Lamination device

Abstract

A laminating device is provided. The laminating device includes a table, a pressing portion, and a connecting portion, wherein a display module including a folding region that can be folded around a folding axis and at least one non-folding region that is not folded is configured to be placed on the table, the pressing portion overlaps the non-folding region on the table and has a diameter, the connecting portion overlaps the folding region on the table and is connected to the pressing portion, and the connecting portion has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the pressing portion and extends in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This patent application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0116422 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 28, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a laminating roller, a laminating apparatus, and a method for laminating a display device. Background Art

[0004] The display device displays various images on a display screen to provide information to the user. In recent years, display devices including foldable and rollable flexible display members are being developed. Unlike flat display devices, flexible display devices can be foldable or rollable like paper. Flexible display devices that can be variously changed in shape can be easily carried and can improve user convenience. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure, a display device having improved durability and display quality, and a method for laminating the display device having improved durability and display quality are provided.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a laminating device includes a table, a pressing portion, and a connecting portion, wherein a display module including a folding area that can be folded around a folding axis and at least one non-folding area that is not folded is configured to be placed on the table, the pressing portion overlaps with the non-folding area on the table and has a diameter, the connecting portion overlaps with the folding area on the table and is connected to the pressing portion, and the connecting portion has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the pressing portion and extends in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis.

[0007] In an embodiment, the pressing portion may include a first pressing portion and a second pressing portion, the first pressing portion overlapping with a first non-folding area of ​​the non-folding area, and the second pressing portion overlapping with a second non-folding area of ​​the non-folding area, wherein the connecting portion may connect the first pressing portion to the second pressing portion.

[0008] In an embodiment, the connecting portion may include a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a central portion, wherein the first connecting portion is connected to the first pressing portion, the second connecting portion is connected to the second pressing portion, and the central portion is located between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion to connect the first connecting portion to the second connecting portion and has a diameter smaller than an average diameter of each of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0009] In an embodiment, each of the first connection portion and the second connection portion may have a gradually decreasing diameter in a direction approaching the central portion.

[0010] In an embodiment, the central portion may have a predetermined diameter.

[0011] In an embodiment, each of the first pressing portion, the second pressing portion and the connecting portion may include a core portion and a first covering portion, wherein the core portion extends in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis and has a first modulus, and the first covering portion is configured to surround an outer surface of the core portion and has a second modulus smaller than the first modulus.

[0012] In an embodiment, the core portion may include metal.

[0013] In an embodiment, the first covering portion may include urethane.

[0014] In an embodiment, at the connection portion, at least a portion of the core portion may be exposed by the first covering portion.

[0015] In an embodiment, each of the first pressing portion, the second pressing portion, and the connecting portion may further include a second covering portion having a thickness and surrounding an outer surface of the first covering portion.

[0016] In an embodiment, the second covering portion may include rubber.

[0017] In an embodiment, each of the first pressing portion, the second pressing portion and the connecting portion may include a core portion extending in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis and having a first modulus, and each of the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion may also include a first covering portion configured to surround an outer surface of the core portion and having a second modulus smaller than the first modulus.

[0018] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a method for laminating a display device includes: placing a plurality of panels on a placement area defined on a table; placing a first adhesive member on the panel; placing a display module foldable about a folding axis on the first adhesive member; and pressing the display module to laminate the panel with the display module, wherein the placement area includes a first area, a second area, and a third area, the first area and the second area are defined on the table to be spaced apart from each other and overlap with a non-folding area of ​​the display module, the third area is defined on the table between the first area and the second area to overlap with a folding area of ​​the display module and includes a spacing area, wherein, when placing the plurality of panels, the panels can be spaced apart from each other on the spacing area, the folding axis can overlap with the spacing area on a plane, and when laminating the panel with the display module, the pressing force applied to the third area can be less than the pressing force applied to each of the first area and the second area.

[0019] In an embodiment, when laminating the board and the display module together, the display module may be pressed by using a laminating roller that extends in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis on a plane and rotates to move in a direction parallel to the folding axis.

[0020] In an embodiment, the laminating roller may include a first pressing portion and a second pressing portion and a connecting portion, wherein the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion overlap with the first area and the second area to press the non-folding area of ​​the display module, and the connecting portion connects the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion to each other and overlaps with at least the third area to press the folding area of ​​the display module, wherein the connecting portion may have a diameter smaller than a diameter of each of the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion.

[0021] In an embodiment, the connecting portion may include a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a central portion, the first connecting portion being connected to the first pressing portion, the second connecting portion being connected to the second pressing portion, and the central portion connecting the first connecting portion to the second connecting portion and pressing a folding area of ​​the display module overlapping the spacing area, wherein the central portion may have a diameter equal to or smaller than an average diameter of each of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0022] In an embodiment, the laminating roller may include a first pressing portion and a second pressing portion and a connecting portion, wherein the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion overlap with the first area and the second area to press a non-folding area of ​​the display module, and the connecting portion connects the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion to each other and overlaps with at least the third area to press the folding area of ​​the display module, wherein each of the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion may have a modulus greater than that of the connecting portion.

[0023] In an embodiment, at least a portion of the laminating roller may have an outer circumferential surface having a modulus smaller than that of a central portion.

