Display device with high screen-to-body ratio

Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment includes a display panel and a window coupled to the display panel. The display panel includes: a main panel area including a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first sub-panel area contacting and bending the first side; and a second sub-panel area contacting and bending the second side, wherein edges of corners of the main panel area adjacent to the first sub-panel area and the second sub-panel area are rounded.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device. Background Art

[0002] Display devices such as organic light emitting diode displays and liquid crystal displays include a display panel on which a screen is positioned. Images are displayed on the screen. The display panel is manufactured by forming several layers and elements on a substrate.

[0003] Glass is used as a substrate for display panels. However, the glass substrate has the disadvantages of being heavy and fragile. In addition, because the glass substrate is rigid, it is difficult to bend the display panel. In recent years, flexible display panels using flexible substrates that are lightweight, impact-resistant, and easy to bend and straighten back have been developed.

[0004] The display panel may have a display area in which most of the area forms a screen. However, a specific area (e.g., an edge area) of the display panel may be a non-display area in which a drive circuit, a signal line, etc. are disposed. Generally, the non-display area of ​​the display panel is a limiting factor in increasing the screen-to-body ratio of the display device. Summary of the invention

[0005] A display device having an increased screen-to-body ratio is disclosed.

[0006] The display device according to the embodiment includes a display panel and a window stacked with the display panel. The display panel may include: a main panel area including a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first sub-panel area contacting and bending the first side; and a second sub-panel area contacting and bending the second side. Panel corners of the main panel area adjacent to the first sub-panel area and the second sub-panel area are rounded.

[0007] In a plan view, a panel corner of the main panel area may be spaced apart from an intersection of an extension line of the first side in the first direction and an extension line of the second side in the second direction.

[0008] In a plan view, corners of the display panel including panel corners of the main panel area may be rounded.

[0009] Each of the main panel area, the first sub-panel area and the second sub-panel area may include a display area and a non-display area. In a plan view, the non-display area of ​​the first sub-panel area, the non-display area of ​​the main panel area and the non-display area of ​​the second sub-panel area may form a curve without an inflection point in the corner of the display panel.

[0010] The window may include: a main window area including a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction; a first sub-window area contacting the first side of the main window area; and a second sub-window area contacting the second side of the main window area. In a plan view, a window corner of the main window area adjacent to the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area may be rounded.

[0011] In a plan view, a corner of the main window area may be spaced apart from an intersection of an extension line of the first side of the main window area in the first direction and an extension line of the second side of the main window area in the second direction.

[0012] The main window area may form a plane, and each of the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area may be curved.

[0013] In plan view, corners of the window including window corners of the main window area may be rounded.

[0014] The window, the display panel, or both the window and the display panel may include a light blocking member at a position corresponding to the non-display area of ​​the main panel area.

[0015] The first side and the second side of the main window area may overlap the first side and the second side of the main panel area, respectively.

[0016] The main panel region may further include a third side extending in the first direction and a fourth side extending in the second direction. The display panel may further include a third sub-panel region contacting and bending the third side and a fourth sub-panel region contacting and bending the fourth side.

[0017] At least one of the first to fourth sub-panel regions may include a bent first portion and a second portion forming a plane.

[0018] The display device according to the embodiment includes a display panel and a window stacked with the display panel. The window includes: a main window area including a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first sub-window area contacting and bending with the first side; and a second sub-window area contacting and bending with the second side. The window corners of the main window area adjacent to the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area can be separated from the intersection of the extension line of the first side in the first direction and the extension line of the second side in the second direction.

[0019] In plan view, the window corners of the main window area can be rounded.

[0020] Each of the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area may include a curved surface.

[0021] In plan view, the edges of corners of the window including window corners of the main window area may be rounded.

[0022] The display device may further include a housing coupled to the window. When viewed from the front of the display device, the housing may contact an edge of a corner of the window.

[0023] The display panel may include a main panel area, a first sub-panel area contacting a first side of the main panel area, and a second sub-panel area contacting a second side of the main panel area. A panel corner of the main panel area adjacent to the first sub-panel area and the second sub-panel area may not overlap with an intersection of the first side and the second side of the main panel area.

[0024] In a plan view, edges of corners of the display panel including panel corners of the main panel area may be rounded.

[0025] The display panel according to the embodiment includes: a main panel region including a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first sub-panel region contacting the first side and bending around a bending axis parallel to the first side; and a second sub-panel region contacting the second side and bending around a bending axis parallel to the second side. In the display panel, panel corners adjacent to the first side and the second side may be formed as a curve or a straight line before the bending of the first sub-panel region and the second sub-panel region, and may be formed as a curve after the bending of the first sub-panel region and the second sub-panel region.

[0026] According to the embodiment, a display device having almost no frame and a screen-to-body ratio close to 100% can be provided. In addition, the frame can be reduced regardless of the curvature of the curved area. In addition, the edges of the corners of the display device and the corners of the screen are formed into smooth curves, which can increase the design sensitivity of the display device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 is a plan view of a window built in a display device, a display panel, and the display device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of a corner of the display device shown in FIG.

[0029] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III'.

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

[0031] Figure 5 is a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the portion corresponding to line III-III'.

[0032] Figure 6 is a plan view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of a corner of the display device shown in FIG.

[0034] Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII'.

[0035] Fig. 9 is a plan view of a window configuring a display device, a display panel, and a display device according to an embodiment.

