Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided, comprising: a display module; a first support member located under the display module; a second support member located under the display module, the first support member and the second support member being arranged in a first direction and having a space therebetween; and a digitizer module located under the first support member and the second support member and comprising a first opening extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction and second openings extending along the first direction from both ends of the first opening, respectively. The first opening overlaps the space between the first support member and the second support member.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0000416, filed on January 2, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] One or more aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device having a digitizer module. Background Art

[0003] Generally, electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smart phones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation units, and / or smart TVs, include a display device for displaying images. The display device generates images and provides the images to users through its display screen.

[0004] In recent years, with the development of display device technology, various display devices have been developed. For example, foldable and / or rollable flexible display devices are being developed. Flexible display devices that can be deformed into various shapes are easy to carry and improve user convenience.

[0005] The foldable display device can be folded about a folding axis. However, when the foldable display device is folded, various elements may be damaged in a folded portion that is deformed from a flat state to a bent state. Summary of the invention

[0006] One or more aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a display device capable of preventing or protecting a digitizer from being damaged when folded and preventing or protecting display quality from being deteriorated due to a line pattern of the digitizer.

[0007] An embodiment of the inventive concept provides a display device, comprising: a display module; a first support member located under the display module; a second support member located under the display module, the first support member and the second support member being arranged in a first direction with a space therebetween; and a digitizer module located under the first support member and the second support member and having a first opening defined therethrough and extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second opening defined therethrough and extending in the first direction from both ends of the first opening, respectively. The first opening overlaps the space between the first support member and the second support member.

[0008] According to the above, since the portion of the digitizer module overlapping the folding region is maintained in a flat state without being deformed into a curved shape when the display device is folded, the digitizer module can be prevented or protected from being damaged by the folding operation.

[0009] In addition, the digitizer module is disposed under the support member, and thus it is possible to prevent or protect the display quality from being deteriorated due to the curved surface of the digitizer module. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The above and other advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A view showing a folded state of the display device shown in FIG.

[0013] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of a display module according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A plan view of a display module shown in FIG.

[0015] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 An equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel shown in FIG.

[0016] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a cross section of a pixel shown in FIG.

[0017] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A plan view of a digitizer module of a display device shown in FIG.

[0019] Fig. 9 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG.

[0020] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 A magnified view of the folded area shown in;

[0021] Fig.11 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG.

[0022] Fig.12 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in FIG.

[0023] Figures 13 to 16 is a view explaining a folding operation of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig.17 is a plan view showing a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Fig.18 is a plan view showing a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Fig.19 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of a cross section of a digitizer module shown in FIG.

[0027] Fig. 20 is a plan view showing a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig.21 It is shown Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of a cross section of a digitizer module shown in FIG.

[0029] Fig. 22 is a plan view showing a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Fig.23 It is shown Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of a cross section of a digitizer module shown in FIG.

[0031] Fig.24 is a plan view showing a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Fig.25 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0033] Fig.26 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element and / or layer, the element or layer can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to the other element and / or layer, or intervening elements and / or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element or layer is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element and / or layer, there are no intervening elements.

[0035] The same reference numerals always represent the same elements. In the drawings, in order to effectively describe the technical contents, the thickness, ratio and size of the components may be exaggerated.

[0036] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as "at least one of," "one of," and "selected from," when following a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify the individual elements in the list. In addition, when describing embodiments of the present invention, the use of "may" means "one or more embodiments of the present invention."

[0037] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. can be used here 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 only used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the present disclosure, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second part. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular "one", "one (kind / person)" and "described (the)" are also intended to include plural forms.

[0038] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as “under,” “beneath,” “lower,” “over,” “upper,” etc. may be used here to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another (other) elements or features as shown in the drawings.

[0039] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It will also be understood that, unless clearly defined as such herein, terms (such as those defined in general 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.

[0040] It will also be understood that when the terms “include” and / or “comprises” are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0041] Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Figure 1is a perspective view showing a display device DD according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 0047] A view showing a folded state of the display device DD is shown in FIG.

[0043] Reference Figure 1 , the display device DD according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure may have a rectangular shape defined by long sides extending along a first direction DR1 and short sides extending along a second direction DR2 crossing the first direction DR1, however, the shape of the display device DD should not be limited to the rectangular shape and may have various appropriate shapes.

[0044] Hereinafter, a direction orthogonal to (eg, substantially perpendicular to) a surface (plane) defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be referred to as a 'third direction DR3'.

[0045] The display device DD may include a folding area FA and a plurality of non-folding areas NFA. The folding area FA may be disposed (eg, positioned) between the non-folding areas NFA, and the folding area FA and the non-folding area NFA may be arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0046] In the present exemplary embodiment, one folding area FA and two non-folding areas NFA are shown as representative examples, however, the number of folding areas FA and the number of non-folding areas NFA should not be limited thereto or thereby. Figure 3 ) may include more than two non-folding areas NFA and a plurality of folding areas FA arranged between the respective non-folding areas NFA.

[0047] The upper surface of the display module DM may be referred to as a “display surface DS” and may be a plane surface defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The image IM generated by the display device DD may be provided to a user through the display surface DS.

[0048] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA displays an image, while the non-display area NDA does not display an image. The non-display area NDA surrounds the display area DA and defines an edge of the display device DD printed by a predetermined or set color (set in a predetermined or set color).

[0049] Reference Figure 2 , the display device DD may be, but is not limited to, a flexible display device DD. For example, the display device DD may be a foldable display device DD that is folded or unfolded. The folding area FA may be folded, and thus the display device DD may be folded. The display device DD may be folded inwardly (inwardly folded) so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside.

