Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a display panel including an image generation panel and a protective window. The protective window includes a base substrate, a protective film, an adhesive layer, and a protective layer, wherein the base substrate faces a display surface of the image generation panel and has a thickness in a range of about 20 micrometers to about 80 micrometers, the protective film faces the display surface of the image generation panel with the base substrate interposed therebetween, the adhesive layer is positioned between the protective film and the base substrate and bonds the protective film and the base substrate, and the protective layer covers an edge portion of the base substrate. A thickness of the protective layer covering the edge portion of the base substrate is equal to or less than about 1 / 3 of a thickness of the adhesive layer bonding the protective film and the base substrate.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Exemplary embodiments relate to a display device. More particularly, exemplary embodiments relate to a protective window and a display device including the same. BACKGROUND

[0002] The demand and application for foldable display devices that can be bent or folded by a user are increasing.

[0003] A display device includes a protective window that covers a display panel of the display device to protect the display panel. In order to manufacture a protective window that can be used for a foldable display device, a method using a flexible film formed of a polymer material and a method using a thin glass substrate are being developed. SUMMARY

[0004] Exemplary embodiments provide a protective window for a display device that can prevent or reduce damage to a glass window or generation of dust.

[0005] Exemplary embodiments provide a display device including the same.

[0006] According to exemplary embodiments, the protective window includes a base substrate, a protective film, an adhesive layer, and a protective layer, wherein the base substrate faces a display surface of an image generating panel and has a thickness in a range of about 20 micrometers (μm) to about 80 μm, the protective film faces the display surface of the image generating panel with the base substrate interposed therebetween, the adhesive layer is located between the protective film and the base substrate and bonds the protective film and the base substrate, and the protective layer covers an edge portion of the base substrate. The thickness of the protective layer covering the edge portion of the base substrate is equal to or less than about 1 / 3 of the thickness of the adhesive layer bonding the protective film and the base substrate.

[0007] In exemplary embodiments, the protective layer can include a polymer curable resin.

[0008] In exemplary embodiments, the protective layer can cover an upper surface of the base substrate.

[0009] In exemplary embodiments, the protective layer can extend to cover a side surface of the base substrate.

[0010] In exemplary embodiments, the protective window can further include a light blocking layer disposed on a lower surface of the base substrate.

[0011] In exemplary embodiments, the light blocking layer and the protective layer can include the same material.

[0012] In exemplary embodiments, a length of the protective layer can be less than a length of the light blocking layer.

[0013] In exemplary embodiments, the length of the protective layer can be equal to or less than about 0.5 millimeters (mm).

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective layer can range from about 3 μm to about 12 μm.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the adhesive force between the protective layer and the base substrate can be equal to or greater than about 400 grams force per inch (gf / inch).

[0016] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display device includes a display panel and a housing member in which the display panel is housed. The display panel includes an image generating panel and a protective window combined with the image generating panel at a display surface of the image generating panel. The protective window includes a base substrate having a thickness ranging from about 20 μm to about 80 μm and a protective layer covering an edge portion of the base substrate having a thickness ranging from about 20 μm to about 80 μm.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment, the display panel can further include a protective film facing the display surface of the image generating panel with the base substrate interposed therebetween, and an adhesive layer between the protective film and the base substrate and combining the protective film and the base substrate.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the protective layer can be located between the protective film and the base substrate.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective layer can be equal to or less than about 1 / 3 of the thickness of the adhesive layer.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, a side surface of the adhesive layer can face a side surface of the protective layer.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the protruding portion of the housing member can face an upper surface of the protective film.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, a side surface of the adhesive layer can face a side surface of the protective layer. The thickness of the protective layer can be greater than the thickness of the adhesive layer.

[0023] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the protective layer covers an edge portion of the base substrate of the protective window. Accordingly, damage or breakage of the base substrate can be prevented or reduced. Accordingly, scattering of fine glass dust generated due to the damage or breakage can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0024] Further, direct contact of the base substrate with the housing member can be reduced or effectively prevented. Accordingly, damage to the protective window due to repeated contact or impact can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0025] Further, the protective layer can overlap the protective film such that a surface of the base substrate can not be exposed to the outside of the display device. Accordingly, durability and reliability of the protective window can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] The features of one or more exemplary embodiments of the present application will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a display device.

