Display device

Abstract

A display device includes a first area, a second area adjacent to one side of the first area, and a third area adjacent to the other side of the first area; a display panel in the first area, the second area, and the third area; a window on the display panel and overlapping the display panel; and a bonding member between the display panel and the window and in the first area, the second area, and the third area. The bonding member includes a first bonding portion having a first elastic modulus and in the first area, a second bonding portion having a second elastic modulus and in the second area, and a third bonding portion having a third elastic modulus and in the third area. The first elastic modulus is greater than each of the second elastic modulus and the third elastic modulus.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications.

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0021248, filed on February 20, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to display devices, and more particularly to display devices that can switch between a folded state and an unfolded state. Background Technology

[0004] Display devices display images. An increasing number of display devices feature larger screens than existing devices without increasing size or thickness. Flexible display devices, such as foldable or bendable display devices, are being developed, featuring structures that can be folded and unfolded to provide a large screen when used.

[0005] Flexible display devices can have a composite stacked structure comprising elements stacked on top of each other. For example, a flexible display device may include a display panel (such as an organic light-emitting display panel or a liquid crystal display panel), a window disposed on the front side of the display panel, and a support film disposed on the back side of the display panel. Flexible display devices may include optically transparent bonding members that can connect or join the elements to each other.

[0006] When the components are folded, the curved portion or area of ​​the flexible display device or the folded area can be bent or folded, and can be unfolded again when the components are unfolded.

[0007] When components are repeatedly folded and unfolded, the flatness of each component can vary depending on the physical properties of the optically transparent bonding components.

[0008] It should be understood that this background section is partly intended to provide useful background for understanding the art. However, this background section may also include ideas, concepts, or understandings that were not known or understood by one of skill in the art prior to the relevant valid application date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This disclosure provides a display device in which stacked elements can have uniform flatness when the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded.

[0010] It should be noted that the purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the above-described objectives. Other objectives of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0011] The embodiment provides a display device, which may include a first region, a second region adjacent to one side of the first region, and a third region adjacent to the other side of the first region; a display panel disposed in the first, second, and third regions; a window disposed on and overlapping the display panel; and a connecting member disposed between the display panel and the window, and disposed in the first, second, and third regions. The connecting member may include a first connecting portion having a first elastic modulus and disposed in the first region, a second connecting portion having a second elastic modulus and disposed in the second region, and a third connecting portion having a third elastic modulus and disposed in the third region. The first elastic modulus may be greater than each of the second and third elastic moduli.

[0012] The first elastic modulus can have a value equal to or greater than ten times each of the second and third elastic moduli.

[0013] The first elastic modulus can be in the range of about 50 kPa to about 500 kPa.

[0014] The first joint may include a first side surface aligned with the boundary between the first region and the second region, and a second side surface aligned with the boundary between the first region and the third region.

[0015] The second joint may include a first inner surface on one side of the second joint and a first outer surface on the other side of the second joint, the first inner surface contacting the first side surface of the first joint. The third joint may include a second inner surface on one side of the third joint and a second outer surface on the other side of the third joint, the second inner surface contacting the second side surface of the first joint. The second elastic modulus of the second joint may decrease from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

[0016] The second elastic modulus of the second joint can decrease in a stepwise manner from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

[0017] The second elastic modulus of the second joint can decrease linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

[0018] The second elastic modulus of the second joint can decrease non-linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

[0019] The second elastic modulus of the second joint can be inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the first inner surface, and can decrease non-linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

[0020] The first joint may have a first thickness, and the second joint may have a second thickness. The second thickness of the second joint may increase from the first inner surface to the first outer surface. The first thickness may be uniform, and the average thickness of the second thickness may be greater than the first thickness.

[0021] The second thickness of the second joint can increase linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

[0022] The second thickness of the second joint can increase non-linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

[0023] The third joint may have a third thickness, which may increase from the second inner surface to the second outer surface, and the average thickness of the third thickness may be greater than the first thickness of the first joint.

[0024] The third joint may include a second inner surface located on one side of the third joint and a second outer surface located on the other side of the third joint, the second inner surface contacting the second side surface of the first joint. The third elastic modulus of the third joint may decrease from the second inner surface to the second outer surface.

[0025] The display device may further include: a fourth joint portion disposed between the first joint portion and the second joint portion; and a fifth joint portion disposed between the first joint portion and the third joint portion, wherein the fourth joint portion may have a fourth elastic modulus between the first elastic modulus and the second elastic modulus, and the fifth joint portion may have a fifth elastic modulus between the first elastic modulus and the third elastic modulus.

[0026] The display device may further include: a support film, spaced apart from the window, with a display panel disposed between the support film and the window; and a panel support film bonding member, disposed between the support film and the display panel. The panel support film bonding member may include a first panel support film bonding portion disposed in a first region, a second panel support film bonding portion disposed in a second region, and a third panel support film bonding portion disposed in a third region. The elastic modulus of the first panel support film bonding portion may be greater than each of the elastic modulus of the second and third panel support film bonding portions.

[0027] The embodiment provides a display device, which may have a folded region, a first non-folded region adjacent to one side of the folded region, and a second non-folded region adjacent to the other side of the folded region; a display panel disposed in the folded region, the first non-folded region, and the second non-folded region; a window disposed on and overlapping the display panel; and a connecting member disposed between the display panel and the window, and disposed in the folded region, the first non-folded region, and the second non-folded region. The window may include a first surface facing the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein, in the folded state, the second surface of the window disposed in the first non-folded region may face the second surface of the window disposed in the second non-folded region. The connecting member may include a first connecting portion having a first elastic modulus and disposed in the folded region, a second connecting portion having a second elastic modulus and disposed in the first non-folded region, and a third connecting portion having a third elastic modulus and disposed in the second non-folded region. The first elastic modulus may be greater than each of the second and third elastic moduli.

[0028] The first elastic modulus can have a value equal to or greater than ten times each of the second and third elastic moduli.

[0029] The first elastic modulus can be in the range of about 50 kPa to about 500 kPa.

[0030] The display device may further include: a support film, spaced apart from the window, with a display panel disposed between the support film and the window; and a panel support film bonding member, disposed between the support film and the display panel. The panel support film bonding member may include a first panel support film bonding portion disposed in a folded area, a second panel support film bonding portion disposed in a first non-folded area, and a third panel support film bonding portion disposed in a second non-folded area. The elastic modulus of the first panel support film bonding portion may be greater than each of the elastic modulus of the second and third panel support film bonding portions.

[0031] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when the display device can be repeatedly folded and unfolded, the elements stacked on top of each other in the display device can have uniform flatness.

[0032] It should be noted that the effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will become clearer by referring to the accompanying drawings and describing the embodiments of this disclosure in detail.