[0050] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section of a display module DM according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Reference Figure 3 The display module DM may include a display panel DP, a touch sensing unit TSU disposed on the display panel DP, a window WIN disposed on the touch sensing unit TSU, an adhesive OCA disposed between the touch sensing unit TSU and the window WIN, a protection substrate PS disposed under the display panel DP, and a cushion layer CSL disposed under the protection substrate PS.

[0052] The display panel DP may be an organic light emitting display panel, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. Various suitable display panels that display images, such as a liquid crystal display panel, an electrowetting display panel, and / or an electrophoretic display panel, may be used as the display panel DP.

[0053] The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a pixel layer PXL disposed on the substrate SUB, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the substrate SUB to cover the pixel layer PXL. The substrate SUB may be a transparent substrate, for example, a flexible plastic substrate. For example, the substrate SUB may include polyimide (PI).

[0054] As a display module DM, the substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The pixel layer PXL may be disposed on the display area DA. The pixel layer PXL may include a plurality of pixels, each of which may include a light emitting element.

[0055] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include at least two inorganic layers and an organic layer disposed between the inorganic layers. The inorganic layer may include an inorganic material and may protect the pixel layer PXL from moisture and oxygen. The organic layer may include an organic material and may protect the pixel layer PXL from foreign impurities such as dust particles.

[0056] The touch sensing unit TSU may sense an external input due to a user's finger and / or a touch pen, may convert the sensed input into a predetermined (or set) input signal, and may provide the input signal to the display panel DP. The touch sensing unit TSU may include a plurality of touch sensor units to sense the external input. The touch sensor unit may sense the external input by a capacitive method. The display panel DP may receive an input signal from the touch sensing unit TSU, and may generate an image corresponding to the input signal.

[0057] The window WIN may protect the display panel DP and the touch sensing unit TSU from external scratches and impacts. The window WIN may be attached to the touch sensing unit TSU by an adhesive OCA. The adhesive OCA may include an optically transparent adhesive, however, it should not be limited to the optically transparent adhesive. For example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive may be used as the adhesive OCA. An image generated by the display panel DP may be provided to a user after passing through the window WIN.

[0058] The protective substrate PS may protect the lower portion of the display panel DP. The protective substrate PS may include a flexible plastic substrate. As an example, the protective substrate PS may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0059] The cushion layer CSL may absorb an external impact applied to a lower portion of the display module DM to protect the display module DM. The cushion layer CSL may include a foam sheet having predetermined (or set) elasticity.

[0060] In one or more embodiments, an adhesive may be provided between the display panel DP and the protective substrate PS to attach the protective substrate PS to the display panel DP. In some embodiments, an adhesive may be provided between the protective substrate PS and the cushion layer CSL to attach the cushion layer CSL to the protective substrate PS. A pressure-sensitive adhesive may be used as any of the above-mentioned adhesives.

[0061] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A plan view of the display module DM is shown in FIG.

[0062] Reference Figure 4 , the display module DM according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and a light emitting driver EDV.

[0063] The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. For example, the display panel DP may include a plurality of electronic components disposed on a flexible substrate. The display panel DP may have a rectangular shape defined by long sides extending along the first direction DR1 and short sides extending along the second direction DR2.

[0064] The display panel DP may include a plane surface defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. As a display surface DS of the display device DD, the display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA.

[0065] The display panel DP may include a plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines SL1 to SLm, a plurality of data lines DL1 to DLn, and a plurality of emission lines EL1 to ELm. Each of "m" and "n" is a natural number. The pixels PX may be arranged in a matrix form, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. The pixels PX may be arranged in a display area DA and may be connected to the scan lines SL1 to SLm, the data lines DL1 to DLn, and the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0066] The scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the light emitting driver EDV may be disposed in the non-display area NDA. The scan driver SDV may be disposed adjacent to one side (eg, the first long side among the long sides of the display panel DP) of the display panel DP in the non-display area NDA.

[0067] The light emitting driver EDV may be disposed in the non-display area NDA adjacent to another side of the display panel DP (e.g., a second long side of the display panel DP opposite to the first long side). The data driver DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and may be disposed in the non-display area NDA adjacent to one of the short sides of the display panel DP (e.g., the first short side).

[0068] The scan lines SL1 to SLm may extend along the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn may extend along the first direction DR1 and may be connected to the data driver DDV. The emission lines EL1 to ELm may extend along the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the emission driver EDV.

[0069] The scan driver SDV may generate a plurality of scan signals, and the scan signals may be applied to the pixels PX through the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The scan signals may be sequentially applied to the pixels PX. The data driver DDV may generate a plurality of data voltages, and the data voltages may be applied to the pixels PX through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The light emitting driver EDV may generate a plurality of light emitting signals, and the light emitting signals may be applied to the pixels PX through the light emitting lines EL1 to ELm.

[0070] In some embodiments, the display module DM may include a timing controller to control operations of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the light emitting driver EDV.

[0071] The timing controller may generate a scan control signal, a data control signal, and a light emitting control signal in response to a control signal applied thereto from the outside. The timing controller may receive an image signal from the outside, may convert the data format of the image signal according to an interface with the data driver DDV, and may provide the converted image signal to the data driver DDV.

[0072] The scan driver SDV may generate a scan signal in response to a scan control signal, and the light emitting driver EDV may generate a light emitting signal in response to a light emitting control signal. The data driver DDV may receive an image signal whose data format is converted, and may generate a data voltage corresponding to the image signal in response to a data control signal.