[0028] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 1

[0029] Figure 3 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of a protective window of a display device.

[0030] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of a panel portion of a display device.

[0031] Figures 5 to 9 is a cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of a display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The present application now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments of the application are shown. This application may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the application to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0033] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements can be present therebetween. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0034] It will be understood that, although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a "first element", "component", "region", "layer" or "portion" discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or portion without departing from the teachings herein.

[0035] ​The specialized terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, "a," "an," and "the" are not intended to be limiting and are understood to mean zero, one, or more unless explicitly indicated otherwise. For example, "a" means "at least one" unless explicitly indicated otherwise. "Or" means "and / or." As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0036] In addition, relative terms, such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top," can be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element as the device is oriented in the drawing. It will be understood that relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, elements described as being on the "lower" side of other elements would then be oriented on "upper" sides of the other elements. The exemplary term "lower" can therefore encompass both an "lower" orientation and an "upper" orientation. Likewise, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements would then be oriented "above" the other elements. The exemplary terms "below" or "beneath" can, therefore, encompass both an "below" orientation and an "above" orientation.

[0037] "About" or "approximately" as used herein includes the recited value and means within a reasonable range of the specified value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art to be acceptable in light of the particular value and the context in which it is being asserted. For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the recited value.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0039] In this document, example embodiments are described with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. Variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments described herein are not to be construed as being limited to the particular shapes of regions as illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result from, for example, manufacturing. For example, an area illustrated or described as flat can often have rough and / or nonlinear features. Moreover, the illustrated corners can typically be rounded. Thus, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region and are not intended to limit the scope of the present claims.

[0040] The glass window of the display device 1 has advantages such as higher hardness, high stability to light, or the like. However, when the glass window is repeatedly folded or when an impact is applied to the glass window, a crack can be generated therein. Thus, fine glass dust can be scattered from the broken glass window.

[0041] Hereinafter, a display device 1 according to example embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate some example embodiments.

[0042] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example embodiment of the display device 1. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 1 . Figure 3 is a plan view illustrating an example embodiment of a protective window 12 of the display device 1.

[0043] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the display device 1 includes a display panel 10 and a housing member 20.

[0044] The display device 1 can be a foldable display device. In an example embodiment, for example, the display device 1 can be bent or folded with respect to an axis extending along a folding line FL. The display device 1 can further include a hinge member for allowing the display device 1 to be bent or folded.

[0045] In an example embodiment, the display device 1 can have an inside folding structure such that, when the display device 1 is folded, portions of the display surface can face each other and are not exposed to the outside of the display device 1. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto. In another example embodiment, for example, the display device 1 can have an outside folding structure such that, when the display device 1 is folded, portions of the display surface can face away from each other and are exposed to the outside of the display device 1.

[0046] Further, example embodiments are not limited to Figure 1The display device 1 can have a configuration that is asymmetric with respect to the folding line FL, or the display device 1 can include a plurality of hinge structures, such that the display device 1 can be folded at a plurality of axes to define a plurality of zones of the display device 1.

[0047] The display panel 10 can be combined with the housing member 20. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, at least a portion of the display panel 10 can be disposed in the housing member 20. The housing member 20 can be open at a side thereof to expose a display surface of the display panel 10 and components thereof to an outside of the housing member 20.

[0048] The display panel 10 includes a panel portion PNL (e.g., an image generation panel or image generation member) and a protective window 12. The protective window 12 covers an upper surface of the panel portion PNL to protect the panel portion PNL. The upper surface of the panel portion PNL can be a display surface of the panel portion PNL. The display panel 10 can further include a protective film 16. The protective film 16 can be combined with the protective window 12 at an upper surface of the protective window 12 by a first adhesive layer 14. The protective window 12 can be combined with the panel portion PNL by a second adhesive layer 18. An image generated by the panel portion PNL can be transmitted through the protective film 16, the first adhesive layer 14, and the protective window 12 to be visible from an outside of the display device 1.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective window 12 includes a base substrate 12a and a protective layer 12b (e.g., a protective pattern) that partially covers an upper surface of the base substrate 12a.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the base substrate 12a includes glass (e.g., a glass substrate). In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the base substrate 12a can include chemically strengthened glass.

