Window

Abstract

The present application relates to a window. The window includes a base substrate defining a recess and a functional layer disposed in the recess of the base substrate. The functional layer is disposed in a first recess defined in the top surface of the base substrate.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the priority of, and all rights arising from, Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2019 - 0135809, filed on Oct. 29, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates herein to a window and a display device including the window. More specifically, the present disclosure relates herein to a window having a reduced thickness and in which peeling (or delamination) and lifting phenomena of a functional layer are reduced or effectively prevented, and a display device including the window. Background art

[0004] Generally, a display device may include: a display panel including a plurality of pixels for displaying an image; and a window disposed on the display panel to protect the display panel. The window may include or be formed of glass or a transparent plastic material. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure may provide a window having a reduced thickness and in which peeling and lifting phenomena of a functional layer are reduced or effectively prevented, and a display device including the window.

[0006] In an embodiment, the window may include a base substrate including a transmission region through which light from the display panel passes, a light blocking region adjacent to the transmission region, a boundary between the transmission region and the light blocking region, a top surface farthest from the display panel, and a first recess located in the transmission region. The first recess is defined by an inclined surface and a flat surface, where the inclined surface extends from the top surface and in a direction from the boundary to the transmission region, and the flat surface extends from one end of the inclined surface. The window may further include a functional layer that receives light from the base substrate and transmits the light from the base substrate to the outside of the window. The functional layer is disposed in the first recess.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present invention, a display device may include a display panel and a window. Light is emitted from the display panel, the window receives the light from the display panel, and the light from the display panel is transmitted through the window to the outside of the display device. The window includes a base substrate, which includes a transmissive region through which light from the display panel passes, a light-blocking region adjacent to the transmissive region, a boundary between the transmissive region and the light-blocking region, a top surface farthest from the display panel, and a first recess located in the transmissive region. The first recess is defined by an inclined surface and a flat surface, where the inclined surface extends from the top surface and in a direction from the boundary to the transmissive region, and the flat surface extends from one end of the inclined surface. The window may further include a functional layer that receives the light from the base substrate and transmits the light from the base substrate to the outside of the window. The functional layer is disposed in the first recess.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present invention, a display device may include a display panel and a window. Light is emitted from the display panel, the window receives the light from the display panel, and the light from the display panel is transmitted through the window to the outside of the display device. The window includes a base substrate, which includes a transmissive region through which light from the display panel passes, a light-blocking region adjacent to the transmissive region, a boundary between the transmissive region and the light-blocking region, a bottom surface closest to the display panel, and a recess located in the transmissive region. The recess is defined by an inclined surface and a flat surface, where the inclined surface extends from the bottom surface and in a direction from the boundary to the transmissive region, and the flat surface extends from one end of the inclined surface. The window may further include a functional layer and an anti-scattering layer, where the functional layer receives the light from the base substrate and transmits the light from the base substrate to the outside of the window, and the anti-scattering layer minimizes the scattering of broken fragments of the base substrate. The anti-scattering layer is located in the recess. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] 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. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, are used to explain the principles of the present invention. In the drawings:

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the display device;

[0011] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of Figure 1 the folded display device;

[0012] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of Figure 1 the rolled display device;

[0013] Figure 4 is schematically showingFigure 1 Cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a display device;

[0014] Figure 5 shows Figure 4 Top view of an embodiment of a display panel;

[0015] Figure 6 schematically shows Figure 5 Enlarged cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a pixel;

[0016] Figure 7 shows Figure 4 Top view of an embodiment of a window;

[0017] Figure 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 7 ;

[0018] Figure 9 shows Figure 8 Perspective view of an embodiment of a base substrate;

[0019] Figure 10 is Figure 8 Enlarged view of region "A" of

[0020] Figure 11 shows Figure 8 Enlarged cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a functional layer;

[0021] Figure 12 Cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a window; and

[0022] Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a window. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which various embodiments are shown. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals throughout the drawings denote like elements.

[0024] It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is referred to as being associated with another element, such as being referred to as "on" another element, the element may be directly on the other element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, the term "directly" indicates that no intervening elements are present. When an element is referred to as being "directly" associated with another element, an interface may be formed between these elements.

[0025] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms (including "at least one"). "Or" means "and / or". As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will also be understood that when used in this specification, the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" or "includes" and / or "including" specify the presence of the stated features, regions, wholes, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0026] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another (other) element or feature as shown in the figures. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures, spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, an element described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features will be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can include both an orientation above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatial relative descriptors used herein are to be interpreted accordingly.

[0027] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or part from another. Thus, without departing from the teachings herein, a first element, first component, first region, first layer or first part discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer or second part.

[0028] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" includes the stated value and an average within an acceptable deviation range of the stated value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the measurements discussed and the error associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system).

