Display module and foldable display device including the same

Abstract

A display module and a foldable display device including the display module are provided. The display module includes a panel portion, a first support member, a second support member, a receiving guide member, and a shielding member. The panel portion includes a pixel array for displaying images. The first support member is disposed below the panel portion. The second support member is disposed below the panel portion and adjacent to the first support member along a first direction. The receiving guide member is coupled to the second support member. The shielding member covers the boundary region between the first and second support members and is coupled to the first support member, and is allowed to slide on the second support member and is partially disposed in the receiving space between the receiving guide member and the second support member, and is flexible to bend or fold in response to deformation of the panel portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The exemplary embodiments / implementations of the present invention generally relate to a display device. More specifically, the embodiments relate to a display module including a hinge structure and a foldable display device. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices provide information to users by displaying images. Recently, flexible display devices that can transform into various shapes are being developed. Flexible display devices can be folded, bent, or rolled up like paper. They are easy to carry and increase user convenience.

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

[0004] One embodiment provides a display module with an impurity blocking structure.

[0005] The implementation provides a foldable display device with improved reliability.

[0006] Additional features of the inventive concept will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the inventive concept.

[0007] An exemplary embodiment provides a display module including a panel portion, a first support member, a second support member, a receiving guide member, and a shielding member. The panel portion includes a pixel array for displaying images. The first support member is disposed below the panel portion. The second support member is disposed below the panel portion and adjacent to the first support member along a first direction. The receiving guide member is coupled to the second support member. The shielding member covers the boundary region between the first and second support members, is coupled to the first support member, is allowed to slide on the second support member, is partially disposed in a receiving space between the receiving guide member and the second support member, and is flexible enough to be bent or folded in response to deformation of the panel portion.

[0008] In one embodiment, the shielding member is engaged with the lower surface of the first support member.

[0009] In an embodiment, the shielding member includes at least one of a polymer film and a metal film.

[0010] In embodiments, the polymer film includes at least one of polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyurethane.

[0011] In this embodiment, the metal film includes stainless steel.

[0012] In one embodiment, the receiving guide member is attached to the second support member by an adhesive member.

[0013] In one embodiment, the receiving guide member has a rectangular shape having a first side that overlaps with the shielding member and extends along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The adhesive member is disposed along a second side connected to the first side, a third side opposite to the second side and connected to the first side, and a fourth side opposite to the first side and connected to the second and third sides.

[0014] In one embodiment, the receiving guide member has a rectangular shape, having a first side that overlaps with the shielding member and extends along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. An adhesive member is disposed along a second side connected to the first side and a third side opposite to the second side and connected to the first side.

[0015] In one embodiment, the panel includes a flexible base substrate, which comprises a polymer material.

[0016] In one embodiment, the display module further includes an impact-absorbing component disposed between the panel portion and the first support member, and between the panel portion and the second support member.

[0017] An exemplary embodiment also provides a foldable display device, which includes a panel portion, a first support member, a second support member, a shielding member, and a hinge portion. The panel portion includes a pixel array for displaying images. The first support member is disposed below the panel portion. The second support member is disposed below the panel portion and adjacent to the first support member along a first direction. The shielding member covers the boundary region between the first and second support members, engages with the first support member, and is allowed to slide on the second support member. The hinge portion is disposed below the shielding member.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the structure including the shielding member is configured to prevent impurities from entering the display module. The shielding member is flexible enough to deform in response to deformation of the display module and is allowed to slide or shift on the support member. Therefore, the shielding structure can be maintained when the display module is folded or bent, and the reliability of repeated deformation can be structurally improved.

[0019] It will be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed invention. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the inventive concept.

[0021] Aspects of one or more embodiments of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a plan view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a bottom view showing the display module according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 Enlarged bottom view of area 'A'.

[0026] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken by line I-I'.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a bottom view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the hinge region of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the panel portion of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the display module according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 15 This is a bottom view showing the display module according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation in order to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments or implementations of the invention. As used herein, “implementation” and “method” are interchangeable terms and are non-limiting examples of apparatuses or methods employing one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent, however, that various exemplary embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, the various exemplary embodiments may differ but are not necessarily exclusive. For example, a particular shape, construction, and characteristic of an exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0033] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary embodiments shown are to be understood as exemplary features providing details of variations in some ways in which the inventive concept can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, areas and / or aspects of various embodiments (hereinafter individually or collectively referred to as “elements”) may be combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged in other ways without departing from the inventive concept.

[0034] The use of crosshairs and / or shading in drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless specified, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for specific materials, material properties, dimensions, scale, commonalities between illustrated elements, and / or any other characteristics, properties, etc., of the elements. Furthermore, in the drawings, the size and relative size of elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, a particular order of processes may be performed differently than the order described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description. Additionally, similar reference numerals denote similar elements.