[0051] A chemically strengthened portion can be formed by providing a chemical strengthening treatment to a surface of a glass substrate. In an exemplary embodiment, as the chemical strengthening treatment, for example, a surface portion of the base substrate can be exposed to potassium nitrate (KNO3) or the like, and then heated. As a result, sodium atoms can replace potassium atoms, thereby increasing a strength of a portion of the base substrate and providing a chemically strengthened portion (e.g., a surface portion) thereof.

[0052] A compressive stress is applied to the chemically strengthened portion of the base substrate, and a tensile stress is applied to a portion of the base substrate that is not chemically strengthened. Thus, a base substrate having increased strength and hardness can be obtained. The chemically strengthened portion of the base substrate can correspond to an upper portion of the base substrate 12a. The upper portion of the base substrate 12a can include an uppermost surface or an uppermost surface and a thickness portion extending from the uppermost surface in a thickness direction.

[0053] The protective window 12 for the foldable display device 1 should be responsive to deformation of the display device 1 to be foldable or bendable. Accordingly, the base substrate 12a can have a small bending stiffness. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the thickness of the base substrate 12a can be about 20 micrometers (pm) to about 80 pm. When the thickness of the base substrate 12a is less than 20 pm, the strength and hardness of the base substrate 12a is excessively reduced. Accordingly, it can be difficult to achieve the necessary durability. When the thickness of the base substrate 12a is greater than 80 pm, the bending stiffness can be excessively increased. Accordingly, the radius of curvature can be increased, or the base substrate 12a can be easily damaged by its folding or bending.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective layer 12b can be disposed at the edge portion of the base substrate 12a, such as covering the edge portion of the base substrate 12a. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the protective layer 12b can be disposed at the edge portion of the base substrate 12a, such as covering the edge portion of the base substrate 12a. Figure 3 In an exemplary embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 1C, in a plan view, the protective layer 12b can have a frame shape extending along the edge portion of the base substrate 12a.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective layer 12b can extend from the uppermost surface of the base substrate 12a at the edge portion thereof to cover the side surface of the base substrate 12a at the edge portion thereof. Accordingly, the protective layer 12b can have a bending shape to cover the upper surface and the side surface of the base substrate 12a. The edge portion of the base substrate 12a can be exposed outside the first adhesive layer 14 and / or the protective film 16. In an exemplary embodiment, the base substrate 12a can extend further than the end portion of the first adhesive layer 14 and / or the protective film 16 to define the edge portion of the base substrate 12a.

[0056] The protective layer 12b can include a polymeric material. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the protective layer 12b can include or be formed of a polymeric curable resin. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the polymeric curable resin can include an acrylic resin, a phenolic resin, a polyurethane resin, an epoxy resin, or the like.

[0057] The protective layer 12b can include or be formed of a photocurable resin. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the photocurable resin can include a binder component including a polymer or an oligomer, a multifunctional monomer, a photoinitiator, an inorganic filler, or the like. The binder component can include an acrylic resin, a polyurethane-acryl oligomer, an epoxy-acryl oligomer, or the like. The multifunctional monomer can include a multifunctional acrylate.

[0058] The protective layer 12b can be transparent or opaque. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the protective layer 12b can include a dye, a pigment, a light-blocking carbon particle, or the like to block light. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the protective layer 12b can include or be formed of a curable ink or a black matrix material.

[0059] The protective window 12 can further include a light-blocking layer 12c (e.g., a light-blocking pattern) bonded with the base substrate 12a at a lower surface of the base substrate 12a. The light-blocking layer 12c can reduce or effectively prevent the peripheral area of the panel portion PNL from being visible from the outside of the display device 1, and / or can reduce or effectively prevent light leakage in the peripheral area or edge portion of the display device 1. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the light-blocking layer 12c can include or be formed of a black matrix material.

