Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes: a display panel; a first component disposed on the display panel; a second component disposed below the display panel; a first adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the first component; and a second adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the second component. A spacer is disposed in the second adhesive layer.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0047633, filed on Apr. 20, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a foldable display device. Background Art

[0003] Currently, display devices for displaying images are becoming more and more used. In addition, display devices with a small volume or thickness and a relatively large display screen have become more and more common, and flexible display devices (such as foldable or bendable display devices) that can be folded and unfolded to provide a larger display screen (when compared to being folded) have been developed.

[0004] A typical flexible display device may have a stack structure in which a plurality of members are stacked, and may include an optically transparent coupling member coupling the plurality of members to each other. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a display panel; a first component disposed on the display panel; a second component disposed below the display panel; a first adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the first component; and a second adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the second component. A spacer is disposed in the second adhesive layer.

[0006] In an embodiment of the present invention, both the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer include a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second adhesive layer has a light transmittance lower than that of the first adhesive layer.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a folding area; a first non-folding area, arranged on a first side of the folding area; a second non-folding area, arranged on a second side of the folding area; a first surface; and a second surface, facing away from the first surface of the display device. The first member has a first surface facing the first adhesive layer and a second surface facing away from the first surface of the first member. The second member has a first surface facing the second adhesive layer and a second surface facing away from the first surface of the second member, and the first surface and the second surface of the display device are respectively the second surface of the first member and the second surface of the second member.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device is configured to be folded, and when the display device is in a folded state, a first surface of the display device in the first non-folding region and a first surface of the display device in the second non-folding region face each other.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present invention, when the display device is in the folded state, the side surface of the display panel is disposed on the inner side of the side surface of the first member in the first non-folding area.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present invention, when the display device is in a folded state, the thickness of the second adhesive layer in the first unfolded region is greater than that in the folded region.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present invention, the spacers have a spherical shape, and when the display device is in a folded state, a diameter of each of the spacers is about 60% to about 88% of a thickness of the second adhesive layer in the first non-folding region.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second adhesive layer has a first surface facing the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the second adhesive layer, and when the display device is in a folded state, the spacer contacts the first surface and the second surface of the second adhesive layer in the folding area.

[0014] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first member includes an upper functional member, a third adhesive layer and a window. The upper functional member is disposed on the display panel. The third adhesive layer is disposed on the upper functional member, and the window is disposed on the third adhesive layer.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second component includes a film layer, a fourth adhesive layer and a buffer layer. The film layer is disposed below the display panel. The fourth adhesive layer is disposed below the film layer, and the buffer layer is disposed below the fourth adhesive layer.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present invention, the spacer is further disposed in the fourth adhesive layer.

[0017] In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device is configured to be folded, and when the display device is in the folded state, the second surface of the display device in the first non-folding region and the second surface of the display device in the second non-folding region face each other.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a first folding area; a second folding area; a first non-folding area, arranged between the first folding area and the second folding area; a second non-folding area, separated from the first non-folding area by the first folding area; a third non-folding area, separated from the first non-folding area by the second folding area; a first surface; and a second surface, facing away from the first surface of the display device. The first member has a first surface facing the first adhesive layer and a second surface facing away from the first surface of the first member. The second member has a first surface facing the second adhesive layer and a second surface facing away from the first surface of the second member, and the first surface and the second surface of the display device are respectively the second surface of the first member and the second surface of the second member.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the first surface of the display device in the second non-folding area face each other, and the first surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the first surface of the display device in the third non-folding area face each other.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present invention, a first surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and a first surface of the display device in the second non-folding area face each other, and a second surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and a second surface of the display device in the third non-folding area face each other.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present invention, the spacer includes spherical plastic beads, spherical silica, rod-shaped glass fibers and / or plastic-like materials, and the plastic-like materials may include polymers or cross-linked products of divinylbenzene monomers, benzoguanamine monomers and styrene monomers.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a display panel; a first member disposed on the display panel; a second member disposed below the display panel; a first adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the first member; and a second adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the second member. A spacer is disposed in the second adhesive layer. The first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer both include a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The display device is configured to be folded, and when the display device is in a folded state, the thickness of the second adhesive layer in a curved portion of the display device is smaller than the thickness in a non-curved portion of the display device. The diameter of each of the spacers is about 60% to about 88% of the thickness of the second adhesive layer in the non-curved portion of the display device.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second adhesive layer has a first surface facing the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the second adhesive layer. When the display device is in a folded state, the spacer contacts the first and second surfaces of the second adhesive layer in the bent portion.

