Pressure sensor and display device including the same

Abstract

Disclosed are a pressure sensor for a display device and a display device including the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor includes a plurality of touch cells and a touch driver, wherein the plurality of touch cells have a plurality of drive electrodes arranged on a first substrate, a plurality of sensing electrodes arranged on a second substrate overlapping the first substrate, and a pressure sensing layer interposed between the plurality of drive electrodes and the plurality of sensing electrodes, wherein the drive electrodes and the sensing electrodes overlap with each other, and the touch driver is used to drive the plurality of touch cells and detect touch pressures of the plurality of touch cells, wherein the touch driver is configured to: when detecting a plurality of touch areas including at least one touch cell, compare the magnitudes of the touch pressures of the plurality of touch areas and ignore at least one touch input in at least one touch area.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0120671, filed on September 30, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a pressure sensor, and more particularly, to a display device having a touch panel including the pressure sensor. Background Art

[0004] Electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smartphones, tablet personal computers (PCs), digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation systems, and smart TVs, include display devices for displaying images. The display device includes a display panel for generating and displaying images and various input devices.

[0005] Touch panels that recognize touch input have recently been widely used in display devices, primarily in smartphones and tablet PCs. Due to the convenience of touch input, touch panels can replace keyboards and other conventional physical input devices. In addition to touch panels, pressure sensors mounted on display devices and used as input devices have been studied.

[0006] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A pressure sensor constructed according to the principles and exemplary implementations of the present invention and a display device including the pressure sensor can distinguish a user's intentional touch input from a user's unintentional accidental touch input.

[0008] A pressure sensor configured according to an exemplary implementation of the present invention and a display device including the pressure sensor can output touch signals having a predetermined magnitude from a plurality of touch cells regardless of differences in load resistance between the plurality of touch cells.

[0009] 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.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a pressure sensor for a display device includes multiple touch cells and a touch driver, wherein the multiple touch cells have multiple driving electrodes arranged on a first substrate, multiple sensing electrodes arranged on a second substrate overlapping the first substrate, and a pressure sensing layer interposed between the multiple driving electrodes and the multiple sensing electrodes, the driving electrodes and the sensing electrodes overlap each other, and the touch driver is used to drive the multiple touch cells and detect touch pressures of the multiple touch cells; wherein, when multiple touch areas including at least one touch cell are detected, the touch driver is configured to compare the magnitudes of the touch pressures of the multiple touch areas and ignore at least one touch input in at least one touch area.

[0011] The touch driver may be configured to detect a touch cell having a maximum magnitude value of a touch pressure in each of the plurality of touch areas, and compare magnitudes of the touch pressures of the touch cells.

[0012] The touch driver can be configured to compare the magnitude of the touch pressure of a first touch cell having a maximum touch pressure in a first touch area with the magnitude of the touch pressure of a second touch cell having a maximum touch pressure in a second touch area, and to generate a touch signal of the first touch cell or a touch signal of the second touch cell.

[0013] The touch driver may be configured to generate a first touch signal based on a position of the first touch cell and a magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell when a magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell is greater than a magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell.

[0014] The touch driver may be configured to ignore the touch input in the second touch area when the magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell is smaller than the magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell.

[0015] The touch driver may be configured to ignore the touch input in the second touch area when a magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell is less than or equal to approximately 90% of a magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell.

[0016] The touch driver may be configured to additionally generate a second touch signal based on a position of the second touch cell and a magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell when the magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell exceeds approximately 90% of the magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell.

[0017] The touch driver may be configured to ignore a touch input in the second touch area when a distance between the first touch cell and the second touch area is greater than or equal to a predetermined level and a size of the second touch area is greater than or equal to a predetermined level.

[0018] The touch driver may be configured such that: when the distance between the first touch unit cell and the second touch area is at least about 20 mm and the size of the second touch area is at least about 400 mm 2 , ignore the touch input in the second touch area.

[0019] The touch driver can be configured to: when the distance between the first touch unit cell and the second touch area is less than about 20 mm or the size of the second touch area is less than about 400 mm 2 When the touch signal is generated, a second touch signal is generated based on the position of the second touched cell and the magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touched cell.

[0020] A plurality of drive electrodes may extend in a first direction on the first substrate and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction; and a plurality of sense electrodes may extend in a second direction on the second substrate and may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0021] The touch driver may be electrically connected to a first end of each of the drive electrodes via a drive electrode line and may be configured to increase a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a second end of the drive electrode to be greater than a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a first end of the drive electrode, wherein the second end of the drive electrode is opposite to the first end of the drive electrode.

[0022] The touch driver may be electrically connected to a first end of each of the sensing electrodes through a sensing electrode line and may be configured to increase a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a second end of the sensing electrode to be greater than a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a first end of the sensing electrode, wherein the second end of the sensing electrode is opposite to the first end of the sensing electrode.

[0023] The touch driver may be configured to increase the gain of touch input signals generated from some touch cells among a plurality of touch cells when the load resistance between the touch driver and the touch cells relatively increases, and the touch driver may be configured to reduce the gain of touch input signals generated from some other touch cells among a plurality of touch cells when the load resistance between the touch driver and the touch cells relatively decreases.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, a pressure sensor for a display device includes a plurality of touch cells and a touch driver, wherein the plurality of touch cells have a plurality of drive electrodes arranged on a first substrate, a plurality of sensing electrodes arranged on a second substrate overlapping the first substrate, and a pressure sensing layer interposed between the plurality of drive electrodes and the plurality of sensing electrodes that overlap with each other, and the touch driver is used to drive the plurality of touch cells and detect touch pressure of the plurality of touch cells, wherein the touch driver can be configured to control the gain of a touch input signal of each of the plurality of touch cells based on a load resistance between each of the plurality of touch cells and the touch driver.

[0025] A plurality of driving electrodes may extend in a first direction on the first substrate and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and a plurality of sensing electrodes may extend in a second direction on the second substrate and may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0026] The touch driver may be electrically connected to a first end of each of the drive electrodes via a drive electrode line and may be configured to increase a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a second end of the drive electrode to be greater than a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a first end of the drive electrode, wherein the second end of the drive electrode is opposite to the first end of the drive electrode.

[0027] The touch driver may be electrically connected to a first end of each of the sensing electrodes through a sensing electrode line and may be configured to increase a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a second end of the sensing electrode to be greater than a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a first end of the sensing electrode, wherein the second end of the sensing electrode is opposite to the first end of the sensing electrode.

[0028] The touch driver may be configured to increase the gain of touch input signals generated from some touch cells among a plurality of touch cells when a load resistance between the touch driver and the touch cells may relatively increase, and the touch driver may be configured to reduce the gain of touch input signals generated from some other touch cells among a plurality of touch cells when a load resistance between the touch driver and the touch cells may relatively decrease.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, a display device includes a display panel and a pressure sensor, wherein the display panel is used to display an image, and the pressure sensor is arranged on one surface of the display panel, wherein the pressure sensor may include multiple touch cells and a touch driver, wherein the multiple touch cells have multiple driving electrodes arranged on a first substrate, multiple sensing electrodes arranged on a second substrate overlapping the first substrate, and a pressure sensing layer inserted between the multiple driving electrodes and the multiple sensing electrodes overlapping each other, and the touch driver is used to drive the multiple touch cells and detect touch pressures of the multiple touch cells, wherein the touch driver can be configured to compare the magnitudes of touch pressures of the multiple touch areas when multiple touch areas including at least one touch cell are detected, and ignore at least one touch input in at least one touch area.

[0030] 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

[0031] 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.

[0032] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention in a folded position.

[0033] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a foldable display device in an unfolded position.

[0034] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0035] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0036] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a first display unit of a foldable display device.

[0037] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a first pressure sensor of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7 It is cut along the X-axis direction to show Figure 6sectional view of a first pressure sensor.

[0039] Figure 8 It is cut along the Y axis and shows Figure 6 sectional view of a first pressure sensor.

[0040] Figure 9 is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a first substrate and a printed circuit board of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a second substrate and a printed circuit board of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 11 It shows Figures 9 and 10 A plan view of a first substrate and a second substrate bonded to each other.

[0043] Figure 12 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process of processing multiple touch inputs of a display device according to the principles of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 13 is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary process of processing multiple touch inputs to a display device according to the principles of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 14 is a perspective view illustrating a first display unit or a second display unit being touched of an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the principles of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 15 is a perspective view illustrating a first display unit or a second display unit being touched of another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the principles of the present invention.

[0047] 16A to 16C is a graphical depiction illustrating a touch input signal, a gain, and a touch signal of a driving electrode of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] 17A to 17C is a graphical depiction showing a touch input signal, a gain, and a touch signal of a sensing electrode of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] 18A to 18C is a graphical depiction showing a touch input signal, a gain, and a touch signal of a driving electrode or a sensing electrode of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0050] Figure 19 It is along Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device taken along line II′.

[0051] Figure 20 It is along Figure 2 The line II-II' is intercepted Figure 19 Cross-sectional view of a foldable display device in an unfolded position.

[0052] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a first display unit of a foldable display device.

[0053] Figure 22 It is along Figure 1 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device in a folded position, taken along line II′ of FIG. 4 .

[0054] Figure 23 It is along Figure 2 The line II-II' is intercepted Figure 22 Cross-sectional view of a foldable display device in an unfolded position.