[0060] In providing an exemplary embodiment of the display device 1, the protective layer 12b and the light-blocking layer 12c can be provided or formed in the same process, such as by using a black matrix material. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, portions of the base substrate 12a are covered with a mask or the like. The black matrix material is provided onto the remaining portions of the base substrate 12a except for the covered portions, such as by spraying, and then cured in the same process to form the protective layer 12b and the light-blocking layer 12c. That is, the protective layer 12b and the light-blocking layer 12c can be respective portions of the same layer of material on the base substrate 12a.

[0061] The display device 1 and components thereof can be arranged in a plane defined by a first direction and a second direction intersecting each other. In Figure 2 , the horizontal direction can variously represent the first direction and / or the second direction. A thickness of the display device 1 and components thereof can extend along a third direction intersecting each of the first direction and the second direction. In Figure 2 , the vertical direction represents the third direction (e.g., a thickness direction). A size (e.g., a length, a width, etc.) of a bezel of the display device 1 can be defined along the first direction and / or the second direction.

[0062] Referring to Figure 2 , the protective layer 12b can have a length extending along the horizontal direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the protective layer 12b can be equal to or less than about 0.5 millimeters (mm). When the length of the protective layer 12b is too large, a bezel size of the display device 1 can increase, or the protective layer 12b can be perceived from the outside of the display device 1.

[0063] Referring to Figure 2The light-blocking layer 12c can have a length extending in a horizontal direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the light-blocking layer 12c can be about 0.3 mm to about 1.0 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the light-blocking layer 12c can be greater than the length of the protective layer 12b. That is, the light-blocking layer 12c can extend farther (e.g., terminate at a location farther away) from the outer edge of the base substrate 12a than the protective layer 12b. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, depending on the transparency of the protective layer 12b and the design of the display device 1, the length of the light-blocking layer 12c can be less than the length of the protective layer 12b.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, the housing member 20 can cover at least a portion of the upper surface of the protective layer 12b. Referring to FIG. 1, for example, the housing member 20 can include a sidewall portion 24 and a protruding portion 22 (e.g., a cover portion). The sidewall portion 24 extends along and faces the side surface of the protective window 12. The protruding portion 22 extends along and faces the upper surface of the protective window 12. Figure 2

[0065] The protective film 16 covers the upper surface of the protective window 12. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the protective film 16 can include a polymeric material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or the like.

[0066] In another exemplary embodiment, the display device 1 can not include the protective film 16 and the first adhesive layer 14. Further, the protective film 16 and the first adhesive layer 14 can be defined as components of the protective window 12. The protective film 16 can be exposed outside the display device 1. The protective film 16 can define a display surface of the display device 1, but is not limited thereto.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first adhesive layer 14 and the second adhesive layer 18 can include an optical clear adhesive (OCA) film, a pressure sensitive adhesive, or the like.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective film 16 can partially cover the protective layer 12b. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the protective film 16 and the first adhesive layer 14 can partially overlap the protective layer 12b at the inner end portion of the protective layer 12b. A portion of the protective layer 12b can be exposed outside the display device 1, such as at a region between the inner end portion of the housing member 20 and the outer end portion of the protective window 12.​

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective film 16 can be about 20 μm to about 70 μm, and the thickness of the first adhesive layer 14 can be about 20 μm to about 50 μm.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective layer 12b can be about 3 μm to about 100 μm. In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective layer 12b can be about 3 μm to about 30 μm. When the thickness of the protective layer 12b is less than 3 μm, it can be difficult to coat a material for forming the protective layer 12b and obtain a desired protective effect of the protective window 12.

[0071] When the first adhesive layer 14 and the protective layer 12b overlap each other, the thickness of the protective layer 12b can be equal to or less than about 1 / 3 of the thickness of the first adhesive layer 14. When the thickness of the protective layer 12b is greater than 1 / 3 of the thickness of the first adhesive layer 14, a bubble can be formed due to a difference in thickness between the two layers, thereby deteriorating the adhesive reliability between the layers. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the thickness of the protective layer 12b can be about 3 μm to about 12 μm.

