Display Devices

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a display device, comprising a display module, a first supporting portion, a second supporting portion and a reinforcing member. When viewed in a plan view, a folding area, a first non-folding area and a second non-folding area are defined in the display module. The display module displays an image. The folding area is foldable around a virtual folding axis, and the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area are respectively adjacent to two opposite sides of the folding area. The first supporting portion supports the first non-folding area. The second supporting portion supports the second non-folding area and is spaced apart from the first supporting portion. The reinforcing member is bonded to the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion. The reinforcing member includes a cutout pattern overlapping the virtual folding axis in the folding area.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and all benefits accruing therefrom from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0022232, filed on February 26, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device having improved durability and display quality. Background Art

[0003] A display device displays various images on its display screen and provides information to a user. Recently, a foldable or rollable display device having a bendable or flexible display member is being developed. Unlike a flat rigid panel display device, a flexible display device can be folded or rolled like a piece of paper. Because the shape of a flexible display device can be variously changed, the flexible display device is used to improve portability and user convenience. Summary of the invention

[0004] The foldable display device may be folded around a folding axis. A folding region of the foldable display device may be deformed due to stress, in which case a user may recognize such a deformed region as a defect.

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a display device having improved durability and display quality.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display apparatus includes a display module, a first supporting portion, a second supporting portion, and a reinforcement member.

[0007] In such an embodiment, when viewed in a plan view, a folding area, a first non-folding area, and a second non-folding area are defined in the display module.

[0008] In such an embodiment, the display module may display an image, the folding area is foldable around a virtual folding axis, and the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area are respectively adjacent to two opposite sides of the folding area.

[0009] In such an embodiment, the first supporting portion supports the first non-folding area.

[0010] In such an embodiment, the second supporting portion is spaced apart from the first supporting portion and supports the second non-folding area.

[0011] In such an embodiment, the reinforcing member is bonded to the first support portion and the second support portion, and the reinforcing member includes a cut pattern in the folding region that overlaps the virtual folding axis.

[0012] In an embodiment, when the display module is in a non-folding state, the folding area may be disposed between the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area in a first direction, and the virtual folding axis may extend in a second direction crossing the first direction.

[0013] In an embodiment, the incision pattern may include a first sub-incision pattern and a second sub-incision pattern. In such an embodiment, the first sub-incision pattern may extend in the second direction and may overlap with the virtual folding axis, and the second sub-incision pattern may be connected to the first sub-incision pattern and may extend in the first direction.

[0014] In an embodiment, the second sub-cut pattern may have a length in the first direction greater than a length of the folding region.

[0015] In an embodiment, the second sub-cut pattern may not overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion. Alternatively, at least a portion of the second sub-cut pattern may overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

[0016] In an embodiment, the reinforcement member may include: an inner reinforcement member disposed at an inner side of the second sub-cut pattern in the second direction; and an outer reinforcement member disposed at an outer side of the second sub-cut pattern in the second direction. In such an embodiment, when viewed in the plan view, the outer reinforcement member may not overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

[0017] In an embodiment, the reinforcing member may be coupled to a bottom surface of the first supporting portion and a bottom surface of the second supporting portion.

[0018] In an embodiment, the reinforcing member may include a first reinforcing member and a second reinforcing member. In such an embodiment, the first reinforcing member may be connected to one side of the first supporting portion and one side of the second supporting portion, and the second reinforcing member may be spaced apart from the first reinforcing member and may be connected to an opposite side of the first supporting portion and an opposite side of the second supporting portion.

[0019] In an embodiment, the reinforcement member may be formed as a single integral and indivisible unit.

[0020] In an embodiment, when the display module is in a non-folding state, the folding area may be disposed between the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area in a first direction, and the virtual folding axis may extend in a second direction crossing the first direction.

[0021] In such an embodiment, the incision pattern may include a first sub-incision pattern, a second sub-incision pattern, and a third sub-incision pattern.

[0022] In such an embodiment, the first sub-cut pattern may extend in the second direction and may overlap the virtual folding axis.

[0023] In such an embodiment, the second sub-cut pattern may be connected to one end of the first sub-cut pattern and may extend in the second direction.

[0024] In such an embodiment, the third sub-cut pattern may be connected to opposite ends of the first sub-cut pattern and may extend in the second direction.

[0025] In an embodiment, the second sub-cut pattern and the third sub-cut pattern may each have a length in the first direction that is greater than a length of the folding region.

[0026] In an embodiment, the second sub-cut pattern and the third sub-cut pattern may not overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion. Optionally, at least a portion of each of the second sub-cut pattern and the third sub-cut pattern may overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

[0027] In an embodiment, the reinforcing member may be coupled to a top surface of the first supporting portion and a top surface of the second supporting portion.

[0028] In an embodiment, the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion may each have a stiffness higher than that of the display module.

[0029] In an embodiment, the folding region of the display module may be folded inwardly so that two parts of the display surface displaying the image face each other.