[0034] Figure 1This is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a folded display device according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view taken from line II′.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a folded display device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device shown.

[0039] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device shown.

[0040] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of region A.

[0041] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display panel and windows in an expanded state.

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing process of the bonding component according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figures 10 to 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the processing steps for manufacturing a bonding member according to an embodiment.

[0044] Figure 13 It is a graph showing the elastic modulus of the joint member relative to the distance from the first reference line.

[0045] Figure 14 It is a graph showing the degree of decoupling as a function of resistance when the connecting components are folded.

[0046] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0047] Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 17 It is shown Figure 15 or Figure 16 The graph of the elastic modulus of the connecting member in the embodiment of the present invention relative to the distance from the first reference line.

[0049] Figure 18 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 19 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 20 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0052] Figure 21 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals always denote the same elements. In this respect, embodiments may take different forms and should not be construed as limited to the description set forth herein. Therefore, embodiments will be described below only with reference to the accompanying drawings to explain the described aspects.

[0054] In order to describe embodiments of this disclosure, parts unrelated to the description may be omitted, and the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the specification.

[0055] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout this disclosure, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" means: only a; only b; only c; both a and b; both a and c; both b and c; all of a, b, and c; or variations thereof. The terms "and" and "or" may be used in a combined or separate sense and may be construed as equivalent to "and / or". In the specification and claims, for purposes of meaning and interpretation, the phrase "at least one of..." is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from the group consisting of...". For example, "at least one of A and B" may be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B".

[0056] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, an element referred to as a first element in one embodiment may be referred to as a second element in another embodiment without departing from the scope of the appended claims. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” “includes” and / or “including,” “have” and / or “having” are used in this specification, and they or may specify the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or any combination thereof.

[0057] When a layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element is referred to as being "on" another layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element, it may be directly on that other layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element, or there may be an intervening layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element between them. Conversely, when a layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element is referred to as being "directly" on another layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element, there may be no intervening layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element between them. Furthermore, when a layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element is referred to as being "below" another layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element, it may be directly below that other layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element, or there may be an intervening layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element between them. Conversely, when a layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element is referred to as being "directly" below another layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element, there may be no intervening layer, film, region, substrate, or area or element between them. Furthermore, "above" or "on" can include being positioned on or below an object and does not necessarily refer to a direction based on gravity. For ease of description, the spatial relative terms "below," "under," "lower," "above," "upper," etc., may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or component and another element or component as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings, the spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, in the case where the device shown in the accompanying drawings is flipped, a device positioned "below" or "below" another device may be placed "above" another device. Thus, the illustrative term "below" can include both a lower position and an upper position. The device may also be oriented in other directions, and therefore the spatial relative terms may be interpreted differently depending on the orientation.

[0058] For ease of explanation, the dimensions of the components in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated. In other words, since the dimensions and thicknesses of the components in the accompanying drawings are arbitrarily shown for ease of explanation, the following embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0059] Additionally, the terms "overlapping" or "overlapping" mean that the first object may be above or below the second object or on one side of the second object, and vice versa, the second object may be above or below the first object or on one side of the first object. Furthermore, the term "overlapping" can include layer, stack, face or facing, extend over, cover or partially cover, or any other suitable term as will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art. The terms "face" and "facing" mean that the first element may be directly or indirectly opposite the second element. In the case where a third element is located between the first and second elements, although they still face each other, the first and second elements can be understood as being indirectly opposite each other. When an element is described as "not overlapping" or "tonot overlap" with another element, this can include elements spaced apart from each other, offset from each other, or arranged side by side, or any other suitable term as will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0060] In this specification, expressions such as "A and / or B" mean A, B, or A and B. Furthermore, expressions such as "at least one of A and B" mean A, B, or A and B.

[0061] In the following implementation, when a component is referred to as "on a plane," it should be understood as the component being viewed from above, and when a component is referred to as "on a schematic cross-section," it should be understood as the component being cut vertically and viewed from the side.

[0062] It should be understood that when a layer, region, or component is referred to as "connected" or "coupled" to another layer, region, or component, it may be "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to that other layer, region, or component, and / or may be "indirectly connected" or "indirectly coupled" to that other layer, region, or component with other layers, regions, or components interspersed between them. For example, it should be understood that when a layer, region, or component is referred to as "electrically connected" or "electrically coupled" to another layer, region, or component, it may be "directly electrically connected" or "directly electrically coupled" to that other layer, region, or component, or may be "indirectly electrically connected" or "indirectly electrically coupled" to that other layer, region, or component with other layers, regions, or components interspersed between them.

[0063] Furthermore, when a component is referred to as being "in contact" or "contacted" with another component, the component may be in "electrical contact" or "physical contact" with the other component, or in "indirect contact" or "direct contact" with the other component.

[0064] As used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation from the stated value, as determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art considering the measurement discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations of the stated value, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value.

[0065] In the following examples, the DR1, DR2, and DR3 axes are not limited to the three axes of a rectangular coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broad sense. For example, the DR1, DR2, and DR3 axes can be perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0066] 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 the embodiments pertain. Furthermore, it will be understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0067] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same reference elements.

[0068] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0069] Reference Figure 1 The display device 1 may be a foldable display device. As used herein, the term foldable may refer to a flexible state, and by way of non-limiting example, may include a bendable and / or rollable state. The term foldable should be interpreted as including partially foldable, fully foldable, inwardly foldable, and outwardly foldable.

[0070] When viewed from above, the display device 1 may include a folding axis AXIS_F extending in the vertical direction of the display device 1. The display device 1 can be folded about the folding axis AXIS_F.

[0071] When viewed from above, the display device 1 may have a basic rectangular shape. When viewed from above, the display device 1 may be a rectangle with right-angled corners or a rectangle with rounded corners. The display device 1 may include four edges LS1, LS2, SS1, and SS2. The display device 1 may include longer side edges (also called longer sides) LS1 and LS2 and shorter side edges (also called shorter sides) SS1 and SS2. For example, the longer side edges LS1 and LS2 may extend in a first direction DR1, and the shorter side edges SS1 and SS2 may extend in a second direction DR2.

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown, the folding axis AXIS_F can extend in a direction traversing the longer sides LS1 and LS2, for example, in the second direction DR2. In this case, the longer sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 1 can be folded. Unlike the figures shown, the folding axis AXIS_F can extend in a direction traversing the shorter sides SS1 and SS2, in which case the shorter side edges SS1 and SS2 of the display device 1 can be folded. In the following description, for ease of illustration, the folding axis AXIS_F can extend in a direction traversing the longer sides LS1 and LS2. The folding axis AXIS_F can intersect the central portion or central region of each of the longer sides LS1 and LS2, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0073] Unless otherwise specified, as used herein, “above” and “upper surface” in the thickness direction refer to the display side, while “below” and “lower surface” refer to the opposite side. Furthermore, in the case of viewing the display surface from above, “upper side”, “lower side”, “left side”, and “right side” are defined in the plan view.