[0036] Fig.10 is a plan view of a window configuring a display device, a display panel, and a display device according to an embodiment.

[0037] Fig.11 is a plan view of a window configuring a display device, a display panel, and a display device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Fig.12 It is for Fig.11 An enlarged view of the lower area of ​​the display panel before bending and a cross-sectional view after bending.

[0039] Fig.13 is a plan view of a window configuring a display device, a display panel, and a display device according to an embodiment.

[0040] Fig.14 It is for Fig.13 An enlarged view of the lower area of ​​the display panel before bending and a cross-sectional view after bending.

[0041] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The inventive concept will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the inventive concept are shown. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the described embodiments may be modified in various different ways, all without departing from the spirit or scope of the inventive concept.

[0043] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. In the drawings, the thickness or size of each layer and region may be exaggerated or reduced to clearly show their arrangement and relative positions.

[0044] It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, film, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on" another element, the element can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0045] In addition, unless explicitly described to the contrary, the word “comprise” and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of stated elements but not the exclusion of any other elements.

[0046] Furthermore, in the specification, the phrase "in a plan view" means when the target portion is viewed from the front of a display window or panel, and the phrase "in a cross-sectional view" means when a section taken by vertically cutting the target portion is viewed from the side.

[0047] Now, a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Figure 1 is a plan view of a window, a display panel, and a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of a corner of the display device shown in FIG. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III', Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV'.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 , a window 10, a display panel 20, and a display device 1 are sequentially shown from the left. The window 10 and the display panel 20 are shown in a state before bending and lamination. The display device 1 includes a window 10 and a display panel 20 laminated (e.g., bonded or attached) to the window 10, and all four edge regions of the window 10 and the display panel 20 are bent. The display device 1 may be an electronic device such as a smart phone, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a multimedia player, or a portable information terminal, or may be a module for such an electronic device. Although not shown, less than all of the four edge regions of the window 10 and the display panel 20 may not be bent in some cases.

[0050] The window 10 is a cover that protects the display panel 20 from external impact. The window 10 provides support to maintain the curved state of the display panel 20. The window 10 is made of a transparent and hard material such as glass or plastic in order to view an image displayed on the screen of the display panel 20. For example, the bending of the window 10 may be performed by thermoforming a glass plate or a plastic plate.

[0051] The display panel 20 may be a light-emitting display panel including a light-emitting element. At least a portion of the display panel 20 may be flexible. The display panel 20 includes a display area corresponding to a screen on which an image is mainly displayed and a non-display area NA on which an image is not displayed. Pixels are arranged in the display area, and an image is displayed by a combination of pixels. In the display area, signal lines for transmitting signals to drive pixels are arranged. For example, a data signal line for transmitting a data signal may extend in a first direction D1, and a scan signal line for transmitting a scan signal may extend in a second direction D2. Each pixel includes a transistor connected to a data signal line and a scan signal line, thereby receiving a data signal for controlling the brightness of the pixel at a predetermined timing.

[0052] The non-display area NA may be positioned near the edge of the display panel 20 and may be arranged to surround the display area. The non-display area NA is an area in which circuits and / or wirings for generating and / or transmitting various signals applied to the display area are arranged. In the non-display area NA, a pad portion including a pad (or "pad") for receiving a signal from the display panel 20 or outputting a signal to the outside of the display panel 20 may be arranged. For example, the pad portion may be arranged in the non-display area NA at the upper edge or the lower edge of the display panel 20, and a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) may be attached to the pad portion.

[0053] In the display device 1, the window 10 and the display panel 20 are bent and stacked. For the stacking of the window 10 and the display panel 20, an adhesive such as an optically transparent adhesive may be used. Therefore, an adhesive layer may be provided between the window 10 and the display panel 20. The display panel 20 is stacked with the window 10 so that the surface on which the screen is viewed faces the window 10.

[0054] Before bending and laminating, the window 10 has a rectangular shape with corners cut off. When the shape of the window 10 is divided into a plurality of regions, the window 10 includes a main window region 110 and a first sub-window region 121, a second sub-window region 122, a third sub-window region 123, and a fourth sub-window region 124 arranged to contact the main window region 110.

[0055] The main window area 110 is approximately rectangular and includes four sides 111 to 114. The window edges WE of the four window corners WC of the main window area 110 are formed smoothly. The first side 111 and the third side 113 extend in the first direction D1, and the second side 112 and the fourth side 114 extend in the second direction D2. The first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 are areas bent with a predetermined curvature relative to the main window area 110. The first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110 become reference lines for bending the first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 relative to the main window area 110. The first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110 are the bending starting lines of the first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124, and are referred to as bending lines hereinafter. In the main window area 110, in addition to the approximate rectangle in which the edges of the corners are rounded, the main window area 110 can be an approximate polygon in which the corners are rounded.

[0056] Before bending and lamination, the display panel 20 has a rectangular shape with corners cut off. When the shape of the display panel 20 is divided into a plurality of regions, the display panel 20 includes a main panel region 210 and a first sub-panel region 221, a second sub-panel region 222, a third sub-panel region 223, and a fourth sub-panel region 224 disposed in contact with the main panel region 210.