[0030] In an embodiment, the display device may further include an adhesive member and a non-adhesive member disposed between the display module and the first supporting portion and between the display module and the second supporting portion. In such an embodiment, the adhesive member may be disposed between the display module and the first supporting portion and between the display module and the second supporting portion, and the non-adhesive member may be disposed between the display module and the first supporting portion and between the display module and the second supporting portion in the folding area. In such an embodiment, the non-adhesive member may contact the adhesive member.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device includes a display module, a first supporting portion, a second supporting portion, and a reinforcing member. In such an embodiment, when viewed in a plan view, a folding area, a first non-folding area, and a second non-folding area are defined in the display module. In such an embodiment, the display module displays an image, and the folding area is foldable around a virtual folding axis, and the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area are respectively adjacent to two opposite sides of the folding area in a first direction.

[0032] In such an embodiment, the first supporting portion supports the first non-folding area.

[0033] In such an embodiment, the second supporting portion is spaced apart from the first supporting portion and supports the second non-folding area.

[0034] In such an embodiment, the reinforcing member is bonded to the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion, and the reinforcing member may include a sub-cut pattern having a width in the first direction greater than a width of the folding region.

[0035] In an embodiment, the sub-cut pattern may not overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion. Alternatively, at least a portion of the sub-cut pattern may overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

[0036] In an embodiment, the virtual folding axis may extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction. In such an embodiment, the reinforcing member may include an inner reinforcing member disposed on the inner side of the sub-cut pattern in the second direction and an outer reinforcing member disposed on the outer side of the sub-cut pattern in the second direction. In such an embodiment, when viewed in a plan view, the outer reinforcing member may not overlap with the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

[0037] In an embodiment, the reinforcement member may include a synthetic resin or a metal material.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display apparatus includes a display module, a first supporting portion, a second supporting portion, an adhesive member, a non-adhesive member, and a reinforcing member.

[0039] In such an embodiment, when viewed in a plan view, a folding area, a first non-folding area, and a second non-folding area are defined in the display module. In such an embodiment, the display module can display an image, the folding area is foldable around a virtual folding axis, and the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area are respectively adjacent to two opposite sides of the folding area in a first direction.

[0040] In such an embodiment, the first supporting portion supports the first non-folding area.

[0041] In such an embodiment, the second supporting portion is spaced apart from the first supporting portion and supports the second non-folding area.

[0042] In such an embodiment, the adhesive member is disposed between the display module and the first supporting portion and between the display module and the second supporting portion.

[0043] In such an embodiment, the non-adhesion member is disposed between the display module and the first support portion and between the display module and the second support portion in the folding region. In such an embodiment, the non-adhesion member is in contact with the adhesion member.

[0044] In such an embodiment, the reinforcing member is bonded to the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion, and includes a first sub-cut pattern and a second sub-cut pattern, wherein the first sub-cut pattern overlaps with the virtual folding axis in the folding area, and the second sub-cut pattern is connected to one end of the first sub-cut pattern and has a width in the first direction that is greater than the width of the folding area. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The above and other features of the present disclosure will become apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 2 The diagram shows the state of being folded inwards. Figure 1 A perspective view of a display device;

[0048] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device shown in ;

[0049] Figure 4 It shows Figures 1 to 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display module shown in ;

[0050] Figure 5 is the equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel of a display device;

[0051] Figure 6 is a plan view showing a rear surface of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 7is a cross-sectional view showing the display device in an inwardly folded state.

[0053] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line II';

[0054] Fig. 9 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II';

[0055] Fig.10 and Fig.11 It shows that along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a display device according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure taken along line II';

[0056] Fig.12 is a plan view showing a rear surface of a display device according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] Fig.13 It is along Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line II';

[0058] Fig.14 It is along Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II';

[0059] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to another optional embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0061] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view showing an outward-folding structure of a display device according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments are shown. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0063] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, the element may be directly connected or directly coupled to another element or layer, or there may be an intermediate element. On the contrary, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there is no intermediate element. The same number always indicates the same element. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items. Other words (such as "between" and "directly between", "adjacent to" and "directly adjacent to", "on" and "directly on", etc.) used to describe the relationship between elements or layers should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0064] It will be understood that, although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe different 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 one element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below may be named as the second element, component, region, layer or part.

[0065] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "below," "above," and "on" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to other elements or features as shown in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device is turned over in the accompanying drawings, an element described as being "below" or "below" other elements or features would subsequently be positioned as being "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" may cover both the "above" and "below" orientations. The device may be otherwise positioned (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0066] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms of "one", "a kind of" and "the" are also intended to include plural forms. "At least one of A and B" means "A or B". "Or" may refer to "and / or". As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items. It will also be understood that if the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, it is explained that the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components exist, but the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups are not excluded.

[0067] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurements in question and errors associated with measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system).

[0068] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic representations of ideal embodiments (and intermediate structures) of example embodiments. As such, variations in the shapes of these illustrations due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are contemplated. Therefore, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of the regions shown herein, but should include deviations in shapes due to, for example, manufacturing.

[0069] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong. It will be further understood that, unless so explicitly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant art and should not be interpreted as an ideal or overly formal meaning.

