Foldable display devices

Abstract

The present application relates to a foldable display device. The foldable display device comprises: a foldable display module, comprising a first non-folding portion, a second non-folding portion, and a folding portion arranged between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion; a first supporting member arranged on the first non-folding portion to support the first non-folding portion; a second supporting member arranged on the second non-folding portion to support the second non-folding portion; and a third member rotatably connected to the first supporting member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary implementations of the present invention relate generally to display devices, and more particularly, to foldable display devices. Background Art

[0002] A display device can display an image to provide information to a user. Recently, a flexible display device that can be deformed into various shapes has been developed. Unlike a flat display device, a flexible display device can be foldable, rollable, or bendable like a piece of paper. A flexible display device can be easily carried and can improve user convenience.

[0003] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for understanding the background of the present inventive concept and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the invention

[0004] Applicants recognize that undesirable deformations due to restoring forces may occur in the flexible portion of a foldable display device. A foldable display device and method of operating the same constructed in accordance with the principles and exemplary implementations of the present invention can prevent the foldable display module from deforming into an undesirable configuration. For example, a plate can rotatably support a display surface of a display device in various folded and unfolded configurations to prevent deformation of the folding portion in certain configurations.

[0005] Additional features of the inventive concept will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concept.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a foldable display device includes: a foldable display module, including a first non-folding portion, a second non-folding portion, and a folding portion arranged between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion; a first supporting member, arranged on the first non-folding portion, supporting the first non-folding portion; a second supporting member, arranged on the second non-folding portion, supporting the second non-folding portion; and a third member, rotatably connected to the first supporting member.

[0007] The first support member may include a first plate, the second support member may include a second plate, the third member may include a first rotatable plate, and the first rotatable plate may be substantially parallel to the first plate in an expanded mode in which the fold is unfolded.

[0008] In the deployed mode, the first rotatable plate may support the fold.

[0009] The first supporting member may include a first plate, the second supporting member may include a second plate, the third member may include a first rotatable plate, and in an outer folding mode when the folding portion is folded so that the non-display surface of the first non-folding portion and the non-display surface of the second non-folding portion face each other, the first rotatable plate may be substantially non-parallel to the first plate.

[0010] In the folded-out mode, the first rotatable plate may be substantially perpendicular to the first plate.

[0011] In the outer folding mode, the first rotatable plate may not support a substantial portion of the folding portion.

[0012] The first supporting member may include a first plate, the second supporting member may include a second plate, the third member may include a first rotatable plate, and in an inward folding mode when the folding portion is folded so that the display surface of the first non-folding portion and the display surface of the second non-folding portion face each other, the first rotatable plate may be substantially parallel to the first plate.

[0013] In the fold-in mode, the first rotatable plate may support a majority of the folded portion.

[0014] The folded portion may include a first region adjacent to the first non-folded portion and a second region adjacent to the second non-folded portion, and in the inward folding mode, the first region may not be folded and the second region may be folded.

[0015] The first region may comprise a majority of the fold, and in the fold-in mode the first rotatable plate may support the first region of the fold.

[0016] The foldable display module may be capable of being folded in an external folding mode and an inward folding mode, wherein, in the external folding mode, the folding portion is folded around a first folding axis so that the non-display surface of the first non-folding portion and the non-display surface of the second non-folding portion face each other, and in the inward folding mode, the folding portion is folded around a second folding axis so that the display surface of the first non-folding portion and the display surface of the second non-folding portion can face each other.

[0017] The radius of curvature of the folded portion in the inward folded mode may be smaller than the radius of curvature of the folded portion in the outward folded mode.

[0018] A longest distance from the first folding axis to the first unfolded portion may be substantially the same as a longest distance from the first folding axis to the second unfolded portion.

[0019] A longest distance from the second folding axis to the first unfolded portion may be greater than a longest distance from the second folding axis to the second unfolded portion.

[0020] The third member may be coupled to the first supporting member through the gear portion.

[0021] The fourth member may be rotatably connected to the second support member.

[0022] In the expanded mode when the fold is not folded, the third member may be generally parallel to the first support member, and the fourth member may be generally parallel to the second support member.

[0023] In the expanded mode, the third member and the fourth member may support the fold.

[0024] In the outer folding mode when the folding portion is folded so that the non-display surface of the first non-folding portion and the non-display surface of the second non-folding portion face each other, the third member may be approximately non-parallel to the first supporting member, and the fourth member may be approximately non-parallel to the second supporting member.

[0025] In the outwardly folded configuration, the third member may be generally perpendicular to the first support member, and the fourth member may be generally perpendicular to the second support member.

[0026] In the outer folding mode, the third member and the fourth member may substantially not support the folded portion.

[0027] In the inward folding mode when the folding portion is folded so that the display surfaces of the first and second unfolded portions face each other, the third member may be substantially parallel to the first supporting member, and the fourth member may be substantially parallel to the second supporting member.

[0028] The folding portion may include a first area adjacent to the first non-folding portion, a second area adjacent to the second non-folding portion, and a third area between the first area and the second area, and wherein, in the inward folding mode, the first area and the second area may not be folded and the third area may be folded.

[0029] In the inward folding mode, the third member may support a first region of the folded portion, and the fourth member may support a second region of the folded portion.

[0030] The foldable display module may be capable of being folded in an external folding mode and an inward folding mode, wherein, in the external folding mode, the folding portion is folded around a first folding axis so that the non-display surface of the first non-folding portion and the non-display surface of the second non-folding portion can face each other, and in the inward folding mode, the folding portion is folded around a second folding axis so that the display surface of the first non-folding portion and the display surface of the second non-folding portion can face each other.

[0031] The longest distance from the first folding axis to the first unfolded portion may be substantially the same as the longest distance from the first folding axis to the second unfolded portion. The longest distance from the second folding axis to the first unfolded portion may be substantially the same as the longest distance from the second folding axis to the second unfolded portion.

[0032] The third member may include a first rotatable plate connected to the first supporting member through a first gear portion, and the fourth member may include a second rotatable plate connected to the second supporting member through a second gear portion.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for operating a foldable display device is provided, the foldable display device having: a foldable display module, including a first non-folding portion, a second non-folding portion, and a folding portion between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion; a first supporting member supporting the first non-folding portion; a second supporting member supporting the second non-folding portion; and a third member rotatably connected to at least one of the first supporting member and the second supporting member, the method comprising the following steps: folding the foldable display module; and rotating the third member.

[0034] The step of folding the foldable display module outward includes rotating the third member and then folding the folding portion outward so that the non-display surface of the first non-folding portion and the non-display surface of the second non-folding portion may face each other.

[0035] The step of folding the foldable display module inwardly includes folding the folding portion inwardly so that a display surface of the first non-folding portion and a display surface of the second non-folding portion may face each other and then rotating the third member.

[0036] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and together with the description serve to explain the inventive concept. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.

[0038] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 2 is shown in the deployed position Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0040] Figure 3 is shown in the outward folded position Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0041] Figure 4 is shown in the inwardly folded position Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0042] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a comparative embodiment of a foldable display device in an inwardly folded position.

[0043] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a foldable display module of a foldable display device.

[0044] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 A plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a display panel of a foldable display module.

[0045] Figure 8 is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0046] Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of operating a foldable display device according to the principles of the present invention.

[0047] Fig.10 It shows that Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a method of folding an unfolded foldable display device outward.

[0048] Fig.11 It shows that Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary method of folding an outwardly foldable display device inwardly.