[0024] In an embodiment of the present invention, the spacers are in contact with each other. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The above and other embodiments and features of the present invention will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A perspective view showing a folding operation of the display device;

[0028] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II';

[0029] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 an enlarged cross-sectional view of region A;

[0030] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 an enlarged cross-sectional view of region B;

[0031] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display device in a folded state;

[0032] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display panel, a second adhesive layer, and a second member;

[0033] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 6 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display panel, a second adhesive layer, and a second member;

[0034] Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 8 an enlarged cross-sectional view of a region E;

[0035] Fig.10 It is shown Figure 1 A graph showing a change in thickness of a second adhesive layer in a display device in a folded state;

[0036] Fig.11 It is shown Figure 7 an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion C;

[0037] Fig.12 It is shown Figure 8 an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion D of FIG.

[0038] Fig.13 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of impact resistance in a second adhesive layer of a display device;

[0039] Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a folded state;

[0040] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A partial cross-sectional view of a display device;

[0041] Fig.16 yes Fig.14 A partial cross-sectional view of a display device in a folded state;

[0042] Fig.17 It is shown Fig.14 A graph showing a change in thickness of a second adhesive layer in a display device in a folded state;

[0043] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a folded state; and

[0044] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a folded state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The specific structure and function description of the embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein are only for the illustrative purpose of the embodiments of the present invention. Without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, the present invention can be implemented in many different forms. Therefore, the embodiments of the present invention are disclosed only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0046] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another element, the element may be directly coupled or connected to the other element, or there may be intervening elements between them. Conversely, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "directly coupled" or "directly connected" to another element, there are no intervening elements. Other expressions describing the relationship between elements (such as "between," "directly between," "adjacent to," or "directly adjacent to") should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0047] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals will refer to the same or like parts, and thus, repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0048] It will be understood that, although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be named as the second element, component, region, layer or part without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0049] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, "one", "one (kind / person)", "said (the)" and "at least one (kind / person)" do not represent a limitation of quantity, but are intended to include both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "At least one (kind / person)" will not be interpreted as limiting "one" or "one (kind / person)". "Or" means "and / or". As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combination and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0050] In addition, spatial relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element as shown in the figure. It will be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device other than the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in one of the figures in the figure is turned over, the element described as being on the "lower" side of the other element will then be positioned on the "upper" side of the other element. Therefore, depending on the specific orientation of the figure, the example term "lower" may include both "lower" and "upper" orientations. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures in the figure is turned over, the element described as being "below" or "below" the other element will then be positioned as "above" the other element. Therefore, the example terms "below..." or "below..." may include both "above" and "below" orientations.

[0051] As used herein, "approximately" or "substantially" is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurement in question and errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (e.g., limitations of the measurement system). For example, "approximately" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, or ±5% of the stated value.

[0052] Embodiments are described herein with reference to the cross-sectional views as schematic diagrams of embodiments of the present invention. In this way, variations in the shapes of the diagrams, such as those caused by manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, will be expected. Therefore, the embodiments of the present invention described herein should not be interpreted as being limited to the specific shapes of the regions shown herein, but will include deviations in shapes, such as those caused by manufacturing. For example, a region shown or described as flat may have rough and / or nonlinear features. In addition, for example, the acute angles (pointed corners) shown may be rounded (rounded). Therefore, the regions shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shapes of the regions. In addition, the regions shown are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 , the display device 1 may be a foldable display device. As used herein, the term "foldable" means flexible and includes states of being bendable, rollable, etc. The term "foldable" also includes various states of being foldable, such as partially foldable, wholly foldable, foldable inwardly, and foldable outwardly.

[0056] The display device 1 may have a folding axis AXIS_F extending across the display device 1 in a plan view. For example, the folding axis AXIS_F may extend in the second direction DR2. The display device 1 may be bent (or folded) along the folding axis AXIS_F.