[0074] Display device 1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA located near, surrounding, or adjacent to the display area DA. An image may be displayed in the display area DA. An image may not be displayed in the non-display area NDA. The display area DA may be located in or situated in the central portion or central region of the display device 1. When the display device 1 is folded, the display area DA may be divided into two parts relative to the folding axis AXIS_F, and these two parts may overlap each other. When the display device 1 is unfolded, the aforementioned part of the display area DA may be unfolded, in which case an image can be displayed. Although not shown in the figures, the non-display area NDA may include pad areas electrically connected to a printed circuit board. Pads may be provided in the pad area for electrical connection to leads on the printed circuit board.

[0075] A groove (e.g., a notch) may be formed at the intersection between the folding axis AXIS_F and each of the first longer side LS1 and the second longer side LS2 of the display device 1, wherein the groove is recessed towards the upper and lower sides when viewed from above. For example, a hinge member that can switch between a folded state and an unfolded state may be connected or coupled at each groove.

[0076] The following will be a reference Figure 3 As described, it can be displayed on display device 1 relative to the folding axis AXIS_F (see... Figure 3 The folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 are defined.

[0077] For example, the display device 1 may include a folding region FR and non-folding regions NFR1 and NFR2. The folding region FR is located or disposed in the central portion or central region and includes a folding axis AXIS_F. The non-folding regions NFR1 and NFR2 are spaced apart from each other, and the folding region FR is located between the non-folding regions NFR1 and NFR2. The first non-folding region NFR1 may be located or disposed on one side of the folding region FR in the first direction DR1, while the second non-folding region NFR2 may be located or disposed on the other side of the folding region FR in the first direction DR1.

[0078] The folding area FR can be a portion or region of the display device 1 that can be folded or bent with a predetermined curvature in the folding direction when the display device 1 is folded. Unlike the folding area FR, the non-folding areas NFR1 and NFR2 can be portions or regions that are not folded when the display device 1 is folded. The non-folding areas NFR1 and NFR2 can be located or disposed on the same plane, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The non-folding areas NFR1 and NFR2 may include partially bent portions.

[0079] The folding of the display device 1 according to the embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0080] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the display device according to the embodiment, with the display device folded.

[0081] Reference Figure 2 Along the folding direction ( Figure 2When an external force is applied from the left side in the direction of the top or a third direction (DR3), the display device 1 can be folded, such that the folding area FR of the display device 1 can be bent or folded, while the first non-folding area NFR1 of the display device 1 can move or rotate along the folding direction to overlap with or face the second non-folding area NFR2. For example, the display device 1 may include a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. In the case where the display device 1 according to the embodiment is a top-emitting display device, the first surface of the display device 1 may be the display surface of the display device 1, and the second surface may be the opposing surface relative to the display surface.

[0082] When the display device 1 is folded, the folded area FR of the display device 1 can be bent so that the first surfaces of the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the display device 1 can face each other.

[0083] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, display device 1 is an inwardly folding display device. For example, the display surfaces of display device 1 can face each other, while the opposing surfaces face opposite sides.

[0084] In this embodiment, the display device 1 may be an outward-folding display device. In the following description, an inward-folding display device is used as the display device 1.

[0085] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view taken from line II′. Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device according to the embodiment when the display device is folded. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device shown. Figure 6 yes Figure 4 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device shown. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of region A. Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display panels and windows when they are expanded again.

[0086] Reference Figure 1 as well as Figures 3 to 8 The display device 1 according to the embodiment may include a display panel 100, a window 200, a support film 310, and support members 320 (321 and 325). The display device 1 according to the embodiment may include a connecting member 450 that can connect or join the display panel 100 and the window 200, and a panel support film connecting member 410 that can connect or join the display panel 100 and the support film 310.

[0087] Display panel 100 can be arranged across the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. For example, organic light-emitting display panels, liquid crystal display panels, plasma display panels, electrophoretic display panels, electrowetting display panels, quantum dot emission display panels, micro LED display panels, and nano LED display panels can be used as display panel 100. In the illustrated embodiment, an organic light-emitting display panel is used as display panel 100.

[0088] Display panel 100 may include a flexible substrate comprising a flexible polymer material such as polyimide (PI). Therefore, display panel 100 can be buckled, bent, folded, or rolled. When viewed from above, display panel 100 may have a shape generally similar to that of display device 1. Pixels may be disposed in the area of ​​display panel 100 overlapping with display area DA, and signal lines or drive circuits that can apply signals to each pixel may be disposed in the area of ​​display panel 100 overlapping with non-display area NDA.

[0089] Each pixel may include an emission layer and a circuit layer capable of controlling the amount of light emitted from the emission layer. The circuit layer may include lines, electrodes, and at least one transistor. According to one embodiment, the emission layer may include an organic light-emitting material. The emission layer may be sealed by an encapsulation layer. The encapsulation layer can seal the emission layer to prevent the introduction of moisture or the like from the outside. The encapsulation layer may consist of a single inorganic layer or multiple layers of inorganic layers, or a stack of inorganic and organic layers alternately stacked on top of each other.

[0090] Window 200 can be disposed on display panel 100. Window 200 can overlap with display panel 100 in the thickness direction. Window 200 can be disposed across the folded area FR and the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2. When display panel 100 can be viewed from the top, the size of window 200 can be substantially equal to the size of display panel 100.

[0091] Window 200 may be used to cover, or overlap with, and protect elements 100, 310, 320, 410, and 450 disposed below or beneath it. Within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, window 200 may be made of glass, quartz, etc. The thickness of window 200 may be less than about 100 μm. In embodiments, window 200 may comprise chemically tempered ultrathin glass (UTG).

[0092] The support film 310 can be disposed below or beneath the display panel 100. The support film 310 can overlap with the display panel 100 in the thickness direction. The support film 310 can be disposed across the folded area FR and the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2. When the display panel 100 can be viewed from above, the size of the support film 310 can be substantially equal to the size of the display panel 100.

[0093] The support film 310 can be used to support the display panel 100 thereon. The support film 310 may include an organic insulating material. Examples of organic insulating materials may include polyacrylate resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, polyimide resin, unsaturated polyester resin, polyphenylene ether resin, polyphenylene sulfide resin, or benzocyclobutene (BCB).

[0094] Support members 321 and 325 may be disposed below or beneath the support membrane 310. The first support member 321 may be disposed in the first non-folded region NFR1, and the second support member 325 may be disposed in the second non-folded region NFR2. The first support member 321 and the second support member 325 may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the folded region FR. In an embodiment, support members 321 and 325 may extend into and be disposed within the folded region FR. Even in this case, support members 321 and 325 may be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval in the folded region FR.

