Display device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a display device, which includes: a display module including a display panel and a supporting member, the supporting member including a first surface facing the rear surface of the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a guide unit disposed on the second surface of the supporting member. The display module includes: a first folding portion and a second folding portion, a central portion disposed between the first folding portion and the second folding portion, and a first display portion and a second display portion. The guide unit includes: a rotating part overlapping the central portion; a first connecting part connected to the rotating part; a second connecting part connected to the rotating part; a wiring part fixed to the first display portion and to the second connecting part; and an elastic part fixed to the second surface of the supporting member and to the rotating part, the first connecting part, or the second connecting part.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and all benefits arising from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0052892, filed on May 7, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device having improved reliability. Background Art

[0004] The display device for displaying an image may be included in an electronic device for providing an image to a user, such as a smart phone, a digital camera, a notebook computer, a navigation system, and a smart TV. The display device may generate an image and may provide the generated image to a user through a display screen.

[0005] With the development of technology, display devices having various shapes have been developed. For example, a foldable display device that can be bent, folded, and / or rolled has been developed. A foldable display device whose shape can be changed variously can be easily carried and can improve user convenience. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure may provide a display device capable of reducing or alleviating interference of a folded portion of a display module.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device includes: a display module, including: a display panel, including a front surface and a rear surface opposite to the front surface; and a support member, including a first surface facing the rear surface of the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a guide unit, which is arranged on the second surface of the support member. In such an embodiment, the display module includes: a first folding portion, which can be folded with a radius of curvature; a second folding portion, which is spaced apart from the first folding portion and can be folded with a radius of curvature equal to or greater than the radius of curvature of the first folding portion; a central portion, which is arranged between the first folding portion and the second folding portion; a first display portion, which is spaced apart from the central portion, the first folding portion is between the first display portion and the central portion; and a second display portion, which is spaced apart from the central portion, the second folding portion is between the second display portion and the central portion. The guide unit includes: a rotating part overlapping the central portion; a first connecting part connected to the rotating part; a second connecting part spaced apart from the first connecting part and connected to the rotating part; a wiring part including a first end fixed to the first display portion and a second end fixed to the second connecting part; and an elastic part including a first end fixed to the second surface of the supporting member and a second end fixed to at least one part selected from the rotating part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part.

[0008] In an embodiment, the first folding portion may be foldable about a first imaginary folding axis extending in a predetermined direction. In such an embodiment, in a first state in which the first folding portion is unfolded, the first connecting member may overlap the second folding portion, and in a second state in which the first folding portion is folded about the first imaginary folding axis, the first connecting member may be spaced apart from the second folding portion.

[0009] In an embodiment, the second folding portion may be foldable about a second imaginary folding axis extending in the predetermined direction. In the second state, the display module may be folded inwardly in such a manner that the second surface of the support member overlapping the first display portion overlaps the front surface of the display panel overlapping the second display portion.

[0010] In an embodiment, the second folding portion may be foldable about a second imaginary folding axis extending in the predetermined direction. In such an embodiment, in the second state, the display module may be folded outward in such a manner that the second surface of the support member overlapping the central portion overlaps the second surface of the support member overlapping the second display portion.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first end of the elastic member may be fixed to the second surface of the supporting member overlapping the second display portion, and the second end of the elastic member may be fixed to the first connecting member.

[0012] In an embodiment, the first end of the elastic member may be fixed to the second surface of the supporting member overlapping the central portion, and the second end of the elastic member may be fixed to the rotating member.

[0013] In an embodiment, the first end of the elastic part may be fixed to the second surface of the supporting member overlapping the first display portion, and the second end of the elastic part may be fixed to the second connecting part.

[0014] In an embodiment, the guiding unit may further include: a first sub-connecting component connecting the first connecting component and the rotating component; and a second sub-connecting component connecting the second connecting component and the rotating component.

