Display devices

Abstract

A display device is provided, comprising a display module, an anti-reflective layer, and a bending protective layer. The display module includes a first region, a second region, and a bending region disposed between the first and second regions and having a predetermined radius of curvature. The bending protective layer includes a first portion overlapping at least the first region and a second portion overlapping at least the bending region. The maximum thickness of the first portion is in the range of about 40 μm to about 85 μm, the maximum tilt angle of the first portion is in the range of about 10° to 30°, and the elastic modulus of the first portion is in the range of about 50 MPa to about 300 MPa.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments and implementations of the present invention generally relate to display devices, and more specifically, to foldable display devices. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices include an effective area activated by an electrical signal. The display device can detect input applied from the outside through the effective area and simultaneously display various images to provide information to the user. In recent years, with the development of display devices with various shapes, effective areas of various shapes have been realized.

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

[0004] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed invention.

[0005] The present invention provides a display device with a low defect rate.

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

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention provides a display device comprising: a display module including a first region, a second region, and a curved region disposed between the first and second regions and having a predetermined radius of curvature; an anti-reflective layer disposed on the display module and overlapping the first region; and a bending protective layer disposed on the display module, spaced apart from the edge of the anti-reflective layer on a reference plane, and overlapping the first region, the curved region, and the second region. Here, the bending protective layer includes a first portion overlapping at least the first region and a second portion overlapping at least the curved region. The first portion is disposed closer to the anti-reflective layer than the second portion. The maximum thickness of the first portion is greater than the maximum thickness of the second portion, and the maximum thickness of the first portion is in the range of about 40 μm to about 85 μm. The maximum tilt angle of the first portion is in the range of about 10° to 30°, and the elastic modulus of the first portion is in the range of about 50 MPa to about 300 MPa.

[0008] In an implementation, the first part may have a maximum tilt angle in the range of about 10° to about 25° and an elastic modulus in the range of about 50 MPa to about 270 MPa.

[0009] In an implementation, the first region of the display module may include a display area in which pixels are disposed and a non-display area in which no pixels are disposed. Here, the display area of ​​the display module may include: a substrate layer; a circuit element layer disposed on the substrate layer and including transistors; a display element layer disposed on the circuit element layer and including an emitting element electrically connected to the transistors; a thin-film encapsulation layer disposed on the display element layer and configured to seal the emitting element; and an input sensor disposed on the thin-film encapsulation layer.

[0010] In an implementation, the first region of the display module may include a display area in which pixels are disposed and a non-display area in which no pixels are disposed. Here, the non-display area of ​​the display module may include: a substrate layer; a plurality of first inorganic layers disposed on the substrate layer; a plurality of organic layers disposed on the plurality of first inorganic layers; and a plurality of second inorganic layers disposed on the plurality of organic layers.

[0011] In one implementation, the bending protective layer can contact the uppermost inorganic layer among a plurality of second inorganic layers.

[0012] In an implementation, the first part and the second part may include the same material as each other.

[0013] In an embodiment, each of the first and second portions may include an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, a urethane resin, or an urethane acrylate resin.

[0014] In an implementation, the second part may have one end in contact with the first part and another end facing the first part and spaced apart from it, and the display device may further include a step compensation layer disposed on a second region of the display module and disposed adjacent to the other end of the second part.

[0015] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a data driver disposed on a second region of the display module. Here, a step compensation layer may be disposed between the data driver and the other end of the second region.

[0016] In one implementation, the display module can be folded relative to the folding axis, such that a portion of the first region faces another portion of the first region.

[0017] In one implementation, the folding axis may be parallel to a first direction indicating the short side of the display module.

[0018] In one implementation, the curved region may be positioned between the first region and the second region in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

[0019] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a shock-absorbing layer disposed on the anti-reflective layer. Here, a portion of the shock-absorbing layer may overlap with the bending protection layer.

[0020] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a window disposed on the impact-absorbing layer and a window protective layer disposed on the window. Here, a portion of the window and a portion of the window protective layer may overlap with the bending protective layer.

[0021] In some embodiments, the display device may further include a panel protective layer disposed below the display module. Here, the panel protective layer may include a first panel protective layer corresponding to the first region and a second panel protective layer spaced apart from the first panel protective layer and corresponding to the second region.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device includes: a display module including a first region, a second region, and a curved region disposed between the first and second regions and having a predetermined radius of curvature; an anti-reflective layer disposed on the display module and overlapping the first region; and a bending protection layer disposed on the display module, spaced apart from the edge of the anti-reflective layer on a reference plane, and overlapping the first region, the curved region, and the second region. Here, the bending protection layer includes a first portion overlapping at least the first region and a second portion overlapping at least the curved region. The first portion is positioned closer to the anti-reflective layer than the second portion. The maximum thickness of the first portion is greater than the maximum thickness of the second portion, and the maximum stress generated in the display module is determined by a mathematical equation:

[0023] Maximum stress = 88 - 1.52 × TH + 1.030 × SP + 0.278 × MD + 0.0124 × TH 2 -0.0008×SP 2 +0.000857×MD 2 ,

[0024] Wherein, reference mark TH represents the maximum thickness of the first part, reference mark SP represents the maximum tilt angle of the first part, and reference mark MD represents the elastic modulus of the first part.

[0025] In an implementation, the maximum stress may be equal to or less than about 250 MPa.

[0026] In an embodiment, the maximum thickness of the first part can be from about 40 μm to about 85 μm, the maximum tilt angle of the first part can be from about 10° to about 25°, and the elastic modulus of the first part can be from about 50 MPa to about 270 MPa. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the inventive concept.

[0028] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the concept of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2A This is a plan view illustrating a display panel according to an embodiment of the concept of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2B This is a first cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the concept of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a second cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the concept of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the curved protective layer according to the present invention.

[0034] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a perspective view illustrating a method for forming a bending protective layer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figures 8A to 8C This is a view illustrating the changes that occur during the folding operation of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 9C It is a photograph showing a defect that has occurred in a display device.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a view showing the factors that determine the stress of the bending protective layer on the display module. Detailed Implementation

[0039] 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 apparatus or methods employing one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent 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 the various exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, the various exemplary embodiments may be different, but are not necessarily exclusive. For example, a particular shape, configuration, and characteristic of an exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0040] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary embodiments described 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, regions and / or aspects (hereinafter individually or collectively referred to as “elements”) of various embodiments may be combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged in other ways without departing from the inventive concept.

