Display devices

Abstract

A display device is disclosed, comprising a front display area, a first side display area, a second side display area, a corner display area, a display panel, and a light guiding member. The first side display area extends from a first side of the front display area. The second side display area extends from a second side of the front display area. The corner display area is disposed between the first side display area and the second side display area. The display panel overlaps with the front display area but does not overlap with the corner display area. The light guiding member overlaps at least with the corner display area.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0042502, filed on April 11, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] Exemplary implementations generally relate to display devices. Background Technology

[0004] The importance of display devices has increased with the development of multimedia. Therefore, various types of display devices have been used, such as organic light-emitting diode (OLED) devices and liquid crystal display (LCD) devices. Among these, OLED devices have attracted considerable attention as the next generation of display devices, at least because they are self-emissive and have good viewing angles. Furthermore, OLED devices can be implemented as flexible display devices capable of bending, folding, twisting, warping, etc. (hereinafter referred to as bending), and their use in electronic appliances is gradually increasing.

[0005] The information disclosed in this section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept and may therefore contain information that does not form prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Some exemplary implementations provide display devices that minimize dead space by displaying images in corner display areas as well as in front and side display areas.

[0007] Other aspects will be set forth in the following detailed description and will be apparent in part from this disclosure or may be learned by practice of the inventive concept.

[0008] According to some exemplary embodiments, a display device includes a front display area, a first side display area, a second side display area, a corner display area, a display panel, and a light guiding member. The first side display area extends from a first side of the front display area. The second side display area extends from a second side of the front display area. The corner display area is disposed between the first side display area and the second side display area. The display panel overlaps with the front display area but does not overlap with the corner display area. The light guiding member overlaps at least with the corner display area.

[0009] According to some exemplary embodiments, a display device includes a first display area, a second display area, a display panel, and a light guiding member. The second display area is adjacent to the first display area. The display panel is disposed in the second display area and does not overlap with the first display area. The light guiding member overlaps at least with the first display area.

[0010] The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and, together with the description, serve to illustrate the principles of the inventive concept. In the drawings:

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0013] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the cover window and the display panel according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0014] Figure 3 This is an unfolded view of a display panel according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0015] Figure 4 It is based on some exemplary implementations along Figure 1 A sectional view taken by section line IV-IV';

[0016] Figure 5 It is based on some exemplary implementations along Figure 2 A sectional view taken by the section line V-V';

[0017] Figure 6 This is a plan view of a display panel illustrating the light-emitting area of ​​a corner display area according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0018] Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a display device according to various exemplary embodiments;

[0019] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of pixels according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0020] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0021] Figure 15 These are cross-sectional views of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments; and

[0022] Figure 16 This is based on some exemplary implementation methods. Figure 15 A magnified view of region B. Detailed Implementation

[0023] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for illustrative purposes to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the terms “implementation” and “example” are used interchangeably and are non-limiting examples employing one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent, however, that various exemplary embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or using one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, the various exemplary embodiments may be different, but not necessarily mutually exclusive. For example, a particular shape, configuration, and characteristic of an exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0024] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary embodiments shown are to be understood as exemplary features providing different details of some exemplary embodiments. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, various illustrated features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, areas, aspects, etc. (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as “elements”) may be further combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concept.

[0025] Crosshairs and / or shading are typically used in accompanying drawings to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material properties, size, scale, commonalities between the shown elements, or any other characteristics, properties, or characteristics of the elements. Additionally, in the accompanying drawings, the dimensions and relative dimensions of elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. Therefore, the dimensions and relative dimensions of corresponding elements are not necessarily limited to those shown in the figures. When exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, specific processes may be performed in a different order than described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in the reverse order of their description. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0026] When an element, such as a layer, is referred to as being "on" another element, "connected to," or "attached to" another element, it may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly attached to that other element, or there may be an intermediate element. However, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element, there is no intermediate element. Other terms and / or phrases used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner, such as "between" and "directly between," "adjacent to" and "directly adjacent to," "on" and "directly on," etc. Additionally, the term "connection" can refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection, and / or a fluid connection. Furthermore, the DR1-axis, DR2-axis, and DR3-axis are not limited to the three axes in a Cartesian coordinate system but can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1-axis, DR2-axis, and DR3-axis may be perpendicular to each other, or may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purposes of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" may be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0027] Although the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element.

[0028] For descriptive purposes, spatial relative terms such as “under,” “below,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “above,” “higher,” and “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”) may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientations described in the figures, spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” another element or feature will be oriented “above” that other element or feature. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can include both “above” and “below” orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and therefore, the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0029] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. Furthermore, when the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including” are used in the specification, it indicates the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree, and are therefore used to describe inherent deviations in measurements, calculations, and / or values ​​provided that will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0030] In this document, various exemplary embodiments are described with reference to cross-sectional views, isometric views, perspective views, plan views, and / or exploded views, which are schematic diagrams of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, variations in the shapes of the illustrations are expected, for example, due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Consequently, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes shown for a region, but will include deviations in shape, for example, due to manufacturing processes. For this purpose, the regions shown in the figures may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of the regions of the device, and are therefore not intended to be limiting.

[0031] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0032] As is customary in the art, exemplary embodiments are described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings in terms of functional blocks, units, and / or modules. Those skilled in the art will understand that these blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuits (such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hardwired circuits, storage elements, wiring connections, etc.) that can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing techniques or other manufacturing techniques. Where blocks, units, and / or modules are implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, they can be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and may optionally be driven by firmware and / or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit, and / or module may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and processors (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) for performing other functions. Furthermore, without departing from the inventive concept, each block, unit, and / or module in some exemplary embodiments may be physically divided into two or more interacting and discrete blocks, units, and / or modules. Furthermore, without departing from the concept of the present invention, some of the blocks, units and / or modules in the exemplary embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules.

[0033] Various exemplary embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] For the purposes of this disclosure, the first direction DR1 indicates the X-axis direction, the second direction DR2 indicates the Y-axis direction, and the third direction DR3 indicates the Z-axis direction.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the cover window and the display panel according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 3 This is an unfolded view of a display panel according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0036] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The display device 1, which is a device for displaying motion (or moving) images or still images according to some exemplary embodiments, can be used not only in portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, smartwatches, watch phones, etc. (or used with portable electronic devices), but also in various display screen providing devices such as televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, etc.

