistor T7 is turned on.

[0111] When the seventh transistor T7 is turned on, the initialization voltage Vint is supplied to the anode electrode of the organic light emitting element OLED, and the parasitic capacitor of the organic light emitting element OLED is discharged.

[0112] When the light emitting control signal Ei supplied to the light emitting control line ECLi has a low level E-LOW, the fifth transistor T5 and the sixth transistor T6 are turned on. When the fifth transistor T5 is turned on, the first power ELVDD is supplied to the first electrode of the first transistor T1. When the sixth transistor T6 is turned on, the second electrode of the first transistor T1 and the anode electrode of the organic light emitting element OLED are electrically connected to each other. Then, the organic light emitting element OLED generates light having a brightness (e.g., a predetermined brightness) corresponding to the amount of current supplied.

[0113] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a pixel PX (refer to FIG. 1 ) according to an embodiment of the inventive concept Figure 6 ). Figure 8 Although the first transistor T1 and the second transistor T2 are exemplarily shown in FIG. 1 , the embodiments of the inventive concept do not limit the structures of the first transistor T1 and the second transistor T2 . Figure 8 The second electrode ED2 of the first transistor T1 directly contacts the anode electrode AE ​​of the pixel PX, but the diagram only shows the cross-sectional shape. Figure 6 As shown in FIG, the first transistor T1 may be connected to the anode electrode AE ​​of the pixel PX through the sixth transistor T6.

[0114] In the embodiment, the display panel DP (refer to Figure 5 ) may include a base layer BL, a buffer layer BFL, gate insulating layers GI1 and GI2, an interlayer insulating layer ILD, a circuit insulating layer VIA, and a pixel defining layer PDL.

[0115] The buffer layer BFL is disposed on the surface of the base layer BL.

[0116] The buffer layer BFL prevents or substantially prevents impurities present in the base layer BL from being introduced into the pixel PX during a manufacturing process. Specifically, the buffer layer BFL prevents or substantially prevents impurities from diffusing into active portions ACL of transistors T1 and T2 constituting the pixel PX.

[0117] Impurities may be introduced from the outside or generated when the base layer BL is thermally decomposed. The impurities may include gas or sodium released from the base layer BL. In addition, the buffer layer BFL blocks moisture from being introduced into the pixel PX from the outside.

[0118] The active portion ACL constituting each of the transistors T1 and T2 is disposed on the buffer layer BFL. In an embodiment, each active portion ACL may include amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon. In an embodiment, each active portion ACL may include a metal oxide semiconductor.

[0119] Each active portion ACL may include a channel region, a first ion doping region, and a second ion doping region, the channel region serving as a passage through which electrons or holes are movable, with the channel region disposed between the first ion doping region and the second ion doping region.

[0120] The first gate insulating layer GI1 covering the active portion ACL is disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The first gate insulating layer GI1 includes an organic layer and / or an inorganic layer. The first gate insulating layer GI1 may include a plurality of inorganic thin films. In an embodiment, the plurality of inorganic thin films may include a silicon nitride layer and a silicon oxide layer.

[0121] The control electrode GE1 constituting each of the transistors T1 and T2 is disposed on the first gate insulating layer GI1. The control electrode GE1 of the first transistor T1 may be one of two electrodes constituting the capacitor CP. Figure 5 ) and at least a portion of the light emission control line ECL (refer to Figure 5 ) may be disposed on the first gate insulating layer GI1.

[0122] The second gate insulating layer GI2 covering the control electrode GE1 is disposed on the first gate insulating layer GI1. The second gate insulating layer GI2 includes an organic layer and / or an inorganic layer. The second gate insulating layer GI2 may include a plurality of inorganic thin films. In an embodiment, the plurality of inorganic thin films may include a silicon nitride layer and a silicon oxide layer.

[0123] The capacitor CP (refer to Figure 6 The other electrode GE2 of the two electrodes ) may be disposed on the second gate insulating layer GI2. That is, the control electrode GE1 disposed on the first gate insulating layer GI1 and the electrode GE2 disposed on the second gate insulating layer GI2 overlap each other to provide Figure 6 However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited to the illustrated arrangement structure of electrodes constituting the capacitor CP.

[0124] An interlayer insulating layer ILD covering the electrode GE2 is disposed on the second gate insulating layer GI2. The interlayer insulating layer ILD includes an organic layer and / or an inorganic layer. The interlayer insulating layer ILD may include a plurality of inorganic thin films. In an embodiment, the plurality of inorganic thin films may include a silicon nitride layer and a silicon oxide layer.