[0070] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0071] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 The diagram shows the inwardly folded state. Figure 1 A perspective view of a display device. Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device shown in FIG.

[0072] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2, an embodiment of the display device 1000 according to the present disclosure may have a rectangular shape having a long side parallel to the first direction DR1 and a short side parallel to the second direction DR2, wherein the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 are not parallel to each other. Here, a third direction DR3 perpendicular to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be a thickness direction of the display device 1000. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in such an embodiment, the shape of the display device 1000 may be variously modified.

[0073] The display device 1000 may be a flexible display device. In one embodiment, for example, the display device 1000 may be folded or unfolded along a virtual folding axis FX extending in a predetermined direction. In such an embodiment, the display device 1000 may be a foldable display device. In an embodiment, the virtual folding axis FX may be parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0074] The display device 1000 may be divided into a plurality of regions according to its folding state. In one embodiment, for example, when viewed in a plan view, the display device 1000 may be divided into a folding region FA and at least one non-folding region NFA1 and NFA2. Here, the "plan view" may refer to a plan view in a third direction DR3. The folding region FA may be a region on which a folding stress is applied when the display device 1000 is folded. When viewed in a plan view, the folding region FA may overlap with a virtual folding axis FX.

[0075] In an embodiment, Figure 1 As shown in , the folding area FA of the display device 1000 may be defined between two non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2. The two non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 may be referred to as a first non-folding area NFA1 and a second non-folding area NFA2, respectively. The first non-folding area NFA1 may be adjacent to one side of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be adjacent to the opposite side of the folding area FA in the first direction DR1.

[0076] The folding area FA, the first non-folding area NFA1 , and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be defined in each member constituting the display device 1000 .

[0077] In an embodiment, Figure 1 As shown in , a single folding area FA may be defined in the display device 1000, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In an alternative embodiment, a plurality of folding areas may be defined in the display device 1000.

[0078] In an embodiment, Figure 2As shown in , the display device 1000 can be folded in an inward folding manner. In such an embodiment, the display device 1000 can be folded in such a manner that two parts of the top surface defined as the display surface for displaying the image IM face each other. In such an inward folded state, the display surface of the display device 1000 can be covered by the bottom surface opposite to the display surface and is therefore not exposed to the outside.

[0079] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in an embodiment, the display device may be folded in an outward folding manner in which the top surface of the display device 1000 is exposed to the outside. For ease of description, hereinafter, an embodiment in which the display device 1000 is an inward folding type will be described in detail, and the technical features of the display device 1000 described below may be applied to implement an outward folding type display device.

[0080] Reference Figures 1 to 3 , an embodiment of a display device 1000 may include a display module 100 , a window member WM, a support member 200 , an adhesion member AD, at least one non-adhesion member NAD, a reinforcement member 300 , an adhesion reinforcement layer 400 , and a frame 500 .

[0081] When viewed in a plan view, the display module 100 may be divided into an active area AR and a peripheral area NAR. When viewed in a plan view, the active area AR may be defined as overlapping with a central area of ​​the display module 100. The peripheral area NAR may be adjacent to the active area AR. The peripheral area NAR may surround the active area AR. In this embodiment, the peripheral area NAR may be defined as having a frame shape surrounding the active area AR.

[0082] However, the present disclosure is not limited to the shapes and numbers of the active area AR and the peripheral area NAR. In one embodiment, for example, the display module 100 may include only the active area AR, or may include a plurality of active areas AR spaced apart from each other.

[0083] The display module 100 may include a display panel 110 and an input sensing member 120 .

[0084] The display panel 110 may display an image IM on the active area AR (see, for example, Figure 1 ). The input sensing member 120 may be disposed on the display panel 110 to sense a touch event on the active area AR.

[0085] The window member WM may provide or define the front surface (or uppermost surface) of the display device 1000. The window member WM may be disposed on the front surface of the display module 100 to protect the display module 100. In one embodiment, for example, the window member WM may include a glass substrate, a sapphire substrate, or a plastic film. The window member WM may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. In one embodiment, for example, the window member WM may have a stacked structure including a plurality of plastic films bonded to each other by an adhesive layer, or may have a stacked structure including a glass substrate and a plastic film bonded to each other by an adhesive layer.

[0086] For ease of illustration, the following figures do not show Figure 1 The window widget WM and frame 500 shown in .

[0087] The support member 200 may be disposed below the display module 100 to support the display module 100. The support member 200 may have a plate shape. The support member 200 may have a higher rigidity than the display module 100. In one embodiment, for example, the support member 200 may be formed of a metal material or may include a metal material. However, the present disclosure is not limited to a specific material of the support member 200.

[0088] The supporting member 200 may include a first supporting portion 210 and a second supporting portion 220. The first supporting portion 210 may overlap a side portion of the display module 100 in the first direction DR1. The first supporting portion 210 may overlap a portion of the folding area FA and the first non-folding area NFA1, and may support the portion of the folding area FA and the first non-folding area NFA1. The second supporting portion 220 may overlap the other side portion of the display module 100 in the first direction DR1. The second supporting portion 220 may overlap the remaining portion of the folding area FA and the second non-folding area NFA2, and may support the remaining portion of the folding area FA and the second non-folding area NFA2. The first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0089] The adhesive member AD may be disposed between the display module 100 and the supporting member 200. The adhesive member AD may combine the display module 100 to the supporting member 200 in the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2.