[0035] When a component or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another component or layer, it may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly attached to the other component or layer, or there may be intermediate components or layers present. However, when a component or layer is referred to as being "directly" on, directly connected to, or directly attached to another component or layer, there are no intermediate components or layers present. For this purpose, the term "connection" may refer to a physical, electrical, and / or fluid connection with or without intermediate components. Furthermore, the D1, D2, and D3 axes are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system, such as the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, and may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the D1, D2, and D3 axes may be perpendicular to each other, or may 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" can be interpreted as X only, Y only, Z only, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as 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.

[0036] 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. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element.

[0037] Spatial relative terms, such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “above,” “higher,” “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”), and similar words, may be used herein for descriptive purposes and thus to describe the relationship of one element(s) to another(s) as shown in the figures. Spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture other than those depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both the above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or located in other orientations), and therefore, the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein shall be interpreted accordingly.

[0038] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are intended to also include the plural forms. Furthermore, the terms “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” and / or “including,” as used in this specification, specify the presence of the mentioned features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximate terms and not as terms of degree, and are therefore used to interpret inherent deviations in measured, calculated, and / or provided values ​​that are recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0039] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional and / or exploded views as schematic illustrations of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Thus, variations in the illustrated shapes due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily to be interpreted as limited to the specific shapes of the areas shown, but rather include shape deviations caused, for example, by manufacturing. In this way, the areas shown in the figures are essentially schematic, and the shapes of these areas may not reflect the actual shapes of the areas of the device, and are therefore not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms, such as those defined in common dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an ideal or overly rigid sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0041] In the following description, a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some embodiments.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a plan view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment. Figure 1 It can be shown that the unfolded foldable display device, and Figure 2 A foldable display device can be shown.

[0043] The foldable display device according to an embodiment includes a display module 100 and a cover module 200. In the foldable display device, the area where an image is displayed can be defined as a display area DA. The area that does not display an image and is adjacent to the display area DA can be defined as a peripheral area PA.

[0044] The display module 100 includes a screen for displaying images. The display module 100 includes a pixel array configured to emit light through the screen. For example, the pixel array may generate light or adjust the transmittance of light supplied from an external light source to display an image.

[0045] In one embodiment, the display module 100 may include a flexible display panel that can be bent or folded by, for example, external force. For instance, the display module 100 may include an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0046] The cover module 200 is coupled to the display module 100. The cover module 200 can accommodate the display module 100. The cover module 200 can at least cover the lower surface of the display module 100. For example, the cover module 200 may include a first cover portion 210 coupled to a first region 100a of the display module 100. The cover module 200 may also include a second cover portion 220 coupled to a second region 100b of the display module 100. The cover module 200 may also cover a portion of the side surface and / or the upper surface of the display module 100.

[0047] The first cover portion 210 is adjacent to the second cover portion 220 along a first direction D1. The first cover portion 210 and the second cover portion 220 are engaged with the hinge portion 230. The first cover portion 210 and the second cover portion 220 are rotatable about the hinge portion 230. The first cover portion 210 and the second cover portion 220 are rotatable about the rotation axis of the hinge portion 230. Therefore, the display device can be bent or folded. The hinge portion 230 and the rotation axis can extend along a second direction D2 that intersects the first direction D1.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a bottom view showing the display module 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 Enlarged bottom view of area 'A'. Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken by line I-I'.

[0049] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The display module 100 may include a panel portion PN. In an embodiment, the panel portion PN may include an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0050] The support member may be disposed below the panel portion PN. For example, the display module 100 may include a first support member 10a disposed in the first region 100a and a second support member 10b disposed in the second region 100b.

[0051] The first support member 10a may be adjacent to the second support member 10b along the first direction D1. For example, the first support member 10a may be spaced apart from the second support member 10b. However, the implementation is not limited to this. For example, when the display module 100 is unfolded, the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b may be adjacent to each other and substantially in contact with each other.

[0052] The first support member 10a and the second support member 10b may include a rigid material for supporting the panel portion PN. For example, the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b may include a metal, a polymer material, or a combination thereof.

[0053] The display module 100 may also include an impact-absorbing member CU. For example, the impact-absorbing member CU may be disposed between the panel portion PN and the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b.

[0054] For example, the shock-absorbing member CU may have a porous structure. The shock-absorbing member CU with a porous structure can absorb impacts applied to the display module 100 from the outside to protect the panel portion PN. Furthermore, the shock-absorbing member CU can prevent impurities from entering the panel portion PN.

[0055] For example, the shock-absorbing component CU may include a foam formed from a polymer material. For example, the shock-absorbing component CU may include a foam formed from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) copolymer, polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or combinations thereof.

[0056] In another embodiment, the impact absorbing member CU may be omitted or may be partially disposed between the panel portion PN and the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b.