[0125] Data line DL (refer to Figure 5 ) and at least a portion of the power line PL (refer to Figure 5 ) may be disposed on the interlayer insulating layer ILD. The first electrode ED1 and the second electrode ED2 of each of the transistors T1 and T2 may be disposed on the interlayer insulating layer ILD.

[0126] The first and second electrodes ED1 and ED2 may be respectively connected to the corresponding active portions ACL through vias passing through the gate insulating layers GI1 and GI2 and the interlayer insulating layer ILD.

[0127] A circuit insulating layer VIA covering the first electrode ED1 and the second electrode ED2 may be disposed on the interlayer insulating layer ILD. The circuit insulating layer VIA includes an organic layer and / or an inorganic layer. The circuit insulating layer VIA may provide a planarized surface.

[0128] Pixel defining layer PDL and organic light emitting element OLED (refer to Figure 6 ) is arranged on the circuit insulation layer VIA. Figure 8 In the figure, for convenience, only the anode electrode AE ​​of the organic light emitting element OLED is shown. Although not shown, the organic light emitting element OLED may further include a hole transport region, a light emitting layer, an electron transport region, and a cathode electrode in addition to the anode electrode AE. Although not shown, the display panel DP may include a thin film encapsulation layer for sealing the organic light emitting element OLED.

[0129] Fig.9A is shown along Figure 1 A view of a portion of a cross section taken along line II'; Fig. 9B is shown along Figure 2A That is, Fig. 9B It is an exemplary illustration in which Fig.9A A view of a state in which the display device DD is folded. Fig. 9C Is shown separately Fig.9A View of the supporting member PT in FIG.

[0130] Reference Fig.9A The display area DA may include a portion of the display area DA relative to the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ) is distinguished into a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2. The display area DA can be Figure 1 Display area DD-DA and / or Figure 5 The display area DP-DA corresponds.

[0131] The supporting member PT may include a first supporting member PT1 and a second supporting member PT2. The first supporting member PT1 overlaps the first display area DA1 in the third direction DR3, and the second supporting member PT2 overlaps the second display area DA2 in the third direction DR3.

[0132] In an embodiment, each of the first supporting member PT1 and the second supporting member PT2 may include a metal. In an embodiment, the metal may include iron, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, or zinc. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0133] Each of the first and second supporting members PT1 and PT2 may have a rigid property. However, when each of the first and second supporting members PT1 and PT2 has a sufficiently small thickness, each of the first and second supporting members PT1 and PT2 may have flexibility due to the small thickness.

[0134] The first supporting member PT1 and the second supporting member PT2 may be separated from each other by a distance (eg, a predetermined distance) DT.

[0135] The sixth bonding member AD6 may include a first sub-bonding member AD61 and a second sub-bonding member AD62. The first sub-bonding member AD61 and the second sub-bonding member AD62 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0136] The first sub-adhesive member AD61 couples the first supporting member PT1 to the shock absorbing member CSH, and the second sub-adhesive member AD62 couples the second supporting member PT2 to the shock absorbing member CSH.

[0137] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ) may be defined by a boundary line between the first supporting member PT1 and the second supporting member PT2. In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ) may be disposed on a boundary line between the first supporting member PT1 and the second supporting member PT2. In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ) may be defined as an axis overlapping a boundary line between the first supporting member PT1 and the second supporting member PT2 in the third direction DR3.

[0138] Reference Fig. 9B , the first support member PT1 and the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ) adjacent to the second support member PT2 and the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ) adjacent portions may not be attached to the sixth bonding member AD6.

[0139] Therefore, when the display device DD is about the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ) When folded, stress or damage applied to components of the display device DD can be alleviated by taking advantage of the rigid nature of each of the first supporting member PT1 and the second supporting member PT2.

[0140] When a portion of the display module DM is bent about the bending area BA, the printed circuit board FPCB and the data driving unit 200 may be disposed under the supporting member PT. Here, the data driving unit 200 may also be referred to as a data driving circuit or a driving circuit.

[0141] Reference Fig. 9C The first supporting member PT1 may include a first base supporting portion PT1-B, a first connecting supporting portion PT1-C and a first extending supporting portion PT1-E. The second supporting member PT2 may include a second base supporting portion PT2-B, a second connecting supporting portion PT2-C and a second extending supporting portion PT2-E.