[0037] Reference Figures 1 to 3The display device 1 may include a front display area D0, side display areas D1, D2, D3 and D4, and corner display areas DC1, DC2, DC3 and DC4 as display areas for displaying images.

[0038] The front display area D0 may have at least one rounded corner. The front display area D0 may have at least one rounded polygonal corner. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the front display area D0 may have a rectangular shape in which the corners are rounded, but the exemplary implementation is not limited to this.

[0039] The first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4 may extend outward from the edge of the front display area D0 and may be bent at a predetermined angle. For example, the first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4 may be bent relative to the front display area D0 at an angle equal to or greater than 90° and equal to or less than 150°.

[0040] The first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4 may include a first side display area D1 extending to the other side of the front display area D0 in the first direction DR1 (or in the direction opposite to the first direction DR1), a second side display area D2 extending to the front display area D0 in the second direction DR2, a third side display area D3 extending to the front display area D0 in the first direction DR1, and a fourth side display area D4 extending to the other side of the front display area D0 in the second direction DR2 (or in the direction opposite to the second direction DR2). The first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4 may have substantially the same function or configuration as each other, except for their positions. In the following description, the common characteristics of the first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4 will be described with reference to the first side display area D1, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, although the first side display area D1 extending from the front display area D0 is illustrated as having a rectangular shape, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this. When viewed in a plan view, the first side display area D1 can be formed into a polygonal shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, etc. The front display area D0 can have a rectangular shape in which the corners are rounded, and the area other than the corners can extend to form the first side display area D1. For example, the length of the first side display area D1 in the second direction DR2 can be shorter than the length of the front display area D0 in the second direction DR2. The first side display area D1 can extend along... Figure 1 and Figure 3 At least some of the bends in the dashed lines shown.

[0041] The first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4 can be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals. The first corner display area DC1, the second corner display area DC2, the third corner display area DC3, and the fourth corner display area DC4 can be located between the spaced-apart first side display areas D1, second side display areas D2, third side display areas D3, and fourth side display areas D4, respectively. The first corner display areas DC1, second corner display areas DC2, third corner display areas DC3, and fourth corner display areas DC4 are substantially identical to each other except for their positions. Hereinafter, the common characteristics of the first corner display areas DC1, second corner display areas DC2, third corner display areas DC3, and fourth corner display areas DC4 will be described with reference to the first corner display area DC1, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0042] The first corner display area DC1 may extend from the front display area D0 and may be rounded to have a predetermined curvature. The first corner display area DC1 may be located between the first side display area D1 and the second side display area D2. One end of the first corner display area DC1 may contact the first side display area D1, and the other end of the first corner display area DC1 may contact the second side display area D2. As will be described later, the display panel 300 may not be disposed in the first corner display area DC1. For example, the first corner display area DC1 may not overlap with the display panel 300.

[0043] According to some exemplary embodiments, the display device 1 can display images not only in the front display area D0 and the first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4, but also in the first corner display area DC1, the second corner display area DC2, the third corner display area DC3, and the fourth corner display area DC4, thereby minimizing unused space. Details will be described later.

[0044] Display device 1 may include display panel 300 and cover window 100 disposed on one side of display panel 300 on third-party DR3.

[0045] Display panel 300 can be a light-emitting display panel that includes light-emitting elements. For example, display panel 300 can be an organic light-emitting display panel that uses organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) as light-emitting elements, an ultra-miniature light-emitting diode (UVLED) display panel that uses ultra-miniature LEDs (UVLEDs) as light-emitting elements, a quantum dot light-emitting display panel that uses quantum dots and organic light-emitting diodes, or an inorganic light-emitting display panel that uses inorganic semiconductors as light-emitting elements. In the following description, display panel 300 will be assumed to be as follows: Figure 13 The organic light-emitting display panel shown is used for description.

[0046] The display panel 300 may include a front region P0, a first side region P1, a second side region P2, a third side region P3, and a fourth side region P4, wherein a first corner region PC1, a second corner region PC2, a third corner region PC3, and a fourth corner region PC4 are defined between the first side region P1, the second side region P2, the third side region P3, and the fourth side region P4.

[0047] The front region P0 of the display panel 300 may correspond to the front display region D0 of the display device 1. For example, the front region P0 of the display panel 300 may overlap with the front display region D0 of the display device 1. The front region P0 may have a shape in which at least one corner is rounded. The front region P0 may have a polygonal shape with rounded corners. Figure 2 As shown, the front region P0 can have a rectangular shape with rounded corners.

[0048] The first side region P1, the second side region P2, the third side region P3, and the fourth side region P4 may include a first side region P1 extending to the other side of the front region P0 in the first direction DR1 (or in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1), a second side region P2 extending to the front region P0 in the second direction DR2, a third side region P3 extending to the front region P0 in the first direction DR1, and a fourth side region P4 extending to the other side of the front region P0 in the second direction DR2 (or in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2). The first side region P1, the second side region P2, the third side region P3, and the fourth side region P4 may have substantially the same function or configuration as each other, except for their positions. Hereinafter, the common characteristics of the first side region P1, the second side region P2, the third side region P3, and the fourth side region P4 will be described with reference to the first side region P1, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0049] The first side region P1 of the display panel 300 may correspond to the first side display region D1 of the display device 1. For example, the first side region P1 of the display panel 300 may overlap with the first side display region D1 of the display device 1.

[0050] The first side region P1 may extend from the front region P0 and may be curved at a predetermined angle. For example, the first side region P1 may be curved relative to the front region P0 at an angle equal to or greater than 90° and equal to or less than 150°. Although the first side region P1 extending from the front region P0 is illustrated to have a rectangular shape, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. When viewed in a plan view, the first side region P1 may be formed as a polygonal shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, etc. The front region P0 may have a rectangular shape in which the corners are rounded, and the area other than the corners may extend to form the first side region P1. For example, the length of the first side region P1 in the second direction DR2 may be shorter than the length of the front region P0 in the second direction DR2. The first side region P1 may extend along... Figure 1 and Figure 3 At least some of the dashed lines shown are curved. For example... Figure 2 As shown, when the first side region P1 is bent, the first side region P1, the second side region P2, the third side region P3, and the fourth side region P4 can be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals. Multiple pixels can be formed in the front region P0 and the first side regions P1, P2, P3, and P4 of the display panel 300. These multiple pixels can emit light based on an input signal. For example, the front region P0 and the first side regions P1, P2, P3, and P4 of the display panel 300 can each display an image.