[0057] The display device 1 may have a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view. For example, the display device 1 may be in a rectangular shape with right angles or rounded (rounded) corners in a plan view. The display device 1 may have four sides (LS1, LS2, SS1, and SS2). The display device 1 may have two long sides (i.e., a first long side LS1 and a second long side LS2) and two short sides (i.e., a first short side SS1 and a second short side SS2). For example, the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 may extend in a first direction DR1, and the first short side SS1 and the second short side SS2 may extend in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown in , the folding axis AXIS_F may extend in a direction extending across the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 (for example, in the second direction DR2). In this case, the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 may be folded. In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the folding axis AXIS_F may extend across the first short side SS1 and the second short side SS2, in which case the first short side SS1 and the second short side SS2 may be folded. For convenience, the folding axis AXIS_F will be described below as extending across the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2. For example, the folding axis AXIS_F may pass through the center of the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0059] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "on", "above" and "top surface" refer to the display direction, the terms "below" and "bottom surface" refer to the opposite direction of the display direction, and the terms "top" (or "up"), "bottom" (or "down"), "left" and "right" refer to their corresponding directions relative to the display surface when viewed from above the display surface.

[0060] The display device 1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA arranged around the display area DA. The display area DA is an area where an image is displayed, and the non-display area NDA is an area where no image is displayed. For example, the display area DA may be located in the middle of the display device 1. When the display device 1 is folded, the parts of the display area DA divided by the folding axis AXIS_F may overlap each other. Then, when the display device 1 is unfolded, the display device 1 may display a screen with its unfolded part. The non-display area NDA may include a pad (or "pad" or "solder pad") area connected to a printed circuit board. In the pad area, a plurality of pads may be provided, and the plurality of pads may be electrically connected to the leads of the printed circuit board.

[0061] A groove (eg, notch) may be formed in a portion where the folding axis AXIS_F of the display device 1 meets the first and second long sides LS1 and LS2. For example, a hinge member or the like may be coupled to the groove for switching the state of the display device 1, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0062] As will be referred to later Figure 3 As described, the folding region FR and the first and second non-folding regions NFR1 and NFR2 may be disposed on the display device 1 based on the folding axis AXIS_F.

[0063] For example, the display device 1 may include a folding region FR and a first non-folding region NFR1 and a second non-folding region NFR2 spaced apart from each other by the folding region FR. In addition, the folding region FR includes a folding axis AXIS_F. The first non-folding region NFR1 may be disposed on one side of the folding region FR along a first direction DR1, and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be disposed on the other side of the folding region FR along the first direction DR1.

[0064] The folding region FR may be a region that is folded or bent with a predetermined curvature in the folding direction of the display device 1 when the display device 1 is folded, and the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be regions that are not folded when the display device 1 is folded. The first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be disposed on a flat surface that together forms the same plane when the display device 1 is unfolded, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be partially bent.

[0065] The display device 1 may include a first surface 1a and a second surface 1b (see FIG. Figure 2 The first surface 1a may be a first member 200 ( Figure 3The surface of the first member 200) is adjacent to the first member 200 facing the first adhesive layer 410 ( Figure 3 The other surface of the first adhesive layer 410 of the second member 300 ( Figure 3 The surface of the second member 300) is adjacent to the second member 300 facing the second adhesive layer 420 ( Figure 3 The other surface of the second adhesive layer 420 is facing away.

[0066] The folding of the display device 1 will be described below.

[0067] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A perspective view showing the folding operation of the device.

[0068] Reference Figure 2 When an external force is applied along the folding direction of the display device 1 (for example, the vertical direction or the third direction DR3) during the folding operation of the display device 1, the display device 1 is bent or folded in the folding region FR, and the first non-folding region NFR1 can move or rotate relative to the folding direction of the display device 1, and thus can overlap with or face the second non-folding region NFR2.

[0069] The display device 1 may be folded in the folding region FR so that the first surface 1 a of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the first surface 1 a of the second non-folding region NFR2 may face each other.