[0041] The use of crosshairs and / or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, unless specified, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material properties, size, scale, commonalities between the elements shown, and / or any other characteristics, properties, or characteristics of the elements. Furthermore, in the drawings, the dimensions and relative dimensions of elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence may be performed differently than the described sequence. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description. Additionally, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0042] When a component or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another component or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly attached to the other component or layer, or there can be an intermediate component or layer. 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 is no intermediate component or layer. Therefore, the term "connection" can refer to a physical connection, electrical connection, and / or fluid connection with or without an intermediate component. Furthermore, the DR1, DR2, and DR3 axes are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system, such as the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, and can be interpreted in a broader 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. 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, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0043] 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.

[0044] For descriptive purposes, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “above,” “higher,” “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”), etc., may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another element (or multiple elements) as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will consequently be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and therefore, the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0045] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including” specify the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, 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 rather than terms of degree, and are therefore used to allow for inherent deviations in measurements, calculated values, and / or provided values ​​that will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0046] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or exploded views as schematic diagrams of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, variations in the shapes shown in the figures should be expected, for example, due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Consequently, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be construed as limited to the shape of the specific regions shown, but should include, for example, deviations in shape due to manufacturing processes. In this way, the regions shown in the figures may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of the areas of the device, and are therefore not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0047] 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 idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0048] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 1A It shows the folded state, and Figure 1B The folded state is shown.

[0049] Reference Figure 1A and Figure 1BAccording to an embodiment of the present invention, the display device DD can have a rectangular shape, having a long side in a first direction DR1 and a short side in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the display device DD can have various shapes, such as a circular shape or a polygonal shape.

[0050] In the following description, the direction that passes substantially perpendicularly through the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as the third direction DR3. In this specification, the expression "viewed on a plane" can be defined as the state when viewed from the third direction DR3. In the following description, the directions indicated from the first direction axis to the third direction axis can be the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3, and can be represented by the same reference numerals respectively.

[0051] The display device DD may include a folded region FA and multiple non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2. The non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 may include a first non-folded region NFA1 and a second non-folded region NFA2. The folded region FA may be disposed between the first non-folded region NFA1 and the second non-folded region NFA2. The folded region FA, the first non-folded region NFA1, and the second non-folded region NFA2 may be arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0052] For example, non-folding means that it is impossible to fold within the corresponding non-folding region NFA1 or NFA2. Non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 still fold or rotate around the folding region FA.

[0053] Although an illustrative example shows one folded region FA and two non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the number of each of the folded region FA and the non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2. For example, a display device DD may include two or more non-folded regions and a plurality of folded regions disposed between the non-folded regions.

[0054] like Figure 1A As shown, the display device DD includes a flat display surface DS. An image IM generated in the display device DD can be provided to the user via the display surface DS.

[0055] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image IM, and the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the shapes of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA may be deformed.

[0056] like Figure 1B As shown, the folding region FA can be folded relative to a folding axis FX parallel to the second direction DR2. The folding region FA has a predetermined curvature and a predetermined radius of curvature. The display device DD can be folded inward so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside, and the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 face each other.

[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device DD can be folded outwards, exposing the display surface DS to the outside. In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device DD can repeatedly perform an inward folding operation or an outward folding operation from an unfolded operation. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device DD can select one of an unfolded operation, an inward folding operation, and an outward folding operation.

[0058] Figure 2A This is a plan view illustrating a display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2B This is a first cross-sectional view illustrating a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2B It shows along Figure 2A The cross section of the display device DD is taken by line I-I'.

[0059] Although the display panel DP according to embodiments of the present invention can be a light-emitting display panel, embodiments of the present invention are not particularly limited thereto. For example, the display panel DP can be an organic light-emitting display panel and a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. An organic light-emitting display panel may include a light-emitting layer containing organic light-emitting materials. A quantum dot light-emitting display panel may include a light-emitting layer containing quantum dots and quantum rods. Hereinafter, the display panel DP will be described as an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0060] Reference Figure 2A The display panel (DP) can include a display area (DP-DA) and a non-display area (DP-NDA) surrounding the display area (DP-DA). The display area (DP-DA) and the non-display area (DP-NDA) can be distinguished by whether or not pixels (PX) are set within them. The display area (DP-DA) and the non-display area (DP-NDA) respectively correspond to... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The display area DA and the non-display area NDA are defined in this specification. The expression "area / part corresponds to area / part" may indicate that they overlap, but they may not have the same surface area. In the non-display area DP-NDA, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and a transmit driver EDV may be provided.

[0061] The display panel DP includes a first region AA1, a second region AA2, and a curved region BA, separated in the first direction DR1. In such a way... Figure 1A In the fully unfolded state of the complete display device DD shown, the first region AA1 and the second region AA2 of the display panel DP mounted to the display device DD are positioned on different planes. This is in Figure 5 As shown in the diagram, the curved region BA is positioned between the first region AA1 and the second region AA2. (See later...) Figure 5 Describe the curvature of the curved region BA. Figure 2A The image shows the display panel DP in its folded and unbent state before it is mounted onto the display device DD.

[0062] The first region AA1 corresponds to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The display surface DS in the image. The first region AA1 may include a first non-folded region NFA10, a second non-folded region NFA20, and a folded region FA0. The first non-folded region NFA10, the second non-folded region NFA20, and the folded region FA0 correspond to the first non-folded region NFA1, the second non-folded region NFA2, and the folded region FA, respectively.

[0063] In the second direction DR2, each of the curved region BA and the second region AA2 may have a shorter length than the first region AA1. The curved region BA and the second region AA2 may be contained within the non-display region DP-NDA.

[0064] The display panel (DP) may include multiple pixels (PX), multiple scan lines SL1 to SLm, multiple data lines DL1 to DLn, multiple emission lines EL1 to ELm, a first control line CSL1 and a second control line CSL2, a first power line PL1, a second power line PL2, and multiple pads (PD). Here, the reference numerals m and n are natural numbers. Pixels (PX) may be connected to scan lines SL1 to SLm, data lines DL1 to DLn, and emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0065] The data driver DDV can be located on the second region AA2. The data driver DDV can be an integrated circuit chip. Scan lines SL1 to SLm can each extend in the second direction DR2 and connect to the scan driver SDV. Data lines DL1 to DLn can each extend in the first direction DR1 and connect to the data driver DDV through the bending region BA. Transmit lines EL1 to ELm can each extend in the second direction DR2 and connect to the transmit driver EDV.