[0049] Fig.12 is an exploded perspective view showing another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0050] Fig.13 is shown in the deployed position Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0051] Fig.14 is shown in the outward folded position Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0052] Fig.15 is shown in the inwardly folded position Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0053] Fig.16 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of operating a foldable display device according to the principles of the present invention.

[0054] Fig.17 It shows that Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary method of folding an unfolded foldable display device outward.

[0055] Fig.18 It shows that Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary method of folding an outwardly foldable display device inwardly.

[0056] Fig.19 is an exploded perspective view showing yet another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0057] Fig. 20 is shown in the deployed position Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0058] Fig.21 is shown in the folded position Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments or implementations of the present invention. As used herein, "implementation" and "implementation" are interchangeable words, which are non-limiting examples of one or more devices or methods using the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it is apparent that various exemplary embodiments can be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other cases, known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessary obscurity of various exemplary embodiments. In addition, various exemplary embodiments may be different, but need not be exclusive. For example, the specific shape, configuration and characteristics of an exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0060] Unless otherwise noted, the illustrated exemplary embodiments should be understood as providing exemplary features of different details of some ways in which the inventive concept can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise noted, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects, etc. (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as "elements") of various embodiments may be combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged in other ways without departing from the inventive concept.

[0061] The use of cross hatching and / or shading in the drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the presence or absence of cross hatching or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material property, size, ratio, commonality between the elements shown, and / or any other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc. of the elements. In addition, in the drawings, the size and relative size of the elements may be exaggerated for the purpose of clarity and / or description. When the exemplary embodiments may be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in an order opposite to the described sequence. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0062] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on another element or layer, directly connected to or directly coupled to another element or layer, or there can be an intervening element or layer. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly located" on another element or layer, "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there is no intervening element or layer. For this reason, the term "connection" can represent a physical connection, an electrical connection, and / or a fluid connection with or without an intermediate element. In addition, the D1 axis, the D2 axis, and the D3 axis are not limited to the three axes of a rectangular coordinate system, such as an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis, and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the D1 axis, the D2 axis, and the D3 axis can be perpendicular to each other, or different directions that are not perpendicular to each other can be represented. For the purpose of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" may be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0063] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various types of elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another element. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element.

[0064] Spatially relative terms, such as "below," "beneath," "under," "down," "above," "up," "above," "high," "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall"), etc., may be used herein for descriptive purposes, and therefore for describing the relationship of one element to another element(s) as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings, spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, elements described as being "below" or "below" other elements or features will then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can include both above and below orientations. In addition, the device can be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and as such, the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0065] The terms used herein are used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments, and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, when used in this specification, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes" and / or "including" specify the existence of stated features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially", "about" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms, rather than as terms of degree, and therefore, are used to allow for the inherent deviations of measured values, calculated values ​​and / or provided values ​​that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0066] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or exploded views as schematic illustrations of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. In this way, changes in the illustrated shapes caused by, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances should be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily to be construed as being limited to the specifically illustrated regional shapes, but should include deviations in shapes caused by, for example, manufacturing. In this way, the regions shown in the drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of the regions of the device, and therefore, are not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0067] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. Terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such herein.

[0068] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 2 is shown in the deployed position Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device. Figure 3 is shown in the outward folded position Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device. Figure 4 is shown in the inwardly folded position Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0069] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to an exemplary embodiment, the foldable display device 10 may include a foldable display module 100, a first supporting member that may be in the form of a first plate 210, a second supporting member that may be in the form of a second plate 220, a third member that may be in the form of a first rotating plate 310, a first gear portion 410, and a clamp 500.

[0070] The foldable display module 100 may include a first non-folding portion 111, a second non-folding portion 112, and a folding portion 120. The folding portion 120 may be disposed between the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112. The first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 may be spaced apart from each other, with the folding portion 120 located therebetween. The first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 may be substantially flat, unfolded portions of the foldable display module 100. The folding portion 120 may be a portion that can be bent, folded, and / or displaced relative to other portions of the foldable display module 100.

[0071] The foldable display module 100 may have a display surface 101 and a non-display surface 102. The foldable display module 100 may display an image toward the display surface 101. The non-display surface 102 may be opposite to the display surface 101.

[0072] The first plate 210 may be disposed on the first non-folding portion 111 of the foldable display module 100 and support the first non-folding portion 111. The first plate 210 may be disposed on the non-display surface 102 of the first non-folding portion 111. In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive layer may be interposed between the first non-folding portion 111 of the foldable display module 100 and the first plate 210 so that the first plate 210 may be attached to the non-display surface 102 of the first non-folding portion 111. For example, the adhesive layer may be an optically clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or the like.

[0073] In a plan view, the first plate 210 may have a shape substantially the same as that of the first non-folding portion 111 of the foldable display module 100, and may substantially overlap the first non-folding portion 111. For example, the area of ​​the first plate 210 may be substantially equal to the area of ​​the first non-folding portion 111. The first plate 210 may include any material capable of rigidly supporting the first non-folding portion 111, such as metal, plastic, etc. For example, the metal may include a commodity generally referred to as 64FeNi and sold by Aperam Yinfei Alloy Co., Ltd. of IMPHY, France. At least one of an alloy, an iron-based nickel-cobalt alloy (nobinite alloy) and a stainless steel alloy, or any combination thereof.

[0074] The second plate 220 may be disposed on the second non-folding portion 112 of the foldable display module 100 and support the second non-folding portion 112. The second plate 220 may be disposed on the non-display surface 103 of the second non-folding portion 112. In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive layer may be interposed between the second non-folding portion 112 of the foldable display module 100 and the second plate 220, so that the second plate 220 may be attached to the non-display surface 103 of the second non-folding portion 112, which may be the same as or similar to the non-display surface 102. For example, the adhesive layer may be an optically transparent adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, or the like.

[0075] In a plan view, the second plate 220 may have a shape substantially the same as that of the second non-folding portion 112 of the foldable display module 100, and may substantially overlap the second non-folding portion 112. For example, the area of ​​the second plate 220 may be substantially equal to the area of ​​the second non-folding portion 112. The second plate 220 may include any material capable of rigidly supporting the second non-folding portion 112, such as metal, plastic, etc. For example, the metal may be an alloy that is independent of the alloy used for the first plate 210 as described above. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second plate 220 may include a material substantially the same as that of the first plate 210.

[0076] The first rotating plate 310 may be rotatably connected to the first plate 210. The first rotating plate 310 may be rotatably connected to the first plate 210 via a first gear portion 410. The first gear portion 410 may include a first gear 411 and a second gear 412. The first gear 411 may be rotatably supported in and disposed on the side surface 214 of the first plate 210, and the second gear 412 may be fixedly supported in and disposed on the side surface 314 of the first rotating plate 310. The first gear 411 and the second gear 412 may be engaged with each other to support the first rotating plate 310 to rotate relative to the first plate 210, and the rotation direction of the first gear 411 and the rotation direction of the second gear 412 may be opposite to each other, for example, one rotation direction may be clockwise, and the other rotation direction may be counterclockwise. Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 2 , by the user moving the first rotating plate 310 , for example, counterclockwise, the first rotating plate 310 may be rotated relative to the first plate 210 by rotation of the first gear 411 and the second gear 412 .

[0077] The area of ​​the first rotating plate 310 may be smaller than the area of ​​the folding portion 120. For example, the width of the first rotating plate 310 in the X-axis direction may be smaller than the width of the folding portion 120 in the X-axis direction. The first rotating plate 310 may include metal, plastic, etc. For example, the metal may be an alloy that is independent of the alloy used for the first plate 210 as described above. In an exemplary embodiment, the first rotating plate 310 may include a material substantially the same as that of the first plate 210 and / or the second plate 220.