[0070] For example, Figure 2 The display device 1 is shown to be folded inwardly so that the first surface 1a of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the first surface 1a of the second non-folding region NFR2 can face each other, and the second surface 1b of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second surface 1b of the second non-folding region NFR2 can be positioned in opposite directions to each other. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display device 1 can be folded outwardly so that the second surface 1b of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second surface 1b of the second non-folding region NFR2 can be folded to face each other, and the first surface 1a of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the first surface 1a of the second non-folding region NFR2 can be positioned in opposite directions to each other.

[0071] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of area A. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of area B. Figure 6 yes Figure 1A cross-sectional view of a display device in its folded state. Figure 7 It is shown Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display panel, a second adhesive layer, and a second member. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 6 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a display panel, a second adhesive layer, and a second member. Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 8 An enlarged cross-sectional view of area E. Fig.10 It is shown Figure 1 A graph showing a change in thickness of the second adhesive layer in a display device in a folded state thereof. Fig.11 It is shown Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional view of portion C of FIG. Fig.12 It is shown Figure 8 An enlarged cross-sectional view of portion D of FIG. Fig.13 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the impact resistance of the second adhesive layer of the display device. Fig.10 , the horizontal axis represents the display device 1 from a short side of the display device 1 (for example, Figure 1 The first short side SS1 of the display device 1 extends to another short side (eg, Figure 1 The vertical axis represents the length direction of the second short side SS2 of the display device 1, and the vertical axis represents the thickness of the adhesive layer of the display device 1.

[0072] Reference Figures 3 to 13 , the display device 1 may include a display panel 100, a first member 200, a second member 300, a first adhesive layer 410, and a second adhesive layer 420 disposed between the display panel 100 and the second member 300. The first member 200 is disposed on the display panel 100. The second member 300 is disposed under the display panel 100. The first adhesive layer 410 is disposed between the display panel 100 and the first member 200. The first adhesive layer 410 may combine the display panel 100 and the first member 200 with each other, and the second adhesive layer 420 may combine the display panel 100 and the second member 300 with each other. For example, the first adhesive layer 410 and the second adhesive layer 420 may each include a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0073] In the case where the display device 1 is a top-emitting display device, the first adhesive layer 410 disposed on the display panel 100 may have a relatively high light transmittance. Therefore, the light transmittance of the first adhesive layer 410 may be higher than the light transmittance of the second adhesive layer 420, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the light transmittance of the first adhesive layer 410 may be the same as the light transmittance of the second adhesive layer 420. For example, the first adhesive layer 410 may include an optically clear resin (OCR) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA).

[0074] The first member 200 may include an upper functional member 210, a window 220, and a protective film 230 disposed on the window 220. The upper functional member 210 is disposed on the display panel 100. The window 220 is disposed on the upper functional member 210. The first member 200 may also include a third adhesive layer 411 and a fourth adhesive layer 412, the third adhesive layer 411 being disposed between the upper functional member 210 and the window 220 to combine the upper functional member 210 and the window 220 with each other, and the fourth adhesive layer 412 being disposed between the window 220 and the protective film 230 to combine the window 220 and the protective film 230 with each other. The third adhesive layer 411 and the fourth adhesive layer 412 may both include PSA. In the case where the display device 1 is a top-emitting display device, the transmittance of the third adhesive layer 411 and the fourth adhesive layer 412 may be higher than the transmittance of the second adhesive layer 420 and the fifth adhesive layer 421, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the third adhesive layer 411 and the fourth adhesive layer 412 may both include OCR or OCA.

[0075] The second member 300 may include a pattern film (or referred to as a film layer) 510 and a buffer layer 520, the pattern film 510 being disposed below the display panel 100, and the buffer layer 520 being disposed below the pattern film 510. The second member 300 may also include a fifth adhesive layer 421 disposed between the pattern film 510 and the buffer layer 520 to bond the pattern film 510 and the buffer layer 520 to each other. The fifth adhesive layer 421 may include PSA. Without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, the description of the second adhesive layer 420 herein may also be applied to the fifth adhesive layer 421.