[0057] In one embodiment, the display module 100 includes a shielding member 31 and a receiving guide member 32. The shielding member 31 may cover the boundary region between the first region 100a and the second region 100b to prevent impurities from entering the display module 100 from the region below the shielding member 31. The receiving guide member 32 covers a portion of the shielding member 31.

[0058] In one embodiment, the shielding member 31 may be disposed on the lower surfaces of the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b, and may be coupled to the first support member 10a. For example, the shielding member 31 may include a first portion overlapping the first support member 10a and a second portion overlapping the second support member 10b. The smaller portion of the shielding member 31 overlaps with the first support member 10a, while the larger portion of the shielding member 31 overlaps with the second support member 10b. The first smaller portion of the shielding member 31 may be coupled to the first support member 10a. The second larger portion of the shielding member 31 may be disposed between the second support member 10b and the receiving guide member 32.

[0059] The receiving guide member 32 may be combined with the second support member 10b. A portion of the receiving guide member 32 may be spaced apart from the second support member 10b, thereby defining a receiving space 34 between the second support member 10b and the receiving guide member 32, the receiving space 34 accommodating a portion of the shielding member 31.

[0060] The shielding member 31 can be bonded to the lower surface of the first support member 10a using a first adhesive member 33a. The receiving guide member 32 can be bonded to the lower surface of the second support member 10b using a second adhesive member 33b.

[0061] The second adhesive member 33b may be disposed along at least one side of the receiving guide member 32. In an embodiment, the second adhesive member 33b may be disposed along three sides of the receiving guide member 32, excluding the side that overlaps with the shielding member 31. For example, when the receiving guide member 32 has a rectangular shape, and when the side of the receiving guide member 32 that overlaps with the shielding member 31 is referred to as the first side 32a, the second adhesive member 33b may be disposed along a second side 32b connected to the first side 32a, a third side 32c connected to the first side 32a and opposite to the second side 32b, and a fourth side 32d connected to the second side 32b and the third side 32c and opposite to the first side 32a.

[0062] The above structure can prevent impurities from penetrating into the display module 100 through the receiving space 34 between the shielding member 31 and the second support member 10b, and can prevent the second larger part of the shielding member 31 from leaving the receiving space 34 when the display module 100 is folded.

[0063] In this embodiment, the shielding member 31 is not bonded to the second support member 10b or the receiving guide member 32 using an adhesive. Therefore, displacement may occur between the shielding member 31 and the receiving guide member 32 or between the shielding member 31 and the second support member 10b when the display module 100 is changed or deformed. For example, when the display module 100 is folded or bent, the second larger portion of the shielding member 31 can serve as a free end and can slide on the second support member 10b and the receiving guide member 32.

[0064] The shielding member 31 may preferably be flexible to bend or fold in response to deformation of the display module 100. Moreover, the shielding member 31 may preferably have a modulus equal to or greater than a predetermined value, so that the shielding member 31 can slide on the second support member 10b and the receiving guide member 32.

[0065] For example, shielding member 31 may include a polymer film, a metal film, or a combination thereof.

[0066] The polymer film may include polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, or combinations thereof. The metal film may include stainless steel (SUS) or the like. The shielding member 31 may be coated with a fluorinated resin such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0067] There are no particular limitations on the material used to accommodate the guide member 32. For example, the guide member 32 may comprise a thermoplastic polymer, a thermosetting polymer, a metal, or a combination thereof. The guide member 32 may be coupled to the second support member 10b by another connecting member or coupling process rather than an adhesive member.

[0068] If the shielding member 31 is combined with both the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b, the shielding member 31 may not deform when the display module 100 is folded or bent. Therefore, if connected in this way, the shielding member 31 may be damaged due to forced strain, or a separate stretchable structure may be required. If the shielding member 31 comprises a stretchable material, the shielding member 31 may be easily damaged due to wear, as stretchable materials are generally less resistant to wear.

[0069] In this embodiment, the shielding member 31 is coupled to the first support member 10a and can be guided by the receiving guide member 32 to slide and prevent it from leaving the receiving space 34. The length of the receiving guide member 32 is predetermined to retain the length of the shielding member 31 when the display module 100 is folded or bent. Therefore, even when the display module 100 is folded or bent, the shielding structure configured to prevent impurities can be maintained, and the structural reliability against repeated deformation can be improved.

[0070] Figure 6 This is a bottom view showing a foldable display device according to an embodiment. Figures 7 to 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the hinge region of a foldable display device according to an embodiment. Figure 7 and Figure 9 The following figures show the edges when the foldable display device is in the unfolded and folded positions, respectively. Figure 6 The cross section taken from line II-II'. Figure 8 and Figure 10 The following figures show the edges when the foldable display device is in the unfolded and folded positions, respectively. Figure 6 The cross section taken from line III-III'.