[0055] Figure 24 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a first display unit of a foldable display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] In the following description, for the purpose of illustration, many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments or implementations of the present invention. As used herein, "implementation" and "implementation" are interchangeable terms that are non-limiting examples of one or more devices or methods employing the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it is apparent that various exemplary embodiments may be put into practice without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other examples, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various exemplary embodiments, known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form. In addition, various exemplary embodiments may be different, but not necessarily exclusive. For example, without departing from the inventive concept, the specific shape, configuration, and characteristics of an exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment.

[0057] Unless otherwise specified, the exemplary embodiments shown should be understood as exemplary features that provide some of the variations in detail of the ways in which the present invention can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects of the various embodiments (hereinafter individually or collectively referred to as "elements") may be combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the present invention.

[0058] The use of cross hatching and / or shading in the drawings is generally to make the boundaries between adjacent elements clear. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the presence or absence of cross hatching or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for specific materials, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonalities between illustrated elements and / or any other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc. of the elements. In addition, in the drawings, the size and relative sizes of the elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When the exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, the specific processing order can be performed differently from the described order. For example, two consecutively described processes can be performed substantially simultaneously, or in an order opposite to the described order. In addition, the same figure numbers represent the same elements.

[0059] When an element such as a layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly located on another element or layer, directly connected to or 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, electrical connection and / or fluid connection in the presence or absence of an intervening element. In addition, the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are not limited to the three axes (such as, x-axis, y-axis and z-axis) of a rectangular coordinate system, and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purposes of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" may be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0060] 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. Thus, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0061] For descriptive purposes, spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "under," "down," "above," "upper," "above," "higher," "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall"), and the like may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element(s) as shown in the accompanying drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented as "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both the above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and therefore the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly. In addition, the terms "upper portion," "top," "upper surface," and "upper end" used herein refer to a portion in an upward direction (i.e., in the Z-axis direction) based on the display device, and the terms "lower portion," "bottom," "lower surface," and "lower end" refer to a portion in a downward direction (i.e., in a direction opposite to the Z-axis direction) based on the display device. In addition, the "left," "right," "upward," and "downward" directions indicate directions when the display device is viewed from above. For example, the right direction indicates the X-axis direction, the left direction indicates the direction opposite to the X-axis direction, the upward direction indicates the Y-axis direction, and the downward direction indicates the direction opposite to the Y-axis direction.

[0062] The terms used herein are 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 include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, when used in this specification, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes" and / or "including" represent the presence of stated features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, parts 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 and not as terms of degree, and are therefore used to allow for the inherent deviations of measurements, calculations and / or provided values ​​that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0063] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional and / or exploded views that are schematic representations of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Thus, deviations from the illustrated shapes due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be construed as limited to the specific illustrated shapes of regions, but rather are to include deviations in shapes due to, for example, manufacturing. In this manner, the regions shown in the accompanying drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of regions of the device and, therefore, are not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0064] As is customary in the art, some exemplary embodiments are described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings in terms of functional blocks, units, and / or modules (such as controllers). It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuits (such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hard-wired circuits, memory elements, wiring connections, etc.) that can be formed using semiconductor-based fabrication techniques or other manufacturing techniques. Where blocks, units, and / or modules are implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, software (e.g., microcode) can be used to program and control the blocks, units, and / or modules to perform the various functions discussed herein, and optionally, the blocks, units, and / or modules can be driven by firmware and / or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit, and / or module can be implemented by dedicated hardware, or as a combination of dedicated hardware that performs some functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) that performs other functions. In addition, without departing from the scope of the present invention, each block, unit and / or module of some exemplary embodiments can be physically divided into two or more interactive and discrete blocks, units and / or modules. In addition, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the blocks, units and / or modules of some exemplary embodiments can be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules.

[0065] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as 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 technology and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined as such herein.

[0066] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention in a folded position. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1A perspective view of a foldable display device in an unfolded position.

[0067] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the display device 10 may include a first display unit 100 having a first display area DA1 and a second display unit 200 having a second display area DA2.

[0068] In a plan view, the first display unit 100 may have a substantially rectangular shape. For example, the first display unit 100 may have a first side S1 in a first direction (X-axis direction) and a second side S2 in a second direction (Y-axis direction). The length of each of the first sides S1 may be less than the length of each of the second sides S2. The corners at the intersection of any one of the first sides S1 and any one of the second sides S2 may be roughly rounded to have a substantially predetermined curvature, or formed at a substantially right angle. As another example, the first display unit 100 may have a substantially polygonal, circular, or elliptical plan shape, rather than a substantially rectangular plan shape.

[0069] The first display area DA1 of the first display unit 100 may have a first display side DS1 that is substantially parallel to the first side S1 in a first direction (X-axis direction) and a second display side DS2 that is substantially parallel to the second side S2 in a second direction (Y-axis direction). For example, the length of each of the first display sides DS1 may be smaller than the length of each of the second display sides DS2. The corners at the intersection of any one of the first display sides DS1 and any one of the second display sides DS2 may be substantially rounded to have a substantially predetermined curvature, or may be formed at a substantially right angle. The first display area DA1 may have a substantially polygonal, circular, or elliptical planar shape, rather than a substantially rectangular planar shape.

[0070] The second display unit 200 may include a first area A1, a second area A2, and a folding area FA disposed between the first area A1 and the second area A2. The second display unit 200 may be configured to be foldable according to the state of the folding area FA. Figure 1 Fold as shown in or as Figure 2. The second display unit 200 can be formed into a generally rectangular shape in a plan view in the expanded state. The second display unit 200 can have a third side S3 in a first direction (X-axis direction) and a fourth side S4 in a second direction (Y-axis direction). For example, the length of each of the third sides S3 can be greater than the length of each of the fourth sides S4. In such exemplary embodiments, the user can view a screen having a long side in the first direction (X-axis direction). In other exemplary embodiments, the length of each of the third sides S3 can be less than the length of each of the fourth sides S4. In such exemplary embodiments, the user can view a screen having a long side in the second direction (Y-axis direction). In some exemplary embodiments, the length of each of the third sides S3 can be substantially the same as the length of each of the fourth sides S4. In such exemplary embodiments, the user can view a generally square screen. The corners where any of the third sides S3 intersects with any of the fourth sides S4 can be generally rounded to have a generally predetermined curvature or formed at a right angle. The second display unit 200 can have a generally polygonal, circular, or elliptical plan shape, rather than a generally rectangular plan shape.

[0071] In the expanded state, the second display area DA2 of the second display unit 200 may have a third display side DS3 that is substantially parallel to the third side S3 in the first direction (X-axis direction) and a fourth display side DS4 that is substantially parallel to the fourth side S4 in the second direction (Y-axis direction). For example, the length of each of the third display sides DS3 may be greater than the length of each of the fourth display sides DS4. In some exemplary embodiments, the length of each of the third display sides DS3 may be less than the length of each of the fourth display sides DS4. In other exemplary embodiments, the length of each of the third display sides DS3 may be substantially the same as the length of each of the fourth display sides DS4. The corners at the intersection of any one of the third display sides DS3 and any one of the fourth display sides DS4 may be roughly rounded to have a roughly predetermined curvature, or formed at a roughly right angle. The second display area DA2 may have a roughly polygonal, circular, or elliptical planar shape, rather than a roughly rectangular planar shape.

[0072] In some exemplary embodiments, the second display unit 200 may include a bendable, foldable, or rollable flexible substrate and may thus be easily folded at the folding area FA. In other exemplary embodiments, the second display unit 200 may include a hinge portion provided on one surface of the second display unit 200 to facilitate folding of the folding area FA.

[0073] When the second display unit 200 is Figure 1When folded as shown in FIG, the portion of the second display area DA2 located in the first area A1 and the portion of the second display area DA2 located in the second area A2 can be folded inward to face each other. The second display unit 200 can be bent at a substantially predetermined curvature at the folding area FA so that the second display area DA2 of the second display unit 200 can be folded. For example, the first display area DA1 of the first display unit 100 can face a third direction (Z-axis direction), and the second display area DA2 of the second display unit 200 can face a direction opposite to the third direction (Z-axis direction).

[0074] When the second display unit 200 is folded, the display device 10 can display an image in the third direction (Z-axis direction). When the second display unit 200 is unfolded, the display device 10 can display an image in a direction opposite to the third direction (Z-axis direction). In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first display unit 100 can display an image in the third direction (Z-axis direction) or may not display any image.

[0075] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'. Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0076] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the display device 10 may include a first display unit 100 , a second display unit 200 , a first panel lower member 300 , and a second panel lower member 400 .

[0077] The first display unit 100 may display an image in a third direction (Z-axis direction). The first display unit 100 may be disposed on one surface of the first panel lower member 300 and supported by the first panel lower member 300. The first display unit 100 may include a first display panel 110, a first cover window 120, and a first pressure sensor 130.

[0078] The first display panel 110 may be an organic light-emitting display panel using organic light-emitting diodes (LEDs), a micro light-emitting diode display panel using micro LEDs, a quantum dot light-emitting display panel including quantum dot LEDs, or other known display panels. Hereinafter, for ease of description, it is assumed that the first display panel 110 is an organic light-emitting display panel. The first display panel 110 may be positioned closer to the first cover window 120 than the first pressure sensor 130, thereby improving the image quality of the display device 10.

[0079] The first cover window 120 may be disposed above the first display panel 110. The first cover window 120 may cover the upper surface of the first display panel 110 to protect the first display panel 110. The first cover window 120 may be attached to the first display panel 110 using a transparent adhesive member. The first cover window 120 may correspond to the surface of the first display area DA1 and may come into direct contact with the user's body. For example, the first cover window 120 may be made of at least one of glass, sapphire, and plastic. The first cover window 120 may be rigid or flexible.