[0066] The first electric field line PL1 may include a portion extending in a first direction DR1 and a portion extending in a second direction DR2. The portions extending in the first direction DR1 and the portions extending in the second direction DR2 may be disposed on different layers. The portion of the first electric field line PL1 extending in the first direction DR1 may extend to the second region AA2 via a bending region BA. The first electric field line PL1 may provide a first voltage to the pixel PX.

[0067] The second power line PL2 can be positioned along the edge of the first region AA1 on the non-display region DP-NDA. The second power line PL2 can be positioned outside the scan driver SDV and the transmit driver EDV.

[0068] The first control line CSL1 can be connected to the scan driver SDV and extends through the bend region BA toward the lower end of the second region AA2. The second control line CSL2 can be connected to the transmit driver EDV and extends through the bend region BA toward the lower end of the second region AA2.

[0069] When viewed from a planar perspective, the pad PD can be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the second region AA2. The data driver DDV, the first power line PL1, the second power line PL2, the first control line CSL1, and the second control line CSL2 can be connected to the pad PD. The circuit board PCB can be electrically connected to the pad PD via an anisotropic conductive adhesive layer.

[0070] Each pixel PX may include an emitting element and a pixel driving circuit for controlling the emission of the emitting element. The pixel driving circuit includes multiple transistors and at least one capacitor.

[0071] Reference Figure 2B The display device DD may include a display module DM, an anti-reflective layer RPL, an impact-absorbing layer ISL, a window WIN, a window protective layer WP, a first coating CT1, a second coating CT2, a panel protective layer PPL, a cover layer CVL, a support member PLT, a sub-cover layer SCV, a cover plate SUP, a heat dissipation layer RHL, an insulating layer INL, and first adhesive layers AL1 to eleventh adhesive layers AL11 disposed therebetween. The first adhesive layers AL1 to eleventh adhesive layers AL11 may include pressure-sensitive adhesives or transparent adhesives such as optically transparent adhesives.

[0072] In embodiments of the present invention, some of the above-described components may be omitted. For example, one of the following may be omitted: window protective layer WP, first coating CT1, second coating CT2, panel protective layer PPL, cover layer CVL, support member PLT, sub-cover layer SCV, cover plate SUP, heat dissipation layer RHL, and insulating layer INL, as well as the adhesive layer associated with them.

[0073] The anti-reflective layer RPL, the shock-absorbing layer ISL, the window WIN, the window protective layer WP, the first coating CT1, and the second coating CT2 can be disposed on the display module DM. The panel protective layer PPL, the cover layer CVL, the support member PLT, the sub-cover layer SCV, the cover plate SUP, the heat dissipation layer RHL, and the insulating layer INL can be disposed below the display module DM.

[0074] The antireflective layer RPL may include an optical film to reduce the reflectivity of external light. The antireflective layer RPL may include a retarder and / or a polarizer. The antireflective layer RPL may include at least one polarizing film.

[0075] Anti-reflective layer RPL set Figure 2A On the first region AA1. The anti-reflective layer RPL covers at least the display area DP-DA.

[0076] An impact absorbing layer (ISL) can be disposed on the anti-reflective layer (RPL). The impact absorbing layer (ISL) can absorb external impacts applied to the display module (DM) from above the window protection layer (WP). The impact absorbing layer (ISL) may comprise an elongated synthetic resin film.

[0077] For example, the impact-absorbing layer ISL may comprise a flexible plastic material, such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The impact-absorbing layer ISL may have an elastic modulus of about 1 GPa or greater. In embodiments of the present invention, the impact-absorbing layer ISL may be omitted.

[0078] The window (WIN) can be placed on the shock-absorbing layer (ISL). The window (WIN) can protect the display module (DM) and the anti-reflective layer (RPL) from external scratches. The window (WIN) can also be optically transparent.

[0079] The window (WIN) may include a glass substrate. The window (WIN) may include ultra-thin glass (UTG). However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the window (WIN) may include a synthetic resin film.

[0080] A window WIN can have a multilayer or single-layer structure. For example, a window WIN may include multiple synthetic resin films bonded together by an adhesive, or a glass substrate and a synthetic resin film bonded together by an adhesive.

[0081] A window protective layer WP can be applied to a window WIN. A first coating CT1 can be applied to the top surface of the window protective layer WP. The window protective layer WP and the first coating CT1 can protect the window WIN. The window protective layer WP may comprise a film having an elastic modulus of about 15 GPa or less at room temperature.

[0082] The window protective layer WP may comprise a flexible plastic material, such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The first coating CT1 may comprise a hard coating. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the first coating CT1 may also comprise an anti-fingerprint layer or an anti-scattering layer defined as a functional layer.

[0083] The second coating CT2 can be applied to the bottom surface of the shock-absorbing layer ISL. The second coating CT2 may include a hard coating. The second coating CT2 can flatten the bottom surface of the shock-absorbing layer ISL, which may have an uneven surface.

[0084] The panel protective layer PPL can be located below the display module DM. The panel protective layer PPL protects the lower part of the display module DM. The panel protective layer PPL can include a flexible plastic material. For example, the panel protective layer PPL can include polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The panel protective layer PPL may not be located on the curved area BA.

[0085] The cover layer CVL can be disposed below the panel protective layer PPL. The cover layer CVL can absorb external impacts applied from below the display module DM. The cover layer CVL may include a barrier layer BRL and a buffer layer CUL. The sixth adhesive layer AL6 and the seventh adhesive layer AL7 can be defined as components of the cover layer CVL.

[0086] A barrier layer (BRL) can be positioned beneath the panel protective layer (PPL). The BRL increases resistance to compressive forces caused by external pressure. Therefore, the BRL prevents deformation of the display module (DM). The BRL can comprise a flexible plastic material, such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0087] A buffer layer CUL can be disposed below a barrier layer BRL. The buffer layer CUL absorbs external impacts applied to the lower part of the display module DM to protect the display module DM. The buffer layer CUL may include a foam sheet with a predetermined elasticity. The buffer layer CUL may include foam, sponge, polyurethane, or thermoplastic polyurethane. By using the barrier layer BRL as a base layer, the buffer layer CUL can be directly disposed on the bottom surface of the barrier layer BRL.