[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will also be understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0030] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or plan views that are idealized exemplary illustrations. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and regions is exaggerated for clarity. Accordingly, deviations from the illustrated shapes due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Thus, exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the regions shown herein, but should be understood to include deviations in shape resulting from, for example, manufacturing. For example, an etched region shown as rectangular will typically have rounded or curved features. Thus, the regions shown in the drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to depict the actual shape of the regions of the device and are not intended to limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0031] The window WIN of the display device DD can protect the display panel DP from external scratching and impact. The window WIN can be adhered to the display panel DP, such as by an adhesive OCA. The image IM generated by the display panel DP can be transmitted through the window WIN to provide to the outside of the display device DD. The window WIN can include a base substrate BS and a functional layer AL disposed on the base substrate BS. Since the functional layer AL is disposed on the base substrate BS, the thickness of the window WIN may be increased. Therefore, a window WIN with a reduced thickness is being developed.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0033] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the unfolded display device DD. Figure 2 is a view showing Figure 1 a perspective view of an embodiment of the folded display device DD. Figure 3 is a view showing Figure 1 a perspective view of an embodiment of the rolled-up display device DD.

[0034] Referring to Figure 1, the display device DD may have a rectangular shape in a top view, which is defined by relatively long sides extending along a first direction DR1 and relatively short sides extending along a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. In an embodiment, the display device DD may have one of various other shapes in a top view (e.g., planar shape), such as a circular shape and a polygonal shape.

[0035] Hereinafter, a direction that intersects or crosses the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be defined as a third direction DR3. In an embodiment, the third direction DR3 may be substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In this specification, it can be understood that when observing one or more components in a top view, the top view is a view in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3 indicated in the drawings.

[0036] The top surface of the display device DD may be defined as a display surface DS and may be disposed in the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. An image IM generated by the display device DD may be provided to the outside of the display device DD through the display surface DS.

[0037] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA adjacent to the display area DA. The display area DA is a planar area in which the image IM is displayed, and the non-display area NDA is a planar area in which the image IM is not displayed. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA in a top view and may define the boundary of the display device DD. The non-display area NDA may be defined by a printed material having a predetermined color.

[0038] The display device DD may be flexible. The display device DD may be foldable, such as being repeatedly foldable and repeatedly unfoldable. The display device DD may be rollable, such as being repeatedly rolled into a scroll shape and repeatedly unfolded into a flat shape. The display device DD and its components may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA, which correspond to the display area DA and the non-display area NDA described above for the display surface DS.

[0039] The display device DD may be used in relatively large-sized electronic devices (such as televisions, monitors, and external billboards). In an embodiment, the display device DD may be used in relatively small-sized and medium-sized electronic devices (such as personal computers, notebook computers, personal digital assistants, car navigation units, game consoles, smart phones, tablet computers, and cameras). However, these are only provided as embodiments. In an embodiment, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, the display device DD may be used in various other electronic devices.

[0040] Referring to Figure 2 , the display device DD can be folded about a folding axis FX parallel to the second direction DR2. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the display device DD can be folded about a folding axis FX parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0041] The display device DD can be folded outwards in such a manner that a part of the display surface DS faces the outside of the display device DD. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the display device DD can be folded inwards in a direction away from the outside in such a manner that parts of the display surface DS face each other.

[0042] Referring to Figure 3 , the display device DD can be capable of curling in a direction from a first side (e.g., the outer side) of the display device DD towards a second side opposite the first side. The display device DD can curl in such a manner that the display surface DS faces the outside of the display device DD. Optionally, the display device DD can curl in such a manner that the display surface DS faces a direction opposite to the outside.

[0043] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing Figure 1 an embodiment of the display device DD. Figure 1 The display device DD in

[0044] Referring to Figure 4 , the display device DD can include a display panel DP, an input sensing unit ISP (e.g., an input sensing layer) provided on the display panel DP, a window WIN provided on the input sensing unit ISP, and a fixing member such as an adhesive OCA (e.g., an adhesive layer) provided between the input sensing unit ISP and the window WIN to couple the input sensing unit ISP and the window WIN to each other.

[0045] The display panel DP can generate light and emit light (e.g., a light-emitting type). For example, the display panel DP can be an organic light-emitting display panel or a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. The emission layer of the organic light-emitting display panel can include an organic light-emitting material. The emission layer of the quantum dot light-emitting display panel can include quantum dots and / or quantum rods. Hereinafter, the display panel DP which is an organic light-emitting display panel will be described as an example.

[0046] The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a pixel layer PXL (e.g., an image display layer) disposed on the substrate SUB, a packaging layer such as a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the substrate SUB to cover the pixel layer PXL, and a protective substrate PS (e.g., a protective layer) disposed under the substrate SUB. The substrate SUB may be a transparent substrate and may include a flexible plastic substrate. In an embodiment, for example, the substrate SUB may include polyimide (“PI”).