[0072] For replacement or the like, the protective film 16 can be separable from the protective window 12. When the protective film 16 is separable from the protective window 12, the adhesive force between the protective layer 12b and the base substrate 12a can be greater than the adhesive force between the protective layer 12b and the protective film 16, so as to maintain the adhesion between the protective layer 12b and the base substrate 12a. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the adhesive force between the protective layer 12b and the base substrate 12a can be equal to or greater than about 400 grams force per inch (gf / inch).

[0073] The edge (e.g., outer edge or outer surface) of the base substrate 12a including glass can be more easily damaged or broken due to stress concentration or external force. In the foldable display device 1, the housing member 20 can not include the protrusion 22 disposed with the hinge structure. Accordingly, the base substrate 12a including glass can be exposed to the outside of the housing member 20 and / or the display device 1.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective layer 12b covers the weak portion of the base substrate 12a, for example, the outer edge and the upper surface adjacent thereto. Accordingly, damage or breakage of the base substrate 12a including glass can be prevented or reduced. Accordingly, scattering of fine glass dust due to damage or breakage of the base substrate 12a including glass can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0075] Further, direct contact of the base substrate 12a including glass with the housing member 20 can be reduced or effectively prevented. Accordingly, damage to the protective window 12 due to repeated contact or impact can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0076] Further, since the protective layer 12b overlaps with the protective film 16, the upper surface of the base substrate 12a including glass can not be exposed to the outside of the protective window 12. Thus, the durability and reliability of the protective window 12 can be improved.

[0077] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a panel portion PNL of a display device 1. In the exemplary embodiment, the display device 1 can include an organic light-emitting display panel as the panel portion PNL. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. In the exemplary embodiment, for example, the display device 1 can include various display panels as the panel portion PNL, such as a liquid crystal display panel, an electroluminescent display panel, a micro light-emitting diode (LED) panel, or the like.

[0078] Figure 4 A pixel unit (e.g., a pixel) including a light-emitting element can be illustrated in the panel portion PNL. The pixel unit can include a driving transistor and a light-emitting element electrically connected to the driving transistor. In the exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting element can be an organic light-emitting diode.

[0079] Referring to Figure 4 A support film SF can be disposed on a lower surface of the base substrate 110 to support the base substrate 110. In the exemplary embodiment, the support film SF can be patterned to reduce stress in a bending region thereof caused by folding of the display device 1 and / or the display panel 10 therein.

[0080] A buffer layer 120 can be disposed on the base substrate 110. A first active pattern AP1 can be disposed on the buffer layer 120.

[0081] In the exemplary embodiment, for example, the base substrate 110 can include or be formed of a polymeric material to have a higher flexibility. In the exemplary embodiment, for example, the base substrate 110 can include polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polyether ketone, polycarbonate, polyarylate, polyether sulfone, polyimide, or a combination thereof.

[0082] The buffer layer 120 can prevent or reduce penetration of impurities, moisture, or external gas from a bottom of the base substrate 110 to layers located above the buffer layer 120, and can planarize an upper surface of the base substrate 110. In the exemplary embodiment, for example, the buffer layer 120 can include an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or the like.

[0083] A first gate electrode GE1 can be disposed on the first active pattern AP1. A first insulating layer 130 can be disposed between the first active pattern AP1 and the first gate electrode GE1.

[0084] A gate wiring pattern GP can be disposed on the first gate electrode GE1. The gate wiring pattern GP can include a capacitor electrode for forming a capacitor, a wiring for transmitting various signals, or the like.

[0085] A second insulating layer 140 can be disposed between the first gate electrode GE1 and the gate wiring pattern GP. A third insulating layer 150 can be disposed on the gate wiring pattern GP.

[0086] In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first active pattern AP1 can include silicon or metal oxide semiconductor. In an exemplary embodiment, the first active pattern AP1 can include polysilicon which can be doped with an n-type impurity or a p-type impurity.