[0078] The jig 500 may be disposed on the first plate 210 and the second plate 220. The jig 500 may be disposed on the foldable display module 100 with the first plate 210 and the second plate 220 therebetween. In other words, the first plate 210 and the second plate 220 may be disposed between the foldable display module 100 and the jig 500. The jig 500 may support the foldable display module 100, the first plate 210 and the second plate 220.

[0079] The clamp 500 may include a first clamp 510 and a second clamp 520. The first clamp 510 may be disposed on the first plate 210, and the second clamp 520 may be disposed on the second plate 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamp 500 may include a hinge portion disposed between the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 520. The first clamp 510 and the second clamp 520 may be rotatably connected to each other through the hinge portion.

[0080] like Figure 2As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be unfolded. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the folding portion 120 of the foldable display module 100 may not be folded, and the display surface 101 of the first non-folding portion 111 and the display surface 105 of the second non-folding portion 112 of the foldable display module 100 may face the same direction, for example, the Z-axis direction. Hereinafter, the state in which the foldable display module 100 is unfolded is referred to as the unfolded mode.

[0081] In the unfolding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the folding portion 120 and support the folding portion 120. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the non-display surface 102 of the folding portion 120.

[0082] like Figure 3 As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be folded outwardly relative to the first folding axis FX1. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the folding portion 120 of the foldable display module 100 can be folded so that the non-display surface 102 of the first non-folding portion 111 and the non-display surface 103 of the second non-folding portion 112 of the foldable display module 100 can face each other. For example, the display surface 101 of the first non-folding portion 111 and the display surface 105 of the second non-folding portion 112 can face the outside of the foldable display device 10. Hereinafter, the position in which the foldable display module 100 is folded outwardly is referred to as the outer folding mode.

[0083] In the outer folding mode, the folding portion 120 may be folded to have a first radius of curvature 430. For example, the first radius of curvature 430 may be about 7 mm or more. In the outer folding mode, the folding portion 120 may be folded with a relatively large curvature in consideration of the thickness of the first plate 210, the thickness of the second plate 220, the thickness of the first jig 510, and the thickness of the second jig 520.

[0084] In the outer folding mode, the folding portion 120 may be folded symmetrically with respect to the first folding axis FX1 in the Y-axis direction. In other words, in the outer folding mode, the folding portion 120 may be folded so that the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 are positioned symmetrically with respect to the first folding axis FX1. For example, the longest distance from the first folding axis FX1 to the first non-folding portion 111 may be substantially equal to the longest distance from the first folding axis FX1 to the second non-folding portion 112. The distance from the first folding axis FX1 to the outside of the first non-folding portion 111 in the X-axis direction may be substantially equal to the distance from the first folding axis FX1 to the outside of the second non-folding portion 112 in the X-axis direction, and the distance 440 from the first folding axis FX1 to the first non-folding portion 111 in the Z-axis direction may be substantially equal to the distance 442 from the first folding axis FX1 to the second non-folding portion 112 in the Z-axis direction.

[0085] In the outer folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may not be parallel to the first plate 210. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 may not completely support the folding portion 120. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first rotating plate 310 may be substantially perpendicular to the first plate 210. For example, the first plate 210 may extend along the X-axis direction, and the first rotating plate 310 may extend along the Z-axis direction, in which case the first rotating plate 310 does not support most of the folding portion 120.

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be folded inwardly relative to the second folding axis FX2. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the folding portion 120 of the foldable display module 100 can be folded so that the display surface 101 of the first non-folding portion 111 and the display surface 105 of the second non-folding portion 112 of the foldable display module 100 can face each other. For example, the display surface 101 of the first non-folding portion 111 and the display surface 105 of the second non-folding portion 112 can face the inside of the foldable display device 10. Hereinafter, the position of the foldable display module 100 being folded inwardly is referred to as the inward folding mode.

[0087] In the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 can be folded to have a second radius of curvature 434. For example, the second radius of curvature 434 can be about 2 mm or less. In the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 can be folded with a relatively small curvature. Therefore, the radius of curvature of the folding portion 120 in the inner folding mode can be smaller than the radius of curvature of the folding portion 120 in the outer folding mode. In other words, the second radius of curvature 434 of the folding portion 120 can be smaller than the first radius of curvature 430 of the folding portion 120.

[0088] The folding portion 120 may include a first area 121 adjacent to the first non-folding portion 111 and a second area 122 adjacent to the second non-folding portion 112. As described above, since the radius of curvature of the folding portion 120 in the inner folding mode is smaller than the radius of curvature of the folding portion 120 in the outer folding mode, the folding portion 120 may include an unfolding area and a folding area in the inner folding mode. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first area 121 of the folding portion 120 may not be folded, and the second area 122 of the folding portion 120 may be folded. In this case, the first area 121 may be substantially planar.

[0089] In the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 may be folded asymmetrically relative to the second folding axis FX2 in the Y-axis direction. In other words, in the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 may be folded so that the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 are positioned asymmetrically relative to the second folding axis FX2. For example, the longest distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the first non-folding portion 111 may be greater than the longest distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the second non-folding portion 112. The distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the outside of the first non-folding portion 111 in the X-axis direction may be greater than the distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the outside of the second non-folding portion 112 in the X-axis direction, and the distance 446 from the second folding axis FX2 to the first non-folding portion 111 in the Z-axis direction may be substantially equal to the distance 444 from the second folding axis FX2 to the second non-folding portion 112 in the Z-axis direction. In the inner-folding mode, the folding portion 120 may be asymmetrically folded due to the fact that the first region 121 of the folding portion 120 is not folded and only the second region 122 of the folding portion 120 is folded.

[0090] In the inner folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may be substantially parallel to the first plate 210. The first rotating plate 310 may be disposed under a portion of the folding portion 120 and support the portion of the folding portion 120. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the non-display surface 102 of the portion of the folding portion 120. For example, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the folding portion 120 in the first region 121 and support the first region 121 of the folding portion 120. In other words, in the inner folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the unfolded portion of the folding portion 120 and support the unfolded portion.

[0091] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a comparative embodiment of a foldable display device in an inwardly folded position. Figure 5 , the foldable display device according to the comparative example may not include a rotating plate. When the foldable display device according to the comparative example is folded inwardly, portions of the folding portion 120 adjacent to the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112, respectively, may not be folded, and ideally, only portions of the folding portion 120 spaced apart from the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 may be folded. However, in the inward folding mode, the folding portion 120 may have a relatively small radius of curvature, and in response to the inward folding of the folding portion 120, a restoring force FR may be applied to the folding portion 120 in the Z-axis direction and the -Z-axis direction. Therefore, the shape of the folding portion 120 may be deformed, and the foldable display module 100 may have an undesirable dumbbell shape.

[0092] As described above, the foldable display device 10 according to the illustrated exemplary embodiment may include the first rotating plate 310 rotatably connected to the first plate 210. When the foldable display device 10 according to the illustrated exemplary embodiment is folded inwardly, the first region 121 adjacent to the first non-folding portion 111 in the folding portion 120 may not be folded, and only the second region 122 adjacent to the second non-folding portion 112 in the folding portion 120 may be folded. Although a restoring force is applied to the folding portion 120 in the Z-axis direction and the -Z-axis direction in response to the inward folding of the folding portion 120, the first rotating plate 310 may support the first region 121 of the folding portion 120. Therefore, the shape of the folding portion 120 may be maintained, and undesirable deformation of the folding portion 120 due to the inward folding may be reduced or prevented.