[0076] The display panel 100 may be disposed in the folding region FR and the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 and span the folding region FR and the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2. An organic light emitting diode (OLED) display panel, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a plasma display panel (PDP), an electrophoretic display (EPD) panel, an electrowetting display panel, a quantum dot light emitting diode (QLED) display panel, a micro-light emitting diode (micro-LED) display panel, a nano-light emitting diode (nano-LED) display panel, etc. may be used as the display panel 100. The display panel 100 will be described hereinafter as, for example, an OLED display panel.

[0077] The display panel 100 may include a flexible substrate including, for example, a flexible polymer material such as polyimide (PI). Therefore, the display panel 100 may be bent, curved, folded, or curled. The display panel 100 may have a shape similar to the display device 1 in a plan view. A plurality of pixels may be provided in an area of ​​the display panel 100 overlapping with the display area DA, and a signal line for applying a signal to the pixel and / or the driving circuit may be provided in an area of ​​the display panel 100 overlapping with the non-display area NDA.

[0078] The pixel may include a light emitting layer and a circuit layer that controls the amount of light emitted by the light emitting layer. The circuit layer may include a plurality of lines, a plurality of electrodes, and at least one transistor. In an embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting layer may include an organic light emitting material. The light emitting layer may be sealed by an encapsulation film. The encapsulation film may prevent moisture from penetrating from the outside by sealing the light emitting layer. The encapsulation film may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer inorganic film or a stacked film in which an inorganic film and an organic film are alternately stacked.

[0079] The first member 200 may be disposed on the display panel 100. As already mentioned above, the first member 200 may include an upper functional member 210 disposed on the display panel 100, a window 220 disposed on the upper functional member 210, and a protective film 230 disposed on the window 220. The upper functional member 210 may include a touch member and / or an optical member such as a polarizing film.

[0080] The window 220 covers and protects the components below, for example, the display panel 100, the upper functional member 210 and the second member 300. The window 220 may be formed of, for example, glass, quartz, etc. The thickness of the window 220 may be less than about 100 μm. In an embodiment of the present invention, the window 220 may include ultra-thin glass (UTG).

[0081] The protection film 230 disposed on the window 220 may cover and protect underlying components including the window 220 and the upper functional member 210 .

[0082] The second member 300 may be disposed under the display panel 100. As already mentioned above, the second member 300 may include a pattern film 510 disposed under the display panel 100 and a buffer layer 520 disposed under the pattern film 510. The pattern film 510 may include, for example, polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The buffer layer 520 may include, for example, a foam-type buffer material.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the light L generated by the display panel 100 a The light may be emitted upward through the first adhesive layer 410 and the first member 200 .

[0084] When the display device 1 is folded, the folding region FR and the first and second non-folding regions NFR1 and NFR2 may be divided by the curvature radii of the elements of the display device 1 (eg, the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300). Figure 6 As shown in , the first member 200, the display panel 100 and the second member 300 may be bent to have different radii of curvature from each other, for example, a first radius of curvature R1, a second radius of curvature R2 and a third radius of curvature R3. For example, the first radius of curvature R1, the second radius of curvature R2 and the third radius of curvature R3 may each be substantially uniform. For example, the first member 200, the display panel 100 and the second member 300 may each form an arc to form the first radius of curvature R1, the second radius of curvature R2 and the third radius of curvature R3 based on the center point CP, respectively. Portions of the display panel 100, the first member 200 and the second member 300 having different radii of curvature from the center point CP may form a folding region FR.

[0085] The curvature radius of the display device 1 may increase from the first curvature radius R1 to the second curvature radius R2 to the third curvature radius R3. In other words, the first curvature radius R1 may be the smallest, the second curvature radius R2 may be between the first curvature radius R1 and the third curvature radius R3, and the third curvature radius R3 may be the largest.

[0086] In the folding region FR of the first member 200, the surface of the first member 200 adjacent to the center point CP may have a semicircular shape having a first radius of curvature R1 that is substantially uniform from the center point CP. In this case, the length of the folding region FR of the first member 200 may be π×R1. In the folding region FR of the display panel 100, the surface of the display panel 100 adjacent to the center point CP may have a semicircular shape having a second radius of curvature R2 that is substantially uniform from the center point CP. In this case, the length of the folding region FR of the display panel 100 may be π×R2. In the folding region FR of the second member 300, the surface of the second member 300 adjacent to the center point CP may have a semicircular shape having a third radius of curvature R3 that is substantially uniform from the center point CP. In this case, the length of the folding region FR of the second member 300 may be π×R3. Since the curvature radius of the display device 1 increases from the first curvature radius R1 to the second curvature radius R2 to the third curvature radius R3, the length of the folding region FR of the display device 1 may increase from the first member 200 to the display panel 100 and from the display panel 100 to the second member 300 .