[0024] In an embodiment, the display module may include a display panel including a plurality of display elements to display an image.

[0025] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the laminating roller includes a connecting portion and a first pressing portion and a second pressing portion, the connecting portion being configured to press a folding area of ​​a display module that can be folded around a folding axis, the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion being configured to press a non-folding area of ​​the display module that is supported by plates spaced apart from each other and connected to each other through the connecting portion, and each of the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion having a diameter larger than a diameter of the connecting portion, wherein the connecting portion, the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion can be integrated with each other and extend in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings illustrate some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and together with the description are used to explain the principles of the inventive concept. In the drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 is a view of a laminating device according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0028] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a display device on which lamination is completed;

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a display device;

[0030] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II';

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display module of a display device;

[0032] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram showing a state where the display device is folded;

[0033] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a display device in a folded state;

[0034] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a laminating roller according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0035] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a laminating device;

[0036] Fig.10 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a laminating roller according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0037] Fig.11 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II';

[0038] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12E They are cross-sectional views of rollers according to some other embodiments of the present invention;

[0039] Fig.13 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to another embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0040] Fig.14 It is shown Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a display device in a folded state;

[0041] Fig.15 is used for Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a laminating device of a display device;

[0042] Fig.16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for laminating a display device according to an embodiment; and

[0043] FIG. 17A to FIG. 17E They are cross-sectional views of rollers according to some other embodiments of the present inventive concept, respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The aspects and features of the inventive concept and the implementation methods of the inventive concept will be explained by referring to some exemplary embodiments described in the accompanying drawings. However, the inventive concept can be implemented in different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments described herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure will be thorough and complete, and the scope of the inventive concept will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art.

[0045] In the present specification, it should also be understood that when a component (or region, layer, portion) is referred to as being "on", "connected to" or "coupled to" another component, the component may be directly disposed on / directly connected to / directly coupled to the other component, or one or more intervening third components may also be present.

[0046] Throughout the text, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. In addition, in the drawings, the thickness, proportion and size of components may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration.

[0047] The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0048] It should be understood that although terms such as "first" and "second" are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another component. For example, a first element referred to as a "first" element in one embodiment may be referred to as a "second" element in another embodiment without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise indicated, terms in the singular may include plural forms.

[0049] In addition, "lower", "below", "above", "upper", etc. may be used to describe the relative relationship of components shown in the drawings. These terms may be relative concepts and are described based on the directions shown in the drawings.

[0050] 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 present invention belongs. In addition, terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this article.

[0051] The meaning of “include” or “comprise” indicates properties, fixed values, steps, operations, elements, components or a combination thereof, but does not exclude other properties, fixed values, steps, operations, elements, components or a combination thereof.

[0052] Herein, some exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Figure 1 is a view of a laminating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept.

[0054] Reference Figure 1 , a laminating device LMD for a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the inventive concept includes a stage STG and a laminating roll RL.

[0055] An object to be laminated (eg, a display module DM and a support portion SP to be described below) may be placed on the stage STG. The laminating device LMD according to the embodiment may be used to manufacture a display device for displaying an image (eg, Figure 2 The display device DD (see Figure 2 That is, the object to be laminated according to the embodiment (eg, the display module DM and the support portion SP) may be a display device DD (see Figure 2 ) components. Display device DD (see Figure 2 ) may include a display module DM, a support portion SP, and a first adhesive member AD1. As a result, the laminating device LMD may be used to attach the display module DM to the support portion SP.

[0056] A placement area STA is defined on the top surface of the stage STG. An object to be laminated (e.g., a display module DM and a support portion SP) may be placed on the placement area STA. In an embodiment, the placement area STA includes a first area AR1, a second area AR2, and a third area AR3. The first area AR1 and the second area AR2 are spaced apart from each other. The third area AR3 is disposed between the first area AR1 and the second area AR2. The third area AR3 includes a spacing area SA defined at the center of the third area AR3. The spacing area SA extends in a first direction DR1. The first area AR1 and the second area AR2 face each other in a second direction DR2 perpendicular to the first direction DR1 on a plane.

[0057] In an embodiment, the normal direction on the top surface of the stage STG is indicated by the third direction DR3. The front surface (or top surface) and the rear surface (or bottom surface) of each of the members can be distinguished by the third direction DR3. However, the directions indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 may be relative concepts and thus may be changed to different directions.

[0058] The laminating roll RL is disposed on the stage STG. The laminating roll RL has a shape extending in the second direction DR2. For convenience of description, in the following description, the laminating roll RL may be referred to as a roll RL.

[0059] The roller RL is used to provide a pressing force to the display module DM. The pressing force is provided in a downward direction opposite to the third direction DR3 toward the stage STG. The display module DM may be attached to the support portion SP by the pressing force.

[0060] The roller RL may rotate in a certain direction (eg, a predetermined direction) RD to linearly move on the stage STG. In an embodiment, the direction MD in which the roller RL moves is parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0061] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a display device on which lamination is accomplished; and Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a display device. Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0062] Reference Figures 2 to 4 , the display device DD manufactured by using the laminating device LMD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept has a rectangular shape having short sides in the first direction DR1 and long sides in the second direction DR2. However, the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept is not limited to the above shape, and thus may have any one of a variety of shapes.