[0093] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a foldable display module of a foldable display device.

[0094] Reference Figure 6 , the foldable display module 100 may include a display panel 600, a sensing layer 700, a polarizing layer 800, and a window 900. As described above, since the foldable display module 100 may be folded outward or inward according to the folding of the folding portion 120, the display panel 600, the sensing layer 700, the polarizing layer 800, and the window 900 may have flexible characteristics.

[0095] The display panel 600 may include a plurality of pixels and may generate an image formed by light emitted from each of the pixels. The display panel 600 may include a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. For example, the first surface of the display panel 600 may face the -Z axis direction, and the second surface of the display panel 600 may face the Z axis direction. The display panel 600 may display an image to the first surface, and the second surface of the display panel 600 may be the non-display surface 102 of the foldable display module 100.

[0096] The sensing layer 700 may be disposed on the display panel 600. The sensing layer 700 may sense an external input such as an external object contacting or approaching the sensing layer 700. For example, the sensing layer 700 may sense the external input using a static capacitance method.

[0097] The polarization layer 800 may be disposed on the sensing layer 700. The polarization layer 800 may reduce the reflection of external light. For example, when external light that has passed through the polarization layer 800 is reflected from below the polarization layer 800 (e.g., the display panel 600) and then passes through the polarization layer 800 again, the phase of the reflected external light may change as the incident external light passes through the polarization layer 800 twice. Therefore, the phase of the reflected external light may be different from the phase of the incident external light entering the polarization layer 800, thereby causing destructive interference. Therefore, the reflection of external light may be reduced to increase visibility.

[0098] The window 900 may be disposed on the polarizing layer 800. The window 900 may protect the display panel 600, the sensing layer 700, and the polarizing layer 800 from external impacts, and may provide a display surface 101 of the foldable display module 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the window 900 may include glass, a polymer resin, and the like, and the polymer resin is at least one of polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyarylate (PAR), polyethersulfone (PES), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), and the like.

[0099] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 A plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a display panel of a foldable display module. Figure 8 is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' of FIG. Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the display panel 600 includes a plurality of pixels, each of which includes a switching thin film transistor (TFT) T1, a driving TFT T2, a capacitor CAP, and a light emitting element EE. As used herein, the term "pixel" refers to the smallest unit for displaying an image, and the display panel 600 may display an image using a plurality of pixels.

[0100] although Figure 7 and Figure 8 It is shown that each of the pixels includes two TFTs and one capacitor, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. In another exemplary embodiment, each of the pixels may include three or more TFTs and two or more capacitors.

[0101] The display panel 600 may include a substrate 610, a gate line 631 on the substrate 610, a data line 641 insulated from and intersecting the gate line 631, and a common power line 642. Generally, each of the pixels may be defined by the gate line 631, the data line 641, and the common power line 642 as boundaries, however, the definition of the pixel is not limited thereto. The pixel may be defined by a pixel defining layer or a black matrix.

[0102] The substrate 610 may include a flexible material such as plastic, etc. For example, the substrate 610 may include at least one of polyethersulfone (PES), polycarbonate (PC), polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyacrylate (PAR), fiber reinforced plastic (FRP), etc.

[0103] The substrate 610 may have a thickness ranging from about 5 μm to about 200 μm. When the substrate 610 has a thickness less than about 5 μm, it is difficult for the substrate 610 to stably support the light emitting element EE. When the substrate 610 has a thickness greater than about 200 μm, the flexibility of the substrate 610 may be reduced.

[0104] The buffer layer 611 may be disposed on the substrate 610. The buffer layer 611 may prevent or reduce the penetration of impurities and flatten the surface thereunder. The buffer layer 611 may include at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, etc. However, the buffer layer 611 may be omitted based on the type of the substrate 610 and its process conditions.

[0105] The switching semiconductor layer 621 and the driving semiconductor layer 622 may be disposed on the buffer layer 611. The switching semiconductor layer 621 and the driving semiconductor layer 622 may be formed of at least one of polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, and an oxide semiconductor including, for example, indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) and / or indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO). For example, when the driving semiconductor layer 622 is formed of polycrystalline silicon, the driving semiconductor layer 622 may include a channel region that is not doped with impurities and a doped source region and a drain region formed on opposite sides of the channel region. In such an exemplary embodiment, a p-type impurity such as boron (B) may be used as a dopant ion, and diborane (B) is often used. 2 H 6 ). Such impurities may vary depending on the type of TFT. According to an exemplary embodiment, the driving TFT T2 is a p-channel metal oxide semiconductor (PMOS) TFT including a p-type impurity, however, the driving TFT T2 is not limited thereto. In another exemplary embodiment, the driving TFT T2 may be an n-channel metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) TFT or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) TFT.

[0106] The gate insulating layer 612 may be disposed on the switching semiconductor layer 621 and the driving semiconductor layer 622. The gate insulating layer 612 may include at least one of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), silicon nitride, and silicon oxide. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the gate insulating layer 612 may have a double-layer structure in which a silicon nitride layer having a thickness of about 40 nm and a TEOS layer having a thickness of about 80 nm are sequentially stacked.

[0107] A gate wiring including gate electrodes 632 and 635 may be disposed on the gate insulating layer 612. The gate wiring may further include a gate line 631, a first capacitor plate 638, etc. The gate electrodes 632 and 635 may be disposed to overlap at least a portion (e.g., a channel region thereof) of the semiconductor layers 621 and 622. When the source and drain regions of the semiconductor layers 621 and 622 are doped with impurities during the process of forming the semiconductor layers 621 and 622, the gate electrodes 632 and 635 may be used to substantially prevent the channel regions from being doped with impurities.

[0108] The gate electrodes 632 and 635 and the first capacitor plate 638 may be disposed on the same or substantially similar layer and include the same or substantially similar metal material. For example, the gate electrodes 632 and 635 and the first capacitor plate 638 may be formed of at least one of molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr), and tungsten (W).

[0109] An insulating interlayer 613 covering the gate electrodes 632 and 635 may be disposed on the gate insulating layer 612. Similar to the gate insulating layer 612, the insulating interlayer 613 may include or be formed of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, tetraethyl orthosilicate, etc., however, the material of the insulating interlayer 613 is not limited thereto.

[0110] Data wiring including source electrodes 643 and 646 and drain electrodes 644 and 647 may be disposed on the insulating interlayer 613. The data wiring may further include a data line 641, a common power line 642, a second capacitor plate 648, etc. The source electrodes 643 and 646 and the drain electrodes 644 and 647 may be connected to source and drain regions of the semiconductor layers 621 and 622, respectively, through contact holes defined in the gate insulating layer 612 and the insulating interlayer 613.

[0111] The switching TFT T1 may include a switching semiconductor layer 621, a switching gate electrode 632, a switching source electrode 643, and a switching drain electrode 644, and the driving TFT T2 may include a driving semiconductor layer 622, a driving gate electrode 635, a driving source electrode 646, and a driving drain electrode 647. The capacitor CAP may include a first capacitor plate 638 and a second capacitor plate 648, and an insulating interlayer 613 is interposed between the first capacitor plate 638 and the second capacitor plate 648.

[0112] The switching TFT T1 may be used as a switching element to select a pixel to perform light emission. The switching gate electrode 632 may be connected to the gate line 631. The switching source electrode 643 may be connected to the data line 641. The switching drain electrode 644 may be spaced apart from the switching source electrode 643 and connected to the first capacitor plate 638.