[0090] The adhesive member AD may include a first adhesive member AD1 and a second adhesive member AD2. The first adhesive member AD1 and the second adhesive member AD2 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. In the first non-folding area NFA1, the first adhesive member AD1 may be disposed between the first supporting portion 210 and the display module 100. In the second non-folding area NFA2, the second adhesive member AD2 may be disposed between the second supporting portion 220 and the display module 100.

[0091] The first and second adhesive members AD1 and AD2 may overlap the folding area FA. In the folding area FA, the first and second adhesive members AD1 and AD2 may be disposed between the first and second supporting portions 210 and 220 and the display module 100 and may serve to support the display module 100.

[0092] In an embodiment, the adhesive member AD may be formed of or may include a thermosetting resin or a photocurable resin.

[0093] The non-adhesive member NAD may be disposed between the display module 100 and the first supporting portion 210 and between the display module 100 and the second supporting portion 220 in the folding area FA. Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown in , the non-adhesion member NAD may be disposed between the first adhesion member AD1 and the second adhesion member AD2 and the display module 100. The non-adhesion member NAD may be bonded to the bottom surface of the display module 100. The non-adhesion member NAD may be in contact with the first adhesion member AD1 and the second adhesion member AD2. The non-adhesion member NAD may reduce the adhesion strength between the adhesion member AD and the display module 100 in the folding area FA. In one embodiment, for example, the non-adhesion member NAD may include fluorine or titanium. The non-adhesion member NAD may be disposed to overlap the folding area FA.

[0094] In an embodiment, the reinforcing member 300 may be bonded or attached to the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220. When the display device 1000 is folded, the reinforcing member 300 may not interfere with a path in which the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 are spaced apart from a portion of the display module 100. In such an embodiment, the reinforcing member 300 may reduce shear stress to be applied to the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 by an external impact. This will be described in more detail below.

[0095] The adhesion enhancing layer 400 may be disposed between the support member 200 and the reinforcement member 300 to combine the support member 200 and the reinforcement member 300 with each other.

[0096] The frame 500 may be disposed under the reinforcement member 300. Although not shown, the display device 1000 may further include a rear case disposed under the frame 500, and components for operating the display device 1000 (e.g., a battery, a main PCB, etc.) may be disposed in a space between the frame 500 and the rear case.

[0097] Figure 4 It shows Figures 1 to 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display module is shown in FIG.

[0098] Reference Figure 4 , an embodiment of the display panel 110 may include a base layer BSL, a pixel layer PXL, and a protective layer PTL. The base layer BSL may define a rear surface (or a lowermost surface) of the display module 100. The base layer BSL may be formed of a flexible material, or may include a flexible material.

[0099] The pixel layer PXL may be disposed on the base layer BSL. The pixel layer PXL may include a plurality of pixels. In an embodiment, when an electrical signal is applied to each pixel, each pixel may emit light corresponding to the electrical signal.

[0100] In an embodiment, the type of the display panel 110 can be determined according to the structure of the pixel layer PXL. The display panel 110 can be one of a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light emitting display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, and various other display panels that display images. In such an embodiment, the display panel 110 can be implemented as various types of display panels, and the present disclosure is not limited to a specific type.

[0101] The display module 100 may further include a buffer layer 130 and an adhesion buffer layer 140 .

[0102] The buffer layer 130 may be disposed under the display panel 110 , and the adhesive buffer layer 140 may adhere the display panel 110 to the buffer layer 130 .

[0103] The buffer layer 130 may absorb impact that may be applied to the rear surface of the display panel 110 , and may protect the display panel 110 .

[0104] Figure 5 It is the equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel of a display device.

[0105] Reference Figure 5 , the display panel 110 may be an organic light emitting display panel. In such an embodiment, the pixel PXij may include at least one thin film transistor, at least one capacitor and at least one display element. In an embodiment, as Figure 5As shown in , the pixel PXij may include a first thin film transistor TFT1, a second thin film transistor TFT2, a capacitor Cap and an organic light emitting device OLED.

[0106] The first thin film transistor TFT1 may include a control electrode connected to the i-th scan line SLi, an input electrode connected to the j-th data line DLj, and an output electrode. The first thin film transistor TFT1 may output a data signal applied to the j-th data line DLj in response to a scan signal applied to the i-th scan line SLi.

[0107] The capacitor Cap may include a first capacitor electrode connected to the first thin film transistor TFT1 and a second capacitor electrode receiving the first power supply voltage ELVDD. The capacitor Cap may store charges, and the amount of charges stored in the capacitor Cap may be determined by a difference between a voltage corresponding to a data signal transmitted through the first thin film transistor TFT1 and the first power supply voltage ELVDD.

[0108] The second thin film transistor TFT2 may include a control electrode connected to the output electrode of the first thin film transistor TFT1 and the first capacitor electrode of the capacitor Cap, an input electrode receiving the first power voltage ELVDD, and an output electrode. The output electrode of the second thin film transistor TFT2 may be connected to the organic light emitting device OLED.