[0087] In another exemplary embodiment or in another transistor which is not shown, the active pattern can include metal oxide semiconductor. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the active pattern can include a binary compound (AB x ), a ternary compound (AB x C y ), or a quaternary compound (AB x C y D z ) including indium (In), zinc (Zn), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), hafnium (Hf), zirconium (Zr), magnesium (Mg), or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the active pattern can include zinc oxide ("ZnO x "), gallium oxide ("GaO x "), titanium oxide ("TiO x "), tin oxide ("SnO x "), indium oxide ("InO x "), indium gallium oxide ("IGO"), indium zinc oxide ("IZO"), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), gallium zinc oxide ("GZO"), zinc magnesium oxide ("ZMO"), zinc tin oxide ("ZTO"), zinc zirconium oxide ("ZnZr x O y "), indium gallium zinc oxide ("IGZO"), indium zinc tin oxide ("IZTO"), indium gallium hafnium oxide ("IGHO"), tin aluminum zinc oxide ("TAZO"), indium gallium tin oxide ("IGTO"), or the like.

[0088] The first, second, and third insulating layers 130, 140, and 150 can include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, or a combination thereof. In addition, the first, second, and third insulating layers 130, 140, and 150 can include insulating metal oxides such as aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first, second, and third insulating layers 130, 140, and 150 can each have a single-layer structure including silicon nitride and / or silicon oxide, or can have a multi-layer structure different from each other.

[0089] The first gate electrode GE1 and the gate wire pattern GP can include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first gate electrode GE1 and the gate wire pattern GP can include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), or an alloy thereof, and can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including different metal layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the first gate electrode GE1 and the gate wire pattern GP can have a multi-layer structure including at least molybdenum.

[0090] A first source metal pattern can be disposed on the third insulating layer 150. The first source metal pattern can include a first source electrode SE1 and a first drain electrode DE1 in contact with the first active pattern AP1. The first source electrode SE1 and the first drain electrode DE1 can each extend through the insulating layer disposed thereunder to be in contact with the first active pattern AP1.

[0091] A fourth insulating layer 160 can be disposed on the first source metal pattern. A second source metal pattern can be disposed on the fourth insulating layer 160. The second source metal pattern can include a connection electrode CE to electrically connect the first drain electrode DE1 to the organic light emitting diode 210 disposed thereon. In an exemplary embodiment, the second source metal pattern can further include a mesh power line to reduce or effectively prevent a voltage drop of power applied to the organic light emitting diode 210. A fifth insulating layer 170 can be disposed on the second source metal pattern.

[0092] The first source metal pattern and the second source metal pattern can include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first source metal pattern and the second source metal pattern can include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), or an alloy thereof, and can have a single layer structure or a multi-layer structure including different metal layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the first source metal pattern and the second source metal pattern can have a multi-layer structure including at least an aluminum layer. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first source metal pattern and the second source metal pattern can have a stacked structure of an aluminum layer and a titanium layer.

[0093] The fourth insulating layer 160 and the fifth insulating layer 170 can include an organic material. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the fourth insulating layer 160 and the fifth insulating layer 170 can include an organic insulating material such as a phenol resin, an acryl resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide resin, a siloxane resin, an epoxy resin, or the like.

[0094] The organic light emitting diode 210 can be disposed on the fifth insulating layer 170. The organic light emitting diode 210 can include a first electrode 212 in contact with the connection electrode CE, a light emitting layer 214 disposed on the first electrode 212, and a second electrode 216 disposed on the light emitting layer 214. The light emitting layer 214 of the organic light emitting diode 210 can be disposed in the opening of the pixel defining layer 180 while the pixel defining layer 180 is disposed on the fifth insulating layer 170. The first electrode 212 can be a lower electrode of the organic light emitting diode 210, and the second electrode 216 can be an upper electrode of the organic light emitting diode 210.

[0095] The first electrode 212 can serve as an anode. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first electrode 212 can be provided or formed as a transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode according to the emission type of the display device 1. When the first electrode 212 is a transmissive electrode, the first electrode 212 can include indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc tin oxide, indium oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, or the like. When the first electrode 212 is a reflective electrode, the first electrode 212 can include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), or a combination thereof, and can have a stacked structure further including a material that can be used for a transmissive electrode.

[0096] The pixel defining layer 180 partially defines an opening that exposes at least a portion of the first electrode 212, and the light emitting layer 214 is disposed in the opening. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the pixel defining layer 180 can include an organic insulating material.