[0113] The driving TFT T2 may apply driving power to the pixel electrode 650, which allows the emission layer 660 of the light emitting element EE in the selected pixel to emit light. The driving gate electrode 635 may be connected to the first capacitor plate 638. Each of the driving source electrode 646 and the second capacitor plate 648 may be connected to the common power line 642. The driving drain electrode 647 may be connected to the pixel electrode 650 of the light emitting element EE through a contact hole.

[0114] With the above structure, the switching TFT T1 may be driven by the gate voltage applied to the gate line 631, and may transmit the data voltage applied to the data line 641 to the driving TFT T2. A voltage equal to the difference between the common voltage applied to the driving TFT T2 from the common power line 642 and the data voltage transmitted from the switching TFT T1 may be stored in the capacitor CAP, and a current corresponding to the voltage stored in the capacitor CAP may flow to the light emitting element EE through the driving TFT T2, so that the light emitting element EE may emit light.

[0115] The planarization layer 614 may be disposed to cover data wirings (eg, data lines 641 , common power lines 642 , source electrodes 643 and 646 , drain electrodes 644 and 647 , and second capacitor plates 648 patterned into substantially the same layer on the insulating interlayer 613 ).

[0116] The planarization layer 614 can substantially eliminate the step difference and planarize the surface to increase the brightness efficiency of the light emitting element EE formed thereon. The planarization layer 614 can include at least one of polyacrylate resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, polyimide resin, unsaturated polyester resin, polyphenylene ether resin, polyphenylene sulfide resin, and benzocyclobutene (BCB).

[0117] The pixel electrode 650 of the light emitting element EE may be disposed on the planarization layer 614. The pixel electrode 650 may be connected to the driving drain electrode 647 through a contact hole defined in the planarization layer 614.

[0118] A pixel defining layer 615 exposing at least a portion of the pixel electrode 650 to define a pixel region may be disposed on the planarization layer 614. The pixel electrode 650 may be disposed to correspond to the pixel region of the pixel defining layer 615. The pixel defining layer 615 may include at least one of resins such as polyacrylate resin and polyimide resin.

[0119] In the pixel region, the emission layer 660 may be disposed on the pixel electrode 650, and the common electrode 670 may be disposed on the pixel defining layer 615 and the emission layer 660. The emission layer 660 may include a low molecular weight organic material or a high molecular weight organic material. A hole injection layer and / or a hole transport layer may also be disposed between the pixel electrode 650 and the emission layer 660, and an electron transport layer and / or an electron injection layer may further be disposed between the emission layer 660 and the common electrode 670.

[0120] Each of the pixel electrode 650 and the common electrode 670 may be formed as a transmissive electrode, a semi-transmissive and semi-reflective electrode, or a reflective electrode.

[0121] Transparent conductive oxides (TCO) can be used to form transmissive electrodes. TCOs can include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), and indium oxide (In 2 O 3 ) at least one of.

[0122] Metals such as at least one of magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), gold (Au), calcium (Ca), lithium (Li), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), and copper (Cu), or alloys thereof, may be used to form a semi-transmissive and semi-reflective electrode and a reflective electrode. In such an exemplary embodiment, whether the electrode is a semi-transmissive and semi-reflective type or a reflective type may depend on the thickness of the electrode. The semi-transmissive and semi-reflective electrode may have a thickness of about 200 nm or less, and the reflective electrode may have a thickness of about 300 nm or more. As the thickness of the semi-transmissive and semi-reflective electrode decreases, the transmittance and resistance increase. As the thickness of the semi-transmissive and semi-reflective electrode increases, the transmittance decreases. In addition, the semi-transmissive and semi-reflective electrode and the reflective electrode may have a multilayer structure including a metal layer and a TCO layer stacked on the metal layer, the metal layer including a metal or a metal alloy.

[0123] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the common electrode 670. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include inorganic layers 681, 683, and 685 and organic layers 682 and 684. In addition, the thin film encapsulation layer TFE may have a structure in which the inorganic layers 681, 683, and 685 and the organic layers 682 and 684 are alternately stacked. In such an exemplary embodiment, the inorganic layer 681 may be disposed at the lowermost portion or position. For example, the inorganic layer 681 may be disposed to be closest to the light emitting element EE (e.g., closest to the light emitting element EE or directly on the light emitting element EE).

[0124] Figure 8 It is shown that the thin film encapsulation layer TFE includes three inorganic layers 681, 683, and 685 and two organic layers 682 and 684. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0125] The inorganic layers 681, 683 and 685 may include one or more inorganic materials, including Al 2 O 3 、TiO 2 、ZrO、SiN x 、SiO 2 、AlON、AlN、SiON、Si 3 N 4 , ZnO and Ta 2 O 5 At least one of. The inorganic layers 681, 683, and 685 may be formed by a method such as a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method or an atomic layer deposition (ALD) method. The inorganic layers 681, 683, and 685 may mainly prevent or effectively reduce the penetration of moisture and oxygen. The inorganic layers 681, 683, and 685 may largely prevent moisture and oxygen from penetrating into the light emitting element EE.

[0126] The organic layers 682 and 684 may include a polymer-based material. Examples of polymer-based materials may include, for example, at least one of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, polyimide, and polyethylene. In addition, the organic layers 682 and 684 may be formed by a thermal deposition process. The thermal deposition process for forming the organic layers 682 and 684 may be performed within a temperature range that may not damage the light emitting element EE.

[0127] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may have a thickness of about 10 μm or less. Therefore, the overall thickness of the display panel 600 may be small. By applying the thin film encapsulation layer TFE in this manner, the flexibility characteristics of the display panel 600 may be improved.

[0128] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figures 9 to 11 A method of operating the foldable display device 10 according to the illustrated exemplary embodiment is described.

[0129] Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of operating a foldable display device according to the principles of the present invention. Fig.10 It shows that Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a method of folding an unfolded foldable display device outward. Fig.11 It shows that Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary method of folding an outwardly foldable display device inwardly.

[0130] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10In the exemplary embodiment shown, when the foldable display module 100 is folded from the unfolding mode or the inner folding mode to the outer folding mode, the foldable display module 100 may be folded (S110) after rotating the first rotating plate 310 (S120). Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Fig.10 An exemplary operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the unfolded mode to the outer-folded mode is described, however, the operation method may be applied to an operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the inner-folded mode to the outer-folded mode.

[0131] First, if Figure 2 and Fig.10 As shown in , the first rotating plate 310 can be rotated (S120). The first rotating plate 310 parallel to the first plate 210 can be rotated counterclockwise by the user so that the first rotating plate 310 is not parallel to (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the first plate 210. The first gear 411 and the second gear 412 of the first gear portion 410 can be rotated in directions opposite to each other to rotate the first rotating plate 310 relative to the first plate 210. For example, the first gear 411 and the second gear 412 can be rotated in a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction, respectively, to rotate the first rotating plate 310 in a counterclockwise direction.

[0132] Then, if Figure 3 As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be folded (S110). The foldable display module 100 can be folded outward by folding the folding portion 120 from the foldable display module 100 around the first folding axis FX1 positioned along the Z-axis direction. In this case, the folding portion 120 can be folded symmetrically with respect to the first folding axis FX1, so that the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 are symmetrically positioned with respect to the first folding axis FX1.

[0133] In the unfolding mode or the inner folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may support the folding portion 120, and when the folding portion 120 is folded outward while the first rotating plate 310 supports the folding portion 120, the folding portion 120 may be damaged by the first rotating plate 310. Therefore, the first rotating plate 310 may be rotated before the folding portion 120 is folded outward, so that the folding portion 120 may be prevented from being damaged, and the foldable display module 100 may be easily folded.