[0073] The pixel PX may receive a data voltage in response to the scan signal. The pixel PX may emit light having a brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to the light emission signal to display an image. The light emission time of the pixel PX may be controlled by the light emission signal.

[0074] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 An equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel PX is shown in FIG.

[0075] Figure 5 1 shows an equivalent circuit diagram of one pixel PX as a representative example, however, Figure 4 The other pixels PX shown in FIG. 1 may have Figure 5 The same equivalent circuit diagram of the pixel PX is shown in FIG.

[0076] Reference Figure 5 , the pixel PX can be connected to the corresponding scan line SLi among the scan lines SL1 to SLm, the corresponding data line DLj among the data lines DL1 to DLn, and the corresponding emission line ELi among the emission lines EL1 to ELm. "i" is a natural number equal to or less than "m", and "j" is a natural number equal to or less than "n".

[0077] The pixel PX may include a light emitting element OLED, a driving transistor T1, a capacitor Cst, a switching transistor T2, and a light emission control transistor T3. The light emitting element OLED may be an organic light emitting diode.

[0078] The driving transistor T1 may include a source terminal receiving the first voltage ELVDD and a drain terminal connected to the source terminal of the light emission control transistor T3. The driving transistor T1 may include a gate terminal connected to the drain terminal of the switching transistor T2.

[0079] The switching transistor T2 may include a gate terminal connected to the scan line SLi and a source terminal connected to the data line DLj. The capacitor Cst may include a first electrode connected to the source terminal of the driving transistor T1 and a second electrode connected to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1.

[0080] The light emission control transistor T3 may include a gate terminal connected to the light emission line ELi and a drain terminal connected to the anode electrode of the light emitting element OLED. The light emitting element OLED may include a cathode electrode receiving a second voltage ELVSS, and the second voltage ELVSS may have a level lower than that of the first voltage ELVDD.

[0081] The switching transistor T2 may be turned on in response to a scan signal SCAN applied thereto through the scan line SLi. The turned-on switching transistor T2 may supply a data voltage DATA supplied thereto through the data line DLj to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1.

[0082] The capacitor Cst is charged by the data voltage DATA applied to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1 and may maintain the charged voltage therein after the switching transistor T2 is turned off.

[0083] The light emission control transistor T3 may be turned on in response to a light emission signal EM applied to its gate terminal through the light emission line ELi. The turned-on light emission control transistor T3 may provide the current Ioled flowing through the driving transistor T1 to the light emitting element OLED. The pixel PX may emit light during the time in which the light emission signal EM is applied. The light emitting element OLED may emit light with different intensities depending on the amount of the current Ioled applied thereto.

[0084] Figure 5 PMOS transistors are shown as representative examples of the transistors T1 to T3 of the pixel PX, however, they should not be limited thereto or thereby. For example, the transistors T1 to T3 of the pixel PX may be implemented by NMOS transistors.

[0085] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 0 is a cross-sectional view of a cross section of a pixel PX shown in FIG.

[0086] Reference Figure 6 The pixel PX may include a light emitting element OLED and a transistor TR connected to the light emitting element OLED. The light emitting element OLED may include a first electrode E1, a second electrode E2, and an organic light emitting layer OEL disposed between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2.

[0087] The pixel PX may be divided into a pixel area PA and a non-pixel area NPA surrounding the pixel area PA. The light emitting element OLED may be disposed in the pixel area PA, and the transistor TR may be disposed in the non-pixel area NPA.

[0088] The transistor TR may be a light emitting control transistor T3. Both the transistor TR and the light emitting element OLED may be disposed on the substrate SUB. A buffer layer BFL may also be disposed on the substrate SUB and may include an inorganic material.

[0089] The semiconductor layer SM of the transistor TR may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor layer SM may include an inorganic semiconductor and / or an organic semiconductor such as amorphous silicon and / or polycrystalline silicon. In some embodiments, the semiconductor layer SM may include an oxide semiconductor. The semiconductor layer SM may include a source region, a drain region, and a channel region defined between the source region and the drain region.

[0090] The first insulating layer INS1 may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL to cover the semiconductor layer SM. The first insulating layer INS1 may include an inorganic material. The gate electrode GE of the transistor TR may be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1 to overlap the semiconductor layer SM. The gate electrode GE may be disposed to overlap the channel region of the semiconductor layer SM.

[0091] The second insulating layer INS2 may be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1 to cover the gate electrode GE. The second insulating layer INS2 may be referred to as an “interlayer insulating layer.” The second insulating layer INS2 may include an organic material and / or an inorganic material.

[0092] The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE of the transistor TR may be disposed on the second insulating layer INS2 to be spaced apart from each other. The source electrode SE may be connected to the source region of the semiconductor layer SM through a first contact hole CH1 defined through the first insulating layer INS1 and the second insulating layer INS2. The drain electrode DE may be connected to the drain region of the semiconductor layer SM through a second contact hole CH2 defined through the first insulating layer INS1 and the second insulating layer INS2.

[0093] The third insulating layer INS3 may be disposed on the second insulating layer INS2 to cover the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE of the transistor TR. The third insulating layer INS3 may be referred to as a 'planarization layer' providing a flat (or substantially flat) upper surface, and may include an organic material.

[0094] The first electrode E1 of the light emitting element OLED may be disposed on the third insulating layer INS3. The first electrode E1 may be connected to the drain electrode DE of the transistor TR through a third contact hole CH3 defined in the third insulating layer INS3. The first electrode E1 may be referred to as a “pixel electrode” or an “anode electrode”. The first electrode E1 may include a transparent electrode and / or a reflective electrode.