[0063] The display device DD may be a flexible display device DD. Specifically, the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present invention may be folded or unfolded relative to a folding axis FX extending in a first direction DR1. That is, the display device DD may be a folding type (foldable) display device. The display device DD may be divided into a plurality of regions according to a folding state.

[0064] In an embodiment, the display module DM of the display device DD may be divided into a folding area FA arranged on a plane and at least one non-folding area. The folding area FA may be an area to which folding stress generated by folding is applied. The folding area FA may overlap with the folding axis FX on a plane.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the folding area FA of the display module DM of the display device DD is defined between two non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2. Herein, the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 may be referred to as a first non-folding area NFA1 and a second non-folding area NFA2. The first non-folding area NFA1 may be adjacent to one side of the folding area FA in the second direction DR2, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be adjacent to the other side of the folding area FA in the second direction DR2.

[0066] The folding area FA, the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be defined on a plane of a member (eg, display module DM) constituting the display device DD.

[0067] For example, the first non-folding area NFA1 of the display module DM may be disposed on the first area AR1 of the stage STG, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be disposed on the second area AR2 of the stage STG. The folding area FA may be disposed on the third area AR3 of the stage STG.

[0068] In an embodiment, one third area AR3 is defined on the stage STG, and one folding area FA is defined on the display module DM of the display device DD, but the embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept, a plurality of third areas AR3 may be defined on the stage STG, and a plurality of folding areas FA may be defined on the display module DM of the display device DD according to the number of folding axes FX.

[0069] In an embodiment, the display module DM overlaps the first to third areas AR1 to AR3 over the entire area. The area of ​​the display module DM may correspond to the seating area STA on a plane.

[0070] The display module DM may be divided into an active area AR and a peripheral area NAR on a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In an embodiment, the active area AR may be defined at a central portion of the display module DM on a plane. The peripheral area NAR is adjacent to the active area AR. In an embodiment, the peripheral area NAR may surround the active area AR. In an embodiment, the peripheral area NAR is defined in a frame shape surrounding the active area AR.

[0071] However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the shapes and numbers of the active area AR and the peripheral area NAR. For example, a display module DM according to another embodiment of the present invention may include only the active area AR. Here, the active area AR may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of active areas AR may be spaced apart from each other.

[0072] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display module.

[0073] Reference Figure 5 as well as Figure 2 and Figure 3 In an embodiment, the display module DM includes a display panel PNL, an input sensing layer ISP, an anti-reflection layer RPP, and a window WD.

[0074] The display panel PNL includes a base layer BSL, a display layer CRL, and an encapsulation layer PTL. The base layer BSL defines a rear surface of the display panel PNL. The base layer BSL may be a base layer for forming electrodes and display elements included in the display panel PNL. For example, the base layer BSL may be provided in the form of a substrate.

[0075] The display layer CRL is disposed on the base layer BSL.

[0076] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the type of the display panel PNL may be determined according to the configuration of the display layer CRL. The display panel PNL may be an organic light-emitting display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, or an electrowetting display panel, or may be one of various display panels capable of displaying an image. In addition, the display panel PNL according to the present invention may include various embodiments without being limited to one embodiment. In the drawings to be described below, a case where the display panel PNL is an organic light-emitting display panel will be described as an example.

[0077] The display layer CRL includes a plurality of display elements (not shown) and a plurality of transistors (not shown) for driving the display elements. Each of the display elements of the display panel PNL according to an embodiment may be an organic light emitting diode ("OLED", not shown).

[0078] The encapsulation layer PTL is disposed on the display layer CRL. The encapsulation layer PTL covers the display layer CRL to protect the display layer CRL from external influences. The encapsulation layer PTL may include an inorganic material.

[0079] The input sensing layer ISP is disposed on the display panel PNL. The input sensing layer ISP senses external input provided to the display device DD. For example, the input sensing layer ISP may sense an external input provided to the display device DD through the human body of the user USER (see Figure 2 ) input. According to the inventive concept, the external input is not limited to a specific method. According to another embodiment of the inventive concept, the external input may be input in a manner such as an optical manner, a touch manner, or a magnetic manner. Although not shown, the input sensing layer ISP may include a plurality of input sensing electrodes (not shown) that sense the external input.

[0080] The input sensing layer ISP can sense external input in any of a variety of ways. For example, the input sensing layer ISP can be driven in a capacitance recognition manner, a resistance recognition manner, or a coordinate recognition manner.

[0081] The anti-reflection layer RPP is disposed on the input sensing layer ISP. The anti-reflection layer RPP overlaps the active area AR in a plane. The anti-reflection layer RPP may prevent or substantially prevent external light incident from the outside into the display device DD from being reflected by the display panel PNL and being visible to the user. In an embodiment, although not shown, the anti-reflection layer RPP may include a polarizing layer (not shown) and a phase delay layer (not shown).

[0082] The polarizing layer has a transmission axis and an absorption axis perpendicular to the transmission axis. One of the components of external light incident into the polarizing layer may be absorbed or reflected by the absorption axis, so that the light does not pass through the polarizing layer. A component perpendicular to the one of the components of external light incident into the polarizing layer may pass through the polarizing layer. That is, the polarizing layer may polarize external light.