[0080] The first pressure sensor 130 may be provided below the first display panel 110. The first pressure sensor 130 may detect a user's touch generated on the first cover window 120. The first pressure sensor 130 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the first display panel 110. The first pressure sensor 130 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the first cover window 120. For example, the first pressure sensor 130 may include a plurality of touch cells (e.g., Figure 11 CE in FIG. ). Among the plurality of touch cells of the first pressure sensor 130, the resistance value of a touch cell subjected to pressure due to a touch may change depending on the magnitude of the pressure. Therefore, the first pressure sensor 130 can detect the location where the touch is generated based on the location of the touch cell whose resistance value changes, and can detect the magnitude of the touch pressure based on the degree of change in the resistance value.

[0081] The second display unit 200 can be adjusted according to the state of the folding area FA. Figure 3 Fold as shown in or as Figure 4 The second display unit 200 may display an image in a direction opposite to the third direction (Z-axis direction) in the unfolded state. The second display unit 200 may include a second display panel 210, a second cover window 220, and a second pressure sensor 230.

[0082] The second display panel 210 may be an organic light emitting display panel using organic LEDs, a micro light emitting diode display panel using micro LEDs, a quantum dot light emitting display panel including quantum dot LEDs, or other known display panels.

[0083] The second display panel 210 may include a first area A1, a second area A2, and a folding area FA disposed between the first area A1 and the second area A2. In some exemplary embodiments, the second display panel 210 may include a flexible substrate that is bendable, foldable, or rollable, and thus may be easily folded at the folding area FA. In other exemplary embodiments, the second display panel 210 may include a hinge portion disposed on one surface of the second display unit 200 to supplement the folding function of the folding area FA.

[0084] The first area A1 of the second display panel 210 may be disposed on the other surface of the first panel lower member 300 opposite to one surface of the first panel lower member 300 and supported by the first panel lower member 300. The first area A1 of the second display panel 210 and the first display panel 110 may be opposite to each other with the first panel lower member 300 interposed therebetween.

[0085] The second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may be connected to the first area A1 through the folding area FA. Figure 3 When folded as shown in FIG, the second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may overlap with the first area A1 in the third direction (Z-axis direction). Figure 4 When unfolded as shown in FIG, the second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may be substantially coplanar with the folding area FA and the first area A1.

[0086] The second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may be disposed on one surface of the second panel lower member 400 and supported by the second panel lower member 400 .

[0087] The second cover window 220 may be provided on one surface of the second display panel 210. The second cover window 220 may cover one surface of the second display panel 210 to protect the second display panel 210. The second cover window 220 may be attached to one surface of the second display panel 210 by a transparent adhesive member. The second cover window 220 may correspond to the surface of the second display area DA2 and may come into direct contact with the user's body. For example, the second cover window 220 may be made of at least one material selected from glass, sapphire, and plastic. A portion of the second cover window 220 may overlap with the folding area FA of the second display panel 210, and at least a portion of the second cover window 220 may be formed to be flexible.

[0088] The second pressure sensor 230 may be provided on the other surface of the second display panel 210 opposite to one surface of the second display panel 210. The second pressure sensor 230 may detect a user's touch generated on the second cover window 220. The second pressure sensor 230 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the second display panel 210. The second pressure sensor 230 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the second cover window 220. In some exemplary embodiments, the second pressure sensor 230 may include a plurality of touch cells (e.g., overlapping the entire surface of the second display panel 210 or the entire surface of the second cover window 220) Figure 11 (e.g., touch cells CE in FIG. 1 ) Among the multiple touch cells of the second pressure sensor 230, the resistance value of a touch cell subjected to pressure due to a touch may change depending on the magnitude of the pressure. Therefore, the second pressure sensor 230 can detect the location where the touch is generated based on the location of the touch cell whose resistance value changes, and can also detect the magnitude of the touch pressure based on the degree of change in the resistance value.

[0089] The first panel lower member 300 may be disposed between the first display unit 100 and the first area A1 of the second display panel 210. One surface of the first panel lower member 300 may support the first display unit 100, and the other surface of the first panel lower member 300 may support the first area A1 of the second display panel 210. In some exemplary embodiments, one surface of the first panel lower member 300 may directly support the first pressure sensor 130 of the first display unit 100. One surface of the first panel lower member 300 may indirectly support the first display panel 110 and the first cover window 120. The other surface of the first panel lower member 300 may directly support a portion of the second pressure sensor 230 that overlaps with the first area A1 of the second display panel 210. The other surface of the first panel lower member 300 may indirectly support the first area A1 and a portion of the second cover window 220 that overlaps with the first area A1.

[0090] The first panel lower member 300 may include a buffer member and a heat dissipation member. The buffer member of the first panel lower member 300 may absorb external impact to prevent damage to the portion of the second display unit 200 overlapping with the first area A1 and the first display unit 100. In some exemplary embodiments, the buffer member of the first panel lower member 300 may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers, wherein the single layer or multiple layers are made of a polymer resin such as at least one of polyurethane, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc. In some exemplary embodiments, the first panel lower member 300 may be made of a material having elasticity (such as rubber or a sponge obtained by foaming a urethane-based material or an acrylic-based material).

[0091] In some exemplary embodiments, the heat dissipation member of the first panel lower member 300 may include graphite or carbon nanotubes to block electromagnetic waves. In other exemplary embodiments, the heat dissipation member of the first panel lower member 300 may be formed of a metal thin film having good thermal conductivity (such as at least one of copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), ferrite (Fr), and silver (Ag)) to dissipate heat generated in the first display unit 100 or the second display unit 200.

[0092] The second panel lower member 400 may support the second display unit 200. The second panel lower member 400 may directly support a portion of the second pressure sensor 230 overlapping the second area A2, and may indirectly support the second area A2 and a portion of the second cover window 220 overlapping the second area A2.

[0093] When the second display unit 200 is Figure 3 When folded as shown in FIG, the second panel lower member 400 may overlap the first panel lower member 300 in the third direction (Z-axis direction). Figure 4 When unfolded as shown in , the second panel lower member 400 can be substantially coplanar with the first panel lower member 300. Figure 4 As shown in , the first panel lower member 300 and the second panel lower member 400 may be spaced apart from each other by the width of the folding area FA.

[0094] The second panel lower member 400 may include a buffer member and a heat dissipation member. The buffer member of the second panel lower member 400 may absorb external impact to prevent the portion of the second display unit 200 overlapping with the second area A2 from being damaged. For example, the buffer member of the second panel lower member 400 may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers, wherein the single layer or multiple layers are made of a polymer resin such as at least one of polyurethane, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc. As another example, the second panel lower member 400 may be made of a material having elasticity (such as rubber or a sponge obtained by foaming a urethane-based material or an acrylic-based material).

[0095] In some exemplary embodiments, the heat dissipation member of the second panel lower member 400 may include graphite or carbon nanotubes to block electromagnetic waves. In other exemplary embodiments, the heat dissipation member of the second panel lower member 400 may be formed of a metal thin film having good thermal conductivity (such as at least one of copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), ferrite (Fr), and silver (Ag)) to dissipate heat generated in the second display unit 200.

[0096] Figure 5 yes Figure 4A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a first display unit of a foldable display device.

[0097] The cross-sectional view of the first display unit 100 may include a configuration substantially the same as the configuration of the cross-sectional view of the unfolded second display unit 200. The cross-sectional configurations of the first display panel 110, the first cover window 120, and the first pressure sensor 130 may correspond to the cross-sectional configurations of the second display panel 210, the second cover window 220, and the second pressure sensor 230, respectively. Hereinafter, the cross-sectional configuration of the first display unit 100 will be described in detail, and thus the description of the cross-sectional configuration of the second display unit 200 will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0098] Reference Figure 5 , the first display panel 110 may include a base film BF, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFEL.

[0099] The base film BF may be a base substrate and may be made of an insulating material such as a polymer resin. For example, the base film BF may be made of polyethersulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PAC), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), or a combination thereof. The base film BF may be a flexible substrate that is bendable, foldable, or rollable.

[0100] A thin film transistor layer TFTL may be disposed above the base film BF. The thin film transistor layer TFTL may include at least one thin film transistor for driving each of the plurality of sub-pixels. The at least one thin film transistor of a sub-pixel may include a semiconductor layer, a gate electrode, a drain electrode, and a source electrode. For example, the thin film transistor layer TFTL may further include scan lines, data lines, power lines, and scan control lines connected to the at least one thin film transistor of the sub-pixel, as well as routing lines connecting pads to the data lines.

[0101] The light-emitting element layer EML may be disposed above the thin-film transistor layer TFTL. The light-emitting element layer EML may include a light-emitting element connected to at least one thin-film transistor of the thin-film transistor layer TFTL. The light-emitting element may include a first electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode. In some exemplary embodiments, the light-emitting layer may be an organic light-emitting layer made of an organic material, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In the case where the light-emitting layer is an organic light-emitting layer, when the thin-film transistor of the thin-film transistor layer TFTL applies a predetermined voltage to the first electrode of the light-emitting element and the second electrode of the light-emitting element receives a common voltage or a cathode voltage, holes and electrons may move to the organic light-emitting layer through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and the holes and electrons may combine with each other in the organic light-emitting layer to emit light.

[0102] The light emitting element layer EML may include a pixel defining film defining a plurality of sub-pixels, and the first electrode and the light emitting layer of the light emitting element may be spaced apart and insulated from each other by the pixel defining film.