[0047] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA adjacent to the display area DA, which are similar to the display area DA and the non-display area NDA described for the display surface DS of the display device DD. The pixel layer PXL may be disposed in the display area DA. The pixel layer PXL may include a plurality of pixels, and each of the pixels may include a light-emitting element that generates light and / or emits light.

[0048] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include at least two inorganic layers and an organic layer disposed between the inorganic layers. The inorganic layer may include an inorganic material and may protect the pixel layer PXL from moisture and / or oxygen. The organic layer may include an organic material and may protect the pixel layer PXL from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0049] The protective substrate PS may protect the bottom of the substrate SUB. The protective substrate PS may include a flexible plastic substrate. In an embodiment, for example, the protective substrate PS may include polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”). The protective substrate PS may define the outer surface of the display device DD, but is not limited thereto.

[0050] The input sensing unit ISP may sense an external input (e.g., a touch or contact by an input tool such as a user's hand or finger or a stylus), convert the external input into an electrical signal such as an input signal, and may provide the input signal to the display panel DP. The input sensing unit ISP may include a plurality of sensor components or sensors (not shown), and the external input may be sensed using these sensor components or sensors. The sensor components may sense the external input by a capacitive method. The display panel DP may receive the input signal from the input sensing unit ISP and may generate an image IM corresponding to the input signal.

[0051] The input sensing unit ISP can be attached to the display panel DP, but is not limited thereto. In an embodiment of manufacturing the display device DD, during the process of manufacturing the display panel DP, the input sensing unit ISP can be directly provided or manufactured on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the input sensing unit ISP can be separately provided or manufactured from the display panel DP, and can subsequently be connected to or fixed to the display panel DP by a fixing member such as an adhesive OCA.

[0052] The window WIN can protect the display panel DP and the input sensing unit ISP from external scratching and impacts. The window WIN can be fixed to the input sensing unit ISP by a fixing member such as an adhesive OCA. The adhesive OCA can include an optically transparent adhesive. The image IM generated from the display panel DP can pass through the window WIN so that it can be viewed from outside the display device DD. The window WIN can define the outer surface of the display device DD, but is not limited thereto.

[0053] Figure 5 is a top view showing Figure 4 an embodiment of the display panel DP.

[0054] Referring to Figure 5 , the display device DD can include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and an emission driver EDV.

[0055] The display panel DP can be flexible. The display panel DP can have a rectangular shape defined by a relatively long side extending along the first direction DR1 and a relatively short side extending along the second direction DR2. The display panel DP can include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA adjacent to the display area DA (such as surrounding the display area DA).

[0056] The display panel DP can include a plurality of pixels PX (for example, a plurality of pixels PX), a plurality of scan lines (for example, a plurality of scan lines SL1 to SLm), a plurality of data lines (for example, a plurality of data lines DL1 to DLn), and a plurality of emission lines (for example, a plurality of emission lines EL1 to ELm). Here, "m" and "n" are natural numbers. The pixels PX can be provided in the display area DA and can be connected to the corresponding lines among the scan lines SL1 to SLm, the data lines DL1 to DLn, and the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0057] The scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV can be provided in the non-display area NDA. The scan driver SDV and the emission driver EDV can be provided to be adjacent to the long sides of the display panel DP, respectively.

[0058] The data driver DDV can be provided or manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and can be provided adjacent to one of the short sides of the display panel DP. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the data driver DDV can be provided or mounted on a flexible circuit board (not shown) separated from the display panel DP and can then be connected to the display panel DP through the flexible circuit board.

[0059] The scan lines SL1 to SLm can extend along the second direction DR2 and can be connected to the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn can extend along the first direction DR1 and can be connected to the data driver DDV. The emission lines EL1 to ELm can extend along the second direction DR2 and can be connected to the emission driver EDV.

[0060] The scan driver SDV can generate electrical signals such as a plurality of scan signals, and the scan signals can be applied to the pixels PX through the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The scan signals can be sequentially applied to the pixels PX. The data driver DDV can generate electrical signals such as a plurality of data voltages, and the data voltages can be applied to the pixels PX through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The emission driver EDV can generate electrical signals such as a plurality of emission signals, and the emission signals can be applied to the pixels PX through the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0061] Even if not shown in the drawings, the display device DD may further include a timing controller (not shown) for controlling the operations of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV. The timing controller can be connected to the corresponding drivers and / or the display panel DP to control their operations.

[0062] The pixel PX can receive a data voltage in response to a scan signal. The pixel PX can generate and / or emit light having a luminance corresponding to the data voltage in response to an emission signal, thereby displaying an image IM. The emission time of the pixel PX can be controlled by the emission signal.

[0063] Figure 6 is a schematic enlarged cross-sectional view Figure 5 of an embodiment of the pixel PX shown.