[0015] In an embodiment, the guiding unit may further include: a wall member to guide the moving directions of the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

[0016] In an embodiment, the elastic component may include a compression spring, a tension spring or a torsion spring. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device;

[0020] Figure 3A is a perspective view showing a display module whose area is folded according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 3B is a perspective view showing a display module whose area is folded according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 3C is a perspective view showing a display module whose area is folded according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 4B is an equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 5A is a plan view showing a display module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 5B It shows that Figure 5A A plan view showing a state where the display module is folded;

[0027] Fig. 6A is a plan view showing a display module according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 6B It shows that Fig. 6A A plan view showing a state where the display module is folded;

[0029] Fig. 7A is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 7B It shows that Fig. 7A A plan view showing a state where the display module is folded;

[0031] Fig. 8A is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 8B It shows that Fig. 8A A plan view showing a state where the display module is folded;

[0033] Fig.9A is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Fig. 9B It shows that Fig.9A A plan view of the display module in a folded state; and

[0035] Fig.10 is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will now be more fully described 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 these embodiments will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals always refer to the same elements.

[0037] It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on" another element, the element can be directly on the other element, or there can be intervening elements. In contrast, the term "directly" means that there are no intervening elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0038] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "one", "a kind of" and "the (the)" are intended to include plural forms, including "at least one (kind)". "Or" means "and / or". As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combination and all combinations of one or more related listed items. It will be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "include" and / or "comprise" or "contain" and / or "have" illustrate the presence of stated features, regions, wholes, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups.

[0039] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "below," "below," "below," "above," and "on" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element (or elements) or feature (or features) as shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the accompanying drawings, spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device is flipped in the accompanying drawings, an element described as "below" or "below" other elements or features will subsequently be positioned "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" may include both above and below orientations. The device may be otherwise positioned (rotated 90 degrees, or in other orientations), and therefore, the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0040] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Therefore, without departing from the teachings herein, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part.

[0041] 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).

[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It will also be understood that, unless explicitly defined as such herein, terms such as those defined in general dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0043] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or plan views that are idealized exemplary illustrations. In the accompanying drawings, the thickness of layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity. Therefore, variations in the shapes of the illustrations, for example due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments should not be interpreted as being limited to the shapes of the regions shown herein, but will include deviations in shapes, for example, caused by manufacturing. For example, an etched region shown as a rectangle will typically have rounded or curved features. Therefore, the regions shown in the drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shapes of regions of the device, and are not intended to limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0044] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device. Figure 3A is a perspective view showing a display module whose area is folded according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3B is a perspective view showing a display module whose area is folded according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3Cis a perspective view showing a display module whose area is folded according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4B is an equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 1 to 4B A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 3C , the display device ED according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may display an image IM through a display surface IS defined thereon. The display surface IS may be parallel to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The normal direction of the display surface IS (e.g., the thickness direction of the display device ED) may be indicated by a third direction DR3. Figure 1 The display device ED is shown in a first state in which the display device ED (eg, a foldable display device) is unfolded.

[0047] Figure 1 An embodiment of a foldable display device ED applied to a mobile phone is shown in FIG. Even if not shown in the drawings, the electronic module, camera module, and power module mounted on the main board may be arranged in a bracket and / or a housing together with the foldable display device ED to constitute a mobile phone. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. Alternatively, the foldable display device ED may also be applied to large electronic devices (e.g., televisions and monitors) or small and medium-sized electronic devices (e.g., tablet computers, car navigation units, game consoles, and smart watches). As described above, the foldable display device is shown as Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of a display device ED in .

[0048] The display device ED may display an image IM on a display surface IS parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 in the third direction DR3. The display surface IS on which the image IM is displayed may correspond to the front surface of the display device ED. The image IM may include a dynamic image and a static image. Figure 1 , an Internet search box is shown as an example of image IM.

[0049] The display device ED may include a window member WM, a display module DM and a housing EDC. Figure 2 Components of a display device ED are schematically shown in FIG.

[0050] The window member WM may be disposed on the display module DM. The window member WM may be coupled to the housing EDC so that the window member WM and the housing EDC together define the exterior of the display device ED. The window member WM may be coupled to the housing EDC to encapsulate the display module DM so that it is not exposed to the outside, thereby effectively protecting the display module DM.

[0051] The window member WM may include a transmissive area TA and a bezel area BZA. The display surface IS of the display device ED may be substantially defined by the transmissive area TA and the bezel area BZA of the window member WM.