[0095] Support members 321 and 325 may comprise metal or an alloy of at least two metals. Within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, examples of metals included in support members 321 and 325 include, but are not limited to, aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), etc. In embodiments, support members 321 and 325 may comprise stainless steel (SUS) as an alloy of iron (Fe) and chromium (Cr). In embodiments, support members 321 and 325 may comprise aluminum (Al).

[0096] The connecting member 450 can connect or link the display panel 100 to the window 200, and the panel support film connecting member 410 can connect or link the display panel 100 to the support film 310.

[0097] Each of the bonding member 450 and the panel support film bonding member 410 can be a light-transmitting bonding member. For example, each of the bonding member 450 and the panel support film bonding member 410 may include an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or an optically clear resin (OCR). For a top-emitting display device, the bonding member 450 may be located on the side from which light exits from the display panel 100 to the outside. Therefore, the transmittance of the bonding member 450 may be higher than the transmittance of the panel support film bonding member 410 located on, below, or beneath the display panel 100. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited thereto. The transmittance of the bonding member 450 may be equal to the transmittance of the panel support film bonding member 410. The panel support film bonding member 410 and the bonding member 450 may have a uniform thickness. For example, the bonding member 450 may have a first thickness t1. The panel support film bonding member 410 may have a thickness equal to, but not limited to, the first thickness t1.

[0098] In the foregoing description, a folded region FR and non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 may be defined on the display device 1. However, it should be noted that the folded region FR and non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 may be defined on each of the elements 100, 200, and 310 of the display device 1. The folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 may be separated from each other according to the radius of curvature of the elements 100, 200, and 310 of the display device 1 in the folded region FR. Figure 4 As shown, elements 200, 100, and 310 of display device 1 can be bent with different radii of curvature R1, R2, and R3, respectively. Each of the radii of curvature R1, R2, and R3 can have a constant value. For example, elements 100, 200, and 310 of display device 1 can have different radii of curvature R1, R2, and R3 relative to a center point CP, and can have a generally arcuate shape that can be part of a circle. The arcuate shape portion of each of elements 100, 200, and 310 with different radii of curvature R1, R2, and R3 relative to the center point CP can be defined as the folded region FR of each of elements 100, 200, and 310.

[0099] The first radius of curvature R1 can be smaller than the second radius of curvature R2, and the second radius of curvature R2 can be smaller than the third radius of curvature R3. In other words, the first radius of curvature R1 can be the smallest, the second radius of curvature R2 can have a value between the third radius of curvature R3 and the first radius of curvature R1, and the third radius of curvature R3 can be the largest.

[0100] In the folded region FR of window 200, the surface of window 200 near its center point CP can have a basic semi-circular shape with a constant first radius of curvature R1 at a distance from the center point CP. When the surface of window 200 near its center point CP in the folded region FR has a semi-circular shape with a constant first radius of curvature R1 at a distance from the center point CP, the length of the folded region FR of window 200 can be equal to π × R1. In the folded region FR, the surface of display panel 100 near its center point CP can have a basic semi-circular shape with a constant second radius of curvature R2 at a distance from the center point CP. When the surface of display panel 100 near its center point CP in the folded region FR has a semi-circular shape with a constant second radius of curvature R2 at a distance from the center point CP, the length of the folded region FR of display panel 100 can be equal to π × R2. In the folded region FR, the surface of support film 310 near its center point CP can have a basic semi-circular shape with a constant third radius of curvature R3 at a distance from the center point CP. When the surface of the support film 310 near the center point CP in the folded region FR has a semi-circular shape with a constant third radius of curvature R3 at a distance from the center point CP, the length of the folded region FR of the support film 310 can be equal to π×R3. Since the first radius of curvature R1 can be smaller than the second radius of curvature R2, and the second radius of curvature R2 can be smaller than the third radius of curvature R3, the length of the folded region FR of the window 200 can be smaller than the length of the folded region FR of the display panel 100, and the length of the folded region FR of the display panel 100 can be smaller than the length of the folded region FR of the support film 310.

[0101] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, when the display device 1 is folded, the boundaries between the folded area FR of each of the elements 100, 200 and 310 and the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 can be aligned with each other in the thickness direction (third direction DR3).

[0102] In the embodiments, the folding regions FR defined in elements 100, 200, and 310 may have lengths of π×R1, π×R2, and π×R3 as described above, respectively, within tolerance limits. For example, the length of the folding region FR defined on window 200 may be π×R1 (in the range of about 4 mm to about 5 mm), the length of the folding region FR defined on display panel 100 may be π×R2 (in the range of about 4 mm to about 5 mm), and the length of the folding region FR defined on support film 310 may be π×R3 (in the range of about 4 mm to about 5 mm).

[0103] like Figure 3As shown, the side surfaces of elements 100, 200, and 310 can be substantially aligned with each other in the thickness direction (third direction DR3). For example, elements 100, 200, and 310 can have substantially the same length, such that when the display device 1 is not folded, the side surfaces can be aligned with each other in the thickness direction. On the other hand, the length of the folded region FR defined on elements 100, 200, and 310 can increase sequentially in the order of window 200, display panel 100, and support film 310, as described above. Therefore, the lengths of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of elements 100, 200, and 310 can decrease sequentially in the order of window 200, display panel 100, and support film 310.

[0104] In this embodiment, the folded regions FR defined on elements 100, 200, and 310 may all have substantially the same length. If the lengths of the folded regions FR on elements 100, 200, and 310 are all equal, then the lengths of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 on elements 100, 200, and 310 may also be equal. In this case, the lengths of the folded regions FR on elements 100, 200, and 310 may be equal to... Figure 3 The length of the folded region FR of the support membrane 310 located on or disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the elements 100, 200 and 310 shown, or may be equal to the length of the folded region FR of the support membrane 310 located on or disposed on the outer peripheral surface. Figure 3 The length of the folding region FR of the window 200 located on or disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the elements 100, 200 and 310 shown. In the following description, the folding region FR of the elements 100, 200 and 310 may have different lengths.

[0105] Whether the display device 1 is folded or unfolded, the elements 100, 200 and 310 of the display device 1 can maintain substantially the same length.

[0106] Therefore, as Figure 4 As shown, when the display device 1 is folded, the boundary lines between the folded areas FR of elements 100, 200, and 310 and the adjacent non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 can be aligned with each other in the thickness direction (third direction DR3). On the other hand, the opposite ends of the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 of elements 100, 200, and 310 of the display device 1 can be shifted inward in a direction opposite to the direction indicated by the arrow in the first direction DR1, so that the end of the support film 310 can be positioned or disposed closer to the inside than the end of the display panel 100, and the end of the display panel 100 can be positioned or disposed closer to the inside than the end of the window 200.