[0134] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Fig. 9 and Fig.11In an exemplary embodiment, when the foldable display module 100 is folded from the outer folding mode to the unfolding mode or the inner folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may be rotated (S120) after the foldable display module 100 is folded (S110). Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Fig.11 An operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the outer folding mode to the inner folding mode is described, however, the operation method may be applied to an operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the outer folding mode to the unfolding mode.

[0135] First, if Figure 3 and Fig.11 As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be folded (S110). The folding portion 120 can be folded in the -Z-axis direction around the second folding axis FX2 in the Y-axis direction from the foldable display module 100 to fold the foldable display module 100 inward. In this case, the folding portion 120 can be folded asymmetrically with respect to the second folding axis FX2, so that the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 are asymmetrically positioned with respect to the second folding axis FX2.

[0136] Then, if Figure 4 As shown in , the first rotating plate 310 may be rotated (S120). The first rotating plate 310 that is not parallel (e.g., substantially perpendicular) to the first plate 210 may be rotated so that the first rotating plate 310 is substantially parallel to the first plate 210. The first gear 411 and the second gear 412 of the first gear portion 410 may be rotated in directions opposite to each other to rotate the first rotating plate 310 relative to the first plate 210. For example, the first gear 411 and the second gear 412 may be rotated in counterclockwise and clockwise directions, respectively, to rotate the first rotating plate 310 in a clockwise direction.

[0137] The first rotating plate 310 may not support the folding portion 120 in the outward folding mode, and the foldable display module 100 may be deformed due to the restoring force when the first rotating plate 310 does not support the folding portion 120. Therefore, the first rotating plate 310 may be rotated after the folding portion 120 is folded inwardly, so that the first rotating plate 310 may support the folded portion of the folding portion 120, and the foldable display module 100 may be prevented from being deformed due to the restoring force.

[0138] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 12 to 15 A foldable display device 20 according to another illustrated embodiment is described.

[0139] Fig.12 is an exploded perspective view showing another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Fig.13is shown in the deployed position Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device. Fig.14 is shown in the outward folded position Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device. Fig.15 is shown in the inwardly folded position Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0140] Reference Fig.12 , Fig.13 , Fig.14 and Fig.15 The foldable display device 20 may include a foldable display module 100, a first plate 210, a second plate 220, a first rotating plate 310, a second rotating plate 320, a first gear portion 410, a second gear portion 420, and a clamp 500. Reference will not be repeated Figures 12 to 15 The foldable display device 20 described in the reference Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figures 6 to 8 Elements of the foldable display device 10 described herein are substantially the same or similar to those described herein to avoid redundancy.

[0141] The second rotating plate 320 is rotatably connected to the second plate 220. The second rotating plate 320 may be rotatably connected to the second plate 220 via a second gear portion 420. The second gear portion 420 may include a third gear 421 and a fourth gear 422. The third gear 421 may be rotatably supported in and disposed on the side surface 224 of the second plate 220, and the fourth gear 422 may be fixedly supported in and disposed on the side surface 324 of the second rotating plate 320. The third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 may be engaged with each other to support the second rotating plate 320 to rotate relative to the second plate 220, and the rotation direction of the third gear 421 and the rotation direction of the fourth gear 422 may be opposite to each other, for example, one rotation direction may be clockwise, and the other rotation direction may be counterclockwise. Fig.17 As shown in , by the user moving the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 counterclockwise and clockwise, respectively, for example, the second rotating plate 320 may rotate relative to the second plate 220 by rotation of the third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 .

[0142] The sum of the area of ​​the first rotating plate 310 and the area of ​​the second rotating plate 320 may be smaller than the area of ​​the folding portion 120. For example, the sum of the width of the first rotating plate 310 and the width of the second rotating plate 320 in the X-axis direction may be smaller than the width of the folding portion 120 in the X-axis direction.

[0143] The second rotating plate 320 may be made of any rigid support material including metal, plastic, etc. For example, the metal may be an alloy independent of the alloy used for the first plate 210 as described above. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second rotating plate 320 may include a material substantially the same as the material of the first plate 210, the second plate 220, and / or the first rotating plate 310.

[0144] like Fig.13 As shown in , in the unfolded mode, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the folding portion 120 and support the folding portion 120. Specifically, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on a portion of the folding portion 120 adjacent to the first non-folding portion 111 and support the portion of the folding portion 120 adjacent to the first non-folding portion 111, and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on a portion of the folding portion 120 adjacent to the second non-folding portion 112 and support the portion of the folding portion 120 adjacent to the second non-folding portion 112. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the non-display surface 102 of the folding portion 120.

[0145] like Fig.14 As shown in , in the outer folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may not be parallel to the first plate 210, and the second rotating plate 320 may not be parallel to the second plate 220. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may not support the entirety of the folding portion 120. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first rotating plate 310 may be substantially perpendicular to the first plate 210, and the second rotating plate 320 may be substantially perpendicular to the second plate 220. For example, the first plate 210 and the second plate 220 may extend along the X-axis direction, and the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may extend along the Z-axis direction.

[0146] like Fig.15 As shown in , in the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 may include a first area 121 adjacent to the first non-folding portion 111 and a second area 122 adjacent to the second non-folding portion 112, and a third area 123 disposed between the first area 121 and the second area 122. Because the radius of curvature of the folding portion 120 in the inner folding mode is smaller than the radius of curvature of the folding portion 120 in the outer folding mode, in the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 may include an unfolding area and a folding area. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first area 121 and the second area 122 of the folding portion 120 may not be folded, and the third area 123 of the folding portion 120 may be folded. In this case, the first area 121 and the second area 122 may be substantially planar.

[0147] In the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 can be folded symmetrically with respect to the second folding axis FX2. In other words, in the inner folding mode, the folding portion 120 can be folded so that the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 are positioned symmetrically with respect to the second folding axis FX2. For example, the longest distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the first non-folding portion 111 can be approximately equal to the longest distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the second non-folding portion 112. The distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the outside of the first non-folding portion 111 in the X-axis direction can be approximately equal to the distance from the second folding axis FX2 to the outside of the second non-folding portion 112 in the X-axis direction, and the distance 466 from the second folding axis FX2 to the first non-folding portion 111 in the Z-axis direction can be approximately equal to the distance 464 from the second folding axis FX2 to the second non-folding portion 112 in the Z-axis direction.

[0148] In the inner folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 may be substantially parallel to the first plate 210, and the second rotating plate 320 may be substantially parallel to the second plate 220. The first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the first region 121 of the folding portion 120 and support the first region 121 of the folding portion 120, and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the second region 122 of the folding portion 120 and support the second region 122 of the folding portion 120. In other words, in the inner folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the unfolded portion of the folding portion 120 and support the unfolded portion. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the non-display surface 102 of the first region 121 of the folding portion 120, and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the non-display surface 103 of the second region 122 of the folding portion 120.

[0149] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 13 to 18 A method of operating the foldable display device 20 according to an exemplary embodiment is described.

[0150] Fig.16 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of operating a foldable display device according to the principles of the present invention. Fig.17 It shows that Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary method of folding an unfolded foldable display device outward. Fig.18 It shows that Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary method of folding an outwardly foldable display device inwardly.