[0103] The thin film encapsulation layer (TFEL) may be disposed above the light emitting element layer (EML) to cover the thin film transistor layer (TFTL) and the light emitting element layer (EML). The thin film encapsulation layer (TFEL) may prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light emitting element layer (EML). For example, the thin film encapsulation layer (TFEL) may include at least one inorganic film. The thin film encapsulation layer (TFEL) may include an inorganic film such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0104] The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can protect the light emitting element layer EML from foreign matter such as dust. In some exemplary embodiments, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one organic film. The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may include an organic film such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0105] The first cover window 120 may be disposed above the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL and may cover the upper surface of the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL to protect the first display panel 110 .

[0106] The first pressure sensor 130 may be disposed under the base film BF. The first pressure sensor 130 may include a first substrate SUB1, a driving electrode layer TL, a pressure sensing layer PSL, a sensing electrode layer RL, and a second substrate SUB2.

[0107] The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may be opposite to each other, with the driving electrode layer TL, the pressure sensing layer PSL, and the sensing electrode layer RL interposed therebetween. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may be made of at least one of polyethersulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PAC), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), and combinations thereof.

[0108] The driving electrode layer TL may be provided on the first substrate SUB1. The driving electrode layer TL may include a plurality of driving electrodes (eg, Figure 9 Each of the plurality of driving electrodes may be connected to a driving electrode line (eg, Figure 9 "TEL" in the touch driver (for example, Figure 9 The touch driver may receive a touch driving voltage from the touch driver.

[0109] The sensing electrode layer RL may be provided on the second substrate SUB2. The sensing electrode layer RL and the driving electrode layer TL may be opposite to each other, and the pressure sensing layer PSL is interposed between the sensing electrode layer RL and the driving electrode layer TL. The sensing electrode layer RL may include a plurality of sensing electrodes (e.g., Figure 10 Each of the plurality of sensing electrodes may be connected to a sensing electrode line (eg, Figure 10 “REL” in ) is connected to the touch driver and can provide a touch input signal to the touch driver.

[0110] The resistance values ​​of the multiple touch cells including the pressure sensing layer PSL, the multiple driving electrodes of the driving electrode layer TL, and the multiple sensing electrodes of the sensing electrode layer RL can change according to the pressure applied to the multiple touch cells. In some exemplary embodiments, the resistance values ​​of the touch cells can decrease as the pressure applied to the multiple touch cells increases. When the pressure applied to the multiple touch cells is relatively low, the change in the resistance value of the touch cells may not be obvious. The touch driver can sense the change in the current value or voltage value of the touch input signal based on the change in the resistance value of the multiple touch cells connected to the sensing electrode line. Therefore, since the touch driver can sense pressure when pressed by the user's hand, the first pressure sensor 130 can be used as an input device for sensing the user's touch input.

[0111] The pressure sensing layer PSL may be disposed between the driving electrode layer TL and the sensing electrode layer RL. The pressure sensing layer PSL may overlap with a plurality of driving electrodes and a plurality of sensing electrodes to form a plurality of touch cells.

[0112] The pressure sensing layer (PSL) may include a polymer resin having a pressure-sensitive material. The pressure-sensitive material may be fine metal particles (or metal nanoparticles), such as at least one of nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), tin (Sn), and copper (Cu). For example, the pressure sensing layer (PSL) may be a quantum tunneling composite (QTC).

[0113] The first display unit 100 may further include an adhesive layer PSA that bonds the first display panel 110 and the first pressure sensor 130. The adhesive layer PSA may be disposed between the lower portion of the base film BF and the upper portion of the second substrate SUB2. In some exemplary embodiments, the adhesive layer PSA may be an optically clear adhesive film (OCA) or an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0114] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a first pressure sensor of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 7 It is cut along the X-axis direction to show Figure 6 sectional view of a first pressure sensor. Figure 8 It is cut along the Y axis and shows Figure 6 sectional view of a first pressure sensor.

[0115] The configuration of the first pressure sensor 130 may be substantially the same as that of the second pressure sensor 230. Hereinafter, the configuration of the first pressure sensor 130 will be described in detail, and thus a description of the configuration of the second pressure sensor 230 will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0116] Reference Figures 6 to 8 , the first pressure sensor 130 may include a first substrate SUB1, a plurality of driving electrodes TE, a pressure sensing layer PSL, a plurality of sensing electrodes RE, a second substrate SUB2, and an adhesive member AM.

[0117] A plurality of drive electrodes TE may be provided on the first substrate SUB1. The plurality of drive electrodes TE may each extend in a first direction (X-axis direction) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y-axis direction) substantially perpendicular to the first direction (X-axis direction). Each of the plurality of drive electrodes TE may be connected to a touch driver via a drive electrode line and may receive a touch drive voltage from the touch driver. In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of drive electrodes TE may include a conductive material such as at least one of silver (Ag), copper (Cu), and the like. The plurality of drive electrodes TE may be formed on the first substrate SUB1 by screen printing, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0118] The pressure sensing layer PSL may be formed on the plurality of drive electrodes TE. The pressure sensing layer PSL may be patterned along the arrangement of the plurality of drive electrodes TE. The plurality of patterns of the pressure sensing layer PSL may extend in a first direction (X-axis direction) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y-axis direction) substantially perpendicular to the first direction (X-axis direction). Thus, the plurality of patterns of the pressure sensing layer PSL may intersect with the plurality of sensing electrodes RE.

[0119] The pressure sensing layer PSL may be disposed between the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE. The pressure sensing layer PSL may overlap the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE to form a plurality of touch cells.

[0120] The plurality of touch cells may correspond to respective areas in which the plurality of drive electrodes TE, the pressure sensing layer PSL, and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE overlap with each other. The resistance values ​​of the plurality of touch cells may vary according to the pressure applied to the plurality of touch cells. In some exemplary embodiments, the resistance value of the touch cell may decrease as the pressure applied to the plurality of touch cells increases. When the pressure applied to the plurality of touch cells is relatively low, the change in the resistance value of the touch cell may not be obvious. The touch driver may sense the change in the current value or voltage value of the touch input signal based on the change in the resistance value of the plurality of touch cells connected to the sensing electrode line. Therefore, since the touch driver can sense pressure when pressed by the user's hand, the first pressure sensor 130 can be used as an input device for sensing the user's touch input.

[0121] A plurality of sensing electrodes RE may be provided on the second substrate SUB2. The plurality of sensing electrodes RE may each extend in the second direction (Y-axis direction) and may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X-axis direction). The plurality of sensing electrodes RE may intersect with the plurality of driving electrodes TE. The second substrate SUB2 on which the plurality of sensing electrodes RE are formed may be bonded to the first substrate SUB1 on which the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the pressure sensing layer PSL are formed.

[0122] The adhesive member AM can bond the first substrate SUB1 to the second substrate SUB2 while filling the gap between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. The adhesive member AM can cover the area between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 where the plurality of touch cells are not formed. The adhesive member AM can insulate each of the plurality of drive electrodes TE from each of the plurality of sense electrodes RE and prevent the plurality of drive electrodes TE and the plurality of sense electrodes RE from being exposed to the outside and oxidized. Even when the first pressure sensor 130 receives pressure from the outside, the adhesive member AM can prevent the plurality of drive electrodes TE and the plurality of sense electrodes RE from directly contacting each other.

[0123] Figure 9 is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a first substrate and a printed circuit board of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 10 is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a second substrate and a printed circuit board of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 11 It shows Figures 9 and 10 A plan view of a first substrate and a second substrate bonded to each other.

[0124] Reference Figures 9 to 11 , the first pressure sensor 130 may further include a touch driver TIC for driving the first pressure sensor 130 and a printed circuit board PCB on which the touch driver TIC is mounted.

[0125] A touch driver TIC may be provided on a printed circuit board (PCB) to measure changes in resistance of a plurality of touch cells CE. Multiple touch cells CE may be formed for each region where a plurality of drive electrodes TE, a pressure sensing layer PSL, and a plurality of sensing electrodes RE overlap. In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of touch cells CE may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction (Y-axis direction) by the arrangement interval (pitch) of the plurality of drive electrodes TE, and spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X-axis direction) by the pitch of the plurality of sensing electrodes RE.

[0126] The touch driver TIC can detect the position of the user's touch and the magnitude of the touch pressure based on the change in the resistance of the plurality of touch cells CE. As used herein, the user's touch refers to direct contact between an object such as the user's finger or a pen and the surface of the first display unit 100. In addition, the touch driver TIC can distinguish between intentional user touch input and unintentional user touch input to accurately detect the user's touch input.

[0127] Among multiple touch cells CE, the resistance values ​​of some touch cells CE receiving touch pressure may change depending on the magnitude of the touch pressure, while the resistance values ​​of some other touch cells CE not receiving touch pressure may not change. Depending on whether the touch cells CE are adjacent to each other, the touch cells CE receiving touch pressure may constitute at least one touch area. When a user touch is generated in multiple touch areas, the touch driver TIC may detect the touch cell CE with the largest touch pressure in each of the multiple touch areas and compare the magnitudes of the touch pressures of the touch cells CE with the largest touch pressures. Based on the comparison results of the touch pressure magnitudes of the touch cells CE, the touch driver TIC can accurately detect the user's touch input by ignoring touch inputs in meaningless touch areas.