[0087] Figure 6It is shown that when the display device 1 is folded, the boundary between the folding region FR in each of the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300 and the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 is aligned in the thickness direction (or third direction DR3) of the display device 1. For example, when the display device 1 is folded, the boundary between the folding region FR in each of the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300 and the first non-folding region NFR1 is aligned with the boundary between the folding region FR in each of the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300 and the second non-folding region NFR2 in the third direction DR3.

[0088] In an embodiment of the present invention, the lengths of the folding regions FR of the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300 may have a predetermined error value reflected therein. For example, the length of the folding region FR of the first member 200 may be π×R1±(4mm~5mm), the length of the folding region FR of the display panel 100 may be π×R2±(4mm~5mm), and the length of the folding region FR of the second member 300 may be π×R3±(4mm~5mm).

[0089] like Figure 3 As shown in , when the display device 1 is unfolded, the side of each of the display panel 100, the first member 200 and the second member 300 may be aligned in the thickness direction (or the third direction DR3) of the display device 1. For example, the display panel 100, the first member 200 and the second member 300 may have the same length so that when the display device 1 is unfolded, their sides may be aligned in the thickness direction of the display device 1. However, since the length of the folding region FR of the display device 1 increases from the first member 200 to the display panel 100 and increases from the display panel 100 to the second member 300, the length of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may decrease from the first member 200 to the display panel 100 and decrease from the display panel 100 to the second member 300.

[0090] Regardless of whether the display device 1 is folded or unfolded, the display panel 100 , the first member 200 , and the second member 300 may maintain the same length, for example, the length L1 .

[0091] Therefore, when the display device 1 is folded, the boundaries between the folding region FR of each of the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300 and the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be aligned in the thickness direction (or the third direction DR3) of the display device 1, but the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 of the display device 1 may be recessed in a step-like manner from the first member 200 to the display panel 100 and from the display panel 100 to the second member 300 in the opposite direction of the first direction DR1. For example, the end of the display panel 100 disposed on the first member 200 is recessed relative to the end of the first member 200, and the end of the second member 300 disposed on the display panel 100 is more recessed than the end of the display panel 100.

[0092] The length by which the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 of the display panel 100 are recessed from the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 of the first member 200 may be defined as a first recessed length X 1 , and the length by which the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 of the second member 300 are recessed from the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 of the display panel 100 may be defined as a second recessed length X 2 .

[0093] In order to achieve the first recess length X 1 The length of the first member 200 can be changed by the force toward the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 to the first recessed length X 1 The length of the display panel 100 may be changed by the force toward the center of the folding region FR by the same amount as the first recessed length X. 1 The same amount as part or all of.

[0094] Similarly, to achieve the second recess length X 2 , the length of the display panel 100 may be changed by the force toward the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 to the second recessed length X 2 The length of the second member 300 may be changed by a force toward the center of the folding region FR by the second recessed length X 2 as much as part or all of the above.

[0095] A force applied to the display panel 100 and the second member 300 in opposite directions relative to each other and a force applied to the display panel 100 and the first member 200 in opposite directions relative to each other may cause torsional stress to the first adhesive layer 410 and the second adhesive layer 420. As portions of the first adhesive layer 410 and the second adhesive layer 420 adjacent to the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300 move in response to relative movement of the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300 relative to each other, the torsional stress may be relieved.

[0096] Reference Figure 8 , a line passing through the center point CP to divide the folding region FR into two halves may be a first reference line CL 1 A line passing through the center point CP, the boundary between the folding region FR and the first non-folding region NFR1, and the boundary between the folding region FR and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be a second reference line CL 2 .