[0071] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The display device includes a display module 100 and a cover module. Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The unfolded display device is shown. The cover module includes a hinge portion, a first bottom cover 211, and a second bottom cover 221.

[0072] The display module 100 can be compared with the previously referenced Figures 3 to 5 The display module 100 described herein is substantially the same. For example, the display module 100 may include a panel portion PN, an impact-absorbing member CU, a first support member 10a, a second support member 10b, a shielding member 31, and a receiving guide member 32. The shielding member 31 covers the boundary region between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b and has a first portion that is coupled to the first support member 10a. The receiving guide member 32 covers a second portion of the shielding member 31.

[0073] The hinge portion is integrated with the display module 100. For example, the hinge portion may be disposed on the lower surface of the folding area of ​​the display module 100. Therefore, the hinge portion may overlap with the boundary area between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b. The first bottom cover 211 may cover the lower surface of the first support member 10a of the display module 100. The second bottom cover 221 may cover the lower surface of the second support member 10b of the display module 100.

[0074] In one embodiment, the hinge portion may include a hinge frame 236, a first rotary sliding member 232a, a second rotary sliding member 232b, a first connecting member 231a, a second connecting member 231b, and a hinge cover 234. In another embodiment, the first rotary sliding member 232a and the second rotary sliding member 232b, coupled with the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b, can rotate and slide on the curved portion of the hinge frame 236. Therefore, the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b, as well as the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b connected thereto, are allowed to rotate.

[0075] The first connecting member 231a can be combined with the first support member 10a of the display module 100. The second connecting member 231b can be combined with the second support member 10b of the display module 100. (Refer to...) Figure 7 and Figure 8 A space may be defined between the first support member 10a and the first connecting member 231a. However, the implementation is not limited to this. For example, the first support member 10a and the first connecting member 231a may be in partial or complete contact with each other. For example, the first connecting member 231a may be disposed on the exposed lower surface of the first support member 10a such that the first connecting member 231a does not face the lower surface of the shielding member 31.

[0076] When the second connecting member 231b is disposed below the second larger portion of the shielding member 31 and the receiving guide member 32, a space can be defined between the second connecting member 231b and the second support member 10b to allow sliding of the shielding member 31 during folding. For example, the second connecting member 231b may engage with the exposed lower surface of the second support member 10b and may be designed, by appropriate processes, to form a space between the second support member 10b and the second connecting member 231b configured to receive the guide member 32 and the shielding member 31.

[0077] The first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b can rotate in different directions. When the display device is in such a position... Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the unfolded position shown, the first connecting member 231a may be spaced apart from the second connecting member 231b by a gap G1 along the first direction D1. However, the implementation is not limited to this. For example, when the display device is unfolded, the first connecting member 231a may substantially contact the second connecting member 231b. The gap G1 may also represent the space between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b.

[0078] The first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b can serve as supports for the hinge portion. For example, the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b can each be a metal plate. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b can include polymer materials or the like.

[0079] In one embodiment, the hinge frame 236 may include a first guide portion 236a and a second guide portion 236b. The first guide portion 236a and the second guide portion 236b may have curved guide surfaces configured to guide the rotation of the first rotary sliding member 232a and the second rotary sliding member 232b, respectively. The guide surfaces may have a curved arc shape. The hinge frame 236 may have a shape extending along a second direction D2.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first guide portion 236a and the second guide portion 236b may be connected to each other, such that the hinge frame 236 may have a double-arc cross-section. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the first guide portion 236a and the second guide portion 236b may be separate from each other, or the hinge frame 236 may have a single-arc cross-section.

[0081] The first rotating sliding member 232a can engage with the first connecting member 231a and can slide along the guide surface of the first guide portion 236a. Therefore, the first rotating sliding member 232a and the first connecting member 231a can rotate about a first rotation axis. In one embodiment, the first rotating sliding member 232a can overlap with the boundary region between the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b. Therefore, the first rotating sliding member 232a can overlap a portion of the second connecting member 231b. In the deployed configuration, a larger portion of the first rotating sliding member 232a can contact the first connecting member 231a rather than the second connecting member 231b. This provides stability and debris protection in the deployed state.

[0082] The second rotating sliding member 232b can engage with the second connecting member 231b and can slide along the guide surface of the second guide portion 236b. Therefore, the second rotating sliding member 232b and the second connecting member 231b can rotate about a second rotation axis. In one embodiment, the second rotating sliding member 232b can overlap with the boundary region between the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b. Therefore, the second rotating sliding member 232b can overlap a portion of the first connecting member 231a. In the deployed configuration, a larger portion of the second rotating sliding member 232b can contact the second connecting member 231b instead of the first connecting member 231a. This provides additional stability and debris protection when in the deployed state.