[0083] In an embodiment, the polarizing layer may be made of a polymer resin elongated in a specific direction. However, embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited to the type of polarizing layer. For example, in another embodiment of the present inventive concept, the polarizing layer may be a wire grid polarizer.

[0084] The phase retarder layer is arranged below the polarization layer. The phase retarder layer has optical anisotropy. Therefore, the phase retarder layer can delay the phase of a component of the incident light. That is, the phase retarder layer can convert the polarization state of the light. For example, the phase retarder layer can delay the phase of a component of the incident light by a wavelength of about λ / 4. That is, the phase retarder layer can be an orthogonal wavelength film. Therefore, the phase of a component of the light passing through the phase retarder layer can be delayed to convert the linear polarization state into the circular polarization state or to convert the circular polarization state into the linear polarization state.

[0085] Therefore, even if external light incident into the display device DD from the outside is reflected by the display module DM, the phase retardation layer can convert the polarization state to absorb or reflect the light through the polarization layer. That is, the external light reflected by the display panel PNL can be made invisible from the outside.

[0086] The window WD is disposed on the anti-reflection layer RPP. In an embodiment, the window WD provides the entire surface of the display device DD to protect the anti-reflection layer RPP, the input sensing layer ISP, and the display panel PNL.

[0087] The display module DM may further include a second adhesive member AD2. In an embodiment, the second adhesive member AD2 is provided as a plurality of module adhesive members MAD1 to MAD3. Each of the module adhesive members MAD1 to MAD3 may be provided between the above-mentioned members to couple the above-mentioned members to each other. In an embodiment, the first module adhesive member MAD1 is provided between the display panel PNL and the input sensing layer ISP. The second module adhesive member MAD2 is provided between the input sensing layer ISP and the anti-reflection layer RPP. The third module adhesive member MAD3 is provided between the anti-reflection layer RPP and the window WD.

[0088] Although not shown, the display module DM may further include a buffer member (not shown). The buffer member (not shown) may be disposed under the display panel PNL to support the display panel PNL.

[0089] According to another embodiment of the inventive concept, at least one of the input sensing layer ISP, the anti-reflection layer RPP, and the window WD may be omitted.

[0090] Refer again Figures 1 to 4 , the support portion SP is disposed under the display module DM to support the display module DM. The support portion SP may have a plate shape. The support portion SP may have a greater rigidity than that of the display module DM. For example, the support portion SP may include a metal material. However, embodiments of the inventive concept are not particularly limited to the material of the support portion SP.

[0091] In an embodiment, the support portion SP includes a plurality of plates including a first plate SSP1 and a second plate SSP2. The first plate SSP1 is disposed at one side in the second direction DR2. The first plate SSP1 overlaps a portion of the folding area FA and the first non-folding area NFA1. That is, the first plate SSP1 is disposed on a portion of the third area AR3 and the first area AR1.

[0092] The second plate SSP2 is disposed at the other side in the second direction DR2. The second plate SSP2 overlaps the other part of the folding area FA and the second non-folding area NFA2. That is, the second plate SSP2 is placed on the other part of the third area AR3 and the second area AR2.

[0093] The first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. The spaced apart space overlaps the spacing area SA. That is, the first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2 are arranged on the mounting area STA except the spacing area SA, and are respectively arranged on both sides relative to the spacing area SA in the second direction DR2. The first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2 do not overlap the spacing area SA.

[0094] In an embodiment, the first bonding member AD1 is provided in plurality. Figures 1 to 4 , two first adhesive members AD1 are provided as an example. The two first adhesive members AD1 are arranged in the second direction DR2. The first adhesive members AD1 are spaced apart from each other, and the third area AR3 is located between the first adhesive members AD1. In an embodiment, one of the two first adhesive members AD1 completely overlaps the first area AR1, and the other first adhesive member AD1 completely overlaps the second area AR2. Therefore, the support portion SP and the display module DM are not attached to each other on the folding area FA overlapping the third area AR3.

[0095] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 2 A perspective view of a display device in a folded state; and Figure 7 It is shown Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a display device in a folded state.

[0096] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be a foldable display device. For example, the display device DD may be an inwardly foldable display device. That is, since the display device DD may be folded inwardly relative to the folding axis FX, the folded top surfaces of the display module DM may face each other. In the inwardly folded state, the first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2 of the support portion SP may face each other, and the display module DM is located between the first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2. In an embodiment, the shape of each of the first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2 is not changed. In an embodiment, in the inwardly folded state, the first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2 are arranged to be parallel to each other, and the display module DM is located between the first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2.

[0097] Figure 8is a perspective view of a laminating roller according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept; and Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of a lamination device.

[0098] Reference Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , the roller RL according to an embodiment of the inventive concept extends in the second direction DR2. The roller RL may rotate with respect to a central axis RX parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0099] The roller RL includes at least one pressing portion and a connecting portion CNR. In the following description, an embodiment in which the roller RL includes two pressing portions FRL1 and FRL2 is described as an example.

[0100] The plurality of pressing portions FRL1 and FRL2 include a first pressing portion FRL1 and a second pressing portion FRL2. The first pressing portion FRL1 overlaps the first area AR1. The first pressing portion FRL1 presses the first non-folding area NFA1 of the display module DM. The second pressing portion FRL2 overlaps the second area AR2. The second pressing portion FRL2 presses the second non-folding area NFA2 of the display module DM. The first pressing portion FRL1 and the second pressing portion FRL2 are arranged in the second direction DR2, and each of the first pressing portion FRL1 and the second pressing portion FRL2 has a cylindrical shape extending in the second direction DR2. The first pressing portion FRL1 and the second pressing portion FRL2 are spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2.