[0052] The transmission area TA may be an area in which the image IM is displayed. A user may view the image IM through the transmission area TA. The shape of the transmission area TA may be variously modified.

[0053] The border area BZA may be adjacent to the transmission area TA. The border area BZA may have a predetermined color. When viewed in a plan view, the border area BZA may surround the transmission area TA. Therefore, the shape of the transmission area TA may be substantially defined by the border area BZA. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. In alternative embodiments, for example, the border area BZA may be adjacent to only one side of the transmission area TA, or may be omitted. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the display device ED may be implemented differently and is not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0054] The display module DM may include a display panel DP and a support member SM. The display panel DP may include a front surface DP-U and a rear surface DP-B opposite to the front surface DP-U. An active area AA and a peripheral area NAA may be defined in the front surface DP-U. The display panel DP may activate the active area AA by an electrical signal. The display panel DP may display an image IM in the activated active area AA. The transmission area TA may overlap at least the entire portion of the active area AA. The rear surface DP-B may be defined as a surface in contact with the support member SM.

[0055] The peripheral area NAA may be adjacent to the active area AA. When viewed in a plan view, the peripheral area NAA may surround the edge of the active area AA. In an embodiment, the peripheral area NAA may surround all edges of the active area AA. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. In an alternative embodiment, the peripheral area NAA may be adjacent to only a single edge of the active area AA.

[0056] Various signal lines and / or electronic components for providing electrical signals to the active area AA may be disposed in the peripheral area NAA. The peripheral area NAA may be covered by the bezel area BZA, and thus, the peripheral area NAA may not be visible from the outside.

[0057] Reference Figure 4A , an embodiment of the display panel DP may include a display unit DS and an input sensing layer TP. The input sensing layer TP may be disposed on the display unit DS.

[0058] The display unit DS may include a base layer BSL, a pixel layer PXL disposed on the base layer BSL, and a protective layer PTL covering the pixel layer PXL. The base layer BSL, the pixel layer PXL, and the protective layer PTL may be sequentially stacked on each other in the third direction DR3. The base layer BSL may define a rear surface DP-B of the display panel DP, and may have flexibility. The pixel layer PXL may include a plurality of pixels (not shown), and may be driven by an applied electrical signal to generate an image IM. The protective layer PTL may protect the pixel layer PXL, and may have a structure in which an organic layer and an inorganic layer are stacked (e.g., alternately and repeatedly stacked with each other). The input sensing layer TP may be disposed on the protective layer PTL.

[0059] Figure 4B An equivalent circuit diagram of one pixel PX among the pixels included in the pixel layer PXL is shown. Embodiments of the pixel PX may include an organic light emitting element used in an organic light emitting display panel.

[0060] The pixel PX may be connected to a scan line Si, a data line Dj, and an emission line Ei. Here, "i" and "j" are natural numbers. The pixel PX may include a light emitting element OLED, a driving transistor T1, a capacitive element Cst, a switching transistor T2, and an emission control transistor T3. The light emitting element OLED may be an organic light emitting element.

[0061] A source terminal of the driving transistor T1 may be provided with a first voltage ELVDD, and a drain terminal of the driving transistor T1 may be connected to a source terminal of the emission control transistor T3. A gate terminal of the driving transistor T1 may be connected to a drain terminal of the switching transistor T2.

[0062] The gate terminal of the switching transistor T2 may be connected to the scan line Si, and the source terminal of the switching transistor T2 may be connected to the data line Dj. The first electrode of the capacitive element Cst may be connected to the source terminal of the driving transistor T1, and the second electrode of the capacitive element Cst may be connected to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1.

[0063] The gate terminal of the emission control transistor T3 can be connected to the emission line Ei, and the drain terminal of the emission control transistor T3 can be connected to the anode of the light emitting element OLED. The cathode of the light emitting element OLED can receive the second voltage ELVSS. The level of the second voltage ELVSS can be lower than the level of the first voltage ELVDD.

[0064] The switching transistor T2 may be turned on in response to a scan signal SS supplied thereto through the scan line Si. The turned-on switching transistor T2 may supply a data voltage VD received through the data line Dj to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1. The capacitive element Cst may store the data voltage VD applied to the gate terminal of the driving transistor T1, and may maintain the stored data voltage VD after the switching transistor T2 is turned off.