[0088] At least one of the blocking layer BRL and the buffer layer CUL can absorb light incident from the outside. For example, at least one of the blocking layer BRL and the buffer layer CUL can be black. When the display device DD is viewed from above the window protection layer WP, the components located below the cover layer CVL are invisible to the user.

[0089] The support member PLT can be disposed below the cover layer CVL (e.g., the buffer layer CUL). The support member PLT can comprise a material having an elastic modulus of approximately 60 GPa or higher. The support member PLT can comprise a metallic material, such as stainless steel. Although the support member PLT can comprise SUS304 as an example, embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, the support member PLT can comprise various metallic materials. The support member PLT can support the display module DM. Furthermore, the support member PLT can improve the heat dissipation performance of the display device DD.

[0090] Multiple openings (OPs) can be defined in the area of ​​the support member PLT that overlaps with the folded area FA. The support member PLT can have improved flexibility due to the openings (OPs).

[0091] The fifth adhesive layer AL5 can be disposed between the display module DM and the panel protective layer PPL. The sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be disposed between the panel protective layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL. The seventh adhesive layer AL7 can be disposed between the buffer layer CUL and the support member PLT. The sub-cover layer SCV can be disposed below the support member PLT. The sub-cover layer SCV can cover the opening OP defined in the support member PLT. The elastic modulus of the sub-cover layer SCV can be less than the elastic modulus of the support member PLT. For example, the sub-cover layer SCV can include thermoplastic polyurethane or rubber. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0092] The sub-cover layer SCV can be manufactured in sheet form and attached to the support member PLT. An eighth adhesive layer AL8 can be disposed between the sub-cover layer SCV and the support member PLT, and the sub-cover layer SCV and the support member PLT can be attached to each other through the eighth adhesive layer AL8. The sub-cover layer SCV prevents foreign matter from being introduced into the opening OP defined in the support member PLT.

[0093] The cover plate SUP can be disposed below the sub-cover layer SCV. The cover plate SUP can support the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 of the display module DM. The cover plate SUP can include metal. For example, the cover plate SUP can include a copper alloy. However, this is merely an example. For example, the cover plate SUP can include various metals (e.g., Invar alloy or stainless steel).

[0094] The cover plate SUP may include a first cover plate SUP1 and a second cover plate SUP2 disposed in a first direction DR1. The first cover plate SUP1 may overlap with a first non-folded region NFA1 to support the first non-folded region NFA1. The second cover plate SUP2 may overlap with a second non-folded region NFA2 to support the second non-folded region NFA2. The first cover plate SUP1 and the second cover plate SUP2 may each extend into a folded region FA and be spaced apart from each other in the folded region FA.

[0095] The first cover plate SUP1 and the second cover plate SUP2 can be arranged adjacent to each other in the folding area FA. The first cover plate SUP1 and the second cover plate SUP2 can support the portion of the support member PLT that defines the opening OP in the folding area FA. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the portion of the support member PLT that defines the opening OP, the cover plate SUP can prevent deformation of the portion of the support member PLT that defines the opening OP. The cover plate SUP can prevent the components provided on the cover plate SUP from being deformed by the components provided below the cover plate SUP.

[0096] The ninth adhesive layer AL9 can be disposed between the cover plate SUP and the sub-cover layer SCV. The ninth adhesive layer AL9 can be disposed in the regions overlapping with the first non-folded region NFA1 and the regions overlapping with the second non-folded region NFA2. The ninth adhesive layer AL9 may not be disposed in the portions of the first cover plate SUP1 that overlap with the folded region FA and the portions of the second cover plate SUP2 that overlap with the folded region FA.

[0097] The heat dissipation layer RHL can be placed below the cover plate SUP. The heat dissipation layer RHL can be a heat-conducting sheet with high thermal conductivity. The heat dissipation layer RHL can have a heat dissipation function.

[0098] The tenth adhesive layer AL10 can be disposed between the heat dissipation layer RHL and the cover plate SUP. The tenth adhesive layer AL10 can also be disposed between the first cover plate SUP1 and the heat dissipation layer RHL, and between the second cover plate SUP2 and the heat dissipation layer RHL. The insulating layer INL can be disposed below the heat dissipation layer RHL. The eleventh adhesive layer AL11 can be disposed between the insulating layer INL and the heat dissipation layer RHL.

[0099] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display module DM according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Reference Figure 3 The display module DM may include a display panel DP and an input sensor ISP. The display panel DP may include a substrate layer SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the substrate layer SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0101] The substrate SUB may include a synthetic resin film. For example, the substrate SUB may include polyimide (PI). The substrate SUB may have a multilayer structure. The substrate SUB may include a first synthetic resin film, at least one inorganic layer disposed on the first synthetic resin film, and a second synthetic resin film disposed on the inorganic layer. Each of the first synthetic resin film and the second synthetic resin film may be a polyimide film.

[0102] The circuit element layer DP-CL can include organic layers, inorganic layers, semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, and signal lines. Organic layers, inorganic layers, semiconductor layers, and conductive layers can be formed on the substrate layer SUB through coating, deposition, or other methods. Subsequently, the organic layers, inorganic layers, semiconductor layers, and conductive layers can be selectively patterned using multiple photolithography processes to form semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, and signal lines.

[0103] Semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, and signal lines can provide a reference. Figure 2A The pixel driving circuit and signal lines SL1 to SLm, DL1 to DLn, EL1 to ELm, CSL1, CSL2, PL1 and PL2 are described for the pixel PX. The pixel driving circuit may include at least one transistor.

[0104] DP-OLED display element layer includes reference Figure 2A The described pixel PX has an emitting element. The emitting element is electrically connected to at least one transistor. Furthermore, the display element layer DP-OLED may also include at least one of an organic layer and an inorganic layer.

[0105] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL to cover the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may include an inorganic layer, an organic layer, and an inorganic layer stacked sequentially. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the stacked structure of the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0106] Basically, the base layer SUB has the same characteristics as... Figure 2A The display device DD in the middle has the same planar shape as the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA. The base layer SUB is set on the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA.

[0107] The pixel driving circuit of the circuit element layer DP-CL is disposed on the display area DP-DA. In addition, a portion of the signal lines SL1 to SLm, DL1 to DLn, EL1 to ELm, CSL1, CSL2, PL1 and PL2 of the circuit element layer DP-CL are disposed on the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA.