[0057] The main panel area 210 is approximately rectangular and includes four sides 211 to 214. The panel edges PE of the four panel corners PC of the main panel area 210 are formed smoothly. The first side 211 and the third side 213 extend in the first direction D1, and the second side 212 and the fourth side 214 extend in the second direction D2. The first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 are areas bent with a predetermined curvature relative to the main panel area 210. The first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210 become reference lines for bending the first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 relative to the main panel area 210. The first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210 are bending start lines of the first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224, and are hereinafter referred to as bending lines. In the main panel area 210, in addition to the approximately rectangular shape in which the edges of the corners are rounded, the main panel area 210 can be an approximately polygonal shape in which the corners are rounded.

[0058] The window 10 and the display panel 20 may have substantially the same shape and size. The window 10 may be slightly larger than the display panel 20 as a whole or in a specific area. After the first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 of the window 10 are bent, the display panel 20 may be stacked to the window 10. During the stacking of the display panel 20, the first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 of the display panel 20 may be bent. Alternatively, the display panel 20 may be stacked to the window 10 in a state in which the first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 are bent.

[0059] Reference Figures 1 to 4 When the window 10 and the display panel 20 are stacked, the first to fourth sub-window regions 121 to 124 of the window 10 and the first to fourth sub-panel regions 221 to 224 of the display panel 20 are bent. The first sub-window region 121 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the first side 111, the second sub-window region 122 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the second side 112, the third sub-window region 123 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the third side 113, and the fourth sub-window region 124 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the fourth side 114. The first sub-panel region 221 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the first side 211, the second sub-panel region 222 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the second side 212, the third sub-panel region 223 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the third side 213, and the fourth sub-panel region 224 is bent around a bending axis parallel to the fourth side 214.

[0060] The bending axis of the first sub-window area 121 and the bending axis of the first sub-panel area 221 may be the same. The bending axis of the second sub-window area 122 and the bending axis of the second sub-panel area 222 may be the same. The bending axis of the third sub-window area 123 and the bending axis of the third sub-panel area 223 may be the same. The bending axis of the fourth sub-window area 124 and the bending axis of the fourth sub-panel area 224 may be the same. The first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110 may overlap with the first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210, and they may match in a plan view.

[0061] In the window 10, relative to the boundary from the first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110, the inner main window area 110 is an uncurved plane surface, and the outer first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 are curved curved surfaces. Similarly, in the display panel 20, relative to the boundary from the first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210, the inner main panel area 210 is an uncurved plane surface, and the outer first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 are curved curved surfaces. The width d of the first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 after bending is narrower than the width c of the first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 before bending. For example, the width d can be about 1 / 5 to about 4 / 5, about 1 / 4 to about 3 / 4, or about 1 / 3 to about 2 / 3 of the width c.

[0062] In the first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224, for example, Figure 4 As shown in , the non-display area NA positioned at each edge of the sub-panel areas 221 to 224 may be curved so as to be invisible or almost invisible from the front of the display device 1. However, since the main panel area 210 is not curved, the non-display area NA positioned at the edge portion of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 may be visible from the front.

[0063] Similar to the present embodiment, if the display panel 20 and the window 10 protecting the display panel 20 and the first to fourth sub-window areas 121 to 124 and the first to fourth sub-panel areas 221 to 224 are bent, the non-display area NA of the display panel 20 is shown only in a specific area in the plan view of the display device 1. That is, the non-display area NA can be seen in the edge portions of the four panel corners PC of the main panel area 210 of the display panel 20 and the edge portions of the first to fourth sub-panel areas 221 to 224 adjacent thereto, and in the remaining area, the non-display area NA may not be visible or may be almost invisible. Therefore, when the display device 1 is viewed from the front, the screen may occupy most of the visible area, and the screen-to-body ratio (screen-to-surface ratio) of the display device 1 may be increased.

[0064] The display device 1 may include a light blocking member disposed at an area corresponding to the non-display area NA of the display panel 20, and the light blocking member may be disposed at the window 10 and / or the display panel 20. As described above, elements such as circuits, wirings, and pads may be disposed in the non-display area NA. The light blocking member is used to prevent the elements of the non-display area NA from being visible, or to prevent external light (i.e., light incident from the outside to the display device 1) from being reflected. The light blocking member may be disposed between the display panel 20 and the window 10, or may be disposed inside the display panel 20. The light blocking member may be referred to as a black matrix, a printed layer, etc.

[0065] The window edge WE of the window corner WC of the main window area 110 is formed smoothly. The panel edge PE of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 is also formed smoothly. The window edge WE of the window corner WC of the main window area 110 can match the panel edge PE of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210. On the contrary, the window corner WC is formed to be larger than the panel corner PC, so that the window edge WE can be set to be farther away from the center of the display device 1 than the panel edge PE.

[0066] Since the edge of the corner of the screen corresponding to the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 is smoothly formed, the user can see the image displayed on the screen more comfortably, and the design sensitivity of the display device 1 is increased.

[0067] Each panel corner PC of the main panel region 210 may not overlap with a cross point (or intersection point) CP of extension lines of adjacent sides from the first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel region 210. Figure 2 The extension line of the first side 211 and the extension line of the second side 212 are shown together. Figure 2 , the panel corner PC between the first side 211 and the second side 212 of the main panel area 210 does not overlap with the intersection CP of the extension line of the first side 211 in the first direction D1 and the extension line of the second side 212 in the second direction D2, and is separated (or separated) from the intersection CP. When the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 is formed in this way, the bending of the first sub-panel area 221 and the second sub-panel area 222 bent around different bending axes does not affect the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210. Therefore, stress of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 can be prevented, and damage to the circuits, wirings, pixels, etc. provided on the panel corner PC can be prevented.