[0101] The connection portion CNR is disposed between the first pressing portion FRL1 and the second pressing portion FRL2 in the second direction DR2. The connection portion CNR connects the first pressing portion FRL1 to the second pressing portion FRL2. The connection portion CNR overlaps the third area AR3, ie, the folding area FA of the display module DM.

[0102] In an embodiment, the connection portion CNR includes a first connection portion CP1, a second connection portion CP2, and a central portion CT. The central portion CT is disposed between the first connection portion CP1 and the second connection portion CP2. The central portion CT overlaps the spacing area SA.

[0103] The first connection portion CP1 is disposed between the central portion CT and the first pressing portion FRL1 to connect the central portion CT to the first pressing portion FRL1. The second connection portion CP2 is disposed between the central portion CT and the second pressing portion FRL2 to connect the central portion CT to the second pressing portion FRL2.

[0104] The first pressing portion FRL1, the second pressing portion FRL2, and the connection portion CNR are connected to each other to be provided in an integrated shape.

[0105] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, each of the first pressing portion FRL1 and the second pressing portion FRL2 has a constant diameter. In an embodiment, the first pressing portion FRL1 has the same diameter as the diameter of the second pressing portion FRL2. In an embodiment, each of the first pressing portion FRL1 and the second pressing portion FRL2 has a diameter greater than an average diameter of the connection portion CNR. Herein, reference will be made to Fig.11 The diameter of the roller RL is described in more detail.

[0106] Fig.10 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the laminating roller RL; and Fig.11 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0107] Although in Fig.11 Only the configuration of the first pressing part FRL1 and the first connecting part CP1 is shown, but since the roller RL according to an embodiment of the present invention passes through the center of the roller RL in the second direction DR2 and is symmetrical with respect to the center line CTL extending in the third direction DR3, the description of the configuration of the second pressing part FRL2 and the second connecting part CP2 will be omitted.

[0108] Reference Fig.10 and Fig.11 In an embodiment, each of the first pressing portion FRL1, the second pressing portion FRL2, and the connecting portion CNR includes a core portion CR and a first covering portion SH1, wherein the first covering portion SH1 is disposed in a direction away from the center axis RX of the roller RL.

[0109] The core portion CR includes a central axis RX. The core portion CR extends in a second direction DR2. The core portion CR has a first modulus. In an embodiment, for example, the first modulus may be equal to or greater than about 10 GPa. In an embodiment, the core portion CR may include a metal material.

[0110] The first covering portion SH1 surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the core portion CR. The first covering portion SH1 extends in the second direction DR2. In an embodiment, the first covering portion SH1 has a uniform thickness. The first covering portion SH1 has a second modulus. The second modulus has a value smaller than that of the first modulus. In an embodiment, for example, the second modulus may be in a range of about 1 GPa to about 10 GPa. In an embodiment, the first covering portion SH1 may include urethane.

[0111] According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the first pressing portion FRL1 overlapping the first area AR1 has a first overall diameter DS1. Here, the core portion CR of the first pressing portion FRL1 has a first core diameter DC1. The first overall diameter DS1 and the first core diameter DC1 on the first area AR1 may have predetermined values.

[0112] The first connection portion CP1 has a funnel shape. That is, the first connection portion CP1 may have a gradually decreasing diameter in a direction away from the first pressing portion FRL1 and close to the central portion CT. That is, in a cross section of the roller RL, the first connection portion CP1 may include an inclined surface.

[0113] In an embodiment, the inclined surface of the first connection portion CP1 may have a linear shape, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment of the present inventive concept, the inclined surface may include a curved surface.

[0114] The central portion CT has a second overall diameter DS2. The second overall diameter DS2 is smaller than the first overall diameter DS1. In addition, the first overall diameter DS1 is smaller than the average diameter of the first connecting portion CP1.

[0115] The core portion CR of the central portion CT has a second core diameter DC2. The second core diameter DC2 is smaller than the first core diameter DC1. Each of the second overall diameter DS2 and the second core diameter DC2 may have a predetermined value on the spacing area SA (see Fig. 9 ). In an embodiment, the cross section of the central portion CT does not include an inclined surface.

[0116] Unlike the embodiment of the inventive concept, when the roller RL pressing the display module DM has a cylindrical shape having a predetermined diameter over the entire area, the pressing force applied to the folding area FA of the display module DM may be the same as the pressing force applied to the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 of the display module DM. Here, the portion of the display module DM corresponding to the folding area FA may be recessed downward due to the step portion between the plates SSP1 and SSP2 supporting the display module DM on which the first adhesive member AD1 is not disposed and the display module DM. That is, the portion of the display module DM overlapping the third area AR3 may be recessed downward. In this case, the display quality of the display device DD on which lamination is completed may be deteriorated. However, according to the embodiment of the inventive concept, since each of the first pressing portion FRL1 and the second pressing portion FRL2 of the roller RL has a diameter larger than the diameter of the connecting portion CNR, the pressing force applied to the folding area FA of the display module DM may be smaller than the pressing force applied to each of the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2. That is, the phenomenon that the display module DM is recessed downward can be alleviated.