[0083] Reference Figure 6 The number of the first rotating sliding member 232a and the second rotating sliding member 232b may be four. However, the embodiments are not limited to this, and the display device according to the embodiments may have more than four rotating sliding members as needed.

[0084] The hinge cover 234 may cover the hinge frame 236. For example, the hinge cover 234 may have a shape extending along the second direction D2. For example, the hinge cover 234 may have an arcuate cross-section.

[0085] The first bottom cover 211 and the second bottom cover 221 can rotate about the hinge portion, respectively. For example, the first bottom cover 211 and the second bottom cover 221 can rotate about the axis of rotation along the outer cylindrical surface of the hinge cover 234.

[0086] Even if not shown, the hinge portion may also include a cam structure configured to synchronize the movements of the first rotary sliding member 232a and the second rotary sliding member 232b, a hinge housing configured to fix the hinge frame 236, or the like.

[0087] Figure 9 and Figure 10 A foldable display device is shown. (See reference) Figure 9 The first rotating sliding member 232a includes sliding and rotating surfaces with an arcuate shape. When the display device is unfolded, the sliding and rotating surfaces of the first rotating sliding member 232a face the guide surface of the first guide portion 236a of the hinge frame 236. When a force is applied to the display device to fold it, the first rotating sliding member 232a disengages from the second connecting member 231b and can slide along the guide surface of the first guide portion 236a to rotate about a first rotation axis. Therefore, the first rotating sliding member 232a, the first connecting member 231a coupled to the first rotating sliding member 232a, and the first bottom cover 211 disposed below the first connecting member 231a can rotate about the first rotation axis.

[0088] Reference Figure 10 When a force is applied to the display device to fold it, the second rotating sliding member 232b can disengage from the first connecting member 231a and slide along the guide surface of the second guide portion 236b to rotate about the second rotation axis. Therefore, the second rotating sliding member 232b, the second connecting member 231b coupled to the second rotating sliding member 232b, and the second bottom cover 221 disposed below the second connecting member 231b can rotate about the second rotation axis.

[0089] In one embodiment, the display module 100 can be combined with the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b. Therefore, the display module 100 can be folded or unfolded according to the operation of the hinge portion.

[0090] When the display module 100 is folded or bent, the distance between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b increases. The first support member 10a and the second support member 10b move from a certain position across the gap G1 between them in the first direction D1 to rotate about the hinge portion and be positioned to be spaced a larger distance apart in the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the shielding member 31 is not fixed to the second support member 10b. Therefore, the shielding member 31 can slide on or along the second support member 10b. Furthermore, the second larger portion of the shielding member 31 adjacent to the second support member 10b is covered by the receiving guide member 32, so that the second larger portion of the shielding member 31 can be guided and held between the second support member 10b and the receiving guide member 32. Therefore, when the shielding member 31 is bent, it can be prevented from leaving the receiving space 34 between the second support member 10b and the receiving guide member 32. Therefore, when the display module 100 is folded, the shielding member 31 can also have a bent shape or a folded shape. Due to the rigid material used for shielding member 31, shielding member 31 is bent into an arc shape.

[0091] In one embodiment, the second connecting member 231b of the hinge portion can be used as a receiving guide member so that the display module 100 may not include a separate receiving guide member.

[0092] For example, such as Figure 11 As shown, the display module 100 may include a panel portion PN, an impact-absorbing member CU, a first support member 10a, a second support member 10b, and a shielding member 31. The shielding member 31 covers the boundary region between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b, and has a first smaller portion that is coupled to the first support member 10a. A second larger portion of the shielding member 31 may be disposed on the lower surface of the second support member 10b and may not be coupled to the second support member 10b.

[0093] The display device includes a hinge portion that is coupled to the display module 100. For example, the hinge portion may be disposed on the lower surface of the folding area of ​​the display module 100.

[0094] In one embodiment, the hinge may include a hinge frame 236, a first rotary sliding member 232a, a second rotary sliding member 232b, a first connecting member 231a, a second connecting member 231b, and a hinge cover 234. The first connecting member 231a may be coupled to the first support member 10a of the display module 100. The second connecting member 231b may be coupled to the second support member 10b of the display module 100. A space may be defined between the second support member 10b and the second connecting member 231b. Therefore, the second larger portion of the shielding member 31 may be accommodated in the space between the second support member 10b and the second connecting member 231b.

[0095] like Figure 12 As shown, when the display module 100 is folded, the shielding member 31 can be guided by the second connecting member 231b to slide between the second support member 10b and the second connecting member 231b, and can be prevented from leaving the space between the second support member 10b and the second connecting member 231b.