[0095] The pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed on the first electrode E1 and the third insulating layer INS3 and may expose a predetermined (or set) portion of the first electrode E1. An opening PX_OP may be defined in the pixel defining layer PDL to expose a predetermined (or set) portion of the first electrode E1.

[0096] The organic light emitting layer OEL may be disposed on the first electrode E1 in the opening PX_OP. The organic light emitting layer OEL may generate light having one color of red, green, and blue, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. The organic light emitting layer OEL may generate white light by a combination of organic materials that generate red, green, and blue, respectively.

[0097] The second electrode E2 may be disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL and the organic light emitting layer OEL. The second electrode E2 may be referred to as a “common electrode” or a “cathode electrode.” The second electrode E2 may include a transparent electrode and / or a reflective electrode.

[0098] In the case where the display panel DP is a front surface light emitting type (or type) (e.g., a front surface organic light emitting display panel), the first electrode E1 may be implemented by a reflective electrode, and the second electrode E2 may be implemented by a transparent electrode. In the case where the display panel DP is a rear surface light emitting type (or type) (e.g., a rear surface organic light emitting display panel), the first electrode E1 may be implemented by a transparent electrode, and the second electrode E2 may be implemented by a reflective electrode. The first electrode E1 may be a positive electrode used as a hole injection electrode, and the second electrode E2 may be a negative electrode used as an electron injection electrode.

[0099] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the light emitting element OLED to cover the pixel PX. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include a first encapsulation layer EN1 disposed on the light emitting element OLED, a second encapsulation layer EN2 disposed on the first encapsulation layer EN1, and a third encapsulation layer EN3 disposed on the second encapsulation layer EN2.

[0100] Each of the first encapsulation layer EN1 and the third encapsulation layer EN3 may include an inorganic material, and the second encapsulation layer EN2 may include an organic material. The second encapsulation layer EN2 may have a thickness greater than that of each of the first encapsulation layer EN1 and the third encapsulation layer EN3. The layer (or layers) disposed between the substrate SUB and the thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be referred to as a "pixel layer PXL".

[0101] A first voltage ELVDD may be applied to the first electrode E1, and a second voltage ELVSS may be applied to the second electrode E2. Holes and electrons injected into the organic light emitting layer OEL are recombined to generate excitons, and the light emitting element OLED emits light generated by the excitons returning from the excited state to the ground state. Depending on the current, the light emitting element OLED may emit red light, green light, and / or blue light, so that an image may be displayed.

[0102] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] Reference Figure 7 , a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display module DM, a support member SP disposed under the display module DM, a digitizer module DTM disposed under the support member SP, and a case CS disposed under the digitizer module DTM.

[0104] The support member SP may support the display module DM. The support member SP may include a first support member SP1 and a second support member SP2 arranged in a first direction DR1. The first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 may overlap the non-folding area NFA, respectively (e.g., may be aligned with the non-folding area NFA, respectively). The first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 may be respectively disposed under the non-folding area NFA to support the non-folding area NFA.

[0105] The digitizer module DTM may be a device capable of receiving position information indicated by a user on a display surface. In some embodiments, the digitizer module DTM may be implemented in an electromagnetic manner (or an electromagnetic resonance manner). As an example, the digitizer module DTM may include a digitizer sensor substrate having a plurality of coils.

[0106] When the user moves the pen on the display device, the pen can be driven by an AC signal to cause a vibrating magnetic field, which can induce a signal to the coil. The position of the pen can be detected by the signal induced in the coil. The digitizer module DTM can detect the position of the pen by detecting the electromagnetic changes caused by the approach of the pen. Therefore, the digitizer module DTM may not necessarily be required to be set on the front surface of the display module DM, and the digitizer module DTM may be set on the rear surface of the display module DM.

[0107] A first opening OP1 extending along the second direction DR2 and a second opening OP2 extending along the first direction DR1 may be defined in the digitizer module DTM. Figure 8 The structure of the digitizer module DTM is described in more detail.

[0108] The housing CS may support the digitizer module DTM. In some embodiments, a hinge may be connected to the housing CS. The housing CS may be rotated about a folding axis provided by the hinge to fold the display device DD. For ease of explanation, Figure 7 A flat portion of the case CS is shown, however, the case CS may also include a sidewall portion extending from an edge of the flat portion along the third direction DR3 and configured to accommodate the display module DM, the support member SP, and the digitizer module DTM.

[0109] The case CS may include a first case CS1 and a second case CS2 arranged in a first direction DR1. The first case CS1 and the second case CS2 may overlap with the non-folding area NFA, respectively (e.g., may be aligned with the non-folding area NFA, respectively). The first case CS1 may overlap with the first support member SP1, and the second case CS2 may overlap with the second support member SP2.

[0110] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 4 is a plan view of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG. 4 (a plan view toward the housing CS in the third direction DR3 ).

[0111] For ease of explanation, Figure 8 Together with the digitizer module DTM, a first support SP1 and a second support SP2 are shown.

[0112] Reference Figure 8 , when viewed in a plan view, a first opening OP1 extending along the second direction DR2 and a plurality of second openings OP2 extending along the first direction DR1 from both ends of the first opening OP1 may be defined in the digitizer module DTM.

[0113] As an example, two second openings OP2 may extend from both ends of the first opening OP1 , respectively. However, this is only an example, and the number of the second openings OP2 should not be limited to two.

[0114] The first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 may be disposed on the digitizer module DTM. The first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 may overlap a portion of the digitizer module DTM between the second openings OP2.