[0107] In the following description, the first length difference X1 can be defined as the distance in the first direction DR1 between the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the window 200 and the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100. The second length difference X2 can be defined as the distance in the first direction DR1 between the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100 and the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the support film 310.

[0108] In order to make the distance between the ends of the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100 and the ends of the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the window 200 in the first direction DR1 equal to the first length difference X1, the length of the entire non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the window 200 should change a portion of the first length difference X1 from the boundary toward the folded area FR, while the length of the entire non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100 should change the remaining portion of the first length difference X1 in the opposite direction (e.g., toward the ends of the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2).

[0109] Similarly, in order to make the distance between the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100 and the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the support film 310 in the first direction DR1 equal to the second length difference X2, the length of the entire non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100 should change a portion of the second length difference X2 from the boundary toward the folded region FR, while the length of the entire non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of the support film 310 should change the remainder of the second length difference X2 in the opposite direction (e.g., toward the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2).

[0110] The entire non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of each of elements 100, 200, and 310 should move smoothly relative to each other. Therefore, the connecting member 450 and the panel support film connecting member 410, which can connect or link elements 100, 200, and 310, should have essentially no resistance. However, in reality, the connecting member 450 and the panel support film connecting member 410, which can connect or link elements 100, 200, and 310, may have some resistance due to their potentially high elastic modulus. This resistance of the connecting member 450 and the panel support film connecting member 410 may impede the aforementioned relative movement of elements 100, 200, and 310. As a result, physical deformation may occur in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. Considering the above, it is desirable for the connecting member 450 and the panel support film connecting member 410 to have low resistance, such as a low elastic modulus, in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0111] When the folded display device 1 is to be unfolded, the bonding member 450 and the panel support film bonding member 410 require time to recover (e.g., until the side surfaces of elements 100, 200, and 310 are aligned with each other or elements 100, 200, and 310 have substantially the same length). Therefore, the length of one element becomes shorter than the length of the other element disposed on it, and thus compressive stress may be generated towards the folding region FR. This compressive stress may cause wrinkles in the element located below or beneath the other element in the folding region FR. Such wrinkling can be avoided if the bonding member 450 and the panel support film bonding member 410, which can connect or join elements 100, 200, and 310, have a high modulus of elasticity. Considering the above, it is desirable for the bonding member 450 and the panel support film bonding member 410 to have high resistance, such as a high modulus of elasticity, in the folding region FR.

[0112] To prevent physical deformation of each of the elements 100, 200, and 310 in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and to prevent wrinkles on the element disposed on the other element in the folded region FR, it is desirable that the bonding member 450 and the panel support film bonding member 410 have different moduli of elasticity in the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. Therefore, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the bonding member 450 may have a first bonding portion 451 in the folded region FR, and second bonding portions 453 and 455 in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. The first bonding portion 451 has a high elastic modulus, and the second bonding portions 453 and 455 have a low elastic modulus. Similarly, the panel support film bonding member 410 may have a first panel support film bonding portion 411 with a high elastic modulus in the folded region FR, and panel support film bonding portions 413 and 415 with low elastic modulus in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0113] exist Figure 6 In the diagram, the line that passes through the center point CP and equally divides the folded region FR can be defined as the first reference line CL1, and the line that passes through the center point CP and the boundary between the folded region FR and the unfolded regions NFR1 and NFR2 can be defined as the second reference line CL2.

[0114] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the display panel 100 may each have a first panel length L in the folded area FR. 100FR And the second panel length L in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 Window 200 may each have a first window length L in the folding region FR.200FR And the second window length L in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 200NFR1 and L 200NFR2 The length of the first panel is L. 100FR It can be greater than the length L of the first window. 200FR And the length L of the second panel 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 Each can be smaller than the second window length L. 200NFR1 and L 200NFR2 The length L1 can represent the total length of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, as well as the folded region FR.

[0115] like Figure 7 As shown, in order to make the distance in the first direction DR1 between the ends of the non-folding areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100 and the ends of the non-folding areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the window 200 equal to the first length difference X1, the length of the entire non-folding areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the window 200 should change by a portion of the first length difference X1 from the boundary toward the folding area FR. 11 Simultaneously, the lengths of the entire non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2 of the display panel 100 should change by the remaining portion of the first length difference X1 in opposite directions (e.g., towards the ends of the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2). 12 Therefore, the end of the display panel 100 can be positioned or set further inland than the end of the window 200 by a first length difference X1. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the third reference line CL3 can divide part X. 11 and X 12 .

[0116] The entire unfolded regions NFR1 and NFR2 of each of elements 100, 200, and 310 should move smoothly relative to each other. Therefore, the connecting member 450 should have essentially no resistance. However, in practice, the connecting member 450, which may connect or link elements 100 and 200, may have predetermined resistance due to its potentially high modulus of elasticity. If the connecting member 450 has resistance, then the relative movement between elements 100 and 200 may be impeded, as shown in Equation 1 below:

[0117] [Equation 1]

[0118]

[0119] Where x represents the relative motion between elements 100 and 200, t represents the thickness of the connecting member 450, G represents the modulus (or elastic modulus) of the connecting member 450, and L represents the distance from the second reference line CL2.

[0120] As can be seen from Equation 1, the relative motion between elements 100 and 200 is inversely proportional to the square of the distance L from the second reference line CL2. As an example, the relative motion between elements 100 and 200 can decrease rapidly depending on the distance L from the second reference line CL2. In this case, the stress may increase significantly because the length change becomes unacceptable due to the decrease in relative motion. As a result, warping may occur in the thickness direction, or physical deformation such as cracks or fissures may occur.

[0121] Reference Figure 8 When the folded display device 1 is to be unfolded, the restoring of the connecting member 450 (e.g., until the side surfaces of elements 100 and 200 can be aligned with each other or elements 100 and 200 have substantially the same length) may take time. Therefore, the length of the display panel (lower element) 100 may become shorter than the length of the window (upper element) 200, and thus may generate compressive stress σ towards the folding region FR. This compressive stress σ can cause wrinkles on the lower element, which has a shorter length in the folding region FR. Such wrinkling can be avoided if the connecting member 450, which can connect or link elements 100 and 200, has a high modulus of elasticity.

[0122] This relationship can be represented by the following equation 2:

[0123] [Equation 2]

[0124]

[0125] Where σcr represents the stress that causes wrinkling, tf represents the thickness of the element, ta represents the thickness of the bonding member 450, Ef represents the stiffness or elastic modulus of the membrane, and Ea represents the stiffness or elastic modulus of the bonding member 450.