[0051] The first side region P1, the second side region P2, the third side region P3, and the fourth side region P4 can be defined between the first corner region PC1, the second corner region PC2, the third corner region PC3, and the fourth corner region PC4, respectively. The first corner region PC1, the second corner region PC2, the third corner region PC3, and the fourth corner region PC4 are substantially identical to each other except for their positions. In the following description, the common characteristics of the first corner region PC1, the second corner region PC2, the third corner region PC3, and the fourth corner region PC4 will be described with reference to the first corner region PC1, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0052] The first corner area PC1 may correspond to the first corner display area DC1 of the display device 1. For example, the first corner area PC1 may overlap with the first corner display area DC1 of the display device 1.

[0053] The first corner region PC1 can be defined as the space (or opening) between the first side region P1 and the second side region P2. For example, the first corner region PC1 can be defined as a region adjacent to the corner portion (e.g., the portion where the two sides meet) of the front region P0, where the display panel 300 is not provided. For example, the display panel 300 may not be present in the first corner region PC1 and the first corner display region DC1. Even when the light-emitting element is omitted, the first corner region PC1 is provided with a light-guiding member for guiding light emission (e.g., Figure 5 The image is displayed in the first corner display area DC1 (the area marked "LG" in the original text). Therefore, the unused space of the display device 1 can be minimized. Details will be described later.

[0054] Even when the display panel 300 is not located in the first corner display area DC1 to the fourth corner display area DC4, the display device 1 according to some exemplary embodiments can still display images in the first corner display area DC1 to the fourth corner display area DC4 to minimize the invalid space.

[0055] The cross-sectional structure of the side display area of ​​the display device 1 according to some exemplary embodiments will be described in more detail below.

[0056] Figure 4 It is based on some exemplary implementations along Figure 1 The sectional view taken by section line IV-IV'. In the following text, reference will be made to... Figure 4 The common characteristics of the first side display area D1, the second side display area D2, the third side display area D3, and the fourth side display area D4 will be described based on the first side display area D1, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0057] According to some exemplary embodiments, the display device 1 may include a cover window 100, a touch sensing unit 200, a display panel 300, a lower panel member 400, and a lower cover 600.

[0058] Please refer to later. Figure 13 As will become more apparent, the display panel 300 may include a substrate, a thin-film transistor layer disposed on the substrate, a light-emitting element layer, and a thin-film encapsulation layer.

[0059] Since the display panel 300 is flexible, it can be formed of plastic; however, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. In this case, the substrate may include a flexible substrate and a support substrate. Since the support substrate is used to support the flexible substrate, the flexibility of the support substrate may be less than that of the flexible substrate. Each of the flexible substrate and the support substrate may include, for example, a flexible polymer material.

[0060] A thin-film transistor (TFT) layer is disposed on a substrate. The TFT layer may include scan lines, data lines, and TFTs. Each TFT includes a gate electrode, a semiconductor layer, a source electrode, and a drain electrode. When a scan driver is formed directly on the substrate, the scan driver may be formed together with the TFT layer.

[0061] A light-emitting element layer is disposed on a thin-film transistor layer. The light-emitting element layer may include a positive electrode, a light-emitting layer, a negative electrode, and a diaphragm. The light-emitting element layer may include an organic light-emitting element layer comprising organic materials. For example, the light-emitting element layer may include a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an organic light-emitting element layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer. The hole injection layer and electron injection layer may be omitted. When a voltage is applied to the positive electrode and the negative electrode, holes and electrons move through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, to the organic light-emitting element layer, and combine with each other in the organic light-emitting element layer to emit light. The light-emitting element layer may be a pixel array layer in which pixels are formed, and therefore, the area in which the light-emitting element layer is formed can be defined as a display area in which an image is displayed. The peripheral area of ​​the display area can be defined as a non-display area NA.

[0062] A thin-film encapsulation layer is disposed on the light-emitting element layer. The thin-film encapsulation layer is used to prevent or at least reduce (hereinafter referred to as preventing) the penetration of oxygen and / or moisture into the light-emitting element layer. The thin-film encapsulation layer may include at least one inorganic film and at least one organic film.

[0063] The touch sensing unit 200 may be disposed on the display panel 300. The touch sensing unit 200 may be attached to the upper surface of the display panel 300 via the second adhesive layer 920.

[0064] For example, the touch sensing unit 200 may be disposed between the cover window 100 and the display panel 300. The touch sensing unit 200 may be disposed on the upper surface and side surface of the display panel 300. Therefore, user touch interactions (e.g., actual touch events, proximity touches, hover touch events, etc.) can be detected from the upper surface and side surface of the display device 1.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, the touch sensing unit 200 can be attached to the lower surface of the cover window 100 via the first adhesive member 910. Although not shown, a polarizing film for preventing visibility degradation due to reflection of external light can be additionally provided between the cover window 100 and the touch sensing unit 200. In this case, the touch sensing unit 200 can be attached to the lower surface of the polarizing film, and the polarizing film can be attached to the lower surface of the cover window 100 via the first adhesive member 910. Although Figure 4The illustration shows a case where the display device 1 includes a separate touch sensing unit 200, but the touch sensing unit 200 may be omitted. In this case, the display panel 300 may include a touch layer that can be formed by one or more consecutive processes of forming the display panel 300, without the need to use an adhesive layer to attach the touch layer to the display panel 300.

[0066] A cover window 100 can be disposed on the display panel 300. The cover window 100 can be disposed on the upper and side surfaces of the display panel 300 to cover the upper and side surfaces of the display panel 300. Therefore, the cover window 100 can be used to protect the upper and side surfaces of the display panel 300. When the touch sensing unit 200 is disposed between the cover window 100 and the display panel 300, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the cover window 100 can be attached to the touch sensing unit 200 via a first adhesive member 910. The first adhesive member 910 may be an optically transparent adhesive (OCA) film or an optically transparent resin (OCR) film; however, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0067] The cover window 100 may be made of glass, sapphire, and / or plastic. The cover window 100 may be rigid and / or flexible.