[0068] The stack of the display panel 20 and the window 10 is coupled to the housing 30. The housing 30 is a frame for accommodating and fixing the stack of the display panel 20 and the window 10, and may be made of materials such as metal and plastic. When the display device 1 is a mobile electronic device such as a smart phone, a controller, a memory, a communication module, a camera, an audio input and output device, a circuit board, a battery, etc. may be provided inside the housing 30, or may be combined with the housing 30. On the back side of the display device 1, a cover 40 may be coupled to the housing 30, and functional sheets such as waterproof tapes 51 and 52 may be provided between the display panel 20 and the housing 30 and / or between the cover 40 and the housing 30.

[0069] In the plan view (such as Figure 2), the housing 30 may be invisible or almost invisible in areas other than the four corners of the display device 1. This is because the housing 30 is covered by the first to fourth sub-window areas 121 to 124 of the window 10 in such areas. However, in the corners of the display device 1, the housing 30 is disposed in the space between the adjacent first to fourth sub-window areas 121 to 124, so that the edges of the corners of the display device 1 can be formed smooth and rounded as a whole.

[0070] The width a of the housing 30 viewed from the corner of the display device 1 may be the same as or almost the same as the width d of the first to fourth sub-window regions 121 to 124 after bending. Figure 3 ) together with the width b of the non-display area NA near the edge of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210, become the bezel of the display device 1. In this specification, the bezel may refer to an area that is arranged outside the screen in the plan view of the display device 1 and does not constitute the screen, and may be referred to as a dead space. Therefore, there is little or no bezel in areas other than the corners of the display device 1, however, in the corners of the display device 1, for example, as shown, there may be a bezel having a width corresponding to the sum of the width b of the non-display area NA and the width a of the housing 30 and a shape that is approximately an eyebrow shape or a donut cut into quarters.

[0071] Reference Figure 5 , shows an example of a structure of a corner portion of the display device 1 that is different from the above-described embodiment. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the corner of the display device 1, the housing 30 is disposed in the space between the adjacent first sub-window area 121 and the second sub-window area 122, and the housing 30 is exposed at the front. Figure 5 In the embodiment of the embodiment, the window 10 is formed to cover the housing 30 in the corresponding area. Therefore, in the plan view of the display device 1, the corner of the display device 1 is covered by the window 10, and the boundary of the display device 1 and the boundary of the window 10 may coincide or almost coincide. Even if the window 10 is formed in this way, the display area of ​​the display panel 20 is not positioned in the corner of the display device 1, so the corresponding area is still a frame. However, in the plan view of the display device 1, since all surfaces are covered by the window 10, a smoother front surface can be formed.

[0072] So far, an embodiment has been described in which there is little or no frame in an area other than the corners of the display device 1. Hereinafter, an embodiment is described in which there is almost no frame at the corners of the display device 1. In order to avoid complexity of the description, descriptions of configurations and features that are the same as those of the above-described embodiment are simplified or omitted.

[0073] Figure 6is a plan view of a display device according to an embodiment, Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of a corner of the display device shown in FIG. Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII'.

[0074] Reference Figures 6 to 8 , the display device 1 includes a curved and stacked window 10 , a display panel 20 , and a housing 30 .

[0075] The window 10 includes a main window area 110 and first to fourth sub-window areas 121 to 124, and the first to fourth sub-window areas 121 to 124 are arranged to be in contact with the first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110 respectively and to bend with a predetermined curvature. The first side 111 and the third side 113 of the main window area 110 extend in the first direction D1, and the second side 112 and the fourth side 114 extend in the second direction D2. The first side 111 to the fourth side 114 are the bending lines of the first to fourth sub-window areas 121 to 124. The window edge WE of the window corner WC in the main window area 110 is smoothly formed with a predetermined curvature.

[0076] The display panel 20 includes a main panel area 210 and first to fourth sub-panel areas 221 to 224, and the first to fourth sub-panel areas 221 to 224 are arranged to be in contact with the first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210 respectively and to bend with a predetermined curvature. The first side 211 and the third side 213 of the main panel area 210 extend in the first direction D1, and the second side 212 and the fourth side 214 extend in the second direction D2. The first side 211 to the fourth side 214 are bending lines of the first to fourth sub-panel areas 221 to 224. The panel edges PE of the four panel corners PC of the main panel area 210 are smoothly formed with a predetermined curvature.

[0077] The window 10 and the display panel 20 may have substantially the same shape and size. The window edge WE of the window corner WC of the main window area 110 may match the panel edge PE of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210. Although not explicitly shown, the window edge WE of the window corner WC of the main window area 110 may be slightly larger than the panel edge PE of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210. The first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110 may overlap with the first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210, and they are flush in a plan view.

[0078] In the window 10, relative to the boundary of the first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110, the inner main window area 110 is an uncurved plane surface, and the outer first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 are curved surfaces curved based on a curvature axis parallel to the first side 111 to the fourth side 114. Similarly, when the display panel 20 is adjacent to the first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210, the inner main panel area 210 is an uncurved plane, and the outer first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 are curved surfaces curved around a curvature axis parallel to the first side 211 to the fourth side 214.