[0126] To prevent physical deformation of each of the elements 100 and 200 in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and to prevent wrinkling on the element disposed on the other element in the folded region FR, it is desirable that the connecting member 450 has different elastic moduli in the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. Therefore, the connecting member 450 may include a first connecting portion 451 that may have a high elastic modulus in the folded region FR, and second connecting portions 453 and 455 that may have low elastic moduli in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0127] The first joint 451 can overlap with the folded region FR, and its side surface can be aligned with the boundary between the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, respectively. Each of the second joints 453 and 455 can overlap with the corresponding non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and its side surface can be aligned with the boundary between the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, as well as the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, respectively.

[0128] The first joint 451 may have a first elastic modulus E1, which may be a high elastic modulus, and the second joints 453 and 455 may have a second elastic modulus E2, which may be a low elastic modulus. The first elastic modulus E1 may be greater than the second elastic modulus E2.

[0129] For example, the first elastic modulus E1 may be equal to or greater than 10 or 20 times the second elastic modulus E2. In one embodiment, the first elastic modulus E1 may be in the range of about 50 kPa to about 500 kPa, and the second elastic modulus E2 may be in the range of about 5 kPa to about 10 kPa. In another embodiment, the first elastic modulus E1 may be in the range of about 50 kPa to about 500 kPa, and the second elastic modulus E2 may be in the range of about 2.5 kPa to about 5 kPa. In yet another embodiment, the first elastic modulus E1 may be in the range of about 500 kPa to about 1000 kPa, and the second elastic modulus E2 may be in the range of about 50 kPa to about 100 kPa.

[0130] Reference above Figures 6 to 8 The description of the bonding member 450 with the adjacent elements 100 and 200 can be applied in the same way to the panel support film bonding member 410 with the adjacent elements 100 and 310.

[0131] The following describes a method for manufacturing the panel support film bonding member 410 and bonding member 450 described above.

[0132] Despite Figures 9 to 12 The bonding member 450 is shown, but the description can be applied equally to the panel support membrane bonding member 410.

[0133] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing process of the bonding component according to an embodiment. Figures 10 to 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the processing steps for manufacturing a bonding member according to an embodiment. Figure 9 An example is shown where the bonding member 450 may include an optically transparent adhesive (OCA). Figures 10 to 12 An example is shown where the bonding member 450 may include an optically transparent resin (OCR).

[0134] First refer to Figure 9 The bonding member 450 may include a substrate 450a, a first bonding layer 450b disposed on the lower surface of the substrate 450a, and a second bonding layer 450c disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 450a.

[0135] The first bonding layer 450b can be set and attached to the display panel 100.

[0136] A bonding member 450, comprising a substrate 450a, a first bonding layer 450b disposed on the lower surface of the substrate 450a, and a second bonding layer 450c disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 450a, can be disposed on the display panel 100 and can be irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light through a mask M. The mask M can expose the folded region FR while covering the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. The folded region FR exposed through the mask M can be irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light. Therefore, the first bonding portion 451 disposed in the folded region FR can have a higher elastic modulus than the second bonding portions 453 and 455 disposed on one side and the other side of the folded region FR, respectively.

[0137] Subsequently, reference Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle device 500 can be placed above the display panel 100. The nozzle device 500 may include nozzles 510 and 520. The first nozzle 510 may overlap with the folded region FR, while the second nozzle 520 may overlap with the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, respectively. The first nozzle 510 may be used to form a first joint 451a, and the second nozzle 520 may be used to form joints 453a and 455a. The first joint 451a formed by the first nozzle 510 may include an optically transparent resin having a larger elastic modulus than the joints 453a and 455a formed by the second nozzle 520.

[0138] Subsequently, reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle device 501 can be placed above the display panel 100. The nozzle device 501 may include nozzles 530. The nozzle device 501 may be an inkjet device having three nozzles 530. The three nozzles 530 may overlap with the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, respectively. The connecting members 451b, 453b, and 455b formed by the three nozzles 530 may all have the same or substantially the same modulus of elasticity. Subsequently, as Figure 12As shown, a mask M_1 can be placed over the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. Mask M_1 can overlap with the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 and can expose the folded region FR. Mask M_1 can be a slit mask including openings. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited thereto. In embodiments, mask M_1 can overlap with both the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and can be a halftone mask with more openings in the folded region FR than in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0139] Figure 13 It is a graph showing the elastic modulus of the joint member relative to the distance from the first reference line. Figure 14 It is a graph showing the degree of decoupling as a function of resistance when the connecting components are folded.

[0140] exist Figure 13 In the curve diagram shown, the horizontal axis can represent the distance d (mm) from the first reference line CL1, and the vertical axis can represent the elastic modulus of the connecting component (in kPa).

[0141] As described above, the panel support film bonding member 410 and bonding member 450 may have different elastic moduli E1 and E2 in the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. As an example, the panel support film bonding member 410 and bonding member 450 may have a first elastic modulus E1 in the folded region FR, and may have a second elastic modulus E2 in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 that may be less than the first elastic modulus E1.

[0142] Figure 14 The diagram illustrates the length difference between elements 100, 200, and 310 (or the decoupling length x between elements 100, 200, and 310) based on the distance d from the first reference line CL1 in mm, when the panel support film bonding member 410 and bonding member 450 have no resistance, when the panel support film bonding member 410 and bonding member 450 have resistance, and when the panel support film bonding member 410 and bonding member 450 may have different resistance for different parts.

[0143] Initially, for all cases, the length difference or decoupling length x (mm) between elements 100, 200, and 310 at a distance d (mm) from the first reference line CL1 can be increased at a constant slope to approximately 0.16 mm. Subsequently, when there is no resistance between the panel support film bonding member 410 and the bonding member 450, the length difference or decoupling length x can be maintained at approximately 0.16 mm. When the panel support film bonding member 410 and the bonding member 450 have resistance, the length difference or decoupling length x can decrease from approximately 0.16 mm according to Equation 1 above. When the panel support film bonding member 410 and the bonding member 450 may have different resistances, the length difference or decoupling length x can have a value between approximately 0.16 mm and the length difference obtained according to Equation 1 above.

[0144] The panel support membrane bonding member 410 and bonding member 450 can have a first elastic modulus E1, which can be a high elastic modulus, in the folded region FR and a second elastic modulus E2, which can be a low elastic modulus, in the unfolded regions NFR1 and NFR2. Therefore, it can prevent warping or physical deformation such as cracks or fissures in the thickness direction, which can be caused by the following: the relative motion between elements 100 and 200 may decrease rapidly with increasing distance L from the second reference line CL2, making the length change unacceptable due to the potentially reduced relative motion, resulting in a significant increase in stress.

[0145] Other embodiments will be described below. In the following description, the same or similar elements will be indicated by the same or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted or briefly described.