[0117] In addition, unlike the embodiments of the present inventive concept, when compared with other portions of the display module DM located on an area other than the spacing area SA, a portion of the display module DM corresponding to the spacing area SA located between the panels SSP1 and SSP2 may be relatively depressed downward, thereby deteriorating display quality. However, according to the embodiments of the present inventive concept, since the diameter of the central portion CT is equal to or smaller than the diameter of each of the first connection portion CP1 and the second connection portion CP2, the phenomenon that the display module DM is depressed on the spacing area SA can be alleviated.

[0118] Therefore, according to the embodiments of the inventive concept, the display quality of the display device DD may be improved.

[0119] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12E They are cross-sectional views of rollers according to some other embodiments of the present inventive concept, respectively.

[0120] For the convenience of description, the differences between these embodiments and the aforementioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the omitted description will be derived from the aforementioned embodiments. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components, and repeated descriptions about these components will be omitted.

[0121] like Fig. 12A As shown in FIG. 1 , a first pressing portion FRL1 of a roller RL-1 according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept includes a core portion CR and a first covering portion SH1. The first pressing portion FRL1 has a first overall diameter DS1. Here, the core portion CR of the first pressing portion FRL1 has a first core diameter DC1.

[0122] In an embodiment, the connection portion CNR-1 may include only the core portion CR, and may not include the first covering portion SH1. That is, in the roller RL-1, the core portion CR may overlap the connection portion CNR-1 in the third area AR3 (see Fig. 9 ) is exposed to the outside, that is, it is exposed to the outside on the folding area FA.

[0123] In an embodiment, the first connection portion CP1 has a predetermined diameter. In an embodiment, the first connection portion CP1 may not include an inclined surface. In an embodiment, a core portion CR of the first connection portion CP1 has a first core diameter DC1.

[0124] The central portion CT has a predetermined diameter. The central portion CT has a second overall diameter DS2. The second overall diameter DS2 is smaller than the first overall diameter DS1. Since the central portion CT does not include the first cover portion SH1, the central portion CT may have the same second overall diameter DS2 as the second core diameter DC2 of the core portion CR of the central portion CT.

[0125] like Fig. 12B As shown in FIG. 1 , a cross section of a connection portion CNR-2 of a roller RL-2 according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept may have a funnel shape. That is, each of the first connection portion CP1 and the central portion CT of the connection portion CNR-2 may have a gradually decreasing diameter in a direction close to the center line CTL.

[0126] like Fig. 12C As shown in FIG. 1 , the first pressing portion FRL1 and the connecting portion CNR- 3 of the roller RL- 3 according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept respectively include core portions CR having the same diameter. That is, the core portion CR of the connecting portion CNR- 3 has a first core diameter DC1 .

[0127] The first pressing portion FRL1 includes a core portion CR and a first cover portion SH1. The first pressing portion FRL1 has a first overall diameter DS1. Here, the core portion CR of the first pressing portion FRL1 has a first core diameter DC1.

[0128] According to an embodiment, the first cover portion SH1 of the first connection portion CP1 may have a gradually decreasing thickness in a direction approaching the central portion CT.

[0129] In the embodiment, the central portion CT includes only the core portion CR. That is, the central portion CT does not include the first cover portion SH1. Therefore, the central portion CT has a third overall diameter DS3. The third overall diameter DS3 is the same as the first core diameter DC1.

[0130] like Fig.12D As shown in FIG. 1 , the first pressing portion FRL1 and the connecting portion CNR- 4 of the roller RL- 4 according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept respectively include core portions CR having the same diameter. That is, the core portion CR of the connecting portion CNR- 4 has a first core diameter DC1 .

[0131] According to an embodiment, each of the first connection portion CP1 and the central portion CT includes only the core portion CR, and does not include the first cover portion SH1. Therefore, the connection portion CNR-4 has a third overall diameter DS3. Here, the third overall diameter DS3 is the same as the first core diameter DC1.

[0132] like Fig.12EAs shown in , a roller RL-5 according to another embodiment of the inventive concept includes a connecting portion CNR-5, and also includes a second covering portion SH2 surrounding the outer circumferential surface of the first covering portion SH1. In an embodiment, the second covering portion SH2 has a uniform thickness. The second covering portion SH2 has a third modulus. In an embodiment, the third modulus has a value less than the second modulus. In an embodiment, for example, the third modulus may be less than about 1 GPa. In an embodiment, the second covering portion SH2 may include rubber.

[0133] Fig.13 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to another embodiment of the inventive concept; and Fig.14 It is shown Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a display device in a folded state. Fig.15 is used for Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a laminating device of a display device.

[0134] For the convenience of description, the difference between the present embodiment and the aforementioned embodiment will be mainly described, and the omitted description will be derived from the aforementioned embodiment. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components, and repeated description of these components will be omitted.

[0135] Reference Figures 13 to 15 The support portion SP-6 of the display device DD-6 according to another embodiment of the inventive concept may further include a coupling member JM. The coupling member JM is disposed between the first plate SSP1 and the second plate SSP2 in the second direction DR2. The coupling member JM overlaps the folding area FA of the display module DM.