[0079] The first to fourth sub-window regions 121 to 124 may be generally curved, but portions adjacent to the first to fourth sides 111 to 114 may be curved surfaces, and portions away from the first to fourth sides 111 to 114 may be planar surfaces. The first to fourth sub-panel regions 221 to 224 may be completely curved, but portions adjacent to the first to fourth sides 211 to 214 may be curved surfaces, and portions away from the first to fourth sides 211 to 214 may be planar surfaces.

[0080] Because the first to fourth sub-panel regions 221 to 224 of the display panel 20 are curved, the non-display region NA disposed on the edge of the display panel 20 is not visible or is almost not visible from the front of the display device 1. In a plan view, in a corner of the display device 1, an edge of one corner of the main panel region 210 and an edge of an adjacent sub-panel region among the first to fourth sub-panel regions 221 to 224 form a single curve without an inflection point. In addition, the non-display region NA disposed on the edge of one corner of the main panel region 210 and the non-display region NA disposed on the edge of an adjacent sub-panel region among the first to fourth sub-panel regions 221 to 224 form a curve without an inflection point. For example, referring to Figure 7 , the panel edge PE of the upper left panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 and the edges of the first sub-panel area 221 and the second sub-panel area 222 adjacent thereto form a curve C. Therefore, the edge of the corner of the display device 1 is formed smoothly. In addition, the non-display area NA forms a curve of a predetermined width b on the panel edge PE of the upper left panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 and the edges of the first sub-panel area 221 and the second sub-panel area 222 adjacent thereto.

[0081] exist Figure 1In the embodiment of the display device 1, in the corners, the edges of the display panel 20 are not connected by a curve, but are connected by a straight line, a curve (or an arc) and a straight line. The screen of the display panel 20 limited by these edges is not smooth in the corners and has a slight sense of incongruity. In the present embodiment, the edge is connected to a curve in the corners of the display panel 20, and the edges of the corners of the screen of the display panel 20 are formed smoothly. Therefore, the image displayed on the screen can be viewed comfortably rather than uncomfortably, and the design sensitivity of the display device 1 can also be increased.

[0082] At the corner of the display device 1, a portion of the housing 30 of the laminate of the fixed window 10 and the display panel 20 can be seen from the front of the display device 1. However, in the present embodiment, there is no space between the adjacent first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124, so there is no need for the housing 30 to fill the space. Since the first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 form smooth and rounded edges in the corner of the display device 1, there is no need to thicken the width a of the housing 30 visible from the front, and it can be formed to have the minimum width required for combination with the window 10, for example, almost less than 0.5mm or less than 0.3mm. Therefore, even if the frame exists in the four corners of the display device 1, the width of the frame (approximately a+b) can be significantly reduced (for example, less than about 2mm, less than about 1.5mm or less than about 1mm), and the screen ratio of the display device 1 can be increased to nearly 100%. A portion of the housing 30 constituting the frame may be in close contact with a corner of the window 10 , and may be formed to be as rounded as the rounded edge of the corner of the window 10 in a plan view.

[0083] On the other hand, the housing 30 may not be visible from the front, and only the non-display area NA of the display panel 20 or a region of the window 10 covering the non-display area NA of the display panel 20 may be designed as a bezel.

[0084] Figure 7 The intersection CP where the extensions of two adjacent sides from the first side 211 to the fourth side 214 of the main panel area 210 meet each other is shown. None of the panel corners PC of the main panel area 210 coincides with the intersection CP. Figure 7, if the first side 211 and the second side 212 of the main panel area 210 extend in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2, respectively, the panel corner PC between the first side 211 and the second side 212 of the main panel area 210 does not coincide with the intersection CP where the first side 211 will meet the second side 212. In other words, the panel corner PC is separated from the intersection CP. The distance between the edge of the panel corner PC and the intersection CP may vary depending on the shape of the corner PC, but is greater than zero (0). When the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 is formed in this manner, the bending of the first sub-panel area 221 and the second sub-panel area 222 bent around different bending axes does not affect the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210. Therefore, stress on the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 can be prevented, and damage to the circuits, wiring, pixels, etc. set on the panel corner PC can be prevented. In addition, since the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 can be formed regardless of the bending curvature of the first sub-panel area 221 and the second sub-panel area 222, the design freedom of the panel corner PC is increased. This description uses the upper left panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 as an example, but the configuration is applicable to one or more of the upper right corner, lower left corner, and lower right corner of the main panel area 210.

[0085] In some embodiments, similar to the main panel area 210, each window corner WC of the main window area 110 may not coincide with the intersection CP, and the adjacent sides of the first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window area 110 will meet at the intersection CP if extended. However, in other embodiments, the window 10 may include an area overlapping the intersection CP of the extension line of the adjacent sides. Unlike the display panel 20, the window 10 does not include elements such as circuits, wiring, and pads, so even if biaxial bending occurs at the intersection CP, there is no risk of damage to these elements because the window 10 can be three-dimensionally molded near the intersection CP.

[0086] The housing 30 may or may not coincide with a crossing point CP of extension lines of adjacent sides from among the first side 111 to the fourth side 114 of the main window region 110 . Figure 7 The case where the housing 30 coincides with the intersection point CP is depicted.

[0087] As described above, a display device 1 can be formed, the edges of the corners of the display device 1 are rounded and there is almost no frame. Figures 9 to 14 Examples of different shapes of the window 10 and the display panel 20 before bending are described.

[0088] Fig. 9 is a plan view of a window built in a display device, a display panel, and the display device according to an embodiment.