[0146] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 17 It is shown Figure 15 or Figure 16 The graph of the elastic modulus of the connecting member in the embodiment of the present invention relative to the distance from the first reference line.

[0147] Figure 15 and Figure 16 Variations of the bonding member 450_1 and the panel support membrane bonding member 410_1 are shown respectively.

[0148] Figure 15 The implementation methods shown are the same as Figure 3The difference in the embodiment shown may be that the connecting member 450_1 may include a connecting portion 457 disposed between the first connecting portion 451_1 and the connecting portion 453_1 and a connecting portion 459 disposed between the first connecting portion 451_1 and the connecting portion 455_1.

[0149] As such, the first joint 451_1 may be provided in a portion (center) of the folded region FR, and may expose portions of the folded region FR adjacent to the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. Joints 453_1 and 455_1 may be provided in portions of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 including the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and may expose portions of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 adjacent to the folded region FR.

[0150] The connecting member 450_1 may include a connecting portion 457 disposed between the first connecting portion 451_1 and the connecting portion 453_1, and a connecting portion 459 disposed between the first connecting portion 451_1 and the connecting portion 455_1. Each of the connecting portions 457 and 459 may have an elastic modulus between the elastic modulus of the first connecting portion 451_1 and the elastic modulus of the connecting portions 453_1 and 455_1.

[0151] The joints 457 and 459 may span a portion of the folded region FR and a portion of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. As an example, the inner surfaces of the joints 457 and 459 may overlap with the folded region FR, and the outer surfaces of the joints 457 and 459 may overlap with the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0152] Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0153] Figure 16 The implementation methods shown are the same as Figure 3 The implementation may differ in that the panel support film bonding member 410_1 may include a panel support film bonding portion 417 disposed between the first panel support film bonding portion 411_1 and the panel support film bonding portion 413_1 and a panel support film bonding portion 419 disposed between the first panel support film bonding portion 411_1 and the panel support film bonding portion 415_1.

[0154] As an example, the first panel support film joint 411_1 may be disposed in a portion (central) of the folded region FR, and may expose portions of the folded region FR adjacent to the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. Panel support film joints 413_1 and 415_1 may be disposed in portions of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 including the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and may expose portions of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 adjacent to the folded region FR.

[0155] The panel support film bonding member 410_1 may include a panel support film bonding portion 417 disposed between the first panel support film bonding portion 411_1 and the panel support film bonding portion 413_1, and a panel support film bonding portion 419 disposed between the first panel support film bonding portion 411_1 and the panel support film bonding portion 415_1. Each of the panel support film bonding portions 417 and 419 may have an elastic modulus between the elastic modulus of the first panel support film bonding portion 411_1 and the elastic modulus of the panel support film bonding portions 413_1 and 415_1.

[0156] Panel support film joints 417 and 419 may be disposed across a portion of the folded region FR and a portion of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. As an example, the inner surfaces of panel support film joints 417 and 419 may overlap with the folded region FR, and the outer surfaces of panel support film joints 417 and 419 may overlap with the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0157] In the implementation, panel support membrane bonding member 410_1 and bonding member 450_1 can be provided together.

[0158] Combination Figure 15 refer to Figure 17 The first joint 451_1 may have a first elastic modulus E1_1, the joints 453_1 and 455_1 may have a second elastic modulus E2_1, and the joints 457 and 459 may have a third elastic modulus E3 between the first elastic modulus E1_1 and the second elastic modulus E2_1.

[0159] Combination Figure 16 refer to Figure 17 The first panel support film joint 411_1 may have a first elastic modulus E1_1, the panel support film joints 413_1 and 415_1 may have a second elastic modulus E2_1, and the panel support film joints 417 and 419 may have a third elastic modulus E3 between the first elastic modulus E1_1 and the second elastic modulus E2_1.

[0160] Figure 18This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0161] Figure 18 Implementation methods and Figure 3 The implementation may differ in that each of the joints 413_2, 415_2, 453_2 and 455_2 provided in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 has an elastic modulus that decreases from the folded region FR toward the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0162] As an example, the elastic modulus of each of the joints 413_2, 415_2, 453_2 and 455_2 provided in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 decreases from the folded region FR toward the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0163] In the embodiment, the elastic modulus of each of the joints 413_2, 415_2, 453_2 and 455_2 provided in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 can decrease linearly from the folded region FR toward the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0164] In the embodiment, the elastic modulus of each of the joints 413_2, 415_2, 453_2 and 455_2 provided in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 can decrease in a stepwise manner from the folded region FR to the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0165] In the embodiment, the elastic modulus of each of the joints 413_2, 415_2, 453_2 and 455_2 provided in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 decreases non-linearly from the folded region FR to the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0166] In the embodiment, the elastic modulus of each of the joints 413_2, 415_2, 453_2, and 455_2 provided in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 can be from the end of the folded region FR toward the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 and the distance from the joint. Figure 6 The distance to the second reference line CL2 is inversely proportional to the square of the distance.

[0167] In an implementation, one of the bonding member 450_2 and the panel support film bonding member 410_2 may be used.

[0168] Figure 19 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0169] Figure 19 Implementation methods and Figure 5The difference in the implementation method may be that the thickness of the connecting member 450_3 in the folded area FR may be different from the thickness of the connecting member 450_3 in the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2.

[0170] As an example, the first joint 451 may have a first thickness t1, and the joints 453_3 and 455_3 may have thicknesses t2 and t3 respectively, with the thicknesses t2 and t3 having an average value greater than the first thickness t1.

[0171] The thicknesses t2 and t3 of the joints 453_3 and 455_3 can gradually increase from the portions of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 adjacent to the folded region FR (the boundary between the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 and the folded region FR) toward the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0172] For example, the thicknesses t2 and t3 of the joints 453_3 and 455_3 can gradually increase from the portions of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 adjacent to the folded region FR (the boundary between the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 and the folded region FR) towards the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 in proportion to the square of the distance from the second reference line CL2.

[0173] Similar to the above embodiments, the average thickness of the panel support film joint in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 can be greater than the thickness of the panel support film joint in the folded region FR, and can gradually increase from the portion of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 adjacent to the folded region FR towards the ends of the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0174] Figure 20 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0175] Figure 20 Implementation methods and Figure 5 The difference in the implementation method may be that the first joint portion 451_3 of the connecting member 450_4 may have a thickness t of (1-1). 1_1 Furthermore, the second joint 453_4 can be set across the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 and the folded region FR.

[0176] As an example, the first joint 451_3 of the connecting member 450_4 can have a thickness t of (1-1). 1_1 Furthermore, the second joint 453_4 can be set across the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2 and the folded region FR.