[0109] The second thin film transistor TFT2 may control a driving current flowing through the organic light emitting device OLED based on the amount of charge stored in the capacitor Cap. The on-time of the second thin film transistor TFT2 may be determined according to the amount of charge stored in the capacitor Cap. The voltage supplied to the organic light emitting device OLED through the output electrode of the second thin film transistor TFT2 may be substantially lower than the first power supply voltage ELVDD.

[0110] The organic light emitting device OLED may include a first electrode connected to the second thin film transistor TFT2 and a second electrode receiving the second power voltage ELVSS. The organic light emitting device OLED may include a light emitting pattern disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0111] The organic light emitting device OLED may emit light during the on-time of the second thin film transistor TFT2. The color (i.e., wavelength) of the light emitted from the organic light emitting device OLED may be determined by the material of the light emitting pattern. In one embodiment, for example, the color of the light generated by the organic light emitting device OLED may be one of red, green, blue, and white.

[0112] The protection layer PTL may be disposed on the pixel layer PXL to cover the pixel layer PXL. The protection layer PTL may electrically isolate or insulate the pixel layer PXL from the input sensing member 120.

[0113] In one embodiment, for example, the protection layer PTL may be an encapsulation layer that encapsulates the pixel layer PXL. In an embodiment, the protection layer PTL may include a plurality of stacked organic and / or inorganic layers.

[0114] Alternatively, the protection layer PTL may be a planarization layer disposed on the pixel layer PXL and having a flat top surface. The structure of the protection layer PTL may be variously modified, and the present disclosure is not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0115] Return to reference Figure 4 , the input sensing member 120 may be disposed on the protection layer PTL. The active region AR of the input sensing member 120 may substantially overlap with a region on which the pixel layer PXL is disposed.

[0116] The input sensing member 120 may sense an external input provided on the active area AR of the display module 100 .

[0117] External input can be provided in various ways. Figure 1 An embodiment is shown in which the input sensing member 120 senses an external input provided by a body part (e.g., a finger) of a user. However, the present disclosure is not limited to a specific manner of inputting the external input in the input sensing member 120. In one embodiment, for example, the external input may be input in one of an optical manner, a contact sensitive manner, or a magnetic manner.

[0118] Although not shown, the input sensing member 120 may include an input sensing unit, a driving line, and a pad. The input sensing unit may include a plurality of input sensing sensors for sensing external input, and the driving line and the pad may be used to apply an electrical signal to the input sensing unit or to transmit an electrical signal generated by the input sensing unit to the outside. The pad may be connected to the display panel 110 or to an external power source (not shown).

[0119] The input sensing member 120 may sense external input in various ways. In one embodiment, for example, the input sensing member 120 may operate in a capacitive manner, a resistive layer manner, a coordinate recognition manner, or the like.

[0120] Figure 6 is a plan view showing a rear surface of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a display device in an inwardly folded (or folded-in) state, Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 9 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line I-II'.

[0121] Reference Figures 6 to 9 , the non-adhesion member NAD may be disposed between the display module 100 and the adhesion member AD, as described above.

[0122] In an embodiment, the non-adhesion member NAD may be provided as a single object, or formed as a single integrated and indivisible unit. The non-adhesion member NAD may be bonded or attached to the bottom surface of the display module 100. The bottom surface of the display panel 110 may be a surface that is one of two opposing surfaces of the display panel 110 and is spaced apart from the input sensing member 120.

[0123] In an embodiment, the non-adhesive member NAD may be an element coated on the bottom surface of the display module 100. However, the present disclosure is not limited to a specific shape of the non-adhesive member NAD. In an embodiment, for example, the non-adhesive member NAD may be provided in the form of a film or a sheet, and then may be attached to the bottom surface of the display module 100.

[0124] The non-adhesion member NAD may overlap with the folding area FA. The non-adhesion member NAD may not overlap with the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0125] The non-adhesion member NAD may include fluorine or titanium. In one embodiment, for example, the non-adhesion member NAD may be a coating layer formed by anti-fingerprint coating. The non-adhesion member NAD may have a thickness of about 1 micrometer (μm) or less.

[0126] The adhesive strength between the adhesive member AD and the non-adhesive member NAD in the folding area FA may be weaker than the adhesive strength between the adhesive member AD and the display module 100 in the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 .

[0127] The non-adhesion member NAD may reduce the adhesive strength between the adhesive member AD and the display module 100. Therefore, the adhesive member AD and the display module 100 may not be coupled to each other in the folding area FA where the non-adhesion member NAD is disposed.

[0128] A bottom surface of the display module 100 overlapping the first non-folding area NFA1 may be bonded to the first adhesive member AD1, and a bottom surface of the display module 100 overlapping the second non-folding area NFA2 may be bonded to the second adhesive member AD2.

[0129] In an embodiment, when the display module 100 is folded, a portion of the bottom surface of the display module 100 overlapping the folding area FA may be spaced apart from the support members 210 and 220 by the non-adhesive member NAD.