[0115] Each of the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 may have a quadrilateral shape. Each of the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 may include two sides that face away from each other in the first direction DR1 and extend in the second direction DR2 and two sides that face away from each other in the second direction DR2 and extend in the first direction DR1. One of the sides of the first support member SP1 extending in the second direction DR2 may face (face in the first direction DR1) one of the sides of the second support member SP2 extending in the second direction DR2. Hereinafter, the sides of the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 that face each other in the first direction DR1 may be referred to as "a side OS1" of the first support member SP1 and "a side OS2" of the second support member SP2.

[0116] The second opening OP2 can extend respectively along the predetermined (or set) portions (portions adjacent to one side OS1) of the two sides of the first support member SP1 that are facing away from each other in the second direction DR2 (for example, can be overlapped with the predetermined (or set) portions (portions adjacent to one side OS1) of the two sides of the first support member SP1 that are facing away from each other in the second direction DR2). In addition, the second opening OP2 can extend respectively along the predetermined (or set) portions (portions adjacent to one side OS2) of the two sides of the second support member SP2 that are facing away from each other in the second direction DR2 (for example, can be overlapped with the predetermined (or set) portions (portions adjacent to one side OS2) of the two sides of the second support member SP2 that are facing away from each other in the second direction DR2).

[0117] The digitizer module DTM may include a first portion PT1 and a second portion PT2 disposed at the left and right sides, respectively, with respect to the first opening OP1. The first opening OP1 may be defined as a space between the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2. The first support member SP1 may overlap the first portion PT1, and the second support member SP2 may overlap the second portion PT2.

[0118] The digitizer module DTM may include a plurality of outer portions OTP spaced apart from the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 in the second direction DR2. The outer portions OTP together with the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 may define a second opening OP2. Each outer portion OTP may extend from a predetermined (or set) portion of the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 without overlapping the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2. The outer portion OTP may extend in the first direction DR1.

[0119] Each second opening OP2 may have a first length LT1 with respect to the first direction DR1. The first length LT1 may be substantially the length of each outer portion OTP. As used herein, the first portion PT1, the second portion PT2, and the outer portion OTP may indicate different elements separated from each other by the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2, however, the first portion PT1, the second portion PT2, and the outer portion OTP may be formed integrally with each other.

[0120] Fig. 9 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG.

[0121] For ease of explanation, Fig. 9 1 shows a state in which the display module DM, the support member SP, the digitizer module DTM and the case CS are combined with each other. Figures 10 to 12 A state in which the display module DM, the support SP, the digitizer module DTM, and the case CS are combined with each other is also shown.

[0122] Reference Fig. 9 , the first adhesive AD1 may be disposed between the display module DM and the first support member SP1 and between the display module DM and the second support member SP2. The display module DM may be attached to the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 by the first adhesive AD1. As an example, the first adhesive AD1 may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0123] The first portion PT1 may be disposed under the first support member SP1. The second portion PT2 may be disposed under the second support member SP2 and may define a first opening OP1 together with the first portion PT1. The first opening OP1 may overlap the folding area FA. In addition, the first opening OP1 may overlap the space between the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2.

[0124] The second adhesive AD2 may be disposed between the first support SP1 and the first portion PT1 and between the second support SP2 and the second portion PT2. The first support SP1 and the second support SP2 may be attached to the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2, respectively, by the second adhesive AD2. As an example, the second adhesive AD2 may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0125] The first shell CS1 may be disposed under the first portion PT1. The second shell CS2 may be disposed under the second portion PT2. The third adhesive AD3 may be disposed between the first portion PT1 and the first shell CS1 and between the second portion PT2 and the second shell CS2. The first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 may be attached to the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2, respectively, by the third adhesive AD3.

[0126] As an example, the third adhesive AD3 may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments, the third adhesive AD3 may include a heat-reactive tape whose adhesive strength decreases at a first (set) temperature. For example, the first temperature may be in a range from about 60°C to about 70°C, and when heat is applied to the third adhesive AD3 at the first temperature for about 10 minutes, the adhesive strength of the third adhesive AD3 decreases. Therefore, the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2 can be easily separated from the first part PT1 and the second part PT2.

[0127] When the display device DD is reworked, the case CS may need to be separated from the display device DD. In the case where a heat-reactive tape is used as the third adhesive AD3, the case CS may be easily separated from the display device DD.

[0128] In some embodiments, the hinge may be connected to one side of the first housing CS1 and one side of the second housing CS2, and the one side of the first housing CS1 and the one side of the second housing CS2 face each other. The hinge may provide a biaxial rotation axis extending along the second direction DR2 to the one side of the first housing CS1 and the one side of the second housing CS2. The first housing CS1 and the second housing CS2 may rotate about the rotation axis, and thus the display module DM may be folded.

[0129] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 An enlarged view of the folding area FA is shown in FIG.

[0130] Reference Fig.10 , a first distance DT1 between the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 in the first direction DR1 may be smaller than a second distance DT2 between the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 in the first direction DR1. For example, the first distance DT1 may be substantially the width of the first opening OP1 in the first direction DR1. The first distance DT1 between the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 may be smaller than a third distance DT3 between the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2.

[0131] For example, the second distance DT2 may be equal to the third distance DT3, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. In some embodiments, the second distance DT2 may be different from the third distance DT3. Each of the first distance DT1, the second distance DT2, and the third distance DT3 may be smaller than the length of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1.

[0132] The coating layer CL may be disposed between the first support member SP1 and the first adhesive AD1 and between the second support member SP2 and the first adhesive AD1. The coating layer CL may overlap the folding area FA and may not overlap the non-folding area NFA. The coating layer CL may be coated on an area of ​​the upper surface of the first support member SP1 overlapping the folding area FA and an area of ​​the upper surface of the second support member SP2 overlapping the folding area FA.