[0068] The cover window 100 may include a front display area D0, a light-transmitting portion corresponding to a first side display area D1, and a light-shielding portion corresponding to a non-display area NA. The light-transmitting portion corresponding to the first side display area D1 may be formed with a curved surface, and in this case, the light-transmitting portion may have a constant curvature or a variable curvature. The light-shielding portion may include an opaque material, such as black dye. In addition, when no image is displayed, a pattern that can be displayed to the user may be formed on the upper surface of the light-shielding portion. A lower panel member 400 may be disposed below the display panel 300. The lower panel member 400 may be attached to the lower surface of the display panel 300 by a third adhesive member 930. The third adhesive member 930 may be an optically transparent adhesive (OCA) film, an optically transparent resin (OCR) film, or a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) film; however, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0069] The lower panel member 400 may include at least one of the following: a light-absorbing member for absorbing light incident from the outside, a buffer member for absorbing external impacts, a heat-radiating member for effectively radiating heat from the display panel 300, and a light-shielding layer for blocking light incident from the outside.

[0070] A light-absorbing component may be disposed below the display panel 300. The light-absorbing component suppresses light transmission to prevent the structure disposed below the light-absorbing component from being seen from the top of the display panel 300. The light-absorbing component may include a light-absorbing material such as black pigment or dye.

[0071] A buffer member may be disposed below the light-absorbing member. The buffer member absorbs external impacts to prevent damage to the display panel 300. The buffer member may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the buffer member may be made of a polymer resin such as at least one of polyurethane, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and polyethylene, and / or may be made of an elastic material such as sponge obtained by foam molding rubber, polyurethane-based materials, and acrylic materials. The buffer member may be a padding layer.

[0072] The thermal radiation component may be disposed below the buffer component. The thermal radiation component may include a first thermal radiation layer and a second thermal radiation layer, wherein the first thermal radiation layer includes at least one of graphite and carbon nanotubes, and the second thermal radiation layer blocks electromagnetic waves and is formed of a thin metal film with high thermal conductivity (such as at least one of copper, nickel, ferrite and silver).

[0073] The lower cover 600 may be disposed below the lower panel member 400. The lower cover 600 may include plastic, metal, or both plastic and metal; however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The lower cover 600 may form the lower surface appearance of the display device 1.

[0074] A waterproof component 610 may be disposed on the edge of the lower cover 600. The waterproof component 610 may be attached to the side surface of the display panel 300 to the upper surface of the lower cover 600. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the waterproof component 610 prevents moisture and / or dust from penetrating between the display panel 300 and the lower cover 600. For example, a waterproof and dustproof display device 1 may be provided.

[0075] The corner display area of ​​display device 1 according to some exemplary embodiments will be described in more detail below.

[0076] Figure 5 It is based on some exemplary implementations along Figure 2 The sectional view taken by the section line V-V'. Figure 6 This is a plan view of a display panel illustrating the light-emitting area of ​​a corner display area, according to some exemplary embodiments. Figures 7 to 12 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a display device according to various exemplary embodiments. Figures 7 to 12 based on Figure 5 Region A in the middle.

[0077] Reference Figures 5 to 12 The common characteristics of the first corner display area DC1, the second corner display area DC2, the third corner display area DC3, and the fourth corner display area DC4 will be described based on the first corner display area DC1, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, in Figure 5 The touch sensing unit 200 and adhesive component disposed between the cover window 100 and the display panel 300 are omitted.

[0078] The cover window 100 may include a front display area D0, a light-transmitting portion corresponding to a first corner display area DC1, and a light-blocking portion corresponding to a non-display area NA adjacent to the first corner display area DC1. The area excluding the front display area D0 may be formed to have a curved surface, and in this case, the area may have a constant curvature or a variable curvature.

[0079] The display panel 300 may be positioned below the cover window 100. The display panel 300 may overlap with the front display area D0, but may not overlap with the first corner display area DC1 and the non-display area NA.

[0080] The display panel 300 may include a first pixel region PA1 and a second pixel region PA2 adjacent to the first pixel region PA1. The brightness of the first pixel region PA1 and the brightness of the second pixel region PA2 may be different from each other. The second pixel region PA2 may include a first pixel PX1 and a second pixel PX2. In some exemplary embodiments, light emitted from the first pixel PX1 may be displayed in the first light-emitting region EP1 of the front display region D0, and light emitted from the second pixel PX2 may be displayed in the second light-emitting region EP2 of the front display region D0. Although in Figure 5 The illustration shows that the second pixel region PA2 may include a first pixel PX1 and a second pixel PX2, but the exemplary implementation is not limited thereto. For example, the second pixel region PA2 may include three or more pixels PX (see [link to documentation]). Figure 13 It can also include a pixel.

[0081] The light guiding component LG can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the display panel 300. The light guiding component LG can be directly formed on the thin film encapsulation layer 305 of the display panel 300 (see...). Figure 13 The light guide member LG may overlap with the front display area D0 and the first corner display area DC1, but may not overlap with the non-display area NA. The area of ​​the light guide member LG that overlaps with the front display area D0 may be flat, and the area of ​​the light guide member LG that overlaps with the first corner display area DC1 may be curved. In this case, the light guide member LG may have a constant curvature or a variable curvature. The curvature of the light guide member LG may be substantially equal to the curvature of the cover window 100. In addition, the light guide member LG may overlap with the second pixel area PA2 in the front display area D0, but may not overlap with the first pixel area PA1.

[0082] The light guiding component LG can be made of at least one of organic and inorganic materials. For example, the light guiding component LG can be made of organic materials such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or inorganic materials such as glass. The light guiding component LG can be an optical fiber.

[0083] The light guiding member LG can guide light supplied from the display panel 300 and display an image in the first corner display area DC1. For example, light supplied to the light guiding member LG can be completely reflected in the light guiding member LG and guided to the first corner display area DC1. Additionally, light emitted from the second pixel area PA2 of the display panel 300 can be displayed in the first corner light-emitting area EA1. The first corner light-emitting area EA1 can overlap with the light guiding member LG. The first corner light-emitting area EA1 can be defined as the area forming the first light-emitting area EP1' and the second light-emitting area EP2'. When the first corner light-emitting area EA1 overlaps with the first corner display area DC1, an image can be displayed in the first corner light-emitting area EA1, and therefore, the unused space of the display device 1 can be minimized or at least reduced.