[0151] Reference Fig.16, the method of operating the foldable display device 20 may include folding the foldable display module (S210) and rotating the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate (S220). The order of steps (S210) and (S220) may be changed according to the folding mode (unfolding mode, outer folding mode, and inner folding mode). Reference will not be repeated. Figures 13 to 18 The method of operating the foldable display device 20 described herein is similar to the method of operating the foldable display device 20 described herein. Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figures 9 to 11 The detailed description of the method of operating the foldable display device 10 is substantially the same as or similar to the detailed description described above to avoid redundancy.

[0152] Reference Fig.13 , Fig.14 , Fig.16 and Fig.17 When the foldable display module 100 is folded from the unfolding mode or the inward folding mode to the outward folding mode, the foldable display module 100 may be folded (S210) after rotating the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 (S220). Fig.13 , Fig.14 and Fig.17 An operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the unfolded mode to the outward-folded mode is described, however, the operation method may be applied to an operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the inward-folded mode to the outward-folded mode.

[0153] First, if Fig.13 and Fig.17 As shown in , the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be rotated (S220). The first rotating plate 310 that is substantially parallel to the first plate 210 may be rotated so that the first rotating plate 310 is not parallel to (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the first plate 210, and the second rotating plate 320 that is substantially parallel to the second plate 220 may be rotated so that the second rotating plate 320 is not parallel to (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the second plate 220. The first gear 411 and the second gear 412 of the first gear portion 410 may be rotated in opposite directions to rotate the first rotating plate 310 relative to the first plate 210, and the third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 of the second gear portion 420 may be rotated in opposite directions to rotate the second rotating plate 320 relative to the second plate 220. For example, the first gear 411 and the second gear 412 may be rotated in clockwise and counterclockwise directions respectively to rotate the first rotating plate 310 in the counterclockwise direction, and the third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 may be rotated in counterclockwise and clockwise directions respectively to rotate the second rotating plate 320 in the clockwise direction.

[0154] Then, if Fig.14As shown in , the foldable display module 100 may be folded (S210). In the unfolding mode or the inward folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may support the folding portion 120, and when the folding portion 120 is folded outward while the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 support the folding portion 120, the folding portion 120 may be damaged by the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320. Therefore, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be rotated before the folding portion 120 is folded outward, so that the folding portion 120 may not be damaged, and the foldable display module 100 may be easily folded.

[0155] Reference Fig.14 , Fig.15 , Fig.16 and Fig.18 When the foldable display module 100 is folded from the outer folding mode to the unfolding mode or the inner folding mode, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be rotated (S220) after the foldable display module 100 is folded (S210). Fig.14 , Fig.15 and Fig.18 An operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the outer folding mode to the inner folding mode is described, however, the operation method may be applied to an operation method of folding the foldable display module 100 from the outer folding mode to the unfolding mode.

[0156] First, if Fig.14 and Fig.18 As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be folded (S210). The folding portion 120 can be folded from the foldable display module 100 in the -Z axis direction around the second folding axis FX2 to fold the foldable display module 100 inwardly. In this case, the folding portion 120 can be folded symmetrically with respect to the second folding axis FX2, so that the first non-folding portion 111 and the second non-folding portion 112 are symmetrically positioned with respect to the second folding axis FX2.

[0157] Then, if Fig.15As shown in , the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be rotated (S220). The first rotating plate 310 that is not parallel to (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the first plate 210 may be rotated so that the first rotating plate 310 is substantially parallel to the first plate 210, and the second rotating plate 320 that is not parallel to (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the second plate 220 may be rotated so that the second rotating plate 320 is substantially parallel to the second plate 220. The first gear 411 and the second gear 412 of the first gear portion 410 may be rotated in opposite directions to rotate the first rotating plate 310 relative to the first plate 210, and the third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 of the second gear portion 420 may be rotated in opposite directions to rotate the second rotating plate 320 relative to the second plate 220. For example, the first gear 411 and the second gear 412 may rotate counterclockwise and clockwise, respectively, to rotate the first rotating plate 310 in the clockwise direction, and the third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 may rotate clockwise and counterclockwise, respectively, to rotate the second rotating plate 320 in the counterclockwise direction.

[0158] The first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may not support the entirety of the folding portion 120 in the outward folding mode, and the foldable display module 100 may be deformed due to the restoring force when the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 do not support the folding portion 120. Therefore, the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may be rotated after the folding portion 120 is folded inwardly, so that the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 may support the folded portion of the folding portion 120, and the deformation of the foldable display module 100 due to the restoring force may be reduced or prevented.

[0159] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 19 to 21 A foldable display device 30 according to an exemplary embodiment is described.

[0160] Fig.19 is an exploded perspective view showing yet another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Fig. 20 is shown in the deployed position Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device. Fig.21 is shown in the folded position Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of a foldable display device.

[0161] Reference Fig.19 , Fig. 20 and Fig.21The foldable display device 30 may include a foldable display module 100, a first plate 210, a second plate 220, a third plate 230, a first rotating plate 310, a second rotating plate 320, a first gear portion 410, a second gear portion 420, and a clamp 500. Reference will not be repeated Figures 19 to 21 The foldable display device 30 described in reference Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figures 6 to 8 Elements of the foldable display device 10 described herein are substantially the same or similar to those described herein to avoid redundancy.

[0162] The foldable display module 100 may include a first non-folding portion 111, a second non-folding portion 112, a third non-folding portion 113, a first folding portion 120, and a second folding portion 130. The second folding portion 130 may be disposed between the first non-folding portion 111 and the third non-folding portion 113. The first non-folding portion 111 and the third non-folding portion 113 may be spaced apart from each other with the second folding portion 130 therebetween. The first non-folding portion 111, the second non-folding portion 112, and the third non-folding portion 113 may be unfolded portions of the foldable display module 100. The first folding portion 120 and the second folding portion 130 may be folded portions of the foldable display module 100.

[0163] The third plate 230 may be disposed on the third non-folding portion 113 of the foldable display module 100 and support the third non-folding portion 113. The third plate 230 may be disposed on the non-display surface 102 of the third non-folding portion 113. In an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive layer may be interposed between the third non-folding portion 113 of the foldable display module 100 and the third plate 230 so that the third plate 230 may be attached to the non-display surface 102 of the third non-folding portion 113. For example, the adhesive layer may be at least one of an optically transparent adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, and the like.

[0164] In a plan view, the third plate 230 may have a shape substantially the same as that of the third non-folding portion 113 of the foldable display module 100, and may substantially overlap the third non-folding portion 113. For example, the area of ​​the third plate 230 may be substantially equal to the area of ​​the third non-folding portion 113. The third plate 230 may include at least one of metal, plastic, etc. to provide a rigid support. For example, the metal may be an alloy that is independent of the alloy used for the first plate 210 as described above. In an exemplary embodiment, the third plate 230 may include a material substantially the same as that of the first plate 210 and / or the second plate 220.

[0165] The first rotating plate 310 may be rotatably connected to the first side of the first plate 210. For example, the first side of the first plate 210 may be located in the -X axis direction relative to the center of the first plate 210. The first rotating plate 310 may be rotatably connected to the first side of the first plate 210 through the first gear part 410.

[0166] The second rotating plate 320 may be rotatably connected to the second side of the first plate 210. The second side of the first plate 210 may be opposite to the first side of the first plate 210. For example, the second side of the first plate 210 may be located in the X-axis direction relative to the center of the first plate 210. The second rotating plate 320 may be rotatably connected to the second side of the first plate 210 through the second gear portion 420. The second gear portion 420 may include a third gear 421 and a fourth gear 422. The third gear 421 may be rotatably supported in and disposed on the side 214 of the first plate 210, and the fourth gear 422 may be fixedly supported in and disposed on the side 324 of the second rotating plate 320. The third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 may be engaged with each other to support the second rotating plate 320 to rotate relative to the first plate 210, and the rotation direction of the third gear 421 and the rotation direction of the fourth gear 422 may be opposite to each other, for example, one rotation direction may be clockwise, and the other rotation direction may be counterclockwise. By the user moving the second rotating plate 320 in, for example, a clockwise direction, the second rotating plate 320 may be rotated relative to the first plate 210 by rotation of the third gear 421 and the fourth gear 422 .