[0096] Therefore, in some embodiments, the second larger portion of the shielding member 31 may be configured to have a predetermined length to remain connected to the receiving guide member 32 or the second connecting member 231b. The lengths of the receiving guide member 32 and the second connecting member 231b may also be designed such that the shielding member 31 does not extend beyond the length of the receiving guide member 32 or the second connecting member 231b when bent or folded.

[0097] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the panel portion PN of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0098] Reference Figure 13 The pixel unit of the panel portion PN may include a driving element disposed on the base substrate 110 and a light-emitting element electrically connected to the driving element. In this embodiment, the light-emitting element may be an organic light-emitting diode. The driving element may include at least one thin-film transistor.

[0099] A buffer layer 120 may be disposed on a base substrate 110. An active pattern AP may be disposed on the buffer layer 120.

[0100] For example, the base substrate 110 may include glass, quartz, sapphire, polymer materials, or the like. In some embodiments, the base substrate 110 may be a flexible substrate comprising a polymer material. For example, the base substrate 110 may include polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyetherketone, polycarbonate, polyarylate, polyethersulfone, polyimide, or combinations thereof.

[0101] The panel portion PN may also include a support substrate disposed below the base substrate 110.

[0102] The buffer layer 120 can prevent or reduce the penetration of impurities, moisture, or external gases from below the base substrate 110, and can reduce the roughness of the upper surface of the base substrate 110. For example, the buffer layer 120 may include inorganic materials, such as oxides, nitrides, or the like.

[0103] A first gate metal pattern, including a gate electrode GE, may be disposed on an active pattern AP. A first insulating layer 130 may be disposed between the active pattern AP and the gate electrode GE.

[0104] A second gate metal pattern, including a capacitor electrode pattern CE, may be disposed on the gate electrode GE. The capacitor electrode pattern CE may include capacitor electrodes for forming a capacitor, wiring configured to transmit various signals, or the like.

[0105] A second insulating layer 140 may be disposed between the gate electrode GE and the capacitor electrode pattern CE. A third insulating layer 150 may be disposed on the capacitor electrode pattern CE.

[0106] For example, an active patterned AP may include silicon or a metal-oxide-semiconductor. In one embodiment, an active patterned AP may include polysilicon (polysilicon) that may be doped with n-type or p-type impurities.

[0107] In another embodiment or in another transistor not shown, the active pattern may include a metal-oxide-semiconductor. For example, the active pattern may include a binary compound (AB) comprising indium (In), zinc (Zn), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), hafnium (Hf), zirconium (Zr), and magnesium (Mg). x ), ternary compounds (AB) x C y ) or quaternary compounds (AB) x C y D z For example, active patterns may include zinc oxide (ZnO). x Gallium oxide (GaO) x ), titanium oxide (TiO) x ), tin oxide (SnO x Indium oxide (InO) x Indium gallium oxide (IGO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium tin oxide (ITO), gallium zinc oxide (GZO), zinc magnesium oxide (ZMO), zinc tin oxide (ZTO), and zinc zirconium oxide (ZnZr) x O yIndium gallium-zinc oxide (IGZO), indium zinc-tin oxide (IZTO), indium gallium-hafnium oxide (IGHO), tin aluminum-zinc oxide (TAZO), indium gallium-tin oxide (IGTO), or similar compounds.

[0108] The first insulating layer 130, the second insulating layer 140, and the third insulating layer 150 may comprise silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the first insulating layer 130, the second insulating layer 140, and the third insulating layer 150 may comprise insulating metal oxides, such as aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, or the like. For example, the first insulating layer 130, the second insulating layer 140, and the third insulating layer 150 may each have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure comprising silicon nitride and / or silicon oxide, or may have structures different from each other.

[0109] The gate electrode GE and capacitor electrode pattern CE may include metals, metal alloys, metal nitrides, conductive metal oxides, or the like. For example, the gate electrode GE and capacitor electrode pattern CE may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), or alloys thereof, and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including different metal layers.

[0110] A first source metal pattern may be disposed on a third insulating layer 150. The first source metal pattern may include a source electrode SE and a drain electrode DE that electrically contact the active pattern AP. The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may pass through the insulating layer disposed therebelow to contact the active pattern AP, respectively.

[0111] The first source metal pattern may include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, or the like. For example, the first source metal pattern may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), or alloys thereof, and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure comprising different metal layers. In an embodiment, the first source metal pattern may have a multi-layer structure including an aluminum layer.

[0112] The fourth insulating layer 160 may be disposed on the first source metal pattern. The fourth insulating layer 160 may include an organic material. For example, the fourth insulating layer 160 may include an organic insulating material such as phenolic resin, acrylic resin, polyimide resin, polyamide resin, silicone resin, epoxy resin, or the like.