[0084] A semi-transparent film HR can be disposed on the light guiding member LG. For example, the semi-transparent film HR can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the light guiding member LG. The semi-transparent film HR can transmit a portion of the light supplied to it and may not transmit another portion of the light. Light not transmitted by the semi-transparent film HR can be reflected by it, and the light reflected by the semi-transparent film HR can be supplied to the light guiding member LG again. Furthermore, the ratio of light transmitted by the semi-transparent film HR to light reflected by it can be adjusted according to the type and thickness of the semi-transparent film HR.

[0085] The translucent film HR may overlap with the front display area D0, but may not overlap with the first corner display area DC1 or the non-display area NA. The translucent film HR may overlap with the light guiding member LG in the thickness direction. The side surface of the translucent film HR may be aligned with the side surface of the light guiding member LG. Additionally, the translucent film HR may overlap with the display panel 300 in the thickness direction. The translucent film HR may overlap with the second pixel area PA2 of the display panel 300, but may not overlap with the first pixel area PA1 of the display panel 300. The side surface of the translucent film HR may be aligned with the side surface of the display panel 300. When the translucent film HR overlaps with the second pixel area PA2, light emitted from the second pixel area PA2 can pass through the translucent film HR and be displayed in the front display area D0. For example, light emitted from the first pixel PX1 of the second pixel area PA2 can pass through the translucent film HR and be displayed in the first light-emitting area EP1 of the front display area D0. In addition, light emitted from the second pixel PX2 of the second pixel region PA2 can pass through the semi-transparent film HR and can be displayed in the second light-emitting region EP2 of the front display region D0.

[0086] Since the transmittance of light transmitted through the semi-transparent film HR can be reduced, and considering the reduction in transmittance during driving, the pixel PX of the second pixel region PA2 where the semi-transparent film HR is located (see...) Figure 13 It is designed to emit light with high brightness, thereby uniformly maintaining the brightness of the front display area D0. For example, the brightness of the first light-emitting area EP1 and the second light-emitting area EP2 can be substantially the same as the brightness of the reference light-emitting area EPref.

[0087] although Figure 5 The illustration shows a case where a semi-transparent film HR is disposed on the front surface of the second pixel region PA2, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the semi-transparent film HR may be configured to be narrower than the width of the second pixel region PA2. Alternatively, the semi-transparent film HR may be disposed in a slit shape only in a portion of the second pixel region PA2. In this case, since the area where the semi-transparent film HR is disposed on the display panel 300 is reduced, the transmittance of light emitted from the second pixel region PA2 to the front display region D0 can be increased. When the transmittance of light emitted to the front display region D0 increases, the amount of light supplied to the light guiding member LG decreases, and therefore, the transmittance of light emitted to the first corner display region DC1 can decrease. In this case, the brightness of the first light-emitting region EP1 and the second light-emitting region EP2 may be higher than the brightness of the first light-emitting region EP1' and the second light-emitting region EP2'.

[0088] The semi-transparent membrane HR may include a metal thin film. The metal thin film may be made of at least one metal selected from magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), gold (Au), calcium (Ca), lithium (Li), chromium (Cr), and aluminum (Al), or an alloy including at least one of the aforementioned metal materials. However, the material of the semi-transparent membrane HR is not limited to this, and the semi-transparent membrane HR may be made of, for example, polymer materials.

[0089] A light-emitting pattern LP may be provided on the light-guiding member LG. For example, the light-emitting pattern LP may be disposed between the cover window 100 and the light-guiding member LG, and may be in direct contact with the light-guiding member LG. The light-emitting pattern LP may overlap with the first corner display area DC1, and may overlap with the front display area D0 or the non-display area NA. The light-emitting pattern LP may be formed to have a curved surface. In this case, the light-emitting pattern LP may have a constant curvature or a variable curvature. The curvature of the light-emitting pattern LP may be substantially equal to the curvature of the light-guiding member LG.

[0090] The luminescent pattern LP may overlap with the light guiding member LG in the thickness direction. The luminescent pattern LP may be spaced apart from the semitransparent film HR, and therefore, a predetermined gap may be defined between the luminescent pattern LP and the semitransparent film HR. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this, and the side surfaces of the luminescent pattern LP and the side surfaces of the semitransparent film HR may contact each other. The luminescent pattern LP may not overlap with the display panel 300 in the thickness direction.

[0091] The luminescent pattern LP can be used to display images in the first corner display area DC1 by switching the light path through refraction or scattering of light guided by the light guiding member LG. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the light L0 supplied from the light guiding member LG to the light-emitting pattern LP can be refracted at the interface of the light-emitting pattern LP and can be emitted in a direction perpendicular to the front display area D0. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, the luminescent pattern LP_1 can be disposed in a dot shape on one surface of the light guiding member LG. In this case, the light L0 provided from the light guiding member LG to the luminescent pattern LP_1 can be scattered at the interface of the luminescent pattern LP_1 and can be emitted in a direction perpendicular to the front display area D0. Additionally, as... Figure 9 As shown, the luminescent pattern LP_2 may include a flat substrate and a plurality of protrusions formed on the substrate. These protrusions may share the substrate and may be formed in a dot shape on one surface of the substrate. The protrusions and the substrate may be integrally formed. In this case, the light L0 supplied to the luminescent pattern LP_2 from the light guiding member LG may be scattered at the interface of the luminescent pattern LP_2 and may be emitted in a direction perpendicular to the front display area D0. Additionally, as... Figure 10As shown, the luminescent pattern LP_3 may include a flat substrate and a plurality of recesses formed on one surface of the substrate. The recesses may be an engraved pattern formed on one surface of the substrate. In this case, the light L0 supplied to the luminescent pattern LP_3 from the light guiding member LG may be scattered at the interface of the luminescent pattern LP_3 and may be emitted in a direction perpendicular to the front display area D0. Additionally, as... Figure 11 As shown, the luminescent pattern LP_4 may include a flat substrate and a plurality of prism patterns formed on one surface of the substrate. The substrate and the prism patterns may be integrally formed. In this case, the light L0 supplied to the luminescent pattern LP_4 from the light guiding member LG may be refracted at the interface of the luminescent pattern LP_4 and may be emitted in a direction perpendicular to the front display area D0. Additionally, as... Figure 12 As shown, multiple engraved patterns can be formed on one surface of the light guiding member LG_1. In this case, light L0 passing through the light guiding member LG_1 can be scattered at the interface of the engraved patterns of the light guiding member LG_1 and can be emitted in a direction perpendicular to the front display area D0. Therefore, the light-emitting patterns used for switching light paths can be omitted.