[0065] The gate terminal of the emission control transistor T3 may receive the emission signal EM through the emission line Ei, so the emission control transistor T3 may be turned on. The turned-on emission control transistor T3 may provide the current Ioled flowing through the driving transistor T1 to the light emitting element OLED. The pixel PX may emit light while applying the emission signal EM, and may determine or change the intensity of light emitted from the light emitting element OLED based on the amount of the current Ioled provided to the light emitting element OLED.

[0066] In one embodiment, for example, the transistors T1 to T3 of the pixel PX may be P-type metal oxide semiconductor ("PMOS") transistors. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. In an alternative embodiment, the transistors T1 to T3 of the pixel PX may be N-type metal oxide semiconductor ("NMOS") transistors.

[0067] The input sensing layer TP may be a layer for sensing an external input. The input sensing layer TP may include a conductive layer and an insulating layer for insulating the conductive layer.

[0068] The external input may include at least one of various inputs provided from outside the display device ED. The external input may be provided in various forms. The external input may include, for example, an input approaching the display device ED by a predetermined distance (e.g., a hovering input) and a touch of a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger). In addition, the external input may be provided in various other forms such as force, pressure, and / or light.

[0069] Return to reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the support member SM may include a first surface SM-U and a second surface SM-B. The first surface SM-U may be in contact with the rear surface DP-B of the display panel DP. The second surface SM-B may be opposite to the first surface SM-U. The second surface SM-B may be in contact with the housing EDC. In an embodiment, as FIG. 3A to FIG. 3CAs shown in , the support member SM may include hinge parts HG1 and HG2. The area in which the first hinge part HG1 is provided may be defined as the first folding part FD1 of the display module DM. The area in which the second hinge part HG2 is provided may be defined as the second folding part FD2 of the display module DM. In an embodiment, the hinge parts HG1 and HG2 may be hinges. In such an embodiment, the hinge may be folded at a predetermined radius of curvature, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to a specific hinge.

[0070] Although not shown in the drawings, an embodiment of the support member SM may further include a functional layer for improving the reliability of the display panel DP. The functional layer may be disposed below the display panel DP. The functional layer may include a plurality of layers. In one embodiment, for example, the functional layer may include: a cushion layer having a foam shape and configured to absorb the impact of the display panel DP; a light blocking layer configured to block the light provided from the display panel DP; and a heat dissipation layer configured to discharge the heat generated from the display panel DP to the outside.

[0071] Embodiments of the display module DM may include a plurality of regions arranged in a first direction DR1. In one embodiment, for example, the display module DM may include (or be divided into) a central portion CA, a first display portion DA1, a second display portion DA2, a first folding portion FD1, and a second folding portion FD2.

[0072] The first folding portion FD1 may be defined as an area overlapping the first hinge portion HG1. Herein, the phrase "one element overlaps another element" may mean that the one element overlaps the other element when viewed from a plan view in the thickness direction of the display device ED. The first folding portion FD1 may be foldable with a predetermined radius of curvature about a first folding axis FX1 extending in the second direction DR2.

[0073] Reference Figure 3A When the first folding portion FD1 is folded about the first folding axis FX1, the display module DM can be folded inward in such a way that the front surface DP-U of the display panel DP overlapping with the first display portion DA1 overlaps with the front surface DP-U of the display panel DP overlapping with the central portion CA or faces the front surface DP-U of the display panel DP overlapping with the central portion CA.

[0074] According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 2 As shown in , a state in which the first folding portion FD1 of the display module DM is unfolded may be defined as a first state. Figure 3A As shown in , a state in which the first folding portion FD1 is folded about the first folding axis FX1 may be defined as a second state.

[0075] The second folding portion FD2 may be defined as an area overlapping the second hinge portion HG2. The second folding portion FD2 may be foldable with a predetermined radius of curvature about a second folding axis FX2-A or FX2-B extending in the second direction DR2. The radius of curvature of the second folding portion FD2 when the second folding portion FD2 is folded about the second folding axis FX2-A or FX2-B may be equal to or greater than the radius of curvature of the first folding portion FD1 when the first folding portion FD1 is folded about the first folding axis FX1.