[0130] In an embodiment, when the display module 100 is folded, the first and second supporting portions 210 and 220 having relatively high rigidity may not be folded, so that stress to be applied to the folding area FA of the display module 100 may be reduced.

[0131] Generally, if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the display module 100 overlapping the folding area FA may receive stress from the repeated folding and unfolding, so that a portion of the display module 100 corresponding to the folding area FA may be deformed.

[0132] In an embodiment of the display device 1000 according to the present disclosure, the display module 100 and the support member 200 are not bonded or attached to each other in the folding area FA, and the stress to be applied to the display module 100 can be reduced during the folding operation of the display device 1000. Therefore, in such an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display module 100 can be effectively prevented from being deformed, and the display quality of the display device 1000 will not be deteriorated.

[0133] In an embodiment, the reinforcement member 300 may be bonded to the support member 200. An adhesion enhancing layer 400 may be disposed between the reinforcement member 300 and the support member 200.

[0134] The reinforcement member 300 does not hinder the movement of the first and second support parts 210 and 220 when the display device 1000 is folded, and can effectively prevent the first and second support parts 210 and 220 from being damaged by shear stress that may be generated when the first and second support parts 210 and 220 are spaced apart from each other.

[0135] The reinforcement member 300 may include, for example, a synthetic resin or a metal material. The present disclosure is not limited to a specific material for the reinforcement member 300 as long as the modulus of the material is about 1 GPa or more.

[0136] The reinforcement member 300 may include a first reinforcement member 310 and a second reinforcement member 320 .

[0137] The first reinforcement member 310 may be connected to one side of the first supporting portion 210 and one side of the second supporting portion 220 extending parallel to the first direction DR1 .

[0138] The first reinforcement member 310 may have a first incision pattern INP1. The first incision pattern INP1 may be formed by removing a portion of a material constituting the first reinforcement member 310.

[0139] The first incision pattern INP1 may include a first sub-incision pattern GP1 and a second sub-incision pattern GP2 .

[0140] The first sub-cut pattern GP1 may be arranged to extend in the second direction DR2 and overlap with the virtual folding axis FX. In an embodiment, the first sub-cut pattern GP1 may have a shape extending in the second direction DR2. In such an embodiment, when the display device 1000 is folded, the first sub-cut pattern GP1 may space the first support portion 210 and the second support portion 220 from the display module 100 in the folding area FA.

[0141] The second sub-cut pattern GP2 may be connected to the first sub-cut pattern GP1 and may extend in the first direction DR1. The second sub-cut pattern GP2 may have a greater length than the folding area FA in the first direction DR1.

[0142] The second sub-cut pattern GP2 may not overlap the first and second supporting portions 210 and 220. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the second sub-cut pattern GP2 may overlap the first and second supporting portions 210 and 220.

[0143] The first reinforcement member 310 may include an inner reinforcement member 311 disposed inside the second sub-cut pattern GP2 in the second direction DR2 and an outer reinforcement member 312 disposed outside the second sub-cut pattern GP2 in the second direction DR2.

[0144] The inner reinforcement member 311 may be bonded or attached to the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 , and thus, when the display apparatus 1000 is folded, the inner reinforcement member 311 may be allowed to move together with the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 .

[0145] The outer reinforcement member 312 may connect the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 to each other and may effectively prevent the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 from moving in the second direction DR2 due to an external impact.

[0146] The outer reinforcement member 312 may not overlap the first and second support portions 210 and 220. Therefore, when the display device 1000 is folded, the outer reinforcement member 312 does not interfere with a path where the first and second support portions 210 and 220 are spaced apart from the display module 100 in the folding area FA.

[0147] The second reinforcement member 320 may be connected to opposite sides of the first support portion 210 extending parallel to the first direction DR1 and opposite sides of the second support portion 220. The second reinforcement member 320 may be spaced apart from the first reinforcement member 310 in the second direction DR2.

[0148] The second reinforcing member 320 may include a second incision pattern INP2. The second incision pattern INP2 may include a third sub-incision pattern GP3 and a fourth sub-incision pattern GP4. The third sub-incision pattern GP3 may have substantially the same shape as the first sub-incision pattern GP1. The fourth sub-incision pattern GP4 may have substantially the same shape as the second sub-incision pattern GP2.

[0149] Fig.10 and Fig.11 It shows that along Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an optional embodiment of the present disclosure, taken along line II′.

[0150] For the sake of simplicity, elements identical or similar to previously described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without any repeated detailed description thereof. Elements not repeatedly described may be constructed to have substantially the same technical features as those in previously described embodiments.

[0151] Reference Fig.10 , an embodiment of the display device 1001 may include a first non-adhesion member NAD1 and a second non-adhesion member NAD2.

[0152] The first and second non-adhesion members NAD1 and NAD2 may be disposed in the folding area FA between the display module 100 and the first supporting portion 210 and between the display module 100 and the second supporting portion 220. In this embodiment, the first and second non-adhesion members NAD1 and NAD2 may be disposed between the adhesion member AD and the supporting member 200.