[0092] According to the above exemplary embodiments, even when the display panel 300 is not disposed in the first corner display area DC1, the light guiding member LG and / or the light-emitting pattern LP are configured to display an image, thereby minimizing (or at least reducing) the unused space of the display device 1.

[0093] The cross-sectional structure of the display panel 300 will be described in more detail below.

[0094] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of pixels according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0095] Reference Figure 13 The display panel 300 may include a support substrate 301, a flexible substrate 302, a thin film transistor layer 303, a light-emitting element layer 304, and a thin film encapsulation layer 305.

[0096] A flexible substrate 302 is disposed on a support substrate 301. Each of the support substrate 301 and the flexible substrate 302 may include a flexible polymer material. To increase the flexibility of the display panel 300, the support substrate 301 may be omitted.

[0097] A thin-film transistor layer 303 is formed on a flexible substrate 302. The thin-film transistor layer 303 includes a thin-film transistor 335, a gate insulating film 336, an interlayer insulating film 337, a protective film 338, and a planarization film 339.

[0098] A buffer film may be formed on the flexible substrate 302. The buffer film may be formed on the flexible substrate 302 to protect the thin-film transistor 335 and the light-emitting element from the effects of moisture that permeates through the flexible substrate 302 and the support substrate 301, wherein the flexible substrate 302 and the support substrate 301 may be susceptible to moisture penetration. The buffer film may be composed of multiple laminated inorganic films.

[0099] The thin-film transistor 335 can be formed on a buffer film. The thin-film transistor 335 includes an active layer 331, a gate electrode 332, a source electrode 333, and a drain electrode 334.

[0100] The active layer 331 may be formed on the buffer film. The active layer 331 may be formed of a silicon-based semiconductor material or an oxide-based semiconductor material; however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. A light-shielding layer for blocking external light from incident on the active layer 331 may be formed between the buffer film and the active layer 331.

[0101] A gate insulating film 336 may be formed on the active layer 331. The gate insulating film 336 may be made of an inorganic film (e.g., a silicon oxide film (SiO2)). x ), silicon nitride film (SiN) x (or their multilayer films) are formed, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0102] The gate electrode 332 and the gate line may be formed on the gate insulating film 336. The gate electrode 332 and the gate line may be formed of a single-layer or multi-layer structure, which includes at least one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd) and copper (Cu) or an alloy including at least one of the above materials.

[0103] An interlayer insulating film 337 may be formed on the gate electrode 332 and the gate line. The interlayer insulating film 337 may be made of an inorganic film (e.g., a silicon oxide film (SiO2)). x ), silicon nitride film (SiN) x (or their multilayer films) are formed, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0104] The source electrode 333, drain electrode 334, and data line may be formed on the interlayer insulating film 337. Each of the source electrode 333 and drain electrode 334 may be connected to the active layer 331 through a contact hole penetrating the gate insulating film 336 and the interlayer insulating film 337. The source electrode 333, drain electrode 334, and data line may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers, which may include any one or an alloy of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu).

[0105] A protective film 338 for insulating the thin-film transistor 335 may be formed on the source electrode 333, drain electrode 334, and data lines. The protective film 338 may be made of an inorganic film (e.g., a silicon oxide film (SiO2)). x ), silicon nitride film (SiN) x (or its multilayer film) is formed.

[0106] The planarization film 339 can planarize the steps caused by the thin-film transistor 335 and can be formed on the protective film 338. The planarization film 339 can be an organic film formed from at least one of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin and polyimide resin.

[0107] A light-emitting element layer 304 is formed on a thin-film transistor layer 303. The light-emitting element layer 304 includes a light-emitting element and a pixel defining film 344.

[0108] The light-emitting element and pixel defining film 344 are formed on the planarization film 339. The light-emitting element can be an organic light-emitting element. In this case, the light-emitting element may include an anode 341, a light-emitting layer 342, and a cathode 343.

[0109] The anode 341 may be formed on the planarization film 339. The anode 341 may be connected to the drain electrode 334 of the thin-film transistor 335 through contact holes penetrating the protective film 338 and the planarization film 339.

[0110] A pixel defining film 344 for defining a pixel PX may be formed on a planarization film 339 to cover the edge of the anode 341. For example, the pixel defining film 344 is used to define a pixel PX. Each of the pixels PX indicates a region in which the anode 341, the light-emitting layer 342, and the cathode 343 are laminated sequentially, and thus holes from the anode 341 combine with electrons from the cathode 343 to emit light.

[0111] A light-emitting layer 342 is formed on the anode 341 and the pixel defining film 344. The light-emitting layer 342 may be an organic light-emitting layer. The light-emitting layer 342 may emit one of red, green, and blue light, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The light-emitting layer 342 may include a hole transport layer, a light-emitting layer, and an electron transport layer. Additionally, the light-emitting layer 342 may be formed in a series structure of two or more stacks, and in this case, a charge-generating layer may be formed between the stacks.

[0112] A cathode 343 is formed on the light-emitting layer 342. The cathode 343 may be formed to cover the light-emitting layer 342. The cathode 343 may be a common layer formed in the pixel PX.

[0113] When the light-emitting element layer 304 is formed via a top-emission mode in which light is emitted in an upward direction, the anode 341 can be formed of a highly reflective metallic material, such as a laminate of aluminum (Al) and titanium (Ti) (e.g., Ti / Al / Ti), a laminate of aluminum (Al) and indium tin oxide (ITO) (e.g., ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, or a laminate of an APC alloy and ITO (e.g., ITO / APC / ITO). The APC alloy can be an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu). The cathode 343 can be formed of a transparent conductive material (TCO) such as transparent ITO or indium zinc oxide (IZO), or a semi-transparent conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag). When the cathode 343 is formed of a semi-transparent metallic material, the light emission efficiency can be increased by using a microcavity.