[0167] The area of ​​the second rotating plate 320 may be smaller than the area of ​​the second folding portion 130. For example, the width of the second rotating plate 320 in the X-axis direction may be smaller than the width of the second folding portion 130 in the X-axis direction. The second rotating plate 320 may include at least one of metal, plastic, etc. to provide rigid support. For example, the metal may be an alloy that is independent of the alloy used for the first plate 210 as described above. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second rotating plate 320 may include a material that is substantially the same as the material of the first plate 210, the second plate 220, the third plate 230, and / or the first rotating plate 310.

[0168] The jig 500 may be disposed on the first plate 210, the second plate 220, and the third plate 230. The jig 500 may include a first jig 510, a second jig 520, and a third jig 530. The first jig 510 may be disposed on the first plate 210, the second jig 520 may be disposed on the second plate 220, and the third jig 530 may be disposed on the third plate 230.

[0169] like Fig. 20As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be unfolded. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first folding portion 120 and the second folding portion 130 of the foldable display module 100 may not be folded, and the display surface 101 of the first non-folding portion 111 of the foldable display module 100, the display surface 105 of the second non-folding portion 112, and the display surface 109 of the third non-folding portion 113 may face the same direction, for example, the -Z axis direction.

[0170] In the unfolded mode, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the first folding portion 120 and support the first folding portion 120, and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the second folding portion 130 and support the second folding portion 130. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 may be disposed on the non-display surface 115 of the first folding portion 120, and the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the non-display surface 117 of the second folding portion 130.

[0171] like Fig.21 As shown in , the foldable display module 100 can be folded outwardly relative to the first folding axis FX1, and can be folded inwardly relative to the second folding axis FX2. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first folding portion 120 of the foldable display module 100 can be folded so that the non-display surface 102 of the first non-folding portion 111 of the foldable display module 100 and the non-display surface 103 of the second non-folding portion 112 can face each other, and the second folding portion 130 of the foldable display module 100 can be folded so that the display surface 101 of the first non-folding portion 111 of the foldable display module 100 and the display surface 109 of the third non-folding portion 113 can face each other. For example, the display surface 105 of the second non-folding portion 112 can face the outside of the foldable display device 30, and the display surface 109 of the third non-folding portion 113 can face the inside of the foldable display device 30.

[0172] The first rotating plate 310 may not be parallel to the first plate 210. In this case, the first rotating plate 310 may not support or substantially support the first folding portion 120. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first rotating plate 310 may be substantially perpendicular to the first plate 210. For example, the first plate 210 may extend substantially in the X-axis direction, and the first rotating plate 310 may extend substantially in the Z-axis direction.

[0173] The second rotating plate 320 may be substantially parallel to the first plate 210. The second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on a portion of the second folding portion 130 and support the portion of the second folding portion 130. In this case, the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on the non-display surface 117 of the portion of the second folding portion 130. In other words, the second rotating plate 320 may be disposed on an unfolded portion of the second folding portion 130 and support the unfolded portion.

[0174] although Fig.21 An exemplary embodiment is shown in which the foldable display module 100 is folded outward in the first folding portion 120 and folded inward in the second folding portion 130, however, in another exemplary embodiment, the foldable display module 100 may be folded inward in the first folding portion 120 and folded outward in the second folding portion 130. In addition, the foldable display module 100 may be folded outward in each of the first folding portion 120 and the second folding portion 130, or the foldable display module 100 may be folded inward in each of the first folding portion 120 and the second folding portion 130.

[0175] Figures 19 to 21 An exemplary embodiment is shown in which the first rotating plate 310 and the second rotating plate 320 are rotatably connected to the first plate 210, however, in another exemplary embodiment, the first rotating plate 310 may be rotatably connected to the second plate 220, or the second rotating plate 320 may be rotatably connected to the third plate 230, and the first rotating plate 310 or the second rotating plate 320 may operate similarly to the above description.

[0176] The foldable display device according to the exemplary embodiment may be applied to any type of display device including display devices in computers, notebook computers, mobile phones, smart phones, smart pads, PMPs, PDAs, MP3 players, etc.

[0177] Although certain exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the appended claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

1. Foldable display device, including: A foldable display module, comprising a first non-folding portion, a second non-folding portion, and a folding portion disposed between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion; A first supporting member, disposed on the first unfolded portion, supporting the first unfolded portion; a second supporting member, disposed on the second unfolded portion, supporting the second unfolded portion; as well as a third member rotatably coupled to the first support member; wherein, in an outer folding mode when the folding portion is folded so that the non-display surface of the first non-folding portion and the non-display surface of the second non-folding portion face each other, the third member is not parallel to the first supporting member; Wherein, in the unfolded mode in which the folding portion is unfolded, the third component is arranged on the folding portion.

2. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first support member includes a first plate, the second support member includes a second plate, the third member includes a first rotatable plate, and in an expanded mode in which the fold is unfolded, the first rotatable plate is parallel to the first plate.

3. The foldable display device according to claim 2, wherein: In the deployed mode, the first rotatable plate supports the fold.

4. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first support member includes a first plate, the second support member includes a second plate, the third member includes a first rotatable plate, and in the outward folding mode, the first rotatable plate is non-parallel to the first plate.

5. The foldable display device according to claim 4, wherein: In the outward folding mode, the first rotatable plate is perpendicular to the first plate.

6. The foldable display device according to claim 4, wherein: In the outer folding mode, the first rotatable plate does not support a majority of the folding portion.

7. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first supporting member includes a first plate, the second supporting member includes a second plate, the third member includes a first rotatable plate, and in an inward folding mode when the folding portion is folded so that the display surface of the first non-folding portion and the display surface of the second non-folding portion face each other, the first rotatable plate is parallel to the first plate.

8. The foldable display device according to claim 7, wherein: In the fold-in mode, the first rotatable plate supports a majority of the fold.

9. The foldable display device according to claim 7, wherein: The folded portion includes a first region adjacent to the first non-folded portion and a second region adjacent to the second non-folded portion, and in the inward folding mode, the first region is not folded and the second region is folded.

10. The foldable display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A fourth member is rotatably connected to the second supporting member.

11. The foldable display device according to claim 10, wherein: In the unfolded mode when the folding portion is unfolded, The third member is parallel to the first supporting member, and The fourth member is parallel to the second supporting member.

12. The foldable display device according to claim 10, wherein: In the folded-out mode, the fourth member is non-parallel to the second support member.

13. The foldable display device according to claim 12, wherein: In the outer folding mode, The third member is perpendicular to the first supporting member, and The fourth member is perpendicular to the second supporting member.

14. The foldable display device according to claim 10, wherein: In the inward folding mode when the folding portion is folded so that the display surface of the first non-folding portion and the display surface of the second non-folding portion face each other, The third member is parallel to the first supporting member, and The fourth member is parallel to the second supporting member.

15. The foldable display device according to claim 14, wherein: The folded portion includes a first region adjacent to the first non-folded portion, a second region adjacent to the second non-folded portion, and a third region between the first region and the second region, and Wherein, in the inward folding mode, the first region and the second region are not folded and the third region is folded.

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