[0142] The first base supporting portion PT1-B and the second base supporting portion PT2-B serve to support a shock absorbing member CSH, a display module DM, etc. disposed thereover.

[0143] The first connecting support portion PT1-C extends from the first base support portion PT1-B to the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ). The first connection support portion PT1-C is disposed adjacent to the second connection support portion PT2-C. The first connection support portion PT1-C is bent to have a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT.

[0144] The second connecting support portion PT2-C extends from the second base support portion PT2-B to the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A ). The second connection support portion PT2-C is disposed adjacent to the first connection support portion PT1-C. The second connection support portion PT2-C is bent to have a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT.

[0145] That is, the outer surface of each of the first connection support portion PT1-C and the second connection support portion PT2-C has a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT. The outer surface of the first connection support portion PT1-C and the outer surface of the second connection support portion PT2-C may face each other about the bending axis BX.

[0146] The first extension support portion PT1-E extends from the first connection support portion PT1-C and overlaps the first base support portion PT1-B in the third direction DR3.

[0147] The second extension support portion PT2-E extends from the second connection support portion PT2-C and overlaps the second base support portion PT2-B in the third direction DR3.

[0148] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, at least a portion of the first extension support portion PT1-E contacts the first base support portion PT1-B, and at least a portion of the second extension support portion PT2-E contacts the second base support portion PT2-B.

[0149] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first base support portion PT1-B may be disposed between the first extension support portion PT1-E and the display module DM, and the second base support portion PT2-B may be disposed between the second extension support portion PT2-E and the display module DM.

[0150] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first extension support portion PT1-E may have an area smaller than the area of ​​the first base support portion PT1-B. In addition, the second extension support portion PT2-E may have an area smaller than the area of ​​the second base support portion PT2-B. Here, the area may be measured when viewed from the third direction DR3.

[0151] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first base support portion PT1-B, the first connection support portion PT1-C and the first extension support portion PT1-E may be integrated with each other. That is, when a portion of the first support member PT1 is bent, the first support member PT1 may be divided into the first base support portion PT1-B, the first connection support portion PT1-C and the first extension support portion PT1-E. The second base support portion PT2-B, the second connection support portion PT2-C and the second extension support portion PT2-E may be integrated with each other. That is, when a portion of the second support member PT2 is bent, the second support member PT2 may be divided into the second base support portion PT2-B, the second connection support portion PT2-C and the second extension support portion PT2-E.

[0152] As described above, when a portion of the first supporting member PT1 and a portion of the second supporting member PT2 are bent, the first connection supporting portion PT1-C and the second connection supporting portion PT2-C are formed. Therefore, although a step portion is generated between the first base supporting portion PT1-B and the second base supporting portion PT2-B during the manufacturing process, it is possible to reduce the stress applied to the display device DD (refer to FIG. Figure 1 )'s stress or damage to components on the supporting member PT.

[0153] Furthermore, although the display device DD (refer to Figure 1) will be repeatedly folded, but since stress or damage applied to components provided on the supporting member PT is reduced, the durability of the display device DD can be improved.

[0154] Fig.10 and Fig.11 are views exemplarily illustrating supporting members PT- 1 and PT- 2 according to some embodiments of the inventive concept, respectively.

[0155] Reference Fig.10 , the supporting member PT-1 may include a first supporting member PT1-1 and a second supporting member PT2-1.

[0156] Reference Fig.10 The first supporting member PT1-1 may include a first base supporting portion PT1-B, a first connecting supporting portion PT1-C1 and a first extending supporting portion PT1-E1. The second supporting member PT2-1 may include a second base supporting portion PT2-B, a second connecting supporting portion PT2-C1 and a second extending supporting portion PT2-E1.

[0157] The first connection support portion PT1-C1 extends from the first base support portion PT1-B. The first connection support portion PT1-C1 is disposed adjacent to the second connection support portion PT2-C1. The first connection support portion PT1-C1 is bent to have a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT-1.

[0158] The second connection support portion PT2-C1 extends from the second base support portion PT2-B. The second connection support portion PT2-C1 is disposed adjacent to the first connection support portion PT1-C1. The second connection support portion PT2-C1 is bent to have a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT-1.

[0159] That is, the outer surface of each of the first connection support portion PT1 - C1 and the second connection support portion PT2 - C1 has a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT- 1 .