[0108] The emitting element of a DP-OLED is disposed on the display area DP-DA. A thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) is disposed on the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA. However, the TFE may only cover the display area DP-DA and may not completely cover the non-display area DP-NDA.

[0109] An input sensor ISP may include multiple electrodes (not shown) configured to detect external input, traces (not shown) connected to the multiple electrodes, and organic and / or inorganic layers configured to insulate / protect the multiple electrodes or traces. Although the input sensor ISP may be a capacitive sensor, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0110] When manufacturing the display module (DM), the input sensor (ISP) can be directly mounted on the thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) via a continuous process. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this. For example, the input sensor (ISP) can be manufactured separately from the display panel (DP) and then attached to the display panel (DP) via an adhesive layer.

[0111] Multiple electrodes of the input sensor ISP are positioned on the display area DP-DA. Multiple traces of the input sensor ISP are positioned on the non-display area DP-NDA.

[0112] The trace can extend from the curved region BA toward the lower end of the second region AA2, so that the trace is... Figure 2A The pads PD are adjacent to each other in the circuit element layer. Here, the traces can be set on a different layer than the signal lines SL1 to SLm, DL1 to DLn, EL1 to ELm, CSL1, CSL2, PL1 and PL2 of the circuit element layer DP-CL.

[0113] The trace can be connected to the DP for the display panel. Figure 2A The input signal line (input signal line) is provided by the input sensor ISP in the first region AA1. Although the input signal line is... Figure 2A The signal lines SL1 to SLm, DL1 to DLn, EL1 to ELm, CSL1, CSL2, PL1, and PL2 are different, but the input signal lines can be set on the same layer as one of the signal lines SL1 to SLm, DL1 to DLn, EL1 to ELm, CSL1, CSL2, PL1, and PL2. Each of the input signal lines can be connected to the corresponding pad PD.

[0114] At least one of the organic and inorganic layers of the input sensor ISP is set in Figure 2A On the first region AA1. At least one of the organic layer and the inorganic layer may extend into the curved region BA.

[0115] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a second cross-sectional view illustrating a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 and Figure 5 It is along Figure 2A The sectional view taken from line II-II'. Figure 4 The shape of the curved region BA before bending is shown, and Figure 5 The shape of the curved region BA after bending is shown. (Reference) Figure 2B Described Figure 4 and Figure 5 The component stacking structure is described in detail, so its specific description will be omitted.

[0116] Reference Figure 4 The display device DD may also include a bend protection layer BPL, a first step compensation layer DHC1, a second step compensation layer DHC2, a first insulating tape ITP1, a second insulating tape ITP2, a conductive layer CTL, and a spacer SPC.

[0117] The bending protection layer BPL is disposed at least on the bending region BA. The bending protection layer BPL may overlap with the bending region BA, the first region AA1, and the second region AA2. The bending protection layer BPL may be disposed on a portion of the first region AA1 and a portion of the second region AA2, but not on all of the first region AA1 and the second region AA2.

[0118] One end of the curved protective layer BPL is spaced apart from the edge of the anti-reflective layer RPL on the reference plane. The reference... Figures 8A to 8C The reason for the spacing is described. The other end of the bend protection layer BPL is spaced apart from the first step compensation layer DHC1 on the reference plane. The first step compensation layer DHC1 is positioned adjacent to the other end of the bend protection layer BPL. The first step compensation layer DHC1 is positioned on the second reference plane between the other end of the bend protection layer BPL and the data driver DDV.

[0119] The second-stage compensation layer DHC2 can contact the first-stage compensation layer DHC1 and the bending protection layer BPL. The second-stage compensation layer DHC2 can be disposed on the first-stage compensation layer DHC1 and the bending protection layer BPL.

[0120] Each of the first step compensation layer DHC1 and the second step compensation layer DHC2 may be defined as a double-sided adhesive tape. For example, each of the first step compensation layer DHC1 and the second step compensation layer DHC2 may include a flexible base layer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and an adhesive disposed on each of the top and bottom surfaces of the base layer. The adhesive may include an acrylic-based adhesive. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the materials of the base layer and the adhesive.

[0121] The first step compensation layer DHC1 can have a thickness substantially the same as that of the bend protection layer BPL. The sum of the thicknesses of the first step compensation layer DHC1 and the second step compensation layer DHC2 can be substantially the same as the thickness of the data driver DDV. The step portion between the bend protection layer BPL and the data driver DDV can be compensated by the first step compensation layer DHC1 and the second step compensation layer DHC2.

[0122] A first insulating strip ITP1 can be attached to a second step compensation layer DHC2 and a data driver DDV. A conductive layer CTL can be disposed on the first insulating strip ITP1. The conductive layer CTL can be a ground layer configured to remove static electricity generated from the outside. A second insulating strip ITP2 can be disposed on the conductive layer CTL. The second insulating strip ITP2 can partially expose the conductive layer CTL. A portion of the conductive layer CTL that overlaps with the second step compensation layer DHC2 is exposed.

[0123] Reference Figure 5 The curved region BA can be bent so that the second region AA2 is positioned below the first region AA1. Therefore, the data driver DDV of the second region AA2 can be positioned below the first region AA1. That is, the first region AA1 and the second region AA2 can be positioned on different planes (or reference planes). The curved region BA is bent to protrude laterally in the cross-section. The curved region BA has a predetermined curvature and a predetermined radius of curvature. The radius of curvature can be from approximately 0.1 mm to approximately 0.5 mm.

[0124] The bend protection layer BPL can be bent together with the bend region BA. The bend protection layer BPL protects the bend region BA from external impacts and controls the neutral plane of the bend region BA. The bend protection layer BPL is attached to the bend region BA so that signal lines located on the bend region BA are positioned adjacent to the neutral plane. See later for further details. Figures 6 to 7B A detailed description of the Bending Protective Layer (BPL) is provided.

[0125] The panel protective layer PPL may include a first panel protective layer PPL1 protecting the first region AA1 and a second panel protective layer PPL2 protecting the second region AA2. When the bending region BA bends, the second panel protective layer PPL2 may be disposed below the first region AA1 and the first panel protective layer PPL1 together with the second region AA2. Because the panel protective layer PPL is not disposed on the bending region BA, the bending region BA can be further easily bent.

[0126] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 5Briefly describe the edge alignment state of the component. In the following text, a specific side of the component refers to the side that is set adjacent to the curved region BA. Furthermore, the description of the specific side indicates the state when viewed in a plane. When comparing specific sides of the component, the specific side is set on the outer side in the direction adjacent to the curved region BA, and on the inner side in the direction away from the curved region BA.