[0113] An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) 180 may be disposed on a fourth insulating layer 160. The OLED 180 may include a first electrode 182 electrically contacting a drain electrode DE, an organic light-emitting layer 184 disposed on the first electrode 182, and a second electrode 186 disposed on the organic light-emitting layer 184. The organic light-emitting layer 184 of the OLED 180 may be disposed at least in an opening of a pixel-defining layer 170, and the opening of the pixel-defining layer 170 is disposed on the fourth insulating layer 160. The first electrode 182 may be the lower electrode of the OLED 180, and the second electrode 186 may be the upper electrode of the OLED 180.

[0114] The first electrode 182 can be used as an anode. For example, depending on the emission type of the display device, the first electrode 182 can be formed as a transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode. When the first electrode 182 is a transmissive electrode, the first electrode 182 may include indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc tin oxide, indium oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, or the like. When the first electrode 182 is a reflective electrode, the first electrode 182 may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), or combinations thereof, and may have a stacked structure, the stacked structure also including a material that can be used as an emission electrode.

[0115] The pixel defining layer 170 has an opening that overlaps with at least a portion of the first electrode 182. For example, the pixel defining layer 170 may comprise an organic insulating material.

[0116] The organic light-emitting layer 184 may include at least one light-emitting layer, and may also include at least one of a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). For example, the organic light-emitting layer 184 may include a low molecular weight organic compound or a high molecular weight organic compound.

[0117] In one embodiment, the organic light-emitting layer 184 may emit red, green, or blue light. In another embodiment, the organic light-emitting layer 184 may emit white light. The organic light-emitting layer 184 emitting white light may have a multilayer structure including a red emitting layer, a green emitting layer, and a blue emitting layer, or a single-layer structure including a mixture of red emitting materials, green emitting materials, and blue emitting materials.

[0118] Depending on the emission type of the display device, the second electrode 186 may be formed as a transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode. For example, the second electrode 186 may include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, a metal fluoride, a conductive metal oxide, or a combination thereof.

[0119] For example, at least one of the organic light-emitting layers 184 and the second electrode 186 may be formed as a common layer that extends continuously over a plurality of pixels in the display area.

[0120] The encapsulation layer 190 may be disposed on the organic light-emitting diode 180. The encapsulation layer 190 may have a stacked structure of inorganic thin films and organic thin films. For example, the encapsulation layer 190 may include a first inorganic thin film 192, an organic thin film 194 disposed on the first inorganic thin film 192, and a second inorganic thin film 196 disposed on the organic thin film 194.

[0121] A protective window WN may be disposed on the encapsulation layer 190. For example, the protective window WN may comprise a polymer material or a glass film to be flexible.

[0122] As desired, at least one of the touch sensing structure and the polarization layer may be disposed between the encapsulation layer 190 and the protective window WN.

[0123] A support substrate may be disposed below the base substrate 110. The support substrate may have openings to reduce bending stress in the bending region.

[0124] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the display module 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 15 This is a bottom view showing the display module 100 according to an embodiment.

[0125] Reference Figure 14 The display module 100 may include a panel portion PN, an impact-absorbing member CU, a first support member 10a, a second support member 10b, a shielding member 31, and a receiving guide member 32. The shielding member 31 covers the boundary area between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b, and has a first portion that is combined with the first support member 10a. The receiving guide member 32 covers a second portion of the shielding member 31.

[0126] In one embodiment, the shielding member 31 can be bonded to the first support member 10a by means of a third adhesive member 33c having an adhesive layer on one of its surfaces. For example, the third adhesive member 33c can be bonded to the lower surface of the first support member 10a and the lower surface of the shielding member 31.

[0127] The receiving guide member 32 can be coupled to the second support member 10b via a second adhesive member 33b. The second adhesive member 33b may include adhesive layers on both surfaces and may be bonded to the upper surface of the receiving guide member 32 and the lower surface of the second support member 10b. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The second adhesive member 33b may, like the third adhesive member 33c, include an adhesive layer on one surface and may be bonded to the lower surface of the receiving guide member 32 and the lower surface of the second support member 10b.

[0128] As described in this article and Figure 14 As part of the embodiment shown, the receiving guide member 32 may include a protrusion 42 at an edge region of the receiving guide member 32. The protrusion 42 prevents the shielding member 31 from extending beyond the receiving guide member 32 when the display module 100 repeatedly moves from an unfolded position to a folded position and then returns to its original position. The protrusion 42 may be made of the same material as the receiving guide member 32 and may be a detachable part adhered to the receiving guide member 32. The protrusion 42 may also serve as an end member of the second connecting member 231b.

[0129] Furthermore, the second adhesive member 33b can have various shapes. For example, such as Figure 15 As shown, the receiving guide member 32 may have a rectangular shape, having a first side 32a that overlaps with the shielding member 31 and extends along a second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1. The second adhesive member 33b may be disposed along a third side 32c connecting to the first side 32a and the second side 32b, and a fourth side 32d connecting to the first side 32a and the second side 32b. The third side 32c and the fourth side 32d may extend along the first direction D1.