[0076] Reference Figure 3B In a second state in which the first folding portion FD1 is folded about the first folding axis FX1 and the second folding portion FD2 is folded about the second folding axis FX2-A, the display module DM may be folded inwardly in such a manner that the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the first display portion DA1 overlaps or faces the front surface DP-U of the display panel DP overlapping the second display portion DA2. In this state, the curvature radius of the second folding portion FD2 may be greater than the curvature radius of the first folding portion FD1.

[0077] Reference Figure 3C In the second state in which the first folding portion FD1 is folded about the first folding axis FX1 and the second folding portion FD2 is folded about the second folding axis FX2-B, the display module DM may be folded outward in such a manner that the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA overlaps or faces the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the second display portion DA2. In this state, the radius of curvature of the second folding portion FD2 may be equal to or greater than the radius of curvature of the first folding portion FD1.

[0078] exist FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C In the present invention, for the purpose of ease and convenience of description and explanation, the window member WM and the shell EDC are omitted. However, the window member WM and the shell EDC can be coupled to each other and can be connected to each other in the same manner. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The display module DM shown in FIG. 1 is folded in substantially the same shape.

[0079] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device ED includes a plurality of folding portions FD1 and FD2, so that the shape of the display device ED can be variously changed according to the intended use. Therefore, the convenience of use of the display device ED can be enhanced or improved.

[0080] Figure 5A is a plan view showing a display module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5B It shows that Figure 5A A plan view of a display module in a folded state. Figures 1 to 4B Describes components that are the same or similar Figure 5A and Figure 5B The components in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and any repeated detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0081] In an embodiment, the display device ED may include a guide unit LM. The guide unit LM may be disposed on the second surface SM-B of the support member SM. In such an embodiment, the guide unit may determine the folding order of the plurality of folding portions FD1 and FD2. Hereinafter, the guide unit LM will be described in detail.

[0082] In an embodiment, the guide unit LM may include a rotating part LP, a first connection part LK1, a second connection part LK2, a wiring part WR, and an elastic part SP-A or SP-B.

[0083] Figure 5A The first state of the display module DM is shown (see Figure 1 or Figure 2 , i.e., the unfolded state of the display module DM) shows the arrangement of components included in the guide unit LM.

[0084] In an embodiment, a first opening OP1 and a second opening OP2 are defined in the rotating part LP. The rotating part LP may be disposed on a second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA. The rotating part LP may be coupled to the second surface SM-B of the support member SM by a rotation axis CL. The rotating part LP may be rotatable at a predetermined angle about the rotation axis CL.

[0085] The first connection part LK1 may include a first protrusion SC1. The first connection part LK1 may extend in the first direction DR1. The first connection part LK1 may be connected to the rotating part LP. The first protrusion SC1 may be disposed in a first opening OP1 of the rotating part LP. The area of ​​the first opening OP1 may be greater than the area of ​​the first protrusion SC1. Therefore, the first opening OP1 may have a space in which the first protrusion SC1 may move.

[0086] The second connection part LK2 may include a second protrusion SC2. The second connection part LK2 may extend in the first direction DR1. The second connection part LK2 may be connected to the rotating part LP. The second protrusion SC2 may be disposed in the second opening OP2 of the rotating part LP. The area of ​​the second opening OP2 may be greater than the area of ​​the second protrusion SC2. Therefore, the second opening OP2 may have a space in which the second protrusion SC2 is movable.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first connection part LK1 and the second connection part LK2 may be connected to the rotating part LP, and the rotating part LP may be coupled to the second surface SM-B of the support member SM through the rotating axis CL. Therefore, when the rotating part LP moves about the rotating axis CL, the first connection part LK1 and the second connection part LK2 may move together with the rotating axis CL.

[0088] In an embodiment, the elastic part SP-A may be connected to the second surface SM-B of the supporting member SM and to the first connection part LK1, the rotating part LP, or the second connection part LK2. In an embodiment, for example, one end (e.g., the first end) PM0 of the elastic part SP-A may be fixed to the second surface SM-B of the supporting member SM overlapping the second display portion DA2, and the other end (e.g., the second end) PM1 of the elastic part SP-A may be connected to the first connection part LK1.