[0133] The coating layer CL may not adhere to the first adhesive AD1. As an example, the coating layer CL may contain fluorine. The coating layer CL may prevent or reduce the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 from adhering to the first adhesive AD1 in the folding area FA. For ease of explanation, the coating layer CL is not Fig. 9 As shown in the enlarged view Fig.10 Shown in.

[0134] Fig.11 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' is shown in FIG.

[0135] Reference Fig.11 , the length of the first support member SP1 in the second direction DR2 may be substantially the same as each of the length of the display module DM and the length of the first portion PT1 between the second opening OP2. The length of the second support member SP2 in the second direction DR2 may be substantially the same as the length of the second portion PT2, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. The length of each of the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 in the second direction DR2 may be smaller than the length of each of the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 in the second direction DR2.

[0136] The outer portion OTP may be disposed on the outer sides (e.g., outer sides) of the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 in the second direction DR2. The outer portion OTP may also be disposed on the outer sides (e.g., outer sides) of the second support member SP2 and the second support member SP2 in the second direction DR2.

[0137] The outer portion OTP may be spaced apart from the first portion PT1, and the second opening OP2 may be defined between the outer portion OTP and the first portion PT1. The outer portion OTP may be spaced apart from the second portion PT2, and the second opening OP2 may be defined between the outer portion OTP and the second portion PT2.

[0138] Fig.12 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' is shown in FIG.

[0139] Reference Fig.12, the first length LT1 of the second opening OP2 in the first direction DR1 may be substantially the same as the length of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1. Therefore, the length of each outer portion OTP may be substantially the same as the length of the folding area FA. In some embodiments, the first length LT1 of the second opening OP2 may be greater than the first distance DT1 defined as the width of the first opening OP1.

[0140] Figures 13 to 16 2 is a view explaining a folding operation of the display device DD according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] For ease of explanation, Figures 13 to 16 A side surface of the display device DD when viewed in the second direction DR2 is shown.

[0142] Reference Figures 13 to 16 , the display device DD in a flat state can be folded by the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2. As an example, the first shell CS1 can be rotated in a clockwise direction relative to one side of the first shell CS1, and the second shell CS2 can be rotated in a counterclockwise direction relative to one side of the second shell CS2. Therefore, the folding area FA can be convexly bent downward, so that the display module DM can be folded. The display module DM can be folded inwardly (inward folding) without being exposed to the outside.

[0143] When the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2 move, the first part PT1 and the second part PT2 attached to the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2 move, so the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 attached to the first part PT1 and the second part PT2 can move. In addition, the non-folding area NFA of the display module DM attached to the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 can move. The first part PT1 and the second part PT2 can be maintained in a flat state with the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 while moving.

[0144] Portions of the first and second supports SP1 and SP2 overlapping the folding area FA may not be attached to the first adhesive AD1 due to the coating layer CL between the first and second supports SP1 and SP2 and the first adhesive AD1. Therefore, when the display module DM is folded, portions of the first and second supports SP1 and SP2 overlapping the folding area FA may be separated from the display module DM.

[0145] Since the display module DM is a flexible display module, the folding area FA can be easily bent. However, each of the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 is a rigid type (e.g., made of a rigid material), so the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 do not bend. When the portions of the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2 overlapping the folding area FA are attached to the folding area FA, it is difficult to fold the display module DM due to the first support member SP1 and the second support member SP2.

[0146] In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, since portions of the first and second supports SP1 and SP2 overlapping the folding area FA are not attached to the display module DM, the folding area FA may be easily bent.

[0147] When the display module DM is folded, the outer portion OTP may be folded together with the folding area FA. The outer portion OTP may be deformed to have a shape that is convexly curved downward. The first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 are separated from each other by the first opening OP1, however, the area of ​​the first portion PT1 may be connected to the area of ​​the second portion PT2 through the outer portion OTP.

[0148] In a comparable device, a digitizer module in which the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 are not defined may be attached to the lower portion of the display module DM, and a support member SP may be disposed on the lower portion of the digitizer module. When the display module is folded, stress may occur in the folded portion of the digitizer module, and as a result, a wiring pattern (or electrode pattern) disposed in the folded portion may be damaged.

[0149] In addition, due to the wiring pattern of the digitizer module, a curved surface may be formed on the surface of the digitizer module (e.g., flatness is degraded). In this case, because the image generated in the display module DM is perceived by the user as a curved shape due to the influence of the curved surface of the digitizer module, the display quality may be degraded.

[0150] In the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display device is folded, the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 can be maintained in a flat state while moving due to the first opening OP1. Therefore, the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 overlapping the folding area FA can be maintained in a flat state without bending. Therefore, the folding portion may not be formed in the digitizer module DTM, and thus the wiring pattern of the digitizer module DTM may not be damaged.

[0151] In the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, since the digitizer module DTM is disposed under the relatively rigid first and second supports SP1 and SP2, the curved surface of the digitizer module DTM does not affect the display module DM, thereby preventing or protecting the display quality from being deteriorated.

[0152] Although the first and second portions PT1 and PT2 are separated from each other by the first opening OP1, the wiring pattern of the first portion PT1 may be connected to the wiring pattern of the second portion PT2 through the outer portion OTP. Therefore, the first and second portions PT1 and PT2 may be normally operated.

[0153] Therefore, the display device DD according to the example embodiment of the present disclosure may prevent or protect the digitizer module DTM from being damaged due to the folding operation, and may prevent or reduce the degradation of display quality due to the curved surface of the digitizer module DTM.