[0127] When viewed on a flat surface, one side of the window protective layer WP and one side of the window WIN do not need to overlap with the curved area BA. Although the display device DD is folded inward, the window protective layer WP and the window WIN do not need to protrude beyond the outside of the curved area BA. Because one side of the window protective layer WP is positioned further outward than one side of the window WIN, the window protective layer WP can fully cover the window WIN to protect it.

[0128] One side of the shock-absorbing layer ISL can be substantially aligned with one side of the window WIN. One side of the shock-absorbing layer ISL can be positioned further outward than one side of the anti-reflective layer RPL. The portion of the shock-absorbing layer ISL adjacent to said side can overlap with the bend protection layer BPL.

[0129] The printed layer PIT can be disposed on an edge region adjacent to one side of the shock-absorbing layer ISL. The printed layer PIT can be disposed on the top surface of the shock-absorbing layer ISL. The printed layer PIT can correspond in planar plane to the non-display area DP-NDA of the first region AA1. Although, by way of example, the printed layer PIT can be black, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the printed layer PIT can be of various colors.

[0130] One side of the first panel protective layer PPL1 can be positioned further outward than one side of the window protective layer WP. One side of the first panel protective layer PPL1 can be positioned further outward than one side of the cover layer CVL. One side of the cover layer CVL can be positioned between one side of the window protective layer WP and one side of the window WIN. Although one side of the barrier layer BRL, one side of the buffer layer CUL, one side of the sixth adhesive layer AL6, and one side of the seventh adhesive layer AL7 are aligned with each other, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, one side of the barrier layer BRL, one side of the buffer layer CUL, one side of the sixth adhesive layer AL6, and one side of the seventh adhesive layer AL7 may not be aligned with each other.

[0131] The spacer SPC can be disposed between the support PLT and the second panel protective layer PPL2. Although one side of the support PLT and one side of the spacer SPC can be aligned with one side of the cover layer CVL, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, one side of the support PLT and one side of the spacer SPC may not be aligned with one side of the cover layer CVL.

[0132] The spacer SPC can be double-sided adhesive tape. For example, the spacer SPC may include a flexible base layer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and an adhesive disposed on each of the top and bottom surfaces of the base layer. When the support PLT and the second panel protective layer PPL2 are spaced apart from each other by the spacer SPC, the curved area BA can maintain a predetermined curvature.

[0133] In this embodiment, because one side of each of the cover layer CVL, support member PLT, and spacer SPC is positioned further inward than one side of the first panel protective layer PPL1, the cover layer CVL, support member PLT, and spacer SPC do not overlap with the bending region BA. This prevents contact damage to the bending region BA caused by the cover layer CVL, support member PLT, and spacer SPC.

[0134] One side of the second panel protective layer PPL2 can be positioned further inward than one side of the first panel protective layer PPL1. One side of the second panel protective layer PPL2 can be positioned between one side of the first panel protective layer PPL1 and one side of the cover layer CVL.

[0135] One side of each of the second step compensation layer DHC2, the first insulating strip ITP1, and the conductive layer CTL can be positioned further inward than one side of the first panel protective layer PPL1. One side of each of the second step compensation layer DHC2, the first insulating strip ITP1, and the conductive layer CTL can be spaced apart from the other end of the bending region BA. Therefore, the second step compensation layer DHC2, the first insulating strip ITP1, and the conductive layer CTL can be less affected by the shear stress generated by the bending of the bending region BA.

[0136] Figure 6 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a bending protective layer BPL according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a perspective view illustrating a method for forming a bending protective layer (BPL) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 6 to 7B The fourth adhesive layer AL4, which is disposed between the anti-reflective layer RPL and the display module DM, is not shown.

[0137] The bend protection layer (BPL) may include a first portion P1 and a second portion P2. Because the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 are formed by different processes, they can be distinguished from each other. Each of the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 of the bend protection layer (BPL) may include an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, a urethane-based resin, or an urethane-acrylate-based resin. The first portion P1 and the second portion P2 may include the same material.

[0138] In the first direction DR1, the first portion P1 can be positioned closer to the anti-reflective layer RPL compared to the second portion P2. In the first direction DR1, the first portion P1 can be spaced a predetermined distance from one end of the anti-reflective layer RPL. The first portion P1 can overlap at least with the first region AA1. In an embodiment, the first portion P1 can have a portion overlapping the first region AA1 and another portion overlapping the curved region BA (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0139] The first portion P1 may have a maximum thickness greater than that of the second portion P2 and an area smaller than that of the second portion P2. The second portion P2 overlaps at least with the curved region BA. (See reference...) Figure 4 Although not in Figure 6 As shown, most of the portion overlapping with the curved region BA corresponds to the second portion P2. Furthermore, the second portion P2 can extend from the curved region BA to the second region AA2.

[0140] like Figure 7A As shown, on the display module DM, a resin composition is applied to an area spaced a predetermined distance from the end of the anti-reflective layer RPL. In the second direction DR2, the inkjet head HD forms a resin line as it moves. This linear resin composition corresponds to the initial first portion. The properties of the resin composition are determined by the composition ratio of the materials in the resin composition. The resin composition may include at least one synthetic resin and at least one additive. Therefore, the shape, thickness, width (length in the first direction DR1), and tilt angle of the initial first portion can be determined. Furthermore, the elastic modulus of the first portion P1 is determined by the composition ratio of the materials in the resin composition.

[0141] Figure 7B The first part P1 is formed by curing the initial first part. The first part P1 has a curved profile on the cross section defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3 by the above-described manufacturing process.

[0142] Next, the resin composition is applied to the curved region BA and the second region AA2. The first portion P1 blocks the resin composition from flowing to the anti-reflective layer RPL. That is, the first portion P1 acts as a dam. Unlike the initial first portion of the linear pattern, a resin layer can be formed by applying the resin composition over a large area. This can be done using a coating method or by using methods such as... Figure 7B The method for the inkjet head HD. The resin layer corresponds to the initial second part.

[0143] Because the first portion P1 is formed first, the excessive spreading of the resin layer can be prevented. Therefore, an initial second portion with a constant thickness can be formed. Subsequently, the second portion P2 is formed by curing the initial second portion.

[0144] Figures 8A to 8C This is a view showing the changes that occur during the folding operation of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8B It is along Figure 8A The sectional view taken from line III-III'.