[0064] Referring to Figure 6 , the pixel PX can include a light-emitting element (or display element) such as an organic light-emitting diode OLED, and a transistor TR connected to the organic light-emitting diode OLED. The organic light-emitting diode OLED can include a first electrode E1, a second electrode E2, and an organic emission layer OEL disposed between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2. The transistor TR is connected to the light-emitting element and controls the light-emitting element to generate light, emit light, display an image, etc.

[0065] The first electrode E1 may be an anode, and the second electrode E2 may be a cathode. The first electrode E1 may be defined as a pixel electrode, and the second electrode E2 may be defined as a common electrode.

[0066] The pixel PX may be divided into a pixel region PA and a non-pixel region NPA adjacent to (such as, around) the pixel region PA. The organic light-emitting element OLED may be disposed in the pixel region PA, and the transistor TR may be disposed in the non-pixel region NPA. The transistor TR and the organic light-emitting element OLED may be disposed on the substrate SUB. A buffer layer BFL may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The buffer layer BFL may include an inorganic material.

[0067] The semiconductor layer SM of the transistor TR may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor layer SM may include an inorganic semiconductor material (e.g., amorphous silicon or polysilicon) or an organic semiconductor material. Optionally, the semiconductor layer SM may include an oxide semiconductor material. Even though not shown in Figure 6 , the semiconductor layer SM may include a source region, a drain region, and a channel region located between the source region and the drain region.

[0068] A first insulating layer INS1 may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL to cover the semiconductor layer SM. The first insulating layer INS1 may include an inorganic material. The gate electrode GE of the transistor TR may be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1 and may overlap or correspond to the semiconductor layer SM. The gate electrode GE may be disposed to overlap or correspond to the channel region of the semiconductor layer SM.

[0069] A second insulating layer INS2 may be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1 to cover the gate electrode GE. The second insulating layer INS2 may include an organic material and / or an inorganic material.

[0070] The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE of the transistor TR may be spaced apart from each other along the second insulating layer INS2. The source electrode SE may be connected to the source region of the semiconductor layer SM at a first contact hole CH1 defined in the first insulating layer INS1 and the second insulating layer INS2, or connected to the source region of the semiconductor layer SM through the first contact hole CH1. The drain electrode DE may be connected to the drain region of the semiconductor layer SM at a second contact hole CH2 defined in the first insulating layer INS1 and the second insulating layer INS2, or connected to the drain region of the semiconductor layer SM through the second contact hole CH2.

[0071] A third insulating layer INS3 may be disposed on the second insulating layer INS2 to cover the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE of the transistor TR. The third insulating layer INS3 may be defined as a planarization layer providing a flat top surface and may include an organic material.

[0072] The first electrode E1 may be disposed on the third insulating layer INS3. The first electrode E1 may be connected to the drain electrode DE of the transistor TR at a third contact hole CH3 defined in the third insulating layer INS3, or may be connected to the drain electrode DE of the transistor TR through the third contact hole CH3.

[0073] A pixel defining layer PDL exposing a part of the first electrode E1 may be disposed on the first electrode E1 and the third insulating layer INS3. An opening PX_OP exposing a part of the first electrode E1 may be defined in the pixel defining layer PDL. At the first electrode E1, the opening PX_OP may correspond to the pixel area PA.

[0074] The organic emission layer OEL may be disposed on the first electrode E1 and within the opening PX_OP. The organic emission layer OEL may be a light-emitting layer that generates and emits red, green, and / or blue light therewith. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the organic emission layer OEL may generate white light by using a combination of organic materials that generate red, green, and blue light, respectively.

[0075] The second electrode E2 may be disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL and the organic emission layer OEL. A thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the organic light-emitting element OLED to cover the layers or elements within the pixel PX. The layer between the substrate SUB and the thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be defined as the pixel layer PXL.

[0076] A first voltage may be applied to the first electrode E1, and a second voltage may be applied to the second electrode E2. The holes and electrons injected into the organic emission layer OEL may combine with each other to generate excitons, and the excitons may transition from an excited state to a ground state to emit light from the organic light-emitting element OLED. The organic light-emitting element OLED may emit one of red, green, and blue light through the flow of current, and thus may display an image IM.

[0077] Figure 7 is a plan view showing Figure 4 an embodiment of the window WIN.

[0078] Referring to Figure 7 , the window WIN may have a rectangular shape defined by relatively long sides extending along a first direction DR1 and relatively short sides extending along a second direction DR2. The window WIN may include a transmissive area TA (e.g., a light transmissive area) and a light blocking area BLA, where the light blocking area BLA is adjacent to the transmissive area TA, such as surrounding the transmissive area TA in a top view.

[0079] Even when Figure 7Not shown in the figure, the display area DA of the display panel DP may overlap or correspond to the transmissive area TA of the window WIN, and the non-display area NDA of the display panel DP may overlap or correspond to the light-blocking area BLA of the window WIN.