[0097] The light-emitting layer 214 may include at least an organic light-emitting material layer, and may further include at least one of a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the light-emitting layer 214 may include a low molecular weight organic material or a high molecular weight organic material.

[0098] In an exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting layer 214 may emit red, green, or blue light. In another exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting layer 214 may emit white light. The light-emitting layer 214 emitting white light may have a multilayer structure including a red emitting layer, a green emitting layer, and a blue emitting layer, or a single-layer structure including a combination of red emitting materials, green emitting materials, and blue emitting materials.

[0099] Depending on the emission type of the display device 1, the second electrode 216 may be provided or formed as a transmission electrode or a reflection electrode. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, when the second electrode 216 is a transmission electrode, the second electrode 216 may include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, a metal fluoride, a conductive metal oxide, or a combination thereof.

[0100] In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the second electrode 216 may extend continuously across a plurality of pixel units (e.g., pixels) in the panel portion PNL and / or the display area of ​​the display device 1, to be arranged commonly relative to such pixels. In an exemplary embodiment, a cover layer and a barrier layer may be provided or formed on the second electrode 216.

[0101] The display device 1 also includes an encapsulation layer 220 covering the organic light-emitting diode 210. The encapsulation layer 220 may extend to cover the entire display area, such as being arranged in common with respect to the pixels.

[0102] The encapsulation layer 220 may have a stacked structure comprising inorganic and organic thin films. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the encapsulation layer 220 may include a first inorganic film 222 (e.g., a first inorganic layer), an organic film 224 (e.g., an organic layer) disposed on the first inorganic film 222, and a second inorganic film 226 (e.g., a second inorganic layer) disposed on the organic film 224. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the encapsulation layer 220 may have a structure including at least two organic films and at least three inorganic films.

[0103] In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the organic thin film 224 includes a cured resin such as a polyacrylate or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the cured resin can be provided or formed by a cross-linking reaction of a monomer to include cross-linked monomers. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the first inorganic thin film 222 and the second inorganic thin film 226 can include an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, or the like.

[0104] In an exemplary embodiment, a touch sensing portion 230 (e.g., a touch sensing layer) can be disposed on the encapsulation layer 220. The touch sensing portion 230 can sense an input position by contact applied to the touch sensing portion 230 and / or the display device 1. The touch sensing portion 230 can be directly provided or formed on the encapsulation layer 220, or can be provided or formed separately from the encapsulation layer 220 and then combined with the encapsulation layer 220 as a screen panel after being separately manufactured. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the touch sensing portion 230 can include a conductive layer including an array of electrodes (e.g., touch electrodes) and a bridging pattern electrically connecting the electrodes to each other.

[0105] A polarizing layer 240 can be disposed on the touch sensing portion 230. An adhesive or a transparent adhesive film can be provided between the polarizing layer 240 and the touch sensing portion 230.

[0106] Figures 5 to 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a display device.

[0107] Referring to Figure 5 , the display device 2 includes a display panel 10 and a housing member 20.

[0108] The display panel 10 includes a panel portion PNL and a protective window 12. The protective window 12 covers an upper surface of the panel portion PNL to protect the panel portion PNL. A protective film 16 can be combined with an upper surface of the protective window 12 by a first adhesive layer 14.

[0109] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective window 12 includes a base substrate 12a and a protective layer 12b partially covering an upper surface of the base substrate 12a.

[0110] As Figure 5 shown in

[0111] Referring to Figure 6 , in the display device 3, the protective layer 12b can be disposed only on the upper surface of the base substrate 12a without covering or facing side surfaces of the base substrate 12a.

[0112] Referring toFigure 7 In the display device 4, the protective film 16 and the first adhesive layer 14 can not overlap the protective layer 12b. Thus, a side surface of the protective layer 12b can face a side surface of the first adhesive layer 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the protective layer 12b can be adjacent or substantially in contact with the first adhesive layer 14 at a side surface thereof, instead of overlapping the first adhesive layer 14, in order to minimize an exposed area of the upper surface of the base substrate 12a.