[0089] The elastic component SP-A or SP-B may be a member having a restoring force. In one embodiment, for example, the elastic component SP-A or SP-B may include at least one of various members having elasticity such as an elastic band and a spring. In an embodiment, when the elastic component SP-A or SP-B is a spring having elasticity, for example, the elastic component SP-A or SP-B may be a coil spring, a leaf spring, a hydraulic spring, a tension spring, or a torsion spring.

[0090] In an embodiment, the elastic member SP-A or SP-B may be a tension spring. Therefore, when the first connection member LK1 moves in a direction from the central portion CA toward the first folded portion FD1, the first connection member LK1 may be easily returned in a direction from the central portion CA toward the second folded portion FD2 by a restoring force of the elastic member SP-A provided as a tension spring.

[0091] The wiring part WR may be connected to the second connection part LK2 and the second surface SM-B of the support member SM. In one embodiment, for example, one end (e.g., the first end) PM2 of the wiring part WR may be connected to the second connection part LK2, and the other end (e.g., the second end) PM3 of the wiring part WR may be fixed to the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the first display portion DA1.

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first connection part LK1 may overlap the second folding part FD2 in the first state. The first connection part LK1 may support the second hinge part HG2 in the first state, so the second folding part FD2 may not be folded before folding the first folding part FD1.

[0093] Figure 5BThe second state of the display module DM (ie, the state in which the display module DM is folded about the first folding axis FX1; see Figure 3A ) is an arrangement of components included in the guiding unit LM under.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the wiring part WR may be connected to the second connection part LK2 and the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the first display part DA1. Figure 3A ) When the second connection part LK2 is folded, the second connection part LK2 can move in a direction from the central part CA toward the first folding part FD1. In such an embodiment, the rotating part LP connected to the second connection part LK2 can rotate about the rotation axis CL, and the first connection part LK1 can move by the rotation of the rotating part LP.

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the second state (see Figure 3A ), the first connection part LK1 may be spaced apart from the second folding portion FD2. In the second state, the first connection part LK1 may be spaced apart from the second hinge portion HG2, and thus, the second folding portion FD2 may be folded inwardly or outwardly according to the user's desire.

[0096] When the first and second folded portions FD1 and FD2 are unfolded by a user, the first connection part LK1 may be easily returned to a position overlapped with the second hinge part HG2 by the restoring force R of the elastic part SP-B.

[0097] In order to show different states of the display module DM, Figure 5A The elastic components SP-A and Figure 5B The elastic parts SP-B are indicated by different reference numerals. Figure 5A The elastic components SP-A and Figure 5B The elastic component SP-B corresponds to the same component.

[0098] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second folding portion FD2 having a curvature radius equal to or greater than that of the first folding portion FD1 can be folded after the second state in which the first folding portion FD1 having a relatively small curvature radius is folded. Therefore, since the folding order of the folding portions FD1 and FD2 is determined by the guide unit LM, interference between folding regions can be minimized. As a result, damage to the display device ED can be effectively prevented, and the reliability of the display device ED can be improved.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the guide unit LM may further include wall parts GM1 and GM2. The wall parts GM1 and GM2 may be disposed on the second surface SM-B of the support member SM. The wall parts GM1 and GM2 may guide the moving directions of the first connection part LK1 and the second connection part LK2. Therefore, even when the display device ED is repeatedly folded and unfolded by the user, the first connection part LK1 and the second connection part LK2 may be moved to the same position by the wall parts GM1 and GM2.

[0100] Fig. 6A is a plan view showing a display module according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6B It shows that Fig. 6A A plan view showing a state where the display module is folded. Fig. 7A is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7B It shows that Fig. 7A A plan view showing a state where the display module is folded. Fig. 8A is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8B It shows that Fig. 8A A plan view of a display module in a folded state. Figures 1 to 4B Describes components that are the same or similar FIG. 6A to FIG. 8B The components in will be referred to by the same reference numerals, and any repeated detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0101] Reference Fig. 6A and Figure 6B , an embodiment of the display module DM1 may include an elastic part SP1-A or SP1-B disposed on a second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA. One end (e.g., a first end) PM0 of the elastic part SP1-A or SP1-B may be fixed to the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA, and the other end (e.g., a second end) PM1 of the elastic part SP1-A or SP1-B may be connected to the rotating part LP.