[0128] The printed circuit board PCB may be connected to the first substrate SUB1 via the first circuit film CF1, and may be connected to the second substrate SUB2 via the second circuit film CF2. The third connection terminals CT3 of the printed circuit board PCB may be connected to the first connection terminals CT1 of the first circuit film CF1, and the fourth connection terminals CT4 of the printed circuit board PCB may be connected to the second connection terminals CT2 of the second circuit film CF2, respectively. For example, the printed circuit board PCB may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), a rigid printed circuit board (RPCB), or a flexible film such as a chip on film (COF).

[0129] The touch driver TIC may be connected to the third connection terminal CT3 or the fourth connection terminal CT4 of the printed circuit board PCB through a wire of the printed circuit board PCB.

[0130] like Figure 9 As shown in FIG, the touch driver TIC can be connected to the third connection terminal CT3 of the printed circuit board PCB via a lead wire, and the first connection terminal CT1 of the first circuit film CF1 can be connected to the plurality of drive electrodes TE provided on the first substrate SUB1 via the drive electrode lines TEL. Therefore, the touch driver TIC can be electrically connected to the plurality of drive electrodes TE via the lead wire, the third connection terminal CT3, the first connection terminal CT1, and the drive electrode lines TEL. For example, one end of each of the plurality of drive electrodes TE can be connected to the drive electrode line TEL on the left side of the first substrate SUB1. The plurality of drive electrodes TE can extend substantially parallel to each other in a first direction (X-axis direction).

[0131] like Figure 10As shown in FIG, the touch driver TIC can be connected to the fourth connection terminal CT4 of the printed circuit board PCB via a lead wire, and the second connection terminal CT2 of the second circuit film CF2 can be connected to the plurality of sensing electrodes RE provided on the second substrate SUB2 via a sensing electrode line REL. Therefore, the touch driver TIC can be electrically connected to the plurality of sensing electrodes RE via the lead wire, the fourth connection terminal CT4, the second connection terminal CT2, and the sensing electrode line REL. In some exemplary embodiments, one end of each of the plurality of sensing electrodes RE can be connected to the sensing electrode line REL on the upper side of the second substrate SUB2. The plurality of sensing electrodes RE can extend substantially parallel to the sensing electrode line REL in a direction opposite to the second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0132] like Figure 11 As shown in FIG, the driving electrode lines TEL may be formed on the first substrate SUB1 to connect the plurality of driving electrodes TE to the first connection terminals CT1 of the first circuit film CF1, and the sensing electrode lines REL may be formed on the second substrate SUB2 to connect the plurality of sensing electrodes RE to the second connection terminals CT2 of the second circuit film CF2. The driving electrode lines TEL and the sensing electrode lines REL may be insulated from each other by an adhesive member AM provided between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2.

[0133] Figure 12 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process of processing multiple touch inputs of a display device according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 13 is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary process of processing multiple touch inputs to a display device according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 14 is a perspective view illustrating a first display unit or a second display unit being touched of an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 15 is a perspective view illustrating a first display unit or a second display unit being touched of another exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the principles of the present invention.

[0134] In the following, reference will be made to Figure 14 and Figure 15 Described as an example Figure 12 and Figure 13 process. Figures 12 to 15 , the first pressure sensor 130 may detect a user's touch generated on the first display unit 100 , and the second pressure sensor 230 may detect a user's touch generated on the second display unit 200 .

[0135] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 15, the first pressure sensor 130 can detect the size and touch area of ​​the touch pressure of the user's touch generated on the first display unit 100 (operation S110). The first pressure sensor 130 may include a plurality of touch cells CE that substantially overlap the entire surface of the first display unit 100. Some of the touch cells CE subjected to the touch pressure may constitute at least one touch area depending on whether the touch cells CE are adjacent to each other. One touch area may include at least one touch cell CE.

[0136] For example, the resistance value of the touch cell CE receiving the touch pressure in each of the first touch area TA1, the second touch area TA2, and the third touch area TA3 may change according to the magnitude of the touch pressure. Since the touch cells CE in areas other than the first touch area TA1, the second touch area TA2, and the third touch area TA3 do not receive the touch pressure, the resistance value of the touch cell CE may not change.

[0137] The touch driver TIC of the first pressure sensor 130 may determine whether the number of touch areas is two or more (operation S120 ).

[0138] When the number of touch areas is determined to be one, the touch driver TIC may determine the corresponding touch input as an intentional touch input by the user. For example, the touch driver TIC may provide the position and pressure of the corresponding touch area to the main processor of the display device 10.

[0139] The main processor may continue processing based on the touch input (operation S130). In some exemplary embodiments, the main processor may run an application indicated by an icon displayed at the location of the touch input. In other exemplary embodiments, the main processor may continue processing based on the location and pressure of the touch input. In another exemplary embodiment, the main processor may implement a haptic device based on the location and pressure of the touch input. The main processor may be an application processor, a central processing unit, or a system-on-chip (SoC) comprised of an integrated circuit.

[0140] When it is determined that the number of touch areas is two or more, the touch driver TIC can distinguish between intentional user touch input and unintentional user touch input. The touch driver TIC can detect the touch cell CE with the largest touch pressure value in each of the multiple touch areas. The touch driver TIC can compare the touch pressures of the touch cells CE with the largest touch pressure value in each of the touch areas to set a touch area including a reference touch cell with the largest touch pressure value among the touch cells CE as a reference touch area.

[0141] For example, the touch driver TIC may detect a touch cell CE with the maximum touch pressure in each of the first touch area TA1, the second touch area TA2, and the third touch area TA3. The first touch cell with the maximum touch pressure in the first touch area TA1 may be subjected to a touch pressure of a first magnitude H1, the second touch cell with the maximum touch pressure in the second touch area TA2 may be subjected to a touch pressure of a second magnitude H2, and the third touch cell with the maximum touch pressure in the third touch area TA3 may be subjected to a touch pressure of a third magnitude H3. The touch driver TIC may compare the magnitudes of the touch pressures of the touch cells CE with the maximum touch pressure in each of the first touch area TA1, the second touch area TA2, and the third touch area TA3 to set a touch area including the reference touch cell with the maximum touch pressure among these touch cells CE as a reference touch area. Therefore, the touch driver TIC may set the first touch area TA1 as the reference touch area and the first touch cell subjected to the touch pressure of the first magnitude H1 as the reference touch cell.

[0142] A first touch cell in the first touch area TA1 may be subjected to a pressure greater than that applied to a second touch cell in the second touch area TA2 or a third touch cell in the third touch area TA3. The first touch cell is subjected to a touch pressure of a first magnitude H1, the second touch cell is subjected to a touch pressure of a second magnitude H2, and the third touch cell is subjected to a touch pressure of a third magnitude H3. Therefore, the first touch cell (reference touch cell) may be subjected to the greatest touch pressure among all of the first, second, and third touch areas TA1, TA2, and TA3. The touch driver TIC may determine that the touch input in the first touch area TA1 (reference touch area) is intended by the user. The touch driver TIC may generate a first touch signal based on the position of the first touch cell and the first magnitude H1 of the pressure. The touch driver TIC may provide the first touch signal to the main processor of the display device 10, and the main processor may continue processing based on the touch input in the first touch area TA1.

[0143] The touch driver TIC may compare the magnitude of the touch pressure of the touch cell CE in each touch area with the magnitude of the touch pressure of the reference touch cell, and may determine whether the magnitude of the touch pressure of the touch cell CE in each touch area is less than or equal to about 90% of the magnitude of the touch pressure of the reference touch cell (operation S140).

[0144] In some exemplary embodiments, the touch driver TIC may compare the second magnitude H2 of the touch pressure of the second touch cell with the first magnitude H1 of the touch pressure of the first touch cell. In addition, the touch driver TIC may compare the third magnitude H3 of the touch pressure of the third touch cell with the first magnitude H1 of the touch pressure of the first touch cell.

[0145] The touch driver TIC may determine an input in a touch area including a touch cell CE having a touch pressure exceeding approximately 90% of the touch pressure of a reference touch cell as an intended touch input by the user. In addition to the first touch signal, the touch driver TIC may generate a second touch signal based on the position of the touch cell CE having a touch pressure exceeding approximately 90% of the touch pressure of the reference touch cell and the magnitude of the pressure of the touch cell CE. The touch driver TIC may provide the second touch signal to the main processor of the display device 10. The main processor may continue processing (operation S150) based on the first touch signal according to the touch input in the reference touch area and the second touch signal according to the additional touch input in the touch area. The touch input in the reference touch area and the additional touch input in the touch area may be used in combination or may be used independently of each other.

[0146] The touch driver TIC may determine an input of a touch area including a touch cell CE having a touch pressure less than or equal to about 90% of the touch pressure of the reference touch cell as an unintentional touch input or a meaningless touch input by the user. The touch driver TIC may ignore the unintentional touch input by the user (operation S160). The touch driver TIC may not provide information related to the corresponding touch input to the main processor, and the main processor may not perform an operation because the touch input is unintentional by the user.

[0147] In some exemplary embodiments, when it is determined that the second magnitude H2 of the touch pressure of the second touch cell is less than or equal to approximately 90% of the first magnitude H1 of the touch pressure of the first touch cell, the touch driver TIC may determine that the input in the second touch area TA2 is an unintentional touch input by the user. Furthermore, when it is determined that the third magnitude H3 of the touch pressure of the third touch cell is less than or equal to approximately 90% of the first magnitude H1 of the touch pressure of the first touch cell, the touch driver TIC may determine that the input in the third touch area TA3 is an unintentional touch input by the user. Therefore, the touch driver TIC may ignore the touch input in the second touch area TA2 and the touch input in the third touch area TA3.