[0145] like Figure 8A As shown, when the display device DD folds inward relative to the folding axis FX, shear stress is generated in the first direction DR1, as indicated by the two dashed arrows. When shear stress is generated in the display device DD, the first adhesive layer AL1 to the eleventh adhesive layer AL11 (reference) Figure 2B It can be stretched. Therefore, variations can be created between aligned components.

[0146] like Figure 8B As shown, during bending, several components, including the window protective layer WP, move to the right side of the cross section. Compared to its state before bending, the anti-reflective layer RPL also moves further to the right.

[0147] Figure 8C The diagram illustrates the stress generated in region B1 adjacent to the edge of the display device DD. This stress can be concentrated at the edge of the display device DD due to shear stress.

[0148] For reference Figure 4 As described, because the ends of the bending protective layer BPL and the edges of the anti-reflective layer RPL are spaced apart on the reference plane, interference between the anti-reflective layer RPL and the bending protective layer BPL is prevented despite the generation of shear stress. Therefore, defects such as delamination of the anti-reflective layer RPL can be prevented.

[0149] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a view illustrating a display device DD according to an embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 9C This is a photograph showing a defect that occurred in the display device DD. Figure 10 This is a view showing the factors that determine the bending protective layer of the display module's maximum stress.

[0150] Figure 9A This shows the initiation from bending Figure 4 The previous state of the display device DD to Figure 5 The time of change in the bending state. During the manufacturing process of the display device DD, the bending operation generates maximum stress in a specific area of ​​the display module DM. The maximum stress represents the stress value just before damage occurs in the display module DM, or the same stress value at the time of damage. In the following text, this area is defined as the reference area S-MAX.

[0151] The reference region S-MAX corresponds to the region adjacent to the end of the bending protective layer BPL that is adjacent to the anti-reflective layer RPL. For example... Figure 9B As shown, deformation can occur in the component positioned below the display module DM during the bending operation. A reference region S-MAX can be generated in an area where the component positioned below the display module DM experiences high resistance and therefore does not deform. The reference region S-MAX is located on the non-display region NDA adjacent to the bending region BA in the first region AA1.

[0152] Figure 9C The image shows a crack that has formed in the display module DM due to stress. Figure 9C The reference is shown in the middle. Figure 3 The second synthetic resin membrane 2 of the substrate layer SUB is described nd PI. Multiple first inorganic layers 1 st ILs are set in the second synthetic resin membrane 2 nd On PI. Multiple organic layers OLs are set in multiple first inorganic layers 1. st On ILs. Multiple second inorganic layers 2 nd ILs are disposed on multiple organic layers OLs. A bending protective layer BPL is disposed on multiple second inorganic layers 2. nd On the top inorganic layer of ILs. The bending protective layer BPL contacts the top inorganic layer.

[0153] Multiple organic layers OLs can be passed through multiple first inorganic layers 1 st ILs and multiple second inorganic layers 2 nd ILs sealing. Multiple first inorganic layers 1 st ILs indicates that it is included Figure 3 The inorganic layer in the circuit element layer DP-CL is set in Figure 2A On the first region AA1. Multiple organic layers OLs represent those contained within. Figure 3 At least one organic layer in the circuit element layer DP-CL is set in Figure 2A On the first region AA1. A portion of multiple organic layers OLs may be contained within... Figure 3 The organic layer in the display element layer of DP-OLED. Multiple second inorganic layers 2 nd ILs indicates that it is included Figure 3 The inorganic layer in the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE is set in Figure 2A On the first region AA1. Second inorganic layer 2. nd A portion of the ILs can be an inorganic layer contained within the input sensor ISP.

[0154] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the maximum value of the stress generated in the reference region S-MAX can be determined by... Figure 10The factors determining the first part P1 are as follows. The maximum stress generated in the reference region S-MAX can vary depending on the maximum thickness TM, maximum tilt angle SA-M, and elastic modulus of the first part P1. Taking into account the process of forming the first part P1, the maximum thickness TM is generated at the peak point, and the maximum tilt angle SA-M is generated on the top surface of the display module DM.

[0155] Table 1 below shows the results of a portion of several experimental implementations. For similar... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The sample modeled in the description of the display device DD with a curvature radius of approximately 0.25 mm was subjected to bending operations.

[0156] [Table 1]

[0157]

[0158]

[0159] Referring to Experimental Examples #1, #2, #3, and #4, the maximum stress gradually increases with the increase of the maximum thickness TM of the first part P1. Referring to Experimental Examples #5, #6, and #7, the maximum stress gradually increases with the increase of the maximum tilt angle SA-M of the first part P1. Referring to Experimental Examples #8, #9, and #10, the maximum stress gradually increases with the increase of the elastic modulus of the first part P1.

[0160] The maximum thickness TM of the first section P1 can range from about 40 μm to about 85 μm. When the maximum thickness TM of the first section P1 is less than about 40 μm, the first section P1 may be insufficient to function as a dam. When the maximum thickness TM of the first section P1 is greater than about 85 μm, the first section P1 may interfere with other components, such as... Figure 5 The shock-absorbing layer ISL shown is illustrated.

[0161] The maximum tilt angle SA-M of the first portion P1 can be in the range of about 10° to about 30° to reduce the stress on the display panel DP generated in the curved region BA. When the maximum tilt angle SA-M of the first portion P1 is less than about 10°, the width of the first portion P1 can be increased to meet the thickness of the first portion P1, and therefore, the area of ​​the first portion P1 can be increased. More preferably, the maximum tilt angle SA-M can be in the range of about 10° to about 25°.

[0162] The modulus of the first part P1 can be in the range of about 50 MPa to about 300 MPa. When the modulus of the first part P1 is less than about 50 MPa, the first part P1 may be susceptible to external impact, and when the modulus of the first part P1 is greater than about 300 MPa, it may be prone to cracking. More preferably, the modulus of the first part P1 can be in the range of about 50 MPa to about 270 MPa.

[0163] As shown in Table 1, the maximum stress generated in the reference region S-MAX can increase with the increase of the maximum thickness TM of the first part P1, the maximum tilt angle SA-M, and the elastic modulus.

[0164] The following mathematical equation 1 is derived by evaluating and analyzing the maximum stress generated based on the maximum thickness TM, the maximum tilt angle SA-M, and the elastic modulus.