[0160] In an embodiment, the curvature CVT-1 of each of the first connection support portion PT1-C1 and the second connection support portion PT2-C1 may be less than Fig. 9C The curvature CVT of each of the first connection support portion PT1-C and the second connection support portion PT2-C.

[0161] The first extension support portion PT1-E1 extends from the first connection support portion PT1-C1 and overlaps the first base support portion PT1-B. The first extension support portion PT1-E1 is bent to have a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT-2.

[0162] The second extension support portion PT2-E1 extends from the second connection support portion PT2-C1 and overlaps the second base support portion PT2-B. The second extension support portion PT2-E1 is bent to have a curvature (eg, a predetermined curvature) CVT-2.

[0163] In an embodiment, the curvature CVT-2 of each of the first extension support portion PT1-E1 and the second extension support portion PT2-E1 may be the same (the same or substantially the same) as the curvature CVT-1 of each of the first connection support portion PT1-C1 and the second connection support portion PT2-C1.

[0164] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first extension support portion PT1-E1 does not contact the first base support portion PT1-B and the second extension support portion PT2-E1 does not contact the second base support portion PT2-B. That is, the first extension support portion PT1-E1 can be separated from the first base support portion PT1-B by a certain distance (e.g., a predetermined distance), and the second extension support portion PT2-E1 can be separated from the second base support portion PT2-B by a certain distance (e.g., a predetermined distance).

[0165] The description of other components can be found in Fig.9A and Fig. 9C The description is basically the same as in , so it is omitted here.

[0166] Reference Fig.11 , the supporting member PT-2 may include a first supporting member PT1-2 and a second supporting member PT2-2.

[0167] The first supporting member PT1-2 may include a first base supporting portion PT1-B, a first connecting supporting portion PT1-C, and a first extending supporting portion PT1-E2. The second supporting member PT2-2 may include a second base supporting portion PT2-B, a second connecting supporting portion PT2-C, and a second extending supporting portion PT2-E2.

[0168] The first extension support portion PT1-E2 extends from the first connection support portion PT1-C and overlaps the first base support portion PT1-B.

[0169] The second extension support portion PT2-E2 extends from the second connection support portion PT2-C and overlaps the second base support portion PT2-B.

[0170] In an embodiment, the first extension support portion PT1-E2 may have an area that is the same (same or substantially the same) as the area of ​​the first base support portion PT1-B. In addition, the second extension support portion PT2-E2 may have an area that is the same (same or substantially the same) as the area of ​​the second base support portion PT2-B. Here, the area may be measured when viewed from a third direction DR3.

[0171] The description of other components can be found in Fig.9A and Fig. 9C The description is basically the same as in , so it is omitted here.

[0172] Fig. 12A is shown along with Figure 1 A view of a portion of a cross section taken along a line corresponding to line II'; Fig. 12B is shown along with Figure 2A The line II-II' corresponds to a view of a portion of the cross section taken along the line.

[0173] In an embodiment, the sixth bonding member AD6 - 1 may include a first sub-bonding member AD61 , a second sub-bonding member AD62 , a third sub-bonding member AD63 , and a fourth sub-bonding member AD64 .

[0174] The third sub-bonding member AD63 and the fourth sub-bonding member AD64 are disposed between the first sub-bonding member AD61 and the second sub-bonding member AD62. In an embodiment, the third sub-bonding member AD63 is spaced apart from the fourth sub-bonding member AD64.

[0175] In an embodiment, the third sub-adhesive member AD63 is bonded to a surface of the first supporting member PT1 but not to a surface of the shock absorbing member CSH. That is, the third sub-adhesive member AD63 may have adhesive force only on one side surface thereof.

[0176] In an embodiment, the fourth sub-adhesive member AD64 is bonded to the surface of the second supporting member PT2 but not to the surface of the shock absorbing member CSH. That is, the fourth sub-adhesive member AD64 may have adhesive force only on one side surface thereof.

[0177] In an embodiment, each of the third and fourth sub-adhesive members AD63 and AD64 may have a black color. Therefore, visibility of the folded portion of the display device DD-1 may be improved.

[0178] In the embodiment, since the third and fourth sub-adhesive members AD63 and AD64 are not coupled to the shock absorbing member CSH, stress or damage generated on the display device DD-1 when the display device DD-1 is folded may be alleviated.