[0148] like Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown in FIG, it can be seen that the first touch area TA1 is the area where the user intentionally touches with the pen, and the second touch area TA2 and the third touch area TA3 are the areas where the user's palm unintentionally touches. Therefore, the pressure sensor and the display device including the pressure sensor can accurately distinguish the user's intentional touch input from the user's unintentional touch input, and thus can improve reliability. In addition, the pressure sensor and the display device including the pressure sensor can accurately distinguish the user's intentional touch input from the user's unintentional touch input without using a separate touch device for touch input (e.g., a pen).

[0149] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 15 , the first pressure sensor 130 may detect the magnitude of the touch pressure and the touch area of ​​the user's touch generated on the first display unit 100 (operation S210). In some exemplary embodiments, the resistance value of the touch cell CE subjected to the touch pressure in each of the first touch area TA1, the second touch area TA2, and the third touch area TA3 may vary according to the magnitude of the touch pressure.

[0150] The touch driver TIC of the first pressure sensor 130 may determine whether the number of touch areas is two or more (operation S220 ).

[0151] When the number of touch areas is determined to be one, the touch driver TIC may determine the corresponding touch input as an intentional touch input by the user. In some exemplary embodiments, the touch driver TIC may provide the position and pressure of the corresponding touch area to the main processor of the display device 10 .

[0152] The main processor may continue processing based on the touch input (operation S230). In some exemplary embodiments, the main processor may run an application indicated by an icon displayed at the location of the touch input. In other exemplary embodiments, the main processor may continue processing based on the location and pressure of the touch input. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the main processor may implement a haptic device based on the location and pressure of the touch input.

[0153] When it is determined that the number of touch areas is two or more, the touch driver TIC may compare the magnitudes of the touch pressures of the touch cells CE with the maximum touch pressure in each of the touch areas to set a touch area including a reference touch cell with the maximum touch pressure among the touch cells CE as a reference touch area. In some exemplary embodiments, the touch driver TIC may set the first touch area TA1 as the reference touch area and the first touch cell subjected to a touch pressure of a first magnitude H1 as the reference touch cell. The touch driver TIC may determine that the touch input in the first touch area TA1 (or the reference touch area) is an intended touch input by the user. The touch driver TIC may generate a first touch signal based on the position of the first touch cell and the first magnitude H1 of pressure. The touch driver TIC may provide the first touch signal to the main processor of the display device 10, and the main processor may continue processing based on the touch input in the first touch area TA1.

[0154] The touch driver TIC may calculate the distance between the reference touch cell in the reference touch area and the remaining touch areas excluding the reference touch area. The touch driver TIC may determine whether the distance between the reference touch cell and the remaining touch areas is greater than or equal to a certain level, and whether the areas of the remaining touch areas are greater than or equal to a certain level (operation S240).

[0155] The touch driver TIC may determine whether the distance between the first touch cell receiving the maximum touch pressure on the first display unit 100 and the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to a certain level, and determine whether the size of the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to a certain level. In some exemplary embodiments, the touch driver TIC may determine whether the distance between the first touch cell and the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to approximately 20 mm, and determine whether the size of the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to approximately 400 mm. 2 .

[0156] When it is determined that the distance between the first touch cell and the second touch area TA2 is less than a certain level and the size of the second touch area TA2 is less than a certain level, the touch driver TIC may determine that the input in the second touch area TA2 is an intentional touch input by the user. In some exemplary embodiments, when it is determined that the distance between the first touch cell and the second touch area TA2 is less than about 20 mm or the size of the second touch area TA2 is less than about 400 mm 2When the touch driver TIC determines that the input in the second touch area TA2 is an intentional touch input by the user. The touch driver TIC may generate a second touch signal based on the position of the second touch area TA2 and the magnitude of the pressure of the second touch cell in the second touch area TA2. The touch driver TIC may provide the second touch signal to the main processor of the display device 10, and the main processor may continue processing based on the first touch signal according to the touch input in the first touch area TA1 and the second touch signal according to the additional touch input in the second touch area TA2 (operation S250). The touch input in the first touch area TA1 and the additional touch input in the second touch area TA2 may be used in combination or may be used independently of each other.

[0157] When it is determined that the distance between the first touch cell and the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to a certain level and the size of the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to a certain level, the touch driver TIC may determine the input in the second touch area TA2 as an unintentional touch input or a meaningless touch input by the user. In some exemplary embodiments, when it is determined that the distance between the first touch cell and the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to about 20 mm and the size of the second touch area TA2 is greater than or equal to about 400 mm 2 When the touch input is not inputted, the touch driver TIC may ignore the input in the second touch area TA2 (operation S260). The touch driver TIC may not provide the host processor with information related to the corresponding touch input, and the host processor may not operate due to the user's unintentional touch input.

[0158] In addition, when it is determined that the distance between the first touch cell and the third touch area TA3 is greater than or equal to about 20 mm and the size of the third touch area TA3 is greater than or equal to about 400 mm 2 When , the touch driver TIC may ignore the input in the third touch area TA3.

[0159] 16A to 16C is a graphical depiction illustrating a touch input signal, a gain, and a touch signal of a driving electrode of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0160] The horizontal axis of each of the graphs may correspond to a length X1 from one end of the driving electrode TE (hereinafter, referred to as a driving electrode length). The vertical axis of the graph may correspond to a touch cell having a predetermined driving electrode length X1 (eg, Figure 11 When a touch driving voltage having a constant magnitude is applied through the driving electrode line TEL, a touch input signal VIN, a gain Gain, and a touch signal VOUT are generated. 16A to 16CThe touch input signal VIN according to the driving electrode length X1 shown in may vary based on a change in the load resistance value according to the driving electrode length X1.

[0161] Reference Figures 9 to 11 The plurality of drive electrodes TE may each extend in a first direction (X-axis direction) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y-axis direction) that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction (X-axis direction). One end of each of the plurality of drive electrodes TE may be connected to a drive electrode line TEL on the left side of the first substrate SUB1. In some exemplary embodiments, the drive electrode length X1 may decrease closer to one end of the drive electrode TE and may increase closer to the other end of the drive electrode TE opposite to the one end of the drive electrode TE.

[0162] The touch driver TIC may increase the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN generated from the touch cell CE adjacent to the other end of the drive electrode TE to be greater than the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN generated from the touch cell CE adjacent to one end of the drive electrode TE, where the other end of the drive electrode TE is opposite to the one end of the drive electrode TE. Here, the gain Gain may correspond to the ratio of the touch signal VOUT to the touch input signal VIN (Gain = VOUT / VIN). Multiple touch cells CE may each be electrically connected to the touch driver TIC and may have different load resistance values. In some exemplary embodiments, the load resistance value of the touch cell CE may be proportional to the drive electrode length X1. The load resistance value of the touch cell CE may increase as the drive electrode length X1 increases. When the load resistance value of the touch cell CE increases, the touch input signal VIN of the corresponding touch cell CE may decrease.

[0163] The touch driver TIC can control the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN of the plurality of touch cells CE based on the difference in load resistance between the plurality of touch cells CE and the touch driver TIC. Therefore, regardless of the difference in load resistance between the plurality of touch cells CE, the touch driver TIC can still output a touch signal VOUT having a predetermined magnitude from the plurality of touch cells CE, thereby improving the touch sensitivity of the display device 10.

[0164] 17A to 17C is a graphical depiction showing a touch input signal, a gain, and a touch signal of a sensing electrode of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0165] The horizontal axis of each of the graphs may correspond to a length Y1 from one end of the sensing electrode RE (hereinafter referred to as a sensing electrode length). The vertical axis of the graph may correspond to a touch input signal VIN, a gain Gain, and a touch signal VOUT of a touch cell CE having a predetermined sensing electrode length Y1. When a driving voltage having a constant magnitude is applied through the driving electrode line TEL and a touch input signal VIN is transmitted through the sensing electrode line REL, 17A to 17C The touch input signal VIN according to the sensing electrode length Y1 shown in FIG. 1 may vary based on a change in a load resistance value according to the sensing electrode length Y1 .

[0166] Reference Figures 9 to 11 , the plurality of sensing electrodes RE may each extend in the second direction (Y-axis direction) and may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (X-axis direction). One end of each of the plurality of sensing electrodes RE may be connected to a sensing electrode line REL on the upper side of the second substrate SUB2. In some exemplary embodiments, the sensing electrode length Y1 may decrease closer to one end of the sensing electrode RE and may increase closer to the other end of the sensing electrode RE opposite to the one end of the sensing electrode RE.

[0167] The touch driver TIC can increase the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN generated by the touch cell CE adjacent to the other end of the sensing electrode RE to be greater than the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN generated by the touch cell CE adjacent to one end of the sensing electrode RE, where the other end of the sensing electrode RE is opposite to the one end of the sensing electrode RE. Multiple touch cells CE can each be electrically connected to the touch driver TIC and can have different load resistance values. In some exemplary embodiments, the load resistance value of the touch cell CE can be proportional to the sensing electrode length Y1. The load resistance value of the touch cell CE can increase as the sensing electrode length Y1 increases. When the load resistance value of the touch cell CE increases, the touch input signal VIN of the corresponding touch cell CE can decrease.

[0168] The touch driver TIC can control the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN of the plurality of touch cells CE based on the difference in load resistance between the plurality of touch cells CE and the touch driver TIC. Therefore, regardless of the difference in load resistance between the plurality of touch cells CE, the touch driver TIC can still output a touch signal VOUT having a predetermined magnitude from the plurality of touch cells CE, thereby improving the touch sensitivity of the display device 10.