[0165] [Mathematical Equation 1]

[0166] Maximum stress = 88 - 1.52 × TH + 1.030 × SP + 0.278 × MD + 0.0124 × TH 2 -0.0008×SP 2 +0.000857×MD 2 ,

[0167] Where TH represents the maximum thickness TM of the first part, SP represents the maximum tilt angle SA-M of the first part, and MD represents the elastic modulus of the first part.

[0168] In other words, the maximum stress can be determined by the maximum thickness TM, the maximum tilt angle SA-M, and the elastic modulus. The weights affecting the maximum stress vary depending on each factor.

[0169] In reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the described display device DD, the maximum stress can be equal to or less than about 250 MPa. That is, the maximum thickness TM, maximum tilt angle SA-M, and elastic modulus of the first portion P1 are determined such that the maximum stress generated in the display module DM is equal to or less than about 250 MPa. More preferably, the maximum thickness TM, maximum tilt angle SA-M, and elastic modulus of the first portion P1 are determined such that the maximum stress is equal to or less than about 210 MPa.

[0170] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the curved areas of the display panel can be protected from external impacts. When the BPL (Bend Protection Layer) absorbs external impacts, it can prevent the display panel from cracking.

[0171] Although shear stress is generated in the display panel during the folding operation, there is no interference between the bending protective layer and other components of the display device. This is because the bending protective layer is spaced apart from other components of the display device (e.g., polarizing film) on the reference plane, thus preventing interference.

[0172] The bending protective layer comprises a first portion and a second portion formed by different processes. The first portion is positioned closer to the polarizing film than the second portion. Because the first portion meets the aforementioned reference parameters, damage to the inorganic layer generated in certain areas of the display module can be prevented.

[0173] Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to these exemplary embodiments, but can be modified and altered by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed in the appended claims. Therefore, the actual scope of protection of the invention should be determined by the technical scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, including: The display module includes a first region, a second region, and a curved region disposed between the first region and the second region and having a predetermined radius of curvature on the surface direction of the upper surface of the display module. An anti-reflective layer is disposed on the display module and overlaps with the first area; as well as A bending protective layer is disposed on the display module, spaced apart from the edge of the anti-reflective layer on a reference plane in the surface direction, and overlapping the first region, the bending region, and the second region. The bending protective layer includes a first portion that overlaps at least with the first region and a second portion that overlaps at least with the bending region. The first portion is positioned closer to the anti-reflective layer than the second portion. The maximum thickness of the first part is greater than the maximum thickness of the second part. Wherein, the maximum thickness of the first portion is in the range of 40 μm to 85 μm, the maximum tilt angle of the first portion is in the range of 10° to 30°, and the elastic modulus of the first portion is in the range of 50 MPa to 300 MPa, and The first portion of the bending protective layer and the second portion of the bending protective layer define an interface therebetween.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The maximum tilt angle of the first portion is in the range of 10° to 25°, and the elastic modulus of the first portion is in the range of 50 MPa to 270 MPa.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first region of the display module includes a display area in which pixels are provided and a non-display area in which no pixels are provided. The display area of ​​the display module includes: basal layer; A circuit element layer disposed on the substrate layer and including transistors; The display element layer is disposed on the circuit element layer and includes an emitting element electrically connected to the transistor; A thin-film encapsulation layer is disposed on the display element layer and configured to seal the emitting element; and An input sensor is mounted on the thin-film encapsulation layer.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first region of the display module includes a display area in which pixels are provided and a non-display area in which no pixels are provided. The non-display area of ​​the display module includes: basal layer; Multiple first inorganic layers are disposed on the substrate layer; Multiple organic layers are disposed on the multiple first inorganic layers; and Multiple second inorganic layers are disposed on the multiple organic layers.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The bending protective layer contacts the uppermost inorganic layer among the plurality of second inorganic layers.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first part and the second part consist of the same material as each other.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first and second portions comprises an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, a urethane resin, or an urethane acrylate resin.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second portion has one end that contacts the first portion and another end that faces the first portion and is spaced apart from it. The display device further includes a step compensation layer disposed on the second region of the display module and positioned adjacent to the other end of the second portion.

9. The display device according to claim 8, further comprising a data driver disposed on the second region of the display module. in, The step compensation layer is disposed between the data driver and the other end of the second part.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display module is folded relative to the folding axis, such that a portion of the first region faces another portion of the first region.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The folding axis is parallel to a first direction indicating the short side of the display module.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein, The curved region is positioned between the first region and the second region in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

13. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising an impact-absorbing layer disposed on the anti-reflective layer, in, A portion of the impact-absorbing layer overlaps with the bending protection layer.

14. The display device according to claim 13, further comprising a window disposed on the impact-absorbing layer and a window protective layer disposed on the window. in, A portion of the window and a portion of the window protective layer overlap with the bending protective layer.

15. The display device according to claim 13, further comprising a panel protective layer disposed below the display module. in, The panel protective layer includes a first panel protective layer corresponding to the first region and a second panel protective layer spaced apart from the first panel protective layer and corresponding to the second region.

16. A display device, including: The display module includes a first region, a second region, and a curved region disposed between the first region and the second region and having a predetermined radius of curvature on the surface direction of the upper surface of the display module. An anti-reflective layer is disposed on the display module and overlaps with the first area; as well as A bending protective layer is disposed on the display module, spaced apart from the edge of the anti-reflective layer on a reference plane in the surface direction, and overlapping the first region, the bending region, and the second region. The bending protective layer includes a first portion that overlaps at least with the first region and a second portion that overlaps at least with the bending region. The first portion is positioned closer to the anti-reflective layer than the second portion. The maximum thickness of the first part is greater than the maximum thickness of the second part, and The maximum stress generated in the display module is determined by a mathematical equation: Maximum stress = 88 - 1.52 × TH + 1.030 × SP + 0.278 × MD + 0.0124 × TH 2 -0.0008×SP 2 +0.000857×MD 2 , Wherein, TH represents the maximum thickness of the first portion, SP represents the maximum tilt angle of the first portion, and MD represents the elastic modulus of the first portion, and The first portion and the second portion of the bending protective layer define an inclined interface therebetween.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, The maximum stress is equal to or less than 250 MPa.

18. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, The maximum thickness of the first portion is 40 μm to 85 μm.

19. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, The maximum tilt angle of the first part is 10° to 25°.

20. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, The elastic modulus of the first part is from 50 MPa to 270 MPa.

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