[0153] The first non-adhesion member NAD1 may be disposed between the first supporting portion 210 and the first adhesion member AD1 of the adhesion member AD, and the second non-adhesion member NAD2 may be disposed between the second supporting portion 220 and the second adhesion member AD2 of the adhesion member AD.

[0154] The first non-adhesion member NAD1 may be coupled to the top surface of the first supporting portion 210 , and the second non-adhesion member NAD2 may be coupled to the top surface of the second supporting portion 220 .

[0155] The first non-adhesion member NAD1 and the second non-adhesion member NAD2 may overlap the folding area FA. The first non-adhesion member NAD1 and the second non-adhesion member NAD2 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0156] In such an embodiment, the first non-adhesion member NAD1 does not allow the first supporting portion 210 and the adhesion member AD to be bonded to each other in the folding area FA. In such an embodiment, the second non-adhesion member NAD2 does not allow the second supporting portion 220 and the adhesion member AD to be bonded to each other in the folding area FA.

[0157] Therefore, in such an embodiment, when the display module 100 is folded, the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 having relatively high rigidity may not be folded, so that stress applied to the folding area FA of the display module 100 may be reduced.

[0158] Reference Fig.11 , an embodiment of the display device 1002 may not include the non-adhesion member NAD, but may further include a height difference compensation layer SC.

[0159] The display device 1002 may include an adhesive member AD-1 disposed on the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 and not disposed on the folding area FA. In such an embodiment, the support member 200 and the display module 100 are not adhered to each other in the folding area FA due to the height difference compensation layer SC, so that the support member 200 may not be folded even when the display module 100 is folded.

[0160] If an empty space is provided between the display module 100 and the support member 200 in the folding area FA, stains in the folding area FA may be recognized or visible.

[0161] In an embodiment, the height difference compensation layer SC may be disposed in an empty space between the display module 100 and the support member 200, and may effectively reduce the height difference between the display module 100 and the support member 200. In such an embodiment, the height difference compensation layer SC may prevent stains in the folding area FA from being recognized or visible, and thus, the display quality of the display device 1002 may be improved.

[0162] The height difference compensation layer SC may include a first height difference compensation layer SC1 and a second height difference compensation layer SC2. The first height difference compensation layer SC1 and the second height difference compensation layer SC2 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0163] The first height difference compensation layer SC1 may be disposed between the first supporting portion 210 and the display module 100 , and the second height difference compensation layer SC2 may be disposed between the second supporting portion 220 and the display module 100 .

[0164] Fig.11An exemplary embodiment in which the height difference compensation layer SC is coupled to the top surface of the support member 200 is shown, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In an alternative embodiment, for example, the height difference compensation layer SC may be coupled to the bottom surface of the display module 100 .

[0165] Fig.12 is a plan view showing a rear surface of a display device according to another optional embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.13 It is along Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig.14 It is along Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0166] For the sake of simplicity, elements identical or similar to previously described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without any repeated detailed description thereof. Elements not repeatedly described may be constructed to have substantially the same technical features as those in previously described embodiments.

[0167] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown in FIG. 1 , an embodiment of a display device 1003 may include a reinforcement member 301. The reinforcement member 301 may be provided as a single object, or formed as a single integrated and indivisible unit.

[0168] The reinforcement member 301 may be bonded or attached to the bottom surface of the support member 200 through the adhesion reinforcement layer 401 .

[0169] The reinforcement member 301 may include a first sub-cut pattern GP11 , a second sub-cut pattern GP12 , and a third sub-cut pattern GP13 .

[0170] The first sub-cut pattern GP11 may be arranged to extend in the second direction DR2 and overlap with the virtual folding axis FX. Figure 6 A shape in which the first sub-cut pattern GP1 of the first reinforcement member 310 and the third sub-cut pattern GP3 of the second reinforcement member 320 are connected to each other is described.

[0171] The second sub-cut pattern GP12 may be connected to one end of the first sub-cut pattern GP11 and may extend in the first direction DR1. The second sub-cut pattern GP12 may have a length greater than the folding area FA in the first direction DR1. The second sub-cut pattern GP12 may be similar to the above-mentioned Figure 6 The second sub-cut patterns GP2 of the described first reinforcement members 310 have substantially the same shape.

[0172] The third sub-cut pattern GP13 may be connected to the opposite end of the first sub-cut pattern GP11 and may extend in the first direction DR1. The third sub-cut pattern GP13 may have a greater length than the folding area FA in the first direction DR1. The third sub-cut pattern GP13 may be similar to the above-mentioned Figure 6 The fourth sub-cut patterns GP4 of the second reinforcement member 320 are described to have substantially the same shape.

[0173] Fig.15 and Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to another optional embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Fig.15 is with Fig.13 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the cross-sectional view of Fig.16 is with Fig.14 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the cross-sectional view.

[0174] In an embodiment, Fig.15 and Fig.16 As shown in FIG. 1 , the reinforcement member 302 of the display device 1004 can be the same as that of the above reference Figure 12 to Figure 14 The reinforcement member 301 of the described display device 1003 is different in, for example, its position.