[0089] Reference Fig. 9 In a state where the window 10 and the display panel 20 are stacked, the display device 1 is approximately rectangular in a plan view, but the edges of the corners are rounded. The housing that can be combined with the stack of the display panel 20 and the window 10 may not be visible from the front, and if the window 10 and the display panel 20 have the same size, only the non-display area NA of the display panel 20 exists as a frame in the corners of the display device 1.

[0090] The window 10 and the display panel 20 are approximately rectangular as a whole before being bent and stacked, but the edges of the corners are rounded. For example, the window edge WE of a window corner WC of the main window area 110 and the edges of the first sub-window area 121 and the second sub-window area 122 adjacent thereto form a curve (or arc) without an inflection point. In addition, the panel edge PE of a panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 and the edges of the first sub-panel area 221 and the second sub-panel area 222 adjacent thereto form a curve (or arc) without an inflection point. The window edge WE of the window corner WC of the main window area 110 is rounded, and the panel edge PE of the panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 is also rounded. The window 10 and the display panel 20 may have the same shape and size. The window 10 may be slightly larger than the display panel 20.

[0091] Since the edges of the corners of the display panel 20 are rounded, even if the width of the screen of the display panel 20 (the width of the area excluding the non-display area NA in the display panel 20 in the second direction D2) changes toward the first direction D1, it gradually decreases or increases without changing rapidly. Figure 1 As shown in the embodiment of , if the width of the screen changes rapidly in the corner of the display panel 20, the load of the signal (e.g., scan signal, light control signal, etc.) applied to the pixel changes rapidly in the area where the width changes rapidly, so that spots appear in the image displayed on the screen. That is, a brightness difference will appear in the area before and after the boundary of the line where the width of the screen changes rapidly, and the brightness difference will be recognized as a spot. According to the present embodiment, since the width of the screen can be gradually changed to correspond to the shape of the display panel 20, even if a brightness difference occurs in the area where the width of the screen changes, the brightness difference is gentle, so that it is not recognized as a spot. Therefore, a display device 1 can be provided in which the display is not degraded while minimizing the frame.

[0092] Fig.10 is a plan view of a window built in a display device, a display panel, and the display device according to an embodiment.

[0093] Reference Fig.10, in the state before bending and lamination, the window 10 and the display panel 20 are the same as the shape remaining after the corners of the rectangle are cut into triangles similar to chamfers, and the overall shape is approximately an octagon. In other words, the window 10 and the display panel 20 are rectangular as a whole, but the four corners are cut obliquely. For example, a window corner WC of the main window area 110 and the edges of the first sub-window area 121 and the second sub-window area 122 adjacent thereto form a straight line. In addition, a panel corner PC of the main panel area 210 and the edges of the first sub-panel area 221 and the second sub-panel area 222 adjacent thereto form a straight line.

[0094] In the main panel area 210, the panel edge PE of the panel corner PC is formed as a straight line, and the first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 may be an equilateral trapezoid. In the main window area 110, the window edge WE of the window corner WC is formed as a straight line, and the first sub-window area 121 to the fourth sub-window area 124 may be an equilateral trapezoid. The window 10 may have the same shape as that of the display panel 20, and may be the same as or slightly larger than the display panel 20.

[0095] Since the edge of the corner of the display panel 20 is formed as an inclined straight line, even if the width of the screen of the display panel 20 changes in the first direction D1, the width does not change rapidly but gradually decreases or increases. Fig. 9 Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1 , even if a brightness difference occurs in a region where the width of the screen changes, the brightness difference gradually increases or decreases so that the brightness difference is not recognized as a spot.

[0096] Even if the edges of the corners of the window 10 and the display panel 20 are straight lines before bending, they appear rounded when viewed from the front after bending. Fig. 9 Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the display device 1 is approximately rectangular, and the edges of the corners can be formed to be smooth. The overall shape and frame of the display device 1 are similar to Fig. 9 The same as described in the embodiment.

[0097] Fig.11 is a plan view of a window built into a display device, a display panel, and a display device according to an embodiment, Fig.12 It is for Fig.11 An enlarged view of the lower area of ​​the display panel before bending and a cross-sectional view after bending. Fig.12 , the cross-sectional view after bending also shows the window.

[0098] Reference Fig.11 and Fig.12In the state before bending and lamination, the window 10 and the display panel 20 have a shape that will remain after the corners of the rectangle are cut off. Fig.10 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first sub-panel area 221 to the fourth sub-panel area 224 are equilateral trapezoids. Fig.11 and Fig.12 In the present embodiment, the first sub-panel region 221 and the third sub-panel region 223 are equilateral trapezoids, and the second sub-panel region 222 and the fourth sub-panel region 224 have a width that can first gradually decrease as the distance from the second side 212 and the fourth side 214 increases and then remain constant. For example, the fourth sub-panel region 224 includes an equilateral trapezoidal first portion 224a and a rectangular second portion 224b. The pad portion can be disposed in the non-display area NA of the second portion 224b. In this way, if the second portion 224b having a constant width is formed, it can be advantageous to, for example, ensure that the pad portion and the signal line connected to the pad portion are disposed in the area.