[0102] In such an embodiment, the elastic part SP1-A or SP1-B may be a compression spring. The elastic part SP1-A or SP1-B may have a compressive stress in the process of changing from the first state to the second state. In the process of unfolding the first folding part FD1 and the second folding part FD2 by the user, the first connecting part LK1 may be easily returned to the position overlapping with the second hinge part HG2 by the restoring force R of the elastic part SP1-A or SP1-B.

[0103] In order to show different states of the display module DM1, Fig. 6AThe elastic components SP1-A and Figure 6B The elastic parts SP1-B are indicated by different reference numerals. Fig. 6A The elastic component SP1-A and Figure 6B The elastic component SP1-B corresponds to the same component.

[0104] Reference Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , an alternative embodiment of the display module DM2 may include an elastic member SP2-A or SP2-B disposed on a second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA. One end (e.g., a first end) PM0 of the elastic member SP2-A or SP2-B may be fixed to the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA, and the other end (e.g., a second end) PM1 of the elastic member SP2-A or SP2-B may be connected to the rotating member LP.

[0105] In such an embodiment, the elastic part SP2-A or SP2-B may be a compression spring. The elastic part SP2-A or SP2-B may have a compressive stress in the process of changing from the first state to the second state. In the process of unfolding the first folding part FD1 and the second folding part FD2 by the user, the first connecting part LK1 may be easily returned to the position overlapping with the second hinge part HG2 by the restoring force R of the elastic part SP2-A or SP2-B.

[0106] In order to show different states of the display module DM2, Fig. 7A The elastic components SP2-A and Figure 7B The elastic member SP2-B is indicated by a different reference numeral. Fig. 7A The elastic component SP2-A and Figure 7B The elastic component SP2-B corresponds to the same component.

[0107] Reference Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Another alternative embodiment of the display module DM3 may include an elastic member SP3-A or SP3-B disposed on the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA. One end (e.g., first end) PM2 of the elastic member SP3-A or SP3-B may be connected to the second connection member LK2, and the other end (e.g., second end) PM3 of the elastic member SP3-A or SP3-B may be fixed to the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the first display portion DA1.

[0108] In such an embodiment, the elastic member SP3-A or SP3-B may be a tension spring. The elastic member SP3-A or SP3-B may have a tensile stress in the process of changing from the first state to the second state. In the process of unfolding the first folding portion FD1 and the second folding portion FD2 by the user, the first connecting member LK1 may be easily returned to the position overlapping with the second hinge portion HG2 by the restoring force R of the elastic member SP3-A or SP3-B.

[0109] In such an embodiment, since one end PM2 of the elastic part SP3-A or SP3-B is connected to the second connecting part LK2, and the other end PM3 of the elastic part SP3-A or SP3-B is fixed to the second surface SM-B of the supporting member SM overlapping with the first display portion DA1, the wiring part WR can be omitted.

[0110] In order to show different states of the display module DM3, Fig. 8A The elastic components SP3-A and Figure 8B The elastic member SP3-B is indicated by a different reference numeral. Fig. 8A The elastic component SP3-A and Figure 8B The elastic component SP3-B corresponds to substantially the same component.

[0111] Fig.9A is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9B It shows that Fig.9A A plan view of a display module in a folded state. Figures 1 to 4B The components described are the same Fig.9A and Fig. 9B The components in will be referred to by the same reference numerals, and any repeated detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0112] Reference Fig.9A and Fig. 9B In an alternative embodiment, the guide unit LM-A of the display module DM4 may include a rotating part LP, a first connection part LK1, a second connection part LK2, a wiring part WR, an elastic part SP4-A or SP4-B, a first sub-connection part SL1, and a second sub-connection part SL2.

[0113] The first sub-connection part SL1 may connect the first connection part LK1 and the rotation part LP. The first connection part LK1 and the rotation part LP may be connected to one end (eg, first end) SC1 and the other end (eg, second end) SC2 of the first sub-connection part SL1, respectively.