[0169] 18A to 18C is a graphical depiction showing a touch input signal, a gain, and a touch signal of a driving electrode or a sensing electrode of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0170] The horizontal axis of each of the graphs may correspond to a length X1 (hereinafter referred to as a driving electrode length) from one end of the driving electrode TE, or to a length Y1 (hereinafter referred to as a sensing electrode length) from one end of the sensing electrode RE. The vertical axis of the graph may correspond to a touch input signal VIN, a gain Gain, and a touch signal VOUT of a touch cell CE having a predetermined driving electrode length X1 or a predetermined sensing electrode length Y1. When a driving voltage having a constant magnitude is applied through the driving electrode line TEL and a touch input signal VIN is transmitted through the sensing electrode line REL, 18A to 18C The touch input signal VIN shown in may vary based on a change in a load resistance value according to the driving electrode length X1 or the sensing electrode length Y1.

[0171] Reference 18A to 18C When the load resistance between some touch cells CE among the multiple touch cells CE and the touch driver TIC relatively increases, the touch driver TIC can increase the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN generated from the some touch cells CE, and when the load resistance between some other touch cells CE among the multiple touch cells CE and the touch driver TIC relatively decreases, the touch driver TIC can reduce the gain Gain of the touch input signal VIN generated from the other touch cells CE.

[0172] Therefore, regardless of the differences in load resistance among the plurality of touch cells CE, the touch driver TIC may output the touch signal VOUT having a predetermined magnitude from the plurality of touch cells CE, and thus the touch sensitivity of the display device 10 may be improved.

[0173] Figure 19 It is along Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device taken along line II′. Figure 20 It is along Figure 2 The line II-II' is intercepted Figure 19 Cross-sectional view of a foldable display device in an unfolded position. Figure 21 yes Figure 20 sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a first display unit of a foldable display device.

[0174] Figures 19 to 21 The display device 10 and Figures 3 to 5 The display device 10 is different in that the first display panel 110 and the first pressure sensor 130 are provided in a different manner, and thus components identical to those of the above-described configuration will be briefly described or omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0175] Reference Figures 19 to 21 , the display device 10 may include a first display unit 100 , a second display unit 200 , a first panel lower member 300 , and a second panel lower member 400 .

[0176] The first display unit 100 may display an image in a third direction (Z-axis direction). The first display unit 100 may be disposed on one surface of the first panel lower member 300 and supported by the first panel lower member 300. The first display unit 100 may include a first display panel 110, a first cover window 120, and a first pressure sensor 130.

[0177] The first pressure sensor 130 may be disposed above the first display panel 110, and the first cover window 120 may be disposed above the first pressure sensor 130. The first cover window 120 may cover the upper surface of the first pressure sensor 130 to protect the first pressure sensor 130 and the first display panel 110. The first cover window 120 may be attached to the first pressure sensor 130 using a transparent adhesive member. The first cover window 120 may correspond to the surface of the first display area DA1 and may be in direct contact with the user's body.

[0178] The first pressure sensor 130 may be disposed above the first display panel 110 and below the first cover window 120. The first pressure sensor 130 may detect a user's touch generated on the first cover window 120. The first pressure sensor 130 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the first display panel 110. The first pressure sensor 130 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the first cover window 120. In some exemplary embodiments, the first pressure sensor 130 may include a plurality of touch cells (e.g., Figure 11 CE in FIG. Among the multiple touch cells of the first pressure sensor 130, the resistance value of a touch cell subjected to pressure due to a touch may vary depending on the magnitude of the pressure. Therefore, the first pressure sensor 130 can detect the location of the touch based on the location of the touch cell whose resistance value has changed, and can detect the magnitude of the touch pressure based on the degree of change in the resistance value. The first pressure sensor 130 can be positioned adjacent to the first cover window 120, thereby improving touch sensitivity.

[0179] According to the state of the folding area FA, the second display unit 200 can be Figure 19 Fold as shown in or as Figure 20 The second display unit 200 may display an image in a direction opposite to the third direction (Z-axis direction) in the unfolded state. The second display unit 200 may include a second display panel 210, a second cover window 220, and a second pressure sensor 230.

[0180] The second display panel 210 may include a first area A1, a second area A2, and a folding area FA disposed between the first area A1 and the second area A2. In some exemplary embodiments, the second display panel 210 may include a bendable, foldable, or rollable flexible substrate and thus may be easily folded at the folding area FA.

[0181] The first area A1 of the second display panel 210 may be disposed on the other surface of the first panel lower member 300 opposite to one surface of the first panel lower member 300 and supported by the first panel lower member 300. The first area A1 of the second display panel 210 and the first display panel 110 may be opposite to each other with the first panel lower member 300 interposed therebetween.

[0182] The second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may be connected to the first area A1 through the folding area FA. Figure 19 When folded as shown in FIG, the second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may overlap with the first area A1 in the third direction (Z-axis direction). Figure 20 When unfolded as shown in FIG, the second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may be substantially coplanar with the folding area FA and the first area A1.

[0183] The second area A2 of the second display panel 210 may be disposed on one surface of the second panel lower member 400 and supported by the second panel lower member 400 .

[0184] The second cover window 220 may be provided on one surface of the second pressure sensor 230. The second cover window 220 may cover one surface of the second pressure sensor 230 to protect it. The second cover window 220 may be attached to one surface of the second pressure sensor 230 using a transparent adhesive member. The second cover window 220 may correspond to the surface of the second display area DA2 and may come into direct contact with the user's body. A portion of the second cover window 220 may overlap with the folding area FA of the second display panel 210, and at least a portion of the second cover window 220 may be formed to be flexible.

[0185] The second pressure sensor 230 may be disposed between the second display panel 210 and the second cover window 220. The second pressure sensor 230 may detect a user's touch generated on the second cover window 220. The second pressure sensor 230 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the second display panel 210. The second pressure sensor 230 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the second cover window 220. In some exemplary embodiments, the second pressure sensor 230 may include a plurality of touch cells (e.g., overlapping the entire surface of the second display panel 210 or the entire surface of the second cover window 220) that overlap the entire surface of the second display panel 210 or the entire surface of the second cover window 220. Figure 11 (e.g., touch cells CE in FIG. 1 ) Among the multiple touch cells of the second pressure sensor 230, the resistance value of a touch cell subjected to pressure due to a touch may change depending on the magnitude of the pressure. Therefore, the second pressure sensor 230 can detect the location where the touch is generated based on the location of the touch cell whose resistance value changes, and detect the magnitude of the touch pressure based on the degree of change in the resistance value.

[0186] like Figure 21 As shown in FIG, the first display unit 100 may include a first display panel 110, which may include a base film BF, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light-emitting element layer EML, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. The first pressure sensor 130 may include a first substrate SUB1, a driving electrode layer TL, a pressure sensing layer PSL, a sensing electrode layer RL, and a second substrate SUB2. The first display panel 110 and the first pressure sensor 130 may be bonded to each other via an adhesive layer PSA.

[0187] Figure 22 It is along Figure 1 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a foldable display device in a folded position, taken along line II′ of FIG. 4 . Figure 23 It is along Figure 2 The line II-II' is intercepted Figure 22 Cross-sectional view of a foldable display device in an unfolded position. Figure 24 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a first display unit of a foldable display device.

[0188] Figures 22 to 24 The display device 10 includes a first touch screen panel 140 and a second touch screen panel 240, wherein the first display panel 110 and the first pressure sensor 130 are combined in the first touch screen panel 140, and the second display panel 210 and the second pressure sensor 230 are combined in the second touch screen panel 240, and therefore the same components as the configuration described above will be briefly described or omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0189] Reference Figures 22 to 24, the display device 10 may include a first display unit 100 , a second display unit 200 , a first panel lower member 300 , and a second panel lower member 400 .

[0190] The first display unit 100 may display an image in a third direction (Z-axis direction). The first display unit 100 may be provided on one surface of the first panel lower member 300 and supported by the first panel lower member 300. The first display unit 100 may include a first cover window 120 and a first touch screen panel 140.

[0191] The first cover window 120 may be disposed above the first touch screen panel 140. The first cover window 120 may cover the upper surface of the first touch screen panel 140 to protect the first touch screen panel 140. The first cover window 120 may be attached to the first touch screen panel 140 by a transparent adhesive member. The first cover window 120 may correspond to the surface of the first display area DA1 and may be in direct contact with the user's body.

[0192] The first touch screen panel 140 may be disposed below the first cover window 120. The first touch screen panel 140 may detect a user's touch generated on the first cover window 120. The first touch screen panel 140 may substantially cover the entire surface of the first cover window 120. In some exemplary embodiments, the first touch screen panel 140 may include a plurality of touch cells (e.g., Figure 11 CE in the figure). Among the plurality of touch cells of the first touch screen panel 140, the resistance value of the touch cell subjected to pressure due to the touch may change according to the magnitude of the pressure. Therefore, the first touch screen panel 140 can detect the position where the touch is generated based on the position of the touch cell whose resistance value changes, and detect the magnitude of the touch pressure based on the degree of change in the resistance value. Figures 3 to 5 The display device 10 is formed by a combination of the configurations of the first display panel 110 and the first pressure sensor 130 shown in , and thus the thickness of the display device 10 can be reduced, and the display device 10 can be made compact.

[0193] According to the state of the folding area FA, the second display unit 200 can be Figure 22 Fold as shown in or as Figure 23 The second display unit 200 may display an image in a direction opposite to the third direction (Z-axis direction) in the unfolded state. The second display unit 200 may include a second cover window 220 and a second touch screen panel 240.