[0175] The reinforcement member 302 may be bonded to the top surface of the support member 200 through the adhesion reinforcement layer 402 .

[0176] The reinforcement member 302 can be the same as that Fig.12 The reinforcement members 301 are described to have substantially the same planar shape.

[0177] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view showing an outward-folding (or externally-folding) structure of a display device according to another optional embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0178] Reference Fig.17 , the embodiment of the display device 1005 can be folded in an outward folding manner. In addition to the folding direction, Fig.17 The display device 1005 can be the same as that mentioned above. Figures 1 to 9 The described display device 1000 has substantially the same structure.

[0179] In such an embodiment, when the display device 1005 is in the outward folded state, the non-adhesive member NAD11 may overlap not only the folding area FA but also portions of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 adjacent to the folding area FA.

[0180] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the shapes of the non-adhesion member NAD11 and the adhesion member AD may be variously modified, and some elements may be selectively omitted.

[0181] In an embodiment, the reinforcement member 303 may be coupled to the first supporting portion 210 and the second supporting portion 220 .

[0182] According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, as set forth herein, the durability and display quality of a display device may be improved.

[0183] The present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0184] While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A display device, wherein: The display device comprises: A display module for displaying an image, wherein a folding area, a first non-folding area, and a second non-folding area are defined in the display module when viewed in a plan view, the folding area is foldable around a virtual folding axis, and the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area are respectively adjacent to two opposite sides of the folding area; a first supporting portion, the first supporting portion supporting the first unfolded area; a second supporting portion supporting the second unfolded area and spaced apart from the first supporting portion; and a reinforcing member including an inner reinforcing member bonded to the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion and an outer reinforcing member that does not overlap the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion and connects the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion to each other when viewed in the plan view, wherein a cut pattern overlapping the virtual folding axis in the folding region is defined in the reinforcing member, wherein, when the display module is in a non-folding state, the folding area is arranged between the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area in a first direction, and the virtual folding axis extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, Wherein, the incision pattern includes: a first sub-cut pattern extending in the second direction and overlapping the virtual folding axis; and a second sub-cut pattern connected to the first sub-cut pattern and extending in the first direction, The inner reinforcement member is disposed at an inner side of the second sub-cut pattern in the second direction, and the outer reinforcement member is disposed at an outer side of the second sub-cut pattern in the second direction.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The second sub-cut pattern has a length in the first direction greater than a length of the folding region.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The second sub-cut pattern does not overlap the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion, or at least a portion of the second sub-cut pattern overlaps the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The reinforcing member is coupled to bottom surfaces of the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The reinforcing member comprises: a first reinforcing member connected to one side of the first supporting portion and one side of the second supporting portion; and A second reinforcing member is spaced apart from the first reinforcing member and connected to opposite sides of the first supporting portion and opposite sides of the second supporting portion.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The reinforcement member is formed as a single integral and indivisible unit.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The incision pattern further includes a third sub-incision pattern, The third sub-cut pattern is connected to the other end of the first sub-cut pattern opposite to the end to which the second sub-cut pattern is connected and extends in the second direction.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The second sub-cut pattern and the third sub-cut pattern each have a length in the first direction greater than a length of the folding region.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: Neither the second sub-cut pattern nor the third sub-cut pattern overlaps the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion, or at least a portion of each of the second sub-cut pattern and the third sub-cut pattern overlaps the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The reinforcing member is coupled to a top surface of the first supporting portion and a top surface of the second supporting portion.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first supporting portion and the second supporting portion each have a stiffness higher than that of the display module.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The folding region of the display module is folded inwardly so that two parts of the display surface displaying the image face each other.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The display device further includes: an adhesive member disposed between the display module and the first supporting portion and between the display module and the second supporting portion; and a non-adhesive member disposed in the folding region between the display module and the first supporting portion and between the display module and the second supporting portion; and The non-adhesion member is in contact with the adhesion member.

14. A display device, wherein: The display device comprises: A display module for displaying an image, wherein a folding area, a first non-folding area, and a second non-folding area are defined in the display module when viewed in a plan view, the folding area is foldable around a virtual folding axis, and the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area are respectively adjacent to two opposite sides of the folding area in a first direction; a first supporting portion, the first supporting portion supporting the first unfolded area; a second supporting portion supporting the second unfolded area and spaced apart from the first supporting portion; and a reinforcing member including an inner reinforcing member bonded to the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion and an outer reinforcing member that does not overlap the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion when viewed in the plan view and connects the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion to each other, wherein the reinforcing member includes a sub-cut pattern having a width in the first direction greater than a width of the folding region, wherein, when the display module is in a non-folding state, the folding area is arranged between the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area in the first direction, and the virtual folding axis extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, Wherein, the incision pattern includes: a first sub-cut pattern extending in the second direction and overlapping the virtual folding axis; and a second sub-cut pattern connected to the first sub-cut pattern and extending in the first direction, The inner reinforcement member is disposed at an inner side of the second sub-cut pattern in the second direction, and the outer reinforcement member is disposed at an outer side of the second sub-cut pattern in the second direction.

Images