[0099] After the display panel 20 is bent, the first portion 224a of the fourth sub-panel region 224 may be a curved surface bent about the bending axis BX, and the second portion 224b may be a plane parallel to the third direction D3. Fig.12 In the cross-sectional view of , the curve formed by the first part 224a can be an arc corresponding to about one-quarter of a circle centered on the bending axis BX. Therefore, the screen of the second part 224b can be perpendicular to the screen of the main panel area 210, and the non-display area NA of the second part 224b can be invisible from the front of the display device 1. In addition, in a state where the window 10 and the display panel 20 are stacked, when the display device 1 is viewed from the front, it is approximately rectangular, and the edges of the four corners can be rounded. The housing of the display device 1 is not visible from the front, and if the window 10 and the display panel 20 are the same size, only the non-display area NA of the display panel 20 exists in the corner of the display device 1 as a frame.

[0100] Fig.13 is a plan view of a window built into a display device, a display panel, and a display device according to an embodiment, Fig.14 It is for Fig.13 An enlarged view of the lower area of ​​the display panel before bending and a cross-sectional view after bending. Fig.14 , the cross-sectional view after bending also shows the window.

[0101] In the present embodiment, the widths of the first to fourth sub-panel regions 221 to 224 are gradually reduced away from the first to fourth sides 211 to 214, respectively, and then have a constant shape. For example, the fourth sub-panel region 224 includes an equilateral trapezoidal first portion 224a and a rectangular second portion 224b. All areas of the second portion 224b may be a non-display area NA. If the second portion 224b having a constant width is formed in this way, it may be advantageous, for example, to ensure that an area having a signal line connected to the pad portion is provided. Among the first to fourth sub-panel regions 221 to 224, only the sub-panel region to which the pad portion is connected may have this shape, and the remaining sub-panel regions may have different shapes (e.g., an equilateral trapezoid).

[0102] After the display panel 20 is bent, the first portion 224a of the fourth sub-panel region 224 may be a curved surface bent about the bending axis BX, and the second portion 224b may be a plane parallel to the third direction D3. Fig.14 In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 , the curve formed by the first portion 224a may be an arc corresponding to approximately one quarter of a circle centered on the bending axis BX. Therefore, the non-display area NA of the second portion 224b may not be visible from the front of the display device 1. When the display device 1 is viewed from the front (in a plan view), the overall shape and frame are similar to the Fig. 9 The same as described in the embodiment.

[0103] Below, refer to Fig.15 The cross-sectional structure of the display panel 20 is described in detail.

[0104] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view showing one example of a stacked structure of the display panel 20 according to the embodiment. Fig.15 The cross section shown in FIG. 2 may correspond to approximately one pixel area. The display panel 20 basically includes a substrate SUB, a transistor TR formed on the substrate SUB, and an organic light emitting diode OLED connected to the transistor TR.

[0105] The substrate SUB may be a flexible substrate made of a polymer such as polyimide, polyamide or polyethylene terephthalate. The substrate SUB may include a barrier layer that prevents moisture and oxygen from penetrating from the outside. For example, in the substrate SUB, one or more polymer layers and at least one barrier layer may be alternately stacked.

[0106] The first insulating layer IN1 is disposed on the substrate SUB. The first insulating layer IN1 may be referred to as a buffer layer, and it blocks impurities that may diffuse from the substrate SUB to the semiconductor layer A in a process of forming the semiconductor layer A, and reduces stress received by the substrate SUB. The barrier layer and the first insulating layer IN1 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide and silicon nitride.

[0107] The semiconductor layer A of the transistor TR is disposed on the first insulating layer IN1, and the second insulating layer IN2 is disposed on the semiconductor layer A. The semiconductor layer A includes a source region and a drain region and a channel region between these regions. The semiconductor layer A may include a semiconductor material such as polycrystalline silicon, an oxide semiconductor, or amorphous silicon. The second insulating layer IN2 may be referred to as a gate insulating layer and may include an inorganic insulating material.

[0108] A gate conductor including a gate electrode G of the transistor TR is disposed on the second insulating layer IN2. The gate conductor may include a metal or a metal alloy such as molybdenum (Mo), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), chromium (Cr), tantalum (Ta), and titanium (Ti).

[0109] The third insulating layer IN3 is disposed on the gate conductor. The third insulating layer IN3 may be referred to as an interlayer insulating layer, and may include an inorganic insulating material.

[0110] A data conductor including a source electrode S and a drain electrode D of the transistor TR is disposed on the third insulating layer IN3. The source electrode S and the drain electrode D are connected to a source region and a drain region of the semiconductor layer A through contact holes formed in the third insulating layer IN3 and the second insulating layer IN2, respectively. For example, the data conductor may include a metal or a metal alloy such as aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), tantalum (Ta), tungsten (W), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), and others.

[0111] The fourth insulating layer IN4 is disposed on the data conductor. The fourth insulating layer IN4 may be referred to as a passivation layer, a planarization layer, etc., and may include an organic insulating material.

[0112] The pixel electrode P is disposed on the fourth insulating layer IN4 . The pixel electrode P is connected to the drain electrode D through a contact hole formed in the fourth insulating layer IN4 to receive a data signal for controlling the brightness of the organic light emitting diode OLED.

[0113] The fifth insulating layer IN5 is disposed on the fourth insulating layer IN4. The fifth insulating layer IN5 may be referred to as a pixel defining layer and has an opening overlapping the pixel electrode P. The emission layer EL is disposed above the pixel electrode P in the opening of the fifth insulating layer IN5, and the common electrode CE is positioned above the emission layer EL. The pixel electrode P, the emission layer EL, and the common electrode CE together constitute an organic light emitting diode OLED. The pixel electrode P may be an anode of the organic light emitting diode OLED, and the common electrode CE may be a cathode of the organic light emitting diode OLED. The common electrode CE may have light transmittance by forming a thin layer of a metal with a low work function, such as calcium (Ca), barium (Ba), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), and silver (Ag). The common electrode CE may be formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO or IZO.