[0114] When the light-emitting element layer 304 is formed via a bottom emission mode in which light is emitted in a downward direction, the anode 341 can be formed of a transparent conductive material (TCO) such as ITO or IZO, or a semi-transparent conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag). The cathode 343 can be formed of a highly reflective metallic material, such as a laminated structure of aluminum (Al) and titanium (Ti) (e.g., Ti / Al / Ti), a laminated structure of aluminum (Al) and ITO (e.g., ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, or a laminated structure of APC alloy and ITO (e.g., ITO / APC / ITO). When the anode 341 is formed of a semi-transparent metallic material, the light emission efficiency can be increased by using a microcavity.

[0115] A thin-film encapsulation layer 305 is formed on the light-emitting element layer 304. The thin-film encapsulation layer 305 serves to prevent oxygen and / or moisture from penetrating the light-emitting layer 342 and the cathode 343. For this purpose, the thin-film encapsulation layer 305 may include at least one inorganic film. The inorganic film may be formed from at least one of silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, zirconium nitride, titanium nitride, hafnium nitride, tantalum nitride, silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, and titanium oxide. The thin-film encapsulation layer 305 may also include at least one organic film. The organic film may be formed to have sufficient thickness to prevent foreign matter (e.g., particles) from penetrating the thin-film encapsulation layer 305 and entering the light-emitting layer 342 and the cathode 343. The organic film may include at least one of epoxy resin, acrylate, and polyurethane acrylate.

[0116] Other exemplary implementations will be described below.

[0117] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0118] Reference Figure 14 Display devices according to some exemplary embodiments and Figures 1 to 13 The difference in display device 1 is that the semi-transparent film HR includes a first semi-transparent film HR1 and a second semi-transparent film HR2, and the light-emitting pattern LP includes a first light-emitting pattern LP1 and a second light-emitting pattern LP2. In addition to these points... Figure 14 The display device is substantially the same as or similar to display device 1, so repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0119] According to some exemplary embodiments, a first semi-transparent film HR1 and a second semi-transparent film HR2 may be disposed in a second pixel region PA2. The first semi-transparent film HR1 and the second semi-transparent film HR2 may be spaced apart from each other in a planar view, and thus a predetermined gap may be defined between the first semi-transparent film HR1 and the second semi-transparent film HR2. The first semi-transparent film HR1 may overlap with the first pixel PX1 in the thickness direction, and the second semi-transparent film HR2 may overlap with the second pixel PX2 in the thickness direction. Light emitted from the first pixel PX1 can pass through the first semi-transparent film HR1 and can be displayed in the first light-emitting region EP1 of the front display region D0. Light emitted from the second pixel PX2 can pass through the second semi-transparent film HR2 and can be displayed in the second light-emitting region EP2 of the front display region D0. The width of the first semi-transparent film HR1 may be substantially equal to the width of the second semi-transparent film HR2. The width of the first semi-transparent film HR1 may be substantially equal to or less than the width of the first pixel PX1. The width of the second semi-transparent film HR2 may be substantially equal to or less than the width of the second pixel PX2. The side surface of the first semi-transparent film HR1 can be aligned with the side surface of the light guiding member LG. The side surface of the second semi-transparent film HR2 can be aligned with the side surface of the display panel 300.

[0120] The first luminous pattern LP1 and the second luminous pattern LP2 can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the light guiding member LG.

[0121] The first luminescent pattern LP1 and the second luminescent pattern LP2 may be spaced apart from each other in a planar view, and therefore, a predetermined gap may be defined between the first luminescent pattern LP1 and the second luminescent pattern LP2. Additionally, the first luminescent pattern LP1 and the second semitransparent film HR2 may be spaced apart from each other in a planar view, and therefore, a predetermined gap may also be defined between the first luminescent pattern LP1 and the second semitransparent film HR2.

[0122] Light emitted from the first pixel PX1 can be guided by the light guiding member LG to the first luminous pattern LP1, pass through the first luminous pattern LP1, and be displayed in the first luminous area EP1' of the first corner display area DC1. Similarly, light emitted from the second pixel PX2 can be guided by the light guiding member LG to the second luminous pattern LP2, pass through the second luminous pattern LP2, and be displayed in the second luminous area EP2' of the first corner display area DC1. For example, the first luminous area EP1' and the second luminous area EP2' can be displayed in the first corner display area DC1. For example, since the image can be displayed not only in the front display area and the side display area, but also in the corner display area, the unused space of the display device can be minimized or at least reduced.

[0123] although Figure 14 The illustration shows a scenario where light emitted from a first pixel PX1 is guided to a first luminous pattern LP1 and emitted to a first luminous region EP1', and light emitted from a second pixel PX2 is guided to a second luminous pattern LP2 and emitted to a second luminous region EP2'. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this. For example, light emitted from the first pixel PX1 may be guided to the second luminous pattern LP2, and light emitted from the second pixel PX2 may be guided to the first luminous pattern LP1. In this case, the layout of the luminous regions in the first corner luminous region EA1 of the first corner display region DC1 may be reversed. For example, the second luminous region EP2' may be configured in the first corner luminous region EA1 adjacent to the front display region D0, and the first luminous region EP1' may be configured in the first corner luminous region EA1 adjacent to the non-display region NA.

[0124] Other exemplary implementations will be described below.

[0125] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 16 This is based on some exemplary implementation methods. Figure 15 A magnified view of region B.

[0126] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 Display devices according to some exemplary embodiments and Figures 1 to 13 The difference in display device 1 is that a diffraction pattern layer PRS is also provided between the cover window 100 and the light guiding member LG. Besides this point... Figure 15 and Figure 16 Display devices and Figures 1 to 13 The display device 1 is substantially the same or similar to the display device 1, so repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0127] According to some exemplary embodiments, the diffraction pattern layer PRS can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the light guiding member LG, and when a light-emitting pattern LP is also disposed (or included), the diffraction pattern layer PRS can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the light-emitting pattern LP. Additionally, the diffraction pattern layer PRS can be disposed in the second corner light-emitting region EA2 in a planar view. The diffraction pattern layer PRS may not overlap with the display panel 300 in the thickness direction. Furthermore, the diffraction pattern layer PRS can be spaced apart from the semi-transparent film HR in a planar view, and therefore, a predetermined gap can be defined between the diffraction pattern layer PRS and the semi-transparent film HR.