[0130] The above embodiments provide an organic light-emitting display device. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the embodiments can be applied to the hinge structure of display devices such as liquid crystal display devices, electroluminescent display devices, micro LED display devices, or the like.

[0131] A hinge structure, including a shielding member and other associated features, prevents impurities from affecting the display module when it is in an unfolded or folded state. When the display module is folded or bent, a rotating sliding member slides and rotates about a rotation axis. The shielding member slides along a receiving guide member but does not disengage from it. This protects the internal components of the display panel.

[0132] The implementation method can be applied to various display devices. For example, the implementation method can be applied to vehicle display devices, ship display devices, aircraft display devices, portable communication devices, display devices for display or for information transmission, medical display devices, etc.

[0133] The foregoing is a description of the embodiments and should not be construed as limiting them. Although embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that many modifications can be made to the embodiments without substantially departing from the novel teachings and aspects of the inventive concept. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the inventive concept. It will thus be understood that the foregoing is a description of various embodiments and should not be construed as limiting to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the inventive concept as set forth in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A display module, comprising: The panel includes a pixel array for displaying images; A first support member is disposed below the panel portion; A second support member is disposed below the panel portion and adjacent to the first support member along the first direction; It accommodates the guide member and is combined with the second support member; A receiving space is provided between the receiving guide member and the second support member; as well as A shielding member covers the boundary area between the first support member and the second support member, wherein the shielding member: Combined with the first support member, The structure is designed to slide along the second support member. Partially disposed within the accommodating space, and It is flexible and can be bent or folded in response to deformation of the panel portion.

2. The display module of claim 1, wherein, The shielding member is attached to the lower surface of the first support member.

3. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The shielding component includes at least one of a polymer film and a metal film.

4. The display module of claim 3, wherein, The polymer film includes at least one of polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyurethane.

5. The display module of claim 3, wherein, The metal film includes stainless steel.

6. The display module of claim 1, wherein, The receiving guide member is attached to the second support member by an adhesive member.

7. The display module of claim 6, wherein, The receiving guide member has a rectangular shape, the rectangular shape having a first side that overlaps with the shielding member and extends along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The adhesive member is provided along a second side connected to the first side, a third side opposite to the second side and connected to the first side, and a fourth side opposite to the first side and connected to the second side and the third side.

8. The display module of claim 6, wherein, The receiving guide member has a rectangular shape, the rectangular shape having a first side that overlaps with the shielding member and extends along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The adhesive member is disposed along a second side connected to the first side and a third side opposite to the second side and connected to the first side.

9. The display module of claim 1, wherein, The panel includes a flexible base substrate, which comprises a polymer material.

10. The display module according to claim 1 further includes an impact absorbing member disposed between the panel portion and the first support member and between the panel portion and the second support member.

11. A foldable display device, comprising: The panel includes a pixel array for displaying images; A first support member is disposed below the panel portion; The second support member is disposed below the panel portion and adjacent to the first support member along the first direction; A shielding member covers the boundary area between the first support member and the second support member, is coupled to the first support member, and is allowed to slide on the second support member; as well as The hinge portion is located below the shielding member. 12.The foldable display apparatus of claim 11, wherein, The hinge portion includes: A first connecting member, which is combined with the first supporting member; and The second connecting member is combined with the second supporting member. A portion of the shielding member is disposed between the second support member and the second connecting member.

13. The foldable display device according to claim 12, wherein, The hinge portion also includes: A first rotary sliding member is combined with the first connecting member and includes a sliding surface having an arcuate shape; The second rotary sliding member is combined with the second connecting member and includes a sliding surface having an arcuate shape; A hinge frame includes a guide surface having an arcuate shape and facing the sliding surface of the first rotary sliding member and the sliding surface of the second rotary sliding member; and A hinge cover that covers the hinge frame.

14. The foldable display device of claim 11, further comprising a receiving guide member coupled to the second support member, wherein, A portion of the shielding member is disposed between the second support member and the receiving guide member.

15. The foldable display device of claim 11, further comprising a receiving guide member, the receiving guide member being coupled to the second support member by an adhesive member disposed along at least one side of the receiving guide member.

16. The foldable display device according to claim 11, wherein, The shielding component includes at least one of a polymer film and a metal film. 17.The foldable display apparatus of claim 16, wherein, The polymer film includes at least one of polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyurethane. 18.The foldable display apparatus of claim 16, wherein, The metal film includes stainless steel. 19.The foldable display apparatus of claim 11, wherein, The panel includes a flexible base substrate, which comprises a polymer material.

20. The foldable display device according to claim 11 further includes an impact-absorbing member disposed between the panel portion and the first support member and between the panel portion and the second support member.

Images