[0080] The transmissive area TA may be a planar area of the window WIN where light can be transmitted, and the light-blocking area BLA may be a planar area of the window WIN where light is blocked (e.g., not transmissible). The light-blocking area BLA may be defined by a printed material having a predetermined color. In an embodiment, for example, the light-blocking area BLA may include a printed material having black, or be defined by a printed material having black, to block light from passing through the window WIN at the light-blocking area BLA. Optionally, the light-blocking area BLA may include a printed material having at least one of a plurality of other colors other than black, or be defined by a printed material having at least one of a plurality of other colors other than black.

[0081] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the window WIN taken along the Figure 7 line I-I'. Figure 9 is a perspective view showing Figure 8 the base substrate BS of the window WIN in

[0082] For ease and convenience of explanation, the display panel DP and the input sensing unit ISP are shown together with the window WIN in Figure 8 .

[0083] Referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , the window WIN may include a base substrate BS, a functional layer AL provided on the base substrate BS, and an anti-scattering layer ASL provided below the base substrate BS. The first recess RES1 may be defined to extend from the top surface of the base substrate BS and toward the anti-scattering layer ASL, and the functional layer AL may be provided in the first recess RES1. In an embodiment, the functional layer AL receives light from the base substrate BS and transmits the light from the base substrate BS to the outside of the window WIN.

[0084] The base substrate BS may include a transmissive region TA and a light-blocking region BLA adjacent to the transmissive region TA (such as, surrounding the transmissive region TA). The first recess RES1 may be defined to recess from the top surface of the base substrate BS at the transmissive region TA of the base substrate BS. The portion of the top surface of the base substrate BS at the transmissive region TA (from which the first recess RES1 is defined) may be lower than the portion of the top surface of the base substrate BS at the light-blocking region BLA. The portion of the bottom surface of the base substrate BS at the transmissive region TA and the portion of the bottom surface of the base substrate BS at the light-blocking region BLA may be coplanar with each other and may define a single planar bottom surface of the base substrate BS. The bottom surface of the base substrate BS is opposite to the top surface of the base substrate BS. The top surface and / or the bottom surface of the base substrate BS may define a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction thereof.

[0085] The base substrate BS may include glass. In an embodiment of manufacturing the display device DD, the portion of the base substrate BS corresponding to the transmissive region TA may be etched from the top surface of the base substrate BS to a predetermined depth, and thus the first recess RES1 may be provided or formed. The base substrate BS may be defined as ultra-thin glass (“UTG”).

[0086] The portion of the top surface of the base substrate BS at the transmissive region TA may include a flat portion FLP (e.g., a flat surface) lower than the portion of the top surface of the base substrate BS at the light-blocking region BLA and an inclined portion SLP adjacent to the flat portion FLP (such as, surrounding the flat portion FLP). In an embodiment, for example, the flat portion FLP may have a quadrilateral shape (e.g., a rectangular shape) in a top view. However, the shape of the flat portion FLP is not limited thereto. The flat portion FLP may extend from one end of the inclined portion SLP. The inclined portion SLP may be defined by an inclined surface of the base substrate BS that is inclined from the boundary between the transmissive region TA and the light-blocking region BLA toward the flat portion FLP. The flat portion FLP and the inclined portion SLP may together define the first recess RES1. The entire upper surface of the base substrate BS may include the flat portion FLP, the inclined portion SLP, and the portion of the top surface at the light-blocking region BLA. The top surface of the base substrate BS at the light-blocking region BLA may be the farthest from the display panel DP, while the entire bottom surface of the base substrate BS may be the closest to the display panel DP.

[0087] The functional layer AL can provide multiple functions to the window WIN. In an embodiment, for example, the functional layer AL can provide an anti-fingerprint function, an anti-staining function, an anti-reflection function, an anti-glare function, and / or a protection function for the base substrate BS of the window WIN. The stacking structure of the functional layer AL will be described in detail later. The functional layer AL can define or provide the outer surface of the window WIN. The functional layer AL together with the portion of the top surface of the base substrate BS at the light-blocking region BLA can jointly define or provide the outer surface of the window WIN.

[0088] The functional layer AL can be directly located on the top surface of the base substrate BS in which the first recess RES1 is defined. The functional layer AL can include a functional layer material that is directly coated on the base substrate BS. In an embodiment, for example, the functional layer AL can be directly located on the flat portion FLP and the inclined portion SLP of the base substrate BS at the transmission region TA. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the functional layer AL can be provided in the form of a film separated from the base substrate BS and can be coupled to the base substrate BS through a fixing member such as an adhesive OCA. The functional layer AL can include a material coated on the base substrate BS by at least one of multiple coating methods such as a spin coating method, an inkjet coating method, and a bar coating method.