[0136] The connecting member JM includes a plurality of connecting rods JB. Each of the connecting rods JB extends in a first direction DR1, and the connecting rods JB are arranged in a second direction DR2. Although not shown, the connecting rods JB may be connected to each other by a connecting member (not shown). For example, the connecting member may be a hinge. The connecting member may be disposed between the plurality of connecting rods JB. When the display device DD-6 is folded, each of the connecting rods JB may be rotated a certain distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) by using the connecting member as a center.

[0137] A first adhesive member AD is provided between the display module DM and the support portion SP-6. In an embodiment, the first adhesive member AD has a shape that completely overlaps with the seating area STA. The first adhesive member AD may be provided in a single shape. That is, in an embodiment, the first adhesive member AD may overlap with the folding area FA. Therefore, a step portion may be provided between the support portion SP-6 and the display module DM.

[0138] According to an embodiment, when a lamination process of the display device is performed, a light spot may be generated in the first direction DR1 on the display surface of the display module DM through the space spaced between the plurality of coupling bars JB. That is, the display quality of the display device may be deteriorated. However, according to an embodiment of the inventive concept, since the pressing force applied to the folding area FA is less than the pressing force applied to the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2, the deterioration of the display quality of the display device DD-6 can be reduced when the display device DD-6 includes the coupling member JM.

[0139] Fig.16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for laminating a display device according to an embodiment.

[0140] Reference Figure 1 , Fig. 9 and Fig.16 , a method for laminating a display device DD includes: a process of placing a first board SSP1 and a second board SSP2 on a placement area STA on a stage STG (S1); a process of sequentially placing a first adhesive member AD1 and a display module DM on the first board SSP1 and the second board SSP2 (S2); and a process of laminating the first board SSP1 and the second board SSP2 with the display module DM (S3).

[0141] According to an embodiment, in the process (S3) of laminating the first and second plates SSP1 and SSP2 and the display module DM, the pressing force applied to the folding area FA of the display module DM overlapping the third area AR3 of the mounting area STA is smaller than the pressing force applied to each of the first non-folding area NFA1 of the display module DM overlapping the first area AR1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 of the display module DM overlapping the second area AR2. For example, the pressing force may be applied differently to each area on the display module DM by using the roller RL described above. The roller RL moves in a first direction DR1 parallel to the folding axis FX of the display device DD and has a shape extending in a second direction DR2.

[0142] FIG. 17A to FIG. 17E They are cross-sectional views of rollers according to some other embodiments of the present inventive concept, respectively.

[0143] For the convenience of description, the differences between these embodiments and the aforementioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the omitted description will be derived from the aforementioned embodiments. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components, and repeated descriptions of these components will be omitted.

[0144] Reference FIG. 17A to FIG. 17E, the rollers RL-7, RL-8, RL-9, RL-10, and RL-11 according to some other embodiments of the inventive concept may have a predetermined diameter. The first pressing portion FRL1 of the rollers RL-7, RL-8, RL-9, RL-10, and RL-11 and the connecting portions CNR-7, CNR-8, CNR-9, CNR-10, and CNR-11 may have the same diameter.

[0145] In addition, the modulus of each of the connection parts CNR-7, CNR-8, CNR-9, CNR-10 and CNR-11 of the corresponding rollers RL-7, RL-8, RL-9, RL-10 and RL-11 may have a value smaller than the value of the modulus of the first pressing part FRL1. When the display module DM and the supporting part SP are combined with each other by using the rollers RL-7, RL-8, RL-9, RL-10 and RL-11, the pressing force applied to the folding area FA may be smaller than the pressing force applied to each of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. That is, the degradation of the display quality of the display device DD on which the lamination process is completed can be reduced.

[0146] like Fig.17A As shown in FIG. 1 , a connection portion CNR-7 according to another embodiment of the inventive concept further includes a second cover portion SH2. The second cover portion SH2 surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the first cover portion SH1. The second cover portion SH2 has a third modulus. The third modulus has a value smaller than that of the second modulus.

[0147] According to an embodiment, the second cover portion SH2 in the first connection portion CP1 may have a gradually increasing thickness in a direction close to the central portion CT. The increase rate of the thickness of the second cover portion SH2 disposed in the first connection portion CP1 may be the same as the decrease rate of the thickness of the core portion CR disposed in the first connection portion CP1.

[0148] like Fig. 17B As shown in , the core portion CR of the first pressing portion FRL1 of the roller RL-8 and the core portion CR of the connecting portion CNR-8 according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept may have different diameters from each other. The core portion CR of the first pressing portion FRL1 has a first core diameter DC1. The core portion CR of the connecting portion CNR-8 has a second core diameter DC2. The second core diameter DC2 has a value smaller than the value of the first core diameter DC1. In an embodiment, each of the first core diameter DC1 and the second core diameter DC2 has a predetermined value.

[0149] The outer surface of the first covering portion SH1 of the connecting portion CNR-8 has a funnel shape in cross section. The outer surface of the first covering portion SH1 of the connecting portion CNR-8 may be connected to the outer surface of the first covering portion SH1 of the first pressing portion FRL1 and have a gradually decreasing thickness in a direction close to the center line CTL.