[0154] Figures 17 to 24 is a view showing the construction of digitizer modules DTM_1 to DTM_5 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0155] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 17 to 24 Mainly describes the digitizer modules DTM_1 to DTM_5 and Figure 8 The configuration of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG. 1 is different from that of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG. 1 . The same configuration (component) will be designated by the same reference numerals, and their repeated description will not be provided. Figures 17 to 24 The display module DM, the support member SP and the casing CS are omitted or included.

[0156] Fig.17 is a plan view showing a digitizer module DTM_1 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] Reference Fig.17 A first opening OP1 extending in the second direction DR2 and a second opening OP2 extending in the first direction DR1 from one end of the first opening OP1 may be defined in the digitizer module DTM_1. The first opening OP1 may be defined between the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2, and the second opening OP2 may be defined between the outer portion OTP and the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2.

[0158] In addition to defining only one second opening OP2, the digitizer module DTM_1 may have Figure 8 The construction of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG.

[0159] Fig.18is a plan view showing a digitizer module DTM_2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.19 It is shown Fig.18 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cross section of the digitizer module DTM_2 shown in FIG.

[0160] For ease of explanation, Fig.19 shows the device and Fig.12 The parts shown are cross-sections of the same parts.

[0161] Reference Fig.18 and Fig.19 , the second length LT2 of the second opening OP2_1 defined in the digitizer module DTM_2 in the first direction DR1 may be smaller than the length of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1. Figure 8 The first length LT1 of the second opening OP2 shown in FIG. 1 is small.

[0162] Therefore, the outer portion OTP_1 of the digitizer module DTM_2 may have a Figure 8 The length of the outer portion OTP of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG. 2 is small. Other configurations of the digitizer module DTM_2 can be substantially the same as those of Figure 8 The construction of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG.

[0163] Fig. 20 is a plan view showing a digitizer module DTM_3 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.21 It is shown Fig. 20 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cross section of the digitizer module DTM_3 shown in FIG.

[0164] For ease of explanation, Fig.21 shows the device and Fig.12 The parts shown are cross-sections of the same parts.

[0165] Reference Fig. 20 and Fig.21 , the third length LT3 of the second opening OP2_2 defined in the digitizer module DTM_3 in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the length of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1. Figure 8 The first length LT1 of the second opening OP2 shown in FIG.

[0166] Therefore, the outer portion OTP_2 of the digitizer module DTM_3 may have a Figure 8 The length of the outer portion OTP of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG. 3 is greater than that of the outer portion OTP of the digitizer module DTM_3. Other configurations of the digitizer module DTM_3 can be substantially the same as those of FIG. Figure 8 The construction of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG.

[0167] Fig. 22 is a plan view showing a digitizer module DTM_4 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.23 It is shown Fig. 22 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cross section of the digitizer module DTM_4 shown in FIG.

[0168] For ease of explanation, Fig.23 shows the device and Fig.12 The parts shown are cross-sections of the same parts.

[0169] Reference Fig. 22 and Fig.23 , a first opening OP1' extending in the second direction DR2 may be defined in the digitizer module DTM_4. The first opening OP1' may be defined by the first portion PT1' and the second portion PT2' and the outer portion OTP. As an example, the first opening OP1' may be defined (may be located) between the first portion PT1' and the second portion PT2' and the outer portion OTP.

[0170] The first opening OP1' may overlap the folding area FA. A fourth distance DT4 between the first portion PT1' and the second portion PT2' in the first direction DR1 may be substantially the same as the length of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1. That is, the width of the first opening OP1' in the first direction DR1 may be substantially the same as the length of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1.

[0171] The fourth distance DT4 may be greater than the second distance DT2 between the first support SP1 and the second support SP2 and greater than the third distance DT3 between the first case CS1 and the second case CS2.

[0172] Fig.24 is a plan view showing a digitizer module DTM_5 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0173] Reference Fig.24 , the digitizer module DTM_5 may include a first portion PT1 and a second portion PT2, and a first opening OP1 may be defined between the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2. The first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 may be connected to each other through a flexible printed circuit board FPCB.

[0174] Figure 8 The digitizer module DTM shown in Fig.24The digitizer module DTM_5 shown in FIG. 1 is different in that the latter does not include the outer portion OTP, and the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2 can be separated from each other (eg, completely separated). Therefore, a flexible printed circuit board FPCB can be used to connect the first portion PT1 to the second portion PT2.

[0175] The flexible printed circuit board FPCB may be connected (coupled) to one of the two sides of the first portion PT1 that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2, and may extend in the first direction DR1. The flexible printed circuit board FPCB extending in the first direction DR1 may be connected (coupled) to one of the two sides of the second portion PT2 that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0176] Fig.25 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0177] For ease of explanation, Fig.25 shows the device and Fig. 9 The parts shown are cross-sections of the same parts.

[0178] Reference Fig.25 The digitizer module DTM may be disposed under the display module DM. The support member SP may be disposed under the digitizer module DTM. The digitizer module DTM may have Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The structure of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG. 1 is basically the same as the structure of FIG.

[0179] When the digitizer module DTM is disposed under the display module DM, the cushion layer CSL ( Figure 3 ) may have a thickness equal to or greater than about 100 micrometers (μm). In some embodiments, the cushion layer CSL may have a thickness from about 100 micrometers (μm) to about 150 micrometers (μm). Other configurations of the digitizer module DTM may be similar to Fig. 9 In some embodiments, the structure shown in Fig.10 The coating layer CL described in can be coated on the upper surface of the digitizer module DTM.