[0089] The anti-scattering layer ASL can be directly located on the bottom surface of the base substrate BS. The anti-scattering layer ASL can include an anti-scattering layer material directly coated on the base substrate BS. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the anti-scattering layer ASL can be provided in the form of a film separated from the base substrate BS and can be coupled to the bottom surface of the base substrate BS, such as through an adhesive OCA. The anti-scattering layer ASL can provide the function of reducing or effectively preventing the scattering of fragments of the damaged base substrate BS. That is, in the case where the base substrate BS can be damaged, the anti-scattering layer ASL coupled to the damaged base substrate BS minimizes the scattering of the damaged fragments of the base substrate BS from the original positions of the fragments within the base substrate BS. The anti-scattering layer ASL faces the functional layer AL, and the base substrate BS is between the anti-scattering layer ASL and the functional layer AL.

[0090] In the present embodiment, the anti-scattering layer ASL is provided below the base substrate BS. That is, the anti-scattering layer ASL is closer to the display panel DP than the functional layer AL and the base substrate BS. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the anti-scattering layer ASL can be provided on the base substrate BS to be farther from the display panel DP than the base substrate BS.

[0091] The anti-scattering layer ASL may include a polymer resin and may have optical transparency. In addition, the anti-scattering layer ASL may also be provided or formed as an adhesive layer for adhering the base substrate BS to another layer provided above or below the base substrate BS within the window WIN. In an embodiment, for example, the anti-scattering layer ASL may include an optically transparent adhesive or may be formed of an optically transparent adhesive. The anti-scattering layer ASL is shown as a single layer in Figure 8 However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the anti-scattering layer ASL may include multiple layers.

[0092] The input sensing unit ISP and the display panel DP may be provided below the anti-scattering layer ASL. Even if not shown in the drawings, the input sensing unit ISP may be adhered to the anti-scattering layer ASL by an adhesive OCA, and thus the input sensing unit ISP may be combined with the display panel DP into the window WIN.

[0093] If the first recess RES1 is omitted from the base substrate BS, the base substrate BS may have a single flat top surface in both the transmission region TA and the light blocking region BLA, and thus the functional layer AL may be provided on the single flat top surface of the base substrate BS. In this case, due to the sum of the thickness of the base substrate BS and the thickness of the functional layer AL, the thickness of the window WIN may increase, particularly the thickness of the window WIN in the transmission region TA may increase. However, according to one or more embodiments, the functional layer AL may be provided in the first recess RES1, and thus the total thickness of the window WIN may be reduced, particularly the total thickness of the window WIN in the transmission region TA may be reduced. The top surface of the functional layer AL may be coplanar with a portion of the top surface of the base substrate BS in the light blocking region BLA. The total thickness of the window WIN may be the same in the transmission region TA and the light blocking region BLA, but is not limited thereto.

[0094] If the display device DD including the functional layer AL provided on the base substrate BS having a single flat top surface in both the transmission region TA and the light blocking region BLA is repeatedly folded or curled, the edge of the functional layer AL may peel off or lift from the edge of the base substrate BS. However, according to one or more embodiments, the functional layer AL may be provided in the first recess RES1 spaced apart from the edge of the base substrate BS, and thus the peeling and lifting phenomenon of the functional layer AL may be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0095] Figure 10 is Figure 8 an enlarged cross-sectional view of the region “A” of

[0096] Refer to Figure 10, the base substrate BS may have a first thickness TH1 along a third direction DR3. The third direction DR3 may be defined as a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface of the base substrate BS, and the bottom surface of the base substrate BS is in a plane parallel to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Basically, the first thickness TH1 may be the thickness of the base substrate BS at its light-blocking region BLA. The first thickness TH1 may be the maximum thickness of the base substrate BS. The first thickness TH1 may be in the range of about 50 micrometers (μm) to about 500 micrometers (μm).

[0097] A portion of the base substrate BS having a flat portion FLP at the transmission region TA may have a second thickness TH2 along the third direction DR3. The second thickness TH2 may be in the range of about 45 micrometers (μm) to about 400 micrometers (μm). The depth DPH of the first recess RES1 along the third direction DR3 may be a value obtained by subtracting the second thickness TH2 from the first thickness TH1.

[0098] In the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, the inclined portion SLP may have a width WT of about 20 micrometers (μm) to about 300 micrometers (μm) along the second direction DR2. In addition, even if not shown in the drawings, the inclined portion SLP may have a width of about 20 micrometers (μm) to about 300 micrometers (μm) along the first direction DR1.

[0099] Figure 11 is a magnified cross-sectional view showing Figure 8 an embodiment of the functional layer AL.

[0100] Referring to Figure 11 , the functional layer AL may include a plurality of layers arranged along the thickness direction (e.g., the third direction DR3) of the display device DD and / or the window WIN. In an embodiment, for example, the functional layer AL may include a hard coating HCL (e.g., a hard layer), an anti-glare coating AGL (e.g., an anti-glare layer), an anti-reflection coating ARL (e.g., an anti-reflection layer), an anti-fouling coating AFOL (e.g., an anti-fouling layer), and an anti-fingerprint coating AFL (e.g., an anti-fingerprint layer).