[0150] The connection portion CNR-8 may further include a second cover portion SH2. In an embodiment, the second cover portion SH2 has a gradually increasing thickness in a direction close to the central portion CT. The increase rate of the thickness of the second cover portion SH2 disposed in the first connection portion CP1 may be the same as the decrease rate of the thickness of the first cover portion SH1 disposed in the first connection portion CP1.

[0151] like Fig. 17C As shown in FIG. 1 , the roller RL-9 according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept does not include the first covering portion SH1. In addition, the connection portion CNR-9 may further include a second covering portion SH2.

[0152] According to an embodiment, the second cover portion SH2 in the first connection portion CP1 may have a gradually increasing thickness in a direction close to the central portion CT. The increase rate of the thickness of the second cover portion SH2 disposed in the first connection portion CP1 may be the same as the decrease rate of the thickness of the core portion CR disposed in the first connection portion CP1.

[0153] like Fig.17D As shown in , the core portion CR of the first pressing portion FRL1 of the roller RL-10 according to another embodiment of the inventive concept and the core portion CR of the connecting portion CNR-10 have different diameters from each other. The core portion CR of the first pressing portion FRL1 has a first core diameter DC1. The core portion CR of the connecting portion CNR-10 has a second core diameter DC2. The second core diameter DC2 has a value smaller than the value of the first core diameter DC1. In an embodiment, each of the first core diameter DC1 and the second core diameter DC2 has a predetermined value.

[0154] In an embodiment, the first cover portion SH1 has a uniform thickness.

[0155] The connection portion CNR-10 according to the embodiment may further include an air layer AIR The air layer AIR is provided between the core portion CR and the first cover portion SH1.

[0156] like Fig.17EAs shown in the figure, the core portion CR of the roller RL-11 according to another embodiment of the inventive concept provided in the first connection portion CP1 has a funnel shape in cross section. That is, the core portion CR provided in the first connection portion CP1 includes an inclined surface in cross section. The core portion CR of the first connection portion CP1 has a gradually decreasing diameter in a direction close to the central portion CT. In an embodiment, the core portion CR of the central portion CT has a predetermined diameter.

[0157] In an embodiment, each of the first connection portion CP1 and the central portion CT of the connection portion CNR-11 further includes an air layer AIR. The air layer AIR is provided between the core portion CR and the first cover portion SH1. In an embodiment, the air layer AIR of the first connection portion CP1 has a gradually increasing thickness in a direction close to the central portion CT, and the air layer AIR of the central portion CT has a predetermined thickness.

[0158] According to embodiments of the inventive concept, the display quality of a display device may be improved.

[0159] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made in the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the present disclosure covers these modifications and variations of the present invention within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the claims and their equivalents, and should not be constrained or limited by the foregoing specific description.

Claims

1. Laminating device, comprising: a table on which the display module is configured to be placed, the display module comprising a non-folding area that is not unfolded and a folding area between the non-folding areas and capable of being folded about a folding axis; as well as a laminating roller, on the table, and comprising: Pressing parts respectively overlap the unfolded areas and have diameters; and a connecting portion between the pressing portions and overlapping the folding area and connecting the pressing portions, wherein a plate is arranged between the display module and the table and supports the display module, overlaps with the non-folding area respectively and also overlaps with part of the folding area respectively, and a spacing space defined between the plates extends in the direction of the folding axis and overlaps with the connecting portion, the connecting portion having a diameter smaller than that of the pressing portion and extending in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis.

2. The laminating device according to claim 1, wherein: The pressing part comprises: a first pressing portion overlapping a first unfolding region within the unfolding region; and a second pressing portion overlapping the second non-folding area in the non-folding area, The connecting portion connects the first pressing portion to the second pressing portion.

3. The laminating device according to claim 2, wherein: The connecting part comprises: a first connecting portion connected to the first pressing portion; a second connecting portion connected to the second pressing portion; and A central portion is located between the first connection portion and the second connection portion to connect the first connection portion to the second connection portion and has a diameter smaller than an average diameter of each of the first connection portion and the second connection portion.

4. The laminating device according to claim 3, wherein: Each of the first connection portion and the second connection portion has a gradually decreasing diameter in a direction approaching the central portion.

5. The laminating device according to claim 3, wherein: The central portion has a predetermined diameter.

6. The laminating device according to claim 2, wherein: Each of the first pressing portion, the second pressing portion, and the connecting portion includes: a core portion extending in said direction perpendicular to said folding axis and having a first modulus; and The first cover portion is configured to surround an outer surface of the core portion and has a second modulus smaller than the first modulus.

7. The laminating device according to claim 6, wherein: The core portion includes metal.

8. The laminating device according to claim 6, wherein: At the connection portion, at least a portion of the core portion is exposed by the first covering portion.

9. The laminating device according to claim 6, wherein: Each of the first pressing portion, the second pressing portion, and the connecting portion further includes a second covering portion having a thickness and surrounding an outer surface of the first covering portion.

10. The laminating device according to claim 2, wherein: each of the first pressing portion, the second pressing portion, and the connecting portion includes a core portion extending in the direction perpendicular to the folding axis and having a first modulus, and Each of the first pressing portion and the second pressing portion further includes a first covering portion configured to surround an outer surface of the core portion and having a second modulus smaller than the first modulus.

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