[0113] Referring to Figure 8 In the display device 5, the protruding portion 22 of the housing member 20 can extend to face the upper surface of the protective film 16. In an exemplary embodiment, the protective film 16 includes an upper surface that is farthest from the base substrate 12a, and at an edge portion of the base substrate 12a, the protruding portion 22 of the housing member 20 faces the upper surface of the protective film 16. Thus, the protective film 16 and the first adhesive layer 14 can be disposed under the protruding portion 22 of the housing member 20. Further, the protruding portion 22 of the housing member 20 can overlap the entirety (e.g., the entire length) of the protective layer 12b. According to an exemplary embodiment, the undesired separation of the protective film 16 can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0114] Referring to Figure 9 In the display device 6, the protruding portion 22 of the housing member 20 can extend to face the upper surface of the protective film 16. The protective film 16 and the first adhesive layer 14 can not overlap the protective layer 12b. Thus, the protruding portion 22 of the housing member 20 can overlap the entirety of the protective layer 12b.

[0115] In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective layer 12b can be greater than the thickness of the first adhesive layer 14. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the upper surface of the protective layer 12b can be in contact with the lower surface of the protruding portion 22 of the housing member 20. A space above the base substrate 12a can be defined by the inner surface of the housing member 20, the end side surface of the protective film 16 and the first adhesive layer 14, and the base substrate 12a. Referring to Figure 9 The protective layer 12b can fill such a space, but is not limited thereto.

[0116] In an exemplary embodiment, the first adhesive layer 14 does not overlap the protective layer 12b. Thus, the air bubbles caused by the step in the overlapping area can be reduced or effectively prevented. Thus, the protective layer 12b can be allowed to have an increased thickness.

[0117] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the undesired separation of the protective film 16 from other layers within the display device can be reduced or effectively prevented. In the case where the separation of the protective film 16 from other layers is reduced, the impact resistance of the protective window 12 can be improved.

[0118] Exemplary embodiments of the display device can be applied to various electronic display devices. One or more exemplary embodiments can be applied to a vehicle display device, a ship display device, an airplane display device, a portable communication device, an information transmission device, a medical display device, etc.

[0119] The foregoing is a summary of exemplary embodiments and is not to be construed as limiting. Although exemplary embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present application. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present application. Therefore, it is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the above description and it is therefore intended to cover all such modifications and variations in keeping with the scope and nature of the application as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: The display panel includes: Image generation panel, and A protective window, which is integrated with the image generation panel at the display surface of the image generation panel, the protective window comprising: A base substrate having a thickness in the range of 20 micrometers to 80 micrometers, and A protective layer covering the upper surface of the edge portion of the base substrate having the stated thickness; and A receiving member, wherein the display panel is received, the receiving member includes a protrusion facing the upper surface of the edge portion of the base substrate, and a protective layer is located between the protrusion and the edge portion of the base substrate. The protrusion of the receiving member partially covers the protective layer, such that the protective layer protrudes from the protrusion in a direction parallel to the upper surface of the base substrate.

2. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The display panel also includes: A protective film facing the display surface of the image generating panel, and a base substrate located between the protective film and the display surface of the image generating panel. An adhesive layer is located between the protective film and the base substrate and bonds the protective film to the base substrate.

3. The display device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The thickness of the protective layer covering the edge of the base substrate is equal to or less than 1 / 3 of the thickness of the adhesive layer that bonds the protective film to the base substrate.

4. The display device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, At the edge of the base substrate, the adhesive layer includes a side surface facing the side surface of the protective layer.

5. The display device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The protective film includes the upper surface furthest from the base substrate, and At the edge of the base substrate, the protrusion of the receiving member faces the upper surface of the protective film.

6. The display device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The adhesive layer includes a side surface facing the side surface of the protective layer, and The thickness of the protective layer is greater than the thickness of the adhesive layer.

7. The display device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The adhesive force between the protective layer and the base substrate is equal to or greater than 400 gf per inch.

8. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The protective layer comprises a polymerizable curable resin.

9. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The protective window also includes: A light-blocking layer is provided, which faces the protective layer, and the base substrate is located between the light-blocking layer and the protective layer.

10. The display device as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The light-blocking layer and the protective layer are made of the same material.

11. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The base substrate includes glass.

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