[0101] The hard coating HCL, the antiglare coating AGL, the antireflection coating ARL, the antifouling coating AFOL, and the anti-fingerprint coating AFL can be sequentially stacked in the first recess RES1 in a direction away from the display panel DP. In an embodiment, for example, the hard coating HCL can be disposed on the top surface of the base substrate BS in the first recess RES1, and the antiglare coating AGL can be disposed on the hard coating HCL. The antireflection coating ARL can be disposed on the antiglare coating AGL, the antifouling coating AFOL can be disposed on the antireflection coating ARL, and the anti-fingerprint coating AFL can be disposed on the antifouling coating AFOL.

[0102] Five coatings are shown as an example in Figure 11 . However, the functional layer AL can include one or more of the hard coating HCL, the antiglare coating AGL, the antireflection coating ARL, the antifouling coating AFOL, and the anti-fingerprint coating AFL.

[0103] The hard coating HCL can protect the base substrate BS. In an embodiment, the hard coating HCL can have a hardness greater than that of the base substrate BS, but is not limited thereto. The antiglare coating AGL can reduce glare at the window WIN. The antireflection coating ARL can reduce or effectively prevent the reflection of external light at the window WIN. The antifouling coating AFOL can minimize or prevent the attachment or growth of foreign substances at the window WIN. The anti-fingerprint coating AFL can reduce fingerprints at the window WIN.

[0104] According to one or more embodiments, the functional layer AL can be disposed in the first recess RES1 extending from the top surface of the base substrate BS. Therefore, the thickness of the window WIN can be reduced, and the peeling and lifting phenomena of the functional layer AL at the edge of the base substrate BS can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0105] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the window WIN_1.

[0106] In Figure 12 a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 8 is shown as an example. For the purpose of easy and convenient explanation, the display panel DP and the input sensing unit ISP are shown together with the window WIN_1 in Figure 12 .

[0107] Hereinafter, the differences between the window WIN_1 of Figure 12 and the window WIN of Figure 8 will be mainly described.

[0108] Referring to Figure 12, the window WIN_1 may include a base substrate BS_1, a functional layer AL disposed on the base substrate BS_1, an anti-scattering layer ASL disposed below the base substrate BS_1, and a printed layer PTL disposed below the base substrate BS_1.

[0109] Unlike Figure 8 the base substrate BS shown in Figure 12 the top surface of the base substrate BS_1 in can be flat in both the transmission region TA and the light-blocking region BLA, and the second recess RES2 can extend from the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1. The second recess RES2 can include or define a portion of the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the transmission region TA. The anti-scattering layer ASL can be disposed in the second recess RES2. The bottom surface of the anti-scattering layer ASL can be coplanar with a portion of the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA. The total thickness of the window WIN_1 can be the same at the transmission region TA and the light-blocking region BLA, but is not limited thereto.

[0110] The portion of the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the transmission region TA can include a flat portion FLP' (e.g., a second flat surface) that is farther from the display panel DP than the portion of the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA, and an inclined portion SLP' (e.g., a second inclined surface) adjacent to the flat portion FLP' (such as surrounding the flat portion FLP'). The inclined portion SLP' can be defined by an inclined surface of the base substrate BS_1 that is inclined from the boundary between the transmission region TA and the light-blocking region BLA toward the flat portion FLP'. The second recess RES2 can be defined by the flat portion FLP' and the inclined portion SLP' together. The entire lower surface of the base substrate BS_1 can include the flat portion FLP', the inclined portion SLP', and the portion of the bottom surface at the light-blocking region BLA. Among the surfaces of the base substrate BS_1, the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA can be closest to the display panel DP, and the entire top surface of the base substrate BS_1 can be farthest from the display panel DP.

[0111] The printed layer PTL can be disposed on the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 and disposed adjacent to the second recess RES2 (such as around the second recess RES2). In an embodiment, for example, the printed layer PTL can overlap or correspond to the light-blocking region BLA and can be disposed on the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA. The printed layer PTL can protrude from the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 to be disposed closer to the display panel DP than both the anti-scattering layer ASL and the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1.

[0112] The anti-scattering layer ASL may not be disposed between the printing layer PTL and the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA, but may be disposed only in the second recess RES2. Accordingly, the printing layer PTL may be directly located on the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA. The printing layer PTL may include a material directly printed on the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA.

[0113] The printing layer PTL may have a black color and may block light incident on the base substrate BS_1 at the light-blocking region BLA. Optionally, the printing layer PTL may have at least one of various other colors other than black. The edge of the window WIN_1 may have a color provided by the printing layer PTL (such as a material that is printed and has a light-blocking color). The printing layer PTL may also be referred to as a light-blocking pattern or a light-blocking layer.