[0194] The second cover window 220 may be provided on one surface of the second touch screen panel 240. The second cover window 220 may cover one surface of the second touch screen panel 240 to protect the second touch screen panel 240. The second cover window 220 may be attached to one surface of the second touch screen panel 240 using a transparent adhesive member. The second cover window 220 may correspond to the surface of the second display area DA2 and may come into direct contact with the user's body. A portion of the second cover window 220 may overlap with the folding area FA of the second touch screen panel 240, and at least a portion of the second cover window 220 may be formed to be flexible.

[0195] The second touch screen panel 240 may include a first area A1, a second area A2, and a folding area FA disposed between the first area A1 and the second area A2. In some exemplary embodiments, the second touch screen panel 240 may include a bendable, foldable, or rollable flexible substrate and thus may be easily folded at the folding area FA.

[0196] The first area A1 of the second touch screen panel 240 may be provided on the other surface of the first panel lower member 300 opposite to the one surface of the first panel lower member 300 and supported by the first panel lower member 300. The first area A1 of the second touch screen panel 240 and the first touch screen panel 140 may be opposite to each other with the first panel lower member 300 interposed therebetween.

[0197] The second area A2 of the second touch screen panel 240 may be connected to the first area A1 through the folding area FA. Figure 22 When folded as shown in FIG, the second area A2 of the second touch screen panel 240 may overlap with the first area A1 in the third direction (Z-axis direction). Figure 23 When unfolded as shown in FIG, the second area A2 of the second touch screen panel 240 may be substantially coplanar with the folding area FA and the first area A1.

[0198] The second area A2 of the second touch screen panel 240 may be disposed on one surface of the second panel lower member 400 and supported by the second panel lower member 400 .

[0199] The second touch screen panel 240 may detect a user's touch generated on the second cover window 220. The second touch screen panel 240 may substantially overlap the entire surface of the second cover window 220. In some exemplary embodiments, the second touch screen panel 240 may include a plurality of touch cells (e.g., cells overlapping the entire surface of the second cover window 220) that overlap the entire surface of the second cover window 220. Figure 11Among the plurality of touch cells on the second touch screen panel 240, the resistance value of the touch cell subjected to pressure due to the touch may change according to the magnitude of the pressure. Therefore, the second touch screen panel 240 can detect the position where the touch is generated based on the position of the touch cell whose resistance value changes, and can detect the magnitude of the touch pressure based on the degree of change in the resistance value.

[0200] like Figure 24 As shown in FIG, the first touch screen panel 140 can be formed by sequentially stacking a substrate SUB, a driving electrode layer TL, a pressure sensing layer PSL, a sensing electrode layer RL, a base film BF, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. One surface of the base film BF of the first touch screen panel 140 can support the thin film transistor layer TFTL and the light emitting element layer EML, and the other surface of the base film BF can be bonded to the substrate SUB. The driving electrode layer TL, the pressure sensing layer PSL, and the sensing electrode layer RL disposed between the other surface of the base film BF and the substrate SUB can form a plurality of touch cells.

[0201] Therefore, the first touch screen panel 140 is Figures 3 to 5 The display device 10 is formed by a combination of the configurations of the first display panel 110 and the first pressure sensor 130 shown in , and thus the thickness of the display device 10 can be reduced, and the display device 10 can be made compact.

[0202] According to the principles and exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the resistance values ​​of multiple touch cells of a pressure sensor, including multiple drive electrodes, multiple sensing electrodes, and a pressure sensing layer, can change according to the pressure applied to the multiple touch cells. Therefore, the pressure sensor and a display device including the pressure sensor can sense changes in the current value or voltage value of a touch input signal based on changes in the resistance values ​​of the multiple touch cells connected to the sensing electrode lines, thereby sensing pressure when pressed by a user's hand. Therefore, the pressure sensor can be used as an input device for sensing a user's touch input.

[0203] According to some exemplary embodiments, a pressure sensor can distinguish between intentional user touch input and unintentional user touch input. In some exemplary embodiments, the pressure sensor can compare the magnitude of touch pressure across multiple touch regions and determine that a touch region with a relatively large magnitude of touch pressure is an intentional user touch input, and a touch region with a relatively small magnitude of touch pressure is an unintentional user touch input. Thus, the pressure sensor and a display device including the pressure sensor can accurately detect a user's touch input, thereby improving reliability.

[0204] According to some exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of touch cells may be electrically connected to a touch driver to have a different load resistance value. The pressure sensor may control the gain of the touch input signals of the plurality of touch cells based on the difference in load resistance between the plurality of touch cells and the touch driver. Thus, the pressure sensor and a display device including the pressure sensor may output touch signals of predetermined magnitude from the plurality of touch cells and accurately detect a user's touch input.

[0205] Although certain exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Accordingly, 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 skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A pressure sensor for a display device, comprising: a plurality of touch cells having a plurality of driving electrodes disposed on a first substrate, a plurality of sensing electrodes disposed on a second substrate overlapping the first substrate, and a pressure sensing layer interposed between the plurality of driving electrodes and the plurality of sensing electrodes, the driving electrodes and the sensing electrodes overlapping each other; as well as a touch driver, configured to drive the plurality of touch cells and detect touch pressures of the plurality of touch cells; wherein the touch driver is configured to: when detecting a plurality of touch areas including at least one touch cell among the plurality of touch cells, compare the magnitudes of touch pressures of the plurality of touch areas, and ignore at least one touch input in at least one touch area among the plurality of touch areas; and wherein the touch driver is configured to compare the magnitude of the touch pressure of a first touch cell having a maximum value in the first touch area with the magnitude of the touch pressure of a second touch cell in the second touch area, and generate a touch signal of the first touch cell or a touch signal of the second touch cell; and When the magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell is less than or equal to approximately 90% of the magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell, the touch driver is configured to ignore the touch input in the second touch area.

2. The pressure sensor according to claim 1, wherein The touch driver is configured to detect a touch cell having a maximum touch pressure in each of the plurality of touch areas, and compare the touch pressures of the touch cells having the maximum touch pressure in each of the plurality of touch areas.

3. The pressure sensor according to claim 1, wherein The touch driver is further configured to generate a first touch signal based on a position of the first touch cell and the magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell when the magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell is greater than the magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell.

4. The pressure sensor according to claim 1, wherein The touch driver is further configured to ignore a touch input in the second touch area when the magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell is smaller than the magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell.

5. The pressure sensor according to claim 1, wherein The touch driver is further configured to ignore a touch input in the second touch area when a distance between the first touch cell and the second touch area is greater than or equal to a predetermined level and a size of the second touch area is greater than or equal to a predetermined level.

6. A pressure sensor for a display device, comprising: a plurality of touch cells having a plurality of driving electrodes disposed on a first substrate, a plurality of sensing electrodes disposed on a second substrate overlapping the first substrate, and a pressure sensing layer interposed between the plurality of driving electrodes and the plurality of sensing electrodes overlapping each other; as well as a touch driver, configured to drive the plurality of touch cells and detect touch pressures of the plurality of touch cells; wherein the touch driver is configured to control a gain of a touch input signal of each of the plurality of touch cells based on a load resistance between each of the plurality of touch cells and the touch driver; and Wherein, when the load resistance between some touch cells among the multiple touch cells and the touch driver relatively increases, the touch driver is configured to increase the gain of the touch input signals generated from the some touch cells, and when the load resistance between some other touch cells among the multiple touch cells and the touch driver relatively decreases, the touch driver is configured to reduce the gain of the touch input signals generated from the other touch cells.

7. The pressure sensor according to claim 6, wherein: The touch driver is electrically connected to a first end of each of the drive electrodes through a drive electrode line and is configured to increase a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a second end of the drive electrode to be greater than a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to the first end of the drive electrode, wherein the second end of the drive electrode is opposite to the first end of the drive electrode.

8. The pressure sensor according to claim 6, wherein: The touch driver is electrically connected to a first end of each of the sensing electrodes through a sensing electrode line and is configured to increase a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to a second end of the sensing electrode to be greater than a gain of a touch input signal generated from a touch cell adjacent to the first end of the sensing electrode, wherein the second end of the sensing electrode is opposite to the first end of the sensing electrode.

9. A display device comprising: A display panel for displaying images; as well as a pressure sensor, disposed on a surface of the display panel; Wherein, the pressure sensor includes: a plurality of touch cells having a plurality of driving electrodes disposed on a first substrate, a plurality of sensing electrodes disposed on a second substrate overlapping the first substrate, and a pressure sensing layer interposed between the plurality of driving electrodes and the plurality of sensing electrodes overlapping each other; and a touch driver configured to drive the plurality of touch cells and detect touch pressures of the plurality of touch cells; wherein the touch driver is configured to: when detecting a plurality of touch areas including at least one touch cell among the plurality of touch cells, compare the magnitudes of touch pressures of the plurality of touch areas, and ignore at least one touch input in at least one touch area among the plurality of touch areas; and wherein the touch driver is configured to compare the magnitude of the touch pressure of a first touch cell having a maximum value in the first touch area with the magnitude of the touch pressure of a second touch cell in the second touch area, and generate a touch signal of the first touch cell or a touch signal of the second touch cell; and When the magnitude of the touch pressure of the second touch cell is less than or equal to approximately 90% of the magnitude of the touch pressure of the first touch cell, the touch driver is configured to ignore the touch input in the second touch area.

Images