[0114] The second sub-connection part SL2 may connect the second connection part LK2 and the rotating part LP. The rotating part LP and the second connection part LK2 may be connected to one end (e.g., the first end) SC3 and the other end (e.g., the second end) SC4 of the second sub-connection part SL2, respectively. The first sub-connection part SL1 and the second sub-connection part SL2 may move smoothly during the change between the first state and the second state.

[0115] In order to show different states of the display module DM4, Fig.9A The elastic component SP4-A and Fig. 9B The elastic member SP4-B is indicated by a different reference numeral. Fig.9A The elastic component SP4-A and Fig. 9B The elastic component SP4-B corresponds to the same component.

[0116] Fig.10 is a plan view showing a display module according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 1 to 4B , Fig.9A and Fig. 9B The same components as those described will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0117] Another alternative embodiment of the display module DM5 may include an elastic part SP-T disposed between the rotating part LP and the second surface SM-B of the support member SM overlapping the central portion CA.

[0118] In such an embodiment, the elastic part SP-T may be a torsion spring. The elastic part SP-T may have stress in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the elastic part SP-T during the process of changing from the first state to the second state. During the process of unfolding the first folding part FD1 and the second folding part FD2 by the user, the first connection part LK1 may be easily returned to a position overlapping with the second hinge part HG2 by the torque of the elastic part SP-T.

[0119] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a guide unit may be provided below a display module including a plurality of folding parts, and thus, a folding order of the folding parts may be determined. In such an embodiment, a folding operation of a folding part having a relatively small radius of curvature may be performed before a folding operation of a folding part having a relatively large radius of curvature, and thus, interference between the folding parts may be reduced to improve the reliability of the display device.

[0120] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are not restrictive but illustrative. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure will be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the present disclosure and should not be limited or defined by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A display device, wherein: The display device comprises: A display module, comprising: a display panel including a front surface and a rear surface opposite to the front surface; and a support member including a first surface facing the rear surface of the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a guide unit disposed on the second surface of the support member, The display module includes: a first folding portion, which can be folded at a curvature radius; a second folding portion, which is spaced apart from the first folding portion and can be folded at a curvature radius equal to or greater than the curvature radius of the first folding portion; a central portion, which is arranged between the first folding portion and the second folding portion; a first display portion, which is spaced apart from the central portion, and the first folding portion is between the first display portion and the central portion; and a second display portion, which is spaced apart from the central portion, and the second folding portion is between the second display portion and the central portion. Wherein, the guiding unit comprises: a rotating member overlapping the central portion; a first connecting member connected to the rotating member; a second connecting member spaced apart from the first connecting member and connected to the rotating member; a wiring member including a first end fixed to the first display portion and a second end fixed to the second connection member; and an elastic member including a first end fixed to the second surface of the supporting member and a second end fixed to at least one member selected from the rotating member, the first connecting member, and the second connecting member, wherein the first folding portion is foldable about a first imaginary folding axis extending in a predetermined direction, In a first state in which the first folded portion is unfolded, the first connecting member overlaps the second folded portion, and In a second state in which the first folded portion is folded about the first imaginary folding axis, the first connecting member is spaced apart from the second folded portion.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The second folding portion is foldable about a second imaginary folding axis extending in the predetermined direction, and In the second state, the display module is folded inwardly in such a manner that the second surface of the support member overlapping the first display portion overlaps the front surface of the display panel overlapping the second display portion.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The second folding portion is foldable about a second imaginary folding axis extending in the predetermined direction, and In the second state, the display module is folded outward in such a manner that the second surface of the support member overlapping the central portion overlaps the second surface of the support member overlapping the second display portion.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first end of the elastic member is fixed to the second surface of the supporting member overlapping the second display portion, and The second end of the elastic member is fixed to the first connecting member.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first end of the elastic member is fixed to the second surface of the supporting member overlapping the central portion, and The second end of the elastic member is fixed to the rotating member.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first end of the elastic member is fixed to the second surface of the supporting member overlapping the first display portion, and The second end of the elastic member is fixed to the second connecting member.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The guiding unit further comprises: a first sub-connecting member connected to the first connecting member and the rotating member; and A second sub-connecting component is connected to the second connecting component and the rotating component.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The guiding unit further comprises: The wall member guides the moving directions of the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The elastic component includes a compression spring, a tension spring or a torsion spring.

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