[0114] The encapsulation layer EC is disposed on the common electrode CE. The encapsulation layer EC encapsulates the organic light emitting diode OLED to prevent moisture or oxygen from entering from the outside. The encapsulation layer EC may be a thin film encapsulation layer in which an inorganic material layer and / or an organic material layer is stacked.

[0115] The touch sensor layer TS may be disposed on the encapsulation layer EC. The touch sensor layer TS may include a touch electrode formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO or IZO, a metal mesh, etc. The touch electrode may be formed in a single layer or multiple layers.

[0116] An anti-reflection layer AR for reducing reflection of external light may be positioned on the touch sensor layer TS. The anti-reflection layer AR may include a polarization layer. On the anti-reflection layer AR, a protective layer may be disposed to protect the display panel 20.

[0117] A protective layer PF and / or a functional sheet FS for protecting the display panel 20 may be disposed under the substrate SUB. The functional sheet FS may include a light shielding sheet, a heating sheet, a waterproof tape, a buffer tape, and the like.

[0118] Although the case where the display panel 20 is an organic light emitting panel has been described as an example, the display panel may be various display panels such as a display panel including a light emitting diode (LED) and a display panel including a liquid crystal layer, for example.

[0119] While the inventive concept has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be practical embodiments, it will be understood that the inventive concept is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A display panel and a window stacked with the display panel, The display panel includes: a main panel area including a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first sub-panel area contacting and bending the first side; and a second sub-panel area contacting and bending the second side. wherein the panel corners of the main panel area adjacent to the first sub-panel area and the second sub-panel area are rounded, wherein the display panel and the window have the same shape, and wherein each of the main panel area, the first sub-panel area and the second sub-panel area includes a display area and a non-display area, and In a plan view, the non-display area of ​​the first sub-panel area, the non-display area of ​​the main panel area, and the non-display area of ​​the second sub-panel area form a curve without an inflection point in a corner of the display panel.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: In a plan view, the panel corner of the main panel area is spaced apart from an intersection of an extension line of the first side in the first direction and an extension line of the second side in the second direction.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: In a plan view, the corners of the display panel include the panel corners of the main panel area and are rounded.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The window comprises: a main window area including a first side extending in the first direction and a second side extending in the second direction; a first sub-window area contacting the first side of the main window area; and a second sub-window area contacting the second side of the main window area, and Window corners of the main window area adjacent to the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area are rounded.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: In a plan view, the window corner of the main window area is spaced apart from an intersection of an extension line of the first side of the main window area in the first direction and an extension line of the second side of the main window area in the second direction.

6. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The main window area forms a plane, and each of the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area is curved.

7. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: In a plan view, corners of the window including the window corners of the main window area are rounded.

8. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The window, the display panel, or the window and the display panel include a light blocking member at a position corresponding to the non-display area of ​​the main panel area.

9. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The first side and the second side of the main window area overlap with the first side and the second side of the main panel area, respectively.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The main panel area further includes a third side extending in the first direction and a fourth side extending in the second direction, and The display panel further includes a third sub-panel region contacting the third side and being bent, and a fourth sub-panel region contacting the fourth side and being bent.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: At least one of the first to fourth sub-panel regions includes a curved first portion and a planar second portion.

12. A display device, comprising: A display panel and a window stacked with the display panel, The window comprises: a main window region, comprising a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first sub-window region, contacting and bending with the first side; and a second sub-window region, contacting and bending with the second side. The window corner of the main window area adjacent to the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area is separated from the intersection of the extension line of the first side in the first direction and the extension line of the second side in the second direction. wherein the display panel and the window have the same shape, and Wherein, in the plan view, the window edge of the window corner of the main window area and the edges of the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area adjacent to the window edge form a curve without an inflection point.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: When viewed from the front of the display device, the window edges at the window corners of the main window area are rounded.

14. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the first sub-window area and the second sub-window area includes a curved surface.

15. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: In a plan view, corners of the window including the window corners of the main window area are rounded.

16. The display device according to claim 15, further comprising: a housing coupled to the window, and In a plan view, the housing contacts an edge of the corner of the window.

17. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: The display panel includes a main panel area, a first sub-panel area contacting a first side of the main panel area, and a second sub-panel area contacting a second side of the main panel area. The panel corners of the main panel area adjacent to the first sub-panel area and the second sub-panel area are separated from the intersection of an extension line of the first side of the main panel area in the first direction and an extension line of the second side in the second direction.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: In a plan view, corners of the display panel including the panel corners of the main panel area are rounded.

19. A display panel, comprising: a main panel region including a first side extending in a first direction and a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first sub-panel region contacting the first side and bent about a bending axis parallel to the first side; as well as a second sub-panel region, contacting the second side and bending about a bending axis parallel to the second side, wherein the panel corners adjacent to the first side and the second side are formed as straight lines before the first sub-panel region and the second sub-panel region are bent, and are formed as curved lines after the first sub-panel region and the second sub-panel region are bent, and Wherein, in a plan view, the panel edge of the panel corner of the main panel region and the edges of the first sub-panel region and the second sub-panel region adjacent to the panel edge form a curve without an inflection point.

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