[0180] Because the cushion layer CSL becomes thicker, the distortion of the image caused by the curved surface of the digitizer module DTM can be reduced. For example, when the cushion layer CSL has a thickness equal to or greater than about 100 micrometers (μm), the curved surface of the digitizer module DTM may not have an effect on the image of the display module DM (or may have a reduced effect on the image of the display module DM).

[0181] Fig.26is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a digitizer module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0182] For ease of explanation, Fig.26 shows the device and Fig. 9 The parts shown are cross-sections of the same parts.

[0183] Reference Fig.26 , the support member SP may not be disposed under the display module DM, and the digitizer module DTM may be disposed under the display module DM. Fig. 9 The structure shown in Fig.26 The construction shown in FIG. 1 differs in that in Fig.26 The support member SP is omitted. The structure of the digitizer module DTM can be similar to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The structure of the digitizer module DTM shown in FIG. 1 is substantially the same as that of the display module DM. The cushion layer CSL of the display module DM may have a thickness of from about 100 micrometers (μm) to about 150 micrometers (μm). Other configurations of the digitizer module DTM may be similar to those of FIG. Fig. 9 The construction shown in is basically the same.

[0184] The digitizer module DTM may substantially act as a support member SP. As an example, the digitizer module DTM may have a thickness sufficient to support the display module DM. In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the digitizer module DTM may have a thickness equal to or greater than about 70 micrometers (μm), and in some embodiments, may have a thickness from about 70 micrometers (μm) to about 100 micrometers (μm).

[0185] As used herein, the term "use" and variations thereof may be considered synonymous with the term "utilize" and variations thereof, respectively.

[0186] Additionally, the terms "substantially," "approximately," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measurements or calculations that those skilled in the art would recognize.

[0187] In addition, any numerical range recorded here is intended to include all sub-ranges of the same numerical precision contained in the recorded range. For example, the range of "1.0 to 10.0" is intended to include all sub-ranges between the recorded minimum value 1.0 and the recorded maximum value 10.0 (and including the recorded minimum value 1.0 and the recorded maximum value 10.0), that is, all sub-ranges with a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit recorded here is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit recorded in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to modify this specification (including claims) to explicitly record any sub-range contained in the range explicitly recorded here.

[0188] Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described, it will be understood that the present invention should not be limited by these exemplary embodiments, but various changes and modifications can be made by those of ordinary skill in the art within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, and the scope of the inventive concept should be determined according to the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A flexible display device, wherein the display device is foldable relative to a folding axis, and the display device comprises: Flexible and foldable display modules; A first support member, located under the display module; a second support member, located under the display module, the first support member and the second support member being arranged in a first direction with a space therebetween; as well as a digitizer module, located under the first support member and the second support member, and having a first opening defined as passing therethrough and extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second opening defined as passing therethrough and extending from both ends of the first opening along the first direction, the second direction being a direction along which the folding axis extends, wherein the first opening overlaps the space between the first support member and the second support member, and Wherein, a distance of the first opening in the first direction is smaller than a distance between the first support member and the second support member in the first direction.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the first support member and the second support member includes a pair of first sides facing away from each other in the first direction and a pair of second sides facing away from each other in the second direction, wherein a first side of the first support member and a first side of the second support member face each other in the first direction, and The second opening extends along portions of the pair of second sides of the first support member adjacent to the one first side of the first support member and portions of the pair of second sides of the second support member adjacent to the one first side of the second support member.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The display module comprises: a non-folding area arranged in the first direction; and The folding area is located between two adjacent non-folding areas. Wherein, the first supporting member and the second supporting member are respectively located under the two adjacent non-folding areas.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A length of each of the second openings in the first direction is equal to a length of the folding region in the first direction.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: The digitizer module comprises: A first portion, located under the first support member; a second portion located below the second support member, the first portion and the second portion defining the first opening; and A plurality of outer portions are spaced apart from the first portion and the second portion along the second direction, the first portion, the second portion, and corresponding outer portions of the plurality of outer portions defining corresponding second openings.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: Each of the plurality of outer portions extends from the first portion and the second portion and does not overlap the first support member and the second support member.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: A length of each of the first support and the second support in the second direction is equal to a length of each of the first portion and the second portion in the second direction.

8. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: A distance between the first portion and the second portion in the first direction is smaller than a distance between the first support member and the second support member in the first direction.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: The distance between the first supporting member and the second supporting member in the first direction is smaller than a length of the folding area in the first direction.

10. The display device according to claim 5, further comprising: a first adhesive disposed between the display module and the first support member and the second support member; as well as A coating layer is located between the first adhesive and the first support member and the second support member, and the coating layer overlaps the folding area.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The coating layer includes fluorine and is not attached to the first adhesive.

12. The display device according to claim 5, further comprising: A second adhesive is located between the first support member and the first portion and between the second support member and the second portion.

13. The display device according to claim 5, further comprising: a first housing, located under the first portion; as well as The second shell is located under the second part.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The display module is configured to be folded inwardly by the first housing and the second housing so that a display surface of the display module is not exposed to the outside.

15. The display device according to claim 13, further comprising: A third adhesive is located between the first portion and the first shell and between the second portion and the second shell.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: The third adhesive includes a thermally reactive tape having an adhesive strength configured to decrease at a first temperature.

17. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A length of each of the second openings in the first direction is smaller than a length of the folding region in the first direction.

18. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A length of each of the second openings in the first direction is greater than a length of the folding region in the first direction.

19. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A width of the first opening in the first direction is equal to a length of the folding region in the first direction.

20. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The display module comprises: A touch sensing unit; A display panel, located under the touch sensing unit; A protective substrate, located under the display panel; and The cushion layer is located under the protective substrate.

Images