[0179] Fig.13 1 is a view illustrating a portion of a housing HS and a supporting member PT according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0180] The housing HS may be disposed under the supporting member PT to accommodate the supporting member PT.

[0181] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the housing HS may include a hinge HG. The hinge HG may be disposed at a position parallel to the bending axis BX (refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B ) corresponding to the position and guide the display device DD to be folded.

[0182] The housing HS may support the first base supporting portion PT1-B and the second base supporting portion PT2-B.

[0183] In an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first connection support portion PT1-C and the second connection support portion PT2-C can be accommodated in a predetermined accommodation space SP defined in the housing HS. In addition, the first extension support portion PT1-E and the second extension support portion PT2-E can be accommodated in a predetermined accommodation space SP defined in the housing HS.

[0184] When the display device DD is folded, a portion of the first supporting member PT1 and a portion of the second supporting member PT2 may be prevented or substantially prevented from contacting the housing HS by a predetermined accommodation space SP defined in the housing HS.

[0185] Although the reference Fig. 9C The support member PT shows Fig.13 , but the embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, the above features may also be applied to Fig.10 The supporting members PT-1 and Fig.11 The supporting member PT-2.

[0186] According to embodiments of the inventive concept, a flexible display device having improved durability and a robust folding portion may be provided.

[0187] The subject matter disclosed above is to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments that fall within the true spirit and scope of the inventive concept. Therefore, the scope of the inventive concept will be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the claims and their equivalents and should not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A flexible display module, comprising a first display area and a second display area adjacent to the first display area, wherein the flexible display module is foldable about a boundary line between the first display area and the second display area; as well as a supporting member, comprising a first supporting member overlapping the first display area and a second supporting member overlapping the second display area, wherein the supporting member is located below the flexible display module, wherein the first support member comprises: a first base support portion; a first connection support portion extending from the first base support portion, positioned adjacent to the boundary line and bent to have a curvature; and a first extension support portion extending from the first connection support portion and overlapping the first base support portion, The second support member includes: a second base support portion; a second connection support portion extending from the second base support portion, positioned adjacent to the boundary line and bent to have a curvature; and a second extension support portion extending from the second connection support portion and overlapping the second base support portion, and The first supporting member and the second supporting member are spaced apart from each other at the boundary line. 2 . The display device according to claim 1 , further comprising a shock absorbing member between the flexible display module and the supporting member.

3. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising an adhesive member, the adhesive member comprising a first adhesive member and a second adhesive member, the adhesive member being located between the impact absorbing member and the supporting member, in, The first base supporting portion is bonded to the shock absorbing member by the first bonding member, and the second base supporting portion is bonded to the shock absorbing member by the second bonding member.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: At least a portion of the first connection support portion, the first extension support portion, at least a portion of the second connection support portion, and the second extension support portion are spaced apart from the adhesive member.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The first bonding member is spaced apart from the second bonding member.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The bonding member further includes a third bonding member located between the first bonding member and the second bonding member and a fourth bonding member spaced apart from the third bonding member.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The third adhesive member is bonded to only one surface of the first supporting member, and the fourth adhesive member is bonded to only one surface of the second supporting member.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: Each of the third bonding member and the fourth bonding member has a black color.

9. The display device according to claim 3, further comprising a housing configured to accommodate the flexible display module, the impact absorbing member, the adhesive member, and the supporting member, in, The housing supports the first base support portion and the second base support portion, and The first connection support portion and the second connection support portion are accommodated in a space defined in the housing.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein: When the flexible display module is folded about the boundary line, the first connection support portion and the second connection support portion are spaced apart from the housing.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: At least a portion of a surface of the first base support portion contacts at least a portion of a surface of the first extension support portion, and At least a portion of a surface of the second base support portion contacts at least a portion of a surface of the second extension support portion.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the first extension support portion and the second extension support portion is bent to have a curvature, Wherein, the first extension support portion is spaced apart from the first base support portion, and the second extension support portion is spaced apart from the second base support portion.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first base support portion has the same area as that of the first extension support portion, and the second base support portion has the same area as that of the second extension support portion.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first base support portion has an area greater than an area of ​​the first extension support portion, and the second base support portion has an area greater than an area of ​​the second extension support portion.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the first support member and the second support member includes metal.

16. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The flexible display module includes a plurality of pixels each including a light emitting element and a driving circuit configured to provide data signals to the plurality of pixels, wherein the driving circuit is located under the supporting member.

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