[0114] The display panel DP and the input sensing unit ISP may be disposed below the printing layer PTL and the anti-scattering layer ASL. Even if not shown in the drawings, the input sensing unit ISP may be adhered to the anti-scattering layer ASL and / or the printing layer PTL by an adhesive OCA, and thus the input sensing unit ISP may be combined with the display panel DP to the window WIN_1.

[0115] Since the anti-scattering layer ASL is disposed in the second recess RES2, the thickness of the window WIN_1 may be reduced, and the phenomenon of the anti-scattering layer ASL peeling off and lifting from the base substrate BS_1 may be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0116] Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the window WIN_2.

[0117] In Figure 13 a cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 8 is shown as an example. For ease and convenience of explanation, the display panel DP and the input sensing unit ISP are shown together with the window WIN_2 in Figure 13 .

[0118] Hereinafter, the differences between the window WIN_2 of Figure 13 and the window WIN of Figure 8 will be mainly described.

[0119] Referring to Figure 13 , the window WIN_2 may include a base substrate BS_2, a functional layer AL disposed above the base substrate BS_2, an anti-scattering layer ASL disposed below the base substrate BS_2, and a printing layer PTL disposed below the base substrate BS_2.

[0120] The first recess RES1 can be defined as extending from the top surface of the base substrate BS_2, and the second recess RES2 can extend from the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_2. The first recess RES1 can be defined by the upper surface of the base substrate BS_2 at the transmission region TA, and the second recess RES2 can be defined by the lower surface of the base substrate BS_2 at the transmission region TA.

[0121] The functional layer AL can be disposed in the first recess RES1, and the anti-scattering layer ASL can be disposed in the second recess RES2. The first recess RES1 can be the same as the first recess RES1 shown in Figure 8 and the second recess RES2 can be the same as the second recess RES2 shown in Figure 12 . Thus, the first recess RES1 can be defined by a flat portion FLP and an inclined portion SLP, and the second recess RES2 can be defined by a flat portion FLP' and an inclined portion SLP'. The printed layer PTL can be disposed on the bottom surface of the base substrate BS_2 at the light-blocking region BLA.

[0122] Since the functional layer AL is disposed in the first recess RES1 and the anti-scattering layer ASL is disposed in the second recess RES2, the thickness of the window WIN_2 can be reduced. In addition, peeling and lifting phenomena of the functional layer AL and the anti-scattering layer ASL at the edge of the base substrate BS_2 can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0123] According to one or more embodiments, the functional layer AL can be disposed in a recess defined as extending from the top surface of the base substrate BS, and thus the thickness of the window WIN can be reduced. In addition, peeling and lifting phenomena of the functional layer AL that may occur at the edge portion of the functional layer AL can be reduced or effectively prevented.

[0124] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative rather than restrictive. Thus, the scope of the present invention will be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the appended claims and their equivalents, and should not be limited or restricted by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. Window, comprising: A base substrate, comprising: A transmissive region, A light-blocking region adjacent to the transmissive region, A boundary located between the transmissive region and the light-blocking region, A first recess located in the transmissive region, the first recess being defined by an inclined surface and a flat surface, wherein the inclined surface extends from the top surface of the base substrate and in a direction from the boundary to the transmissive region, and the flat surface extends from one end of the inclined surface, and A second recess that completely overlaps the first recess in the transmissive region and extends from the bottom surface of the base substrate opposite to the top surface; A functional layer disposed in the first recess on the top surface of the base substrate; and An anti-scattering layer disposed in the second recess on the bottom surface of the base substrate.

2. The window according to claim 1, wherein The bottom surface of the anti-scattering layer is coplanar with a portion of the bottom surface of the base substrate at the light-blocking region.

3. The window according to claim 2, wherein The thickness direction of the window is perpendicular to the bottom surface of the anti-scattering layer, and Along the thickness direction, the base substrate has a thickness of 50 micrometers to 500 micrometers at the light-blocking region.

4. The window according to claim 3, wherein, Along the thickness direction, the portion of the base substrate having the flat surface has a thickness of 45 micrometers to 400 micrometers.

5. The window according to claim 3, wherein, In a direction parallel to the bottom surface of the anti-scattering layer, the inclined surface has a width of 20 micrometers to 300 micrometers.

6. The window according to claim 1, wherein, The base substrate comprises glass.

7. The window according to claim 1, wherein The functional layer located in the first recess is directly located on the inclined surface and the flat surface defining the first recess.

8. The window according to claim 1, wherein, The functional layer comprises at least one of a hard layer, an anti-glare layer, an anti-reflection layer, an anti-fouling layer, and an anti-fingerprint layer, wherein the hard layer has a hardness greater than that of the base substrate.

9. The window according to claim 1, wherein, The anti-scattering layer faces the functional layer, and the base substrate is located between the anti-scattering layer and the functional layer.

10. The window according to claim 9, wherein, The anti-scattering layer comprises an adhesive.

Images