[0177] The second joint 453_4 may have a first thickness t1 in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and may have a fourth thickness t4 in the folded region FR that is less than the first thickness t1, and may contact the first joint 451_3 in the folded region FR. (1-1) Thickness t 1_1 The sum of the first thickness t1 and the fourth thickness t4 can be equal to the first thickness t1.

[0178] It should be understood that the connecting components can have the same configuration as those described in the above embodiments.

[0179] Figure 21 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0180] Figure 21 Implementation methods and Figure 5 The difference in the implementation method may be that: the first joint portion 451_4 of the connecting member 450_5 can be arranged across the folded area FR and the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2, and the second joint portion 453_4 of the connecting member 450_5 can be arranged across the folded area FR and the non-folded areas NFR1 and NFR2.

[0181] Figure 21 Implementation methods and Figure 5 The implementation may differ in that: the first joint portion 4514 of the connecting member 4505 can be provided across the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2, and the second joint portion 453_4 of the connecting member 450_5 can be provided across the folded region FR and the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2.

[0182] The first joint 451_4 can have a thickness t of (1-1) in the folded region FR. 1_1 Furthermore, it can have a thickness t less than (1-1) in the non-folded regions NFR1 and NFR2. 1_1 (1-2) thickness t 1_2 The second joint 453_4 may have a fourth thickness t4 in the folded region FR, and may have a first thickness t1 greater than the fourth thickness t4 in the unfolded regions NFR1 and NFR2. (1-1) Thickness t 1_1 The sum of the first thickness t1 and the fourth thickness t4 can be equal to the first thickness t1 and the (1-2) thickness t. 1_2 sum.

[0183] It should be understood that the embodiments described herein should be interpreted in a descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes. The description of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be considered applicable to other similar features or aspects in other embodiments. Although one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made in the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A first region, a second region adjacent to one side of the first region, and a third region adjacent to the other side of the first region; A display panel is disposed in the first area, the second area and the third area; A window is disposed on the display panel and overlaps with the display panel; as well as A connecting component is disposed between the display panel and the window and in the first region, the second region, and the third region, the connecting component comprising: A first joint portion having a first elastic modulus and disposed in the first region; The second joint portion, having a second elastic modulus, is disposed in the second region; and The third joint has a third elastic modulus and is disposed in the third region. Wherein, the first elastic modulus is greater than each of the second elastic modulus and the third elastic modulus; The second joint includes: A first inner surface is located on one side of the second joint portion, and the first inner surface contacts the first joint portion; and The first outer surface is located on the other side of the second joint. The second elastic modulus of the second joint decreases from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The first elastic modulus has a value equal to or greater than ten times each of the second and third elastic moduli.

3. The display device of claim 2, wherein, The first elastic modulus is in the range of 50 kPa to 500 kPa.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The first joint includes: A first side surface, aligned with the boundary between the first region and the second region; and The second side surface is aligned with the boundary between the first region and the third region.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The first inner surface is in contact with the first side surface of the first joint portion; The third joint includes: The second inner surface is located on one side of the third joint, and the second inner surface is in contact with the second side surface of the first joint. as well as The second outer surface is located on the other side of the third joint.

6. The display device of claim 5, wherein, The second elastic modulus of the second joint decreases in a stepwise manner from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein The second elastic modulus of the second joint decreases linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

8. The display device according to claim 5, wherein The second elastic modulus of the second joint decreases nonlinearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

9. The display device of claim 8, wherein, The second elastic modulus of the second joint is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the first inner surface, and decreases nonlinearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

10. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The first joint has a first thickness, and the second joint has a second thickness. The second thickness of the second joint increases from the first inner surface to the first outer surface. The first thickness is uniform, and The average thickness of the second thickness is greater than that of the first thickness.

11. The display device of claim 10, wherein, The second thickness of the second joint increases linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

12. The display device of claim 10, wherein, The second thickness of the second joint increases non-linearly from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

13. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The third joint has a third thickness, and the third thickness increases from the second inner surface to the second outer surface. The average thickness of the third thickness is greater than the first thickness of the first joint.

14. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The third elastic modulus of the third joint decreases from the second inner surface to the second outer surface.

15. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: The fourth joint is disposed between the first joint and the second joint; as well as The fifth joint is disposed between the first joint and the third joint. in: The fourth joint has a fourth elastic modulus that is between the first elastic modulus and the second elastic modulus, and The fifth joint has a fifth elastic modulus that is between the first elastic modulus and the third elastic modulus.

16. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A support film is provided, spaced apart from the window, and the display panel is disposed between the support film and the window; as well as A panel support film bonding member is disposed between the support film and the display panel, the panel support film bonding member comprising: The first panel support membrane joint is disposed in the first region; The second panel support film joint is disposed in the second region; and The third panel support film joint is disposed in the third region. Wherein, the elastic modulus of the first panel support film joint is greater than the elastic modulus of the second panel support film joint and the elastic modulus of the third panel support film joint.

17. A display device, comprising: A folded region, a first non-folded region adjacent to one side of the folded region, and a second non-folded region adjacent to the other side of the folded region; A display panel is disposed in the folded area, the first non-folded area, and the second non-folded area; A window is disposed on the display panel and overlaps with the display panel; as well as The component is disposed between the display panel and the window, and is located in the folded area, the first non-folded area, and the second non-folded area. The window includes: A first surface, facing the display panel; and The second surface is opposite to the first surface. In the folded state, the second surface of the window located in the first non-folded area faces the second surface of the window located in the second non-folded area. The connecting component includes: A first joint portion having a first elastic modulus and disposed in the folded region; The second joint, having a second elastic modulus, is disposed in the first non-folded region; and The third joint, having a third elastic modulus, is disposed in the second non-folded region, and The first elastic modulus is greater than each of the second elastic modulus and the third elastic modulus; The second joint includes: A first inner surface is located on one side of the second joint portion, and the first inner surface contacts the first joint portion; and The first outer surface is located on the other side of the second joint. The second elastic modulus of the second joint decreases from the first inner surface to the first outer surface.

18. The display device of claim 17, wherein, The first elastic modulus has a value equal to or greater than ten times each of the second and third elastic moduli.

19. The display device of claim 18, wherein, The first elastic modulus is in the range of 50 kPa to 500 kPa.

20. The display device according to claim 17, further comprising: A support film is provided, spaced apart from the window, and the display panel is disposed between the support film and the window; as well as A panel support film bonding member is disposed between the support film and the display panel, the panel support film bonding member comprising: The first panel support film joint is disposed in the folded area; The second panel support film joint is disposed in the first non-folded area; and The third panel support membrane joint is located in the second non-folded area. Wherein, the elastic modulus of the first panel support film joint is greater than the elastic modulus of the second panel support film joint and the elastic modulus of the third panel support film joint.

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