[0128] The diffraction pattern layer PRS can diffract light L1 guided by the light guiding member LG to form diffracted light L2. Diffracted light L2 can include zero-order diffracted light and first-order diffracted light. Here, zero-order diffracted light refers to light that has the same optical path before and after being diffracted by the diffraction pattern layer PRS. Conversely, first-order diffracted light refers to light whose optical path changes relative to the zero-order diffracted light and has a predetermined diffraction angle.

[0129] Since the diffraction pattern layer PRS diffracts the light L1 guided by the light guiding member LG, the second corner emitting region EA2 may include multiple repeating emitting regions EP1. The multiple repeating emitting regions EP1 may be emitting regions copied from the first emitting region EP1 formed by the first pixel PX1.

[0130] The diffraction pattern layer PRS may include multiple diffraction patterns 810 and a first protective layer 820. The multiple diffraction patterns 810 may be directly disposed on the luminescent pattern LP. For example, no separate adhesive member may be provided between the multiple diffraction patterns 810 and the luminescent pattern LP.

[0131] The multiple diffraction patterns 810 can be periodic patterns. The multiple diffraction patterns 810 can diffract the light emitted from the light guiding member LG to expand the light emitting area. For example, since the second corner emitting area EA2 of the first corner display area DC1 can be expanded, the unused space of the display device can be further minimized or at least further reduced.

[0132] A first protective layer 820 may be disposed on a plurality of diffraction patterns 810. The first protective layer 820 may be formed to cover the plurality of diffraction patterns 810. The first protective layer 820 may be an organic film comprising at least one of acrylic resin, methacrylic resin, polyisoprene, vinyl resin, epoxy resin, polyurethane resin, cellulose resin, siloxane resin, polyimide resin, polyamide resin, and naphthalene-containing phenylene oxide resin. Alternatively (or additionally), the first protective layer 820 may be an inorganic film comprising at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. The first protective layer 820 may be replaced by an air layer.

[0133] The diffraction pattern layer PRS can be formed to have a curved surface. In this case, the diffraction pattern layer PRS can have a constant curvature or a variable curvature, and the curvature of the diffraction pattern layer PRS can be substantially equal to the curvature of the light guiding member LG.

[0134] although Figure 15 and Figure 16 The illustration shows a case where a light-emitting pattern LP is disposed on a light-guiding member LG and a diffraction pattern layer PRS is disposed on the light-emitting pattern LP, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the light-emitting pattern LP may be omitted, and in this case, the diffraction pattern layer PRS may be directly disposed on the light-guiding member LG.

[0135] According to various exemplary embodiments, light guiding members or the like are provided at least in the corner display area of ​​the display device, thereby displaying images in the corner display area, as well as the front and side display areas of the display device. For example, the display device can minimize or at least reduce unused space by displaying images in the corner display area, as well as the front and side display areas.

[0136] While certain exemplary embodiments and examples have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from the description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but is limited to the various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements that will be apparent to those skilled in the art, as well as the broader scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, including: Front display area; A first side display area extends from the first side of the front display area; The second side display area extends from the second side of the front display area; A corner display area is located between the first side display area and the second side display area; The display panel overlaps with the front display area but does not overlap with the corner display area; as well as The light guiding component overlaps at least with the corner display area.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The light guiding member is configured to guide light emitted from the display panel and transmit the light to the corner display area.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The light guiding member at least partially overlaps with the display panel.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: The display panel includes a first pixel area and a second pixel area; The second pixel region includes the first pixel and the second pixel; The corner display area includes a first luminous area and a second luminous area; and The light guiding component is configured such that: Guide the light emitted from the first pixel and transmit the light from the first pixel to the first light-emitting area; as well as Guide the light emitted from the second pixel and transmit the light from the second pixel to the second light-emitting area.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, In the thickness direction, the light guiding member overlaps with the second pixel region in the front display area.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The display panel includes a substrate, a light-emitting layer disposed on the substrate, and an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting layer; and The light guiding component is in direct contact with the encapsulation layer.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The display panel includes a first side region and a second side region spaced apart from the first side region, wherein a corner region is defined in the space between the first side region and the second side region; and The corner area overlaps with the corner display area.

8. The display device according to claim 5, further comprising: A semi-transparent film is disposed on the light guiding member and overlaps with the display panel.

9. The display device according to claim 8, further comprising: A light-emitting pattern is disposed in the corner display area and overlaps with the light-guiding member in the thickness direction.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The semi-transparent film does not overlap with the luminescent pattern in the thickness direction.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The curvature of the light guiding component is equal to the curvature of the light-emitting pattern.

12. A display device, including: First display area; The second display area is adjacent to the first display area; The display panel is disposed in the second display area and does not overlap with the first display area; as well as The light guiding component overlaps at least with the first display area, wherein... The display panel includes a first pixel area and a second pixel area. The light guiding component overlaps with the second pixel region, and The display device further includes a semi-transparent film disposed on the light guiding member and overlapping with the second pixel region.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The light guiding member is configured to guide light emitted from the second pixel region and transmit the light to the first display area.

14. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The light guiding component and the semi-transparent film do not overlap with the first pixel region in the thickness direction.

15. A display device, including: First display area; The second display area is adjacent to the first display area; The display panel is disposed in the second display area and does not overlap with the first display area; The light guiding component overlaps at least with the first display area; as well as A diffraction pattern layer is disposed on the light guiding member in the first display area.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The diffraction pattern layer includes: Multiple diffraction patterns; and A protective layer is disposed on the plurality of diffraction patterns.

17. The display device according to claim 15, further comprising: A light-emitting pattern is disposed between the light-guiding member and the diffraction pattern layer.

18. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: The diffraction pattern layer is configured to diffract light emitted from the display panel to produce repeating light-emitting areas; as well as The display device is configured to display the repeating light-emitting area in the first display area.

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