[0097] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the display panel 100 may have a first panel length L 100FR and the second panel length L 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 . The first panel length L 100FR In the folding region FR, and the second panel length L 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 In the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2, respectively. The second member 300 may have a (1-1)th member length L 300FR and the length L of the (1-2)th component 300NFR1 and L 300NFR2 . The length of the (1-1) component is L 300FR In the folding region FR, and the (1-2)th component length L 300NFR1 and L 300NFR2 In the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 respectively. The first panel length L 100FR Can be less than the length L of the (1-1)th component 300FR , and the second panel length L 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 Can be greater than the length L of the (1-2)th component 300NFR1 and L 300NFR2 .

[0098] like Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. , in order to achieve the second recess length X 2, the length of the display panel 100 may be changed by the force toward the ends of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 to the second recessed length X 2 The same amount as the part in 22 ), and the length of the second member 300 can be changed by a force toward the center of the folding region FR to correspond to the second recessed length X 2 The same amount as the rest of the 21 ). Therefore, the end of the second member 300 may be recessed from the end of the display panel 100 by a second recessed length X 2 So many.

[0099] Reference Figure 7 , the second adhesive layer 420 may have a first thickness t 1 When the display device 1 is unfolded, the second adhesive layer 420 may have a substantially uniform thickness, for example, a first thickness t 1 The first thickness t of the second adhesive layer 420 is 1 It may be about 10 μm to about 100 μm.

[0100] like Figures 11 to 13 As shown in , the second adhesive layer 420 may include spacers SP distributed in the second adhesive layer 420. The spacers SP may increase the impact resistance of the display device 1. In addition, the first adhesive layer 410 may not include the spacers SP. Therefore, the light transmittance of the first adhesive layer 410 may be prevented from being reduced due to the presence of the spacers SP.

[0101] In an embodiment of the present invention, the spacer SP may be disposed in the fifth adhesive layer 421 .

[0102] In an embodiment of the present invention, the spacers SP may have a circular shape in a plan view and may actually have a spherical shape. When the display device 1 is unfolded, the diameter t of each of the spacers SP is 3 may be smaller than the thickness of the second adhesive layer 420 (eg, the first thickness t 1 ).

[0103] However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the spacer SP may have a rectangular shape, a square shape, a non-quadrangular polygonal shape, or an elliptical shape in a plan view. In an embodiment of the present invention in which the spacer SP has a non-circular shape in a plan view, the portion having the maximum width of each of the spacers SP may correspond to the diameter t of the spacer SP. 3 .

[0104] In the embodiment of the present invention, the spacer SP may have a rod shape or a cylindrical shape.

[0105] For example, the spacer SP may include spherical plastic beads, spherical silica, rod-shaped glass fibers, or a plastic-like material, and the plastic-like material may include, for example, a polymer or a cross-linked product of a divinylbenzene monomer, a benzoguanamine monomer, and a styrene monomer.

[0106] When the display device 1 is folded inwardly, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 420 (eg, the second thickness t 2 ) may be different from the thickness of the second adhesive layer 420 (eg, the first thickness t 1 ).

[0107] Reference Fig.10 , the “In1.5R” portion corresponding to the folding region FR of the display device 1 is located at the center of the length d from the first short side SS1 to the second short side SS2 of the display device 1. The portion of the length d from 0 to the “In1.5R” portion may correspond to the first non-folding region NFR1 of the display device 1, and the portion exceeding the “In1.5R” portion may correspond to the second non-folding region NFR2 of the display device 1.

[0108] First reference line CL 1 Can be located in the "In1.5R" section.

[0109] When the display device 1 is folded, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 420 (ie, the second thickness t 2 ) The curve of the folding region FR and the first reference line CL 1 The intersection vertex may be smaller than that in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2.

[0110] The second thickness t 2 The first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be about 25 μm, and the curve of the folding region FR may be about 25 μm from the first reference line CL. 1 The intersection vertex may be about 22 μm. For example, at the intersection of the curve of the folding region FR and the first reference line CL 1 The second thickness t at the intersection vertex 2 The second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be 2 About 88%.

[0111] The diameter t of each of the spacers SP 3 The thickness of the second adhesive layer 420 when the display device 1 is folded (ie, the second thickness t 2 ) is related. The diameter t of the spacer SP 3 It may be smaller than the second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2. 2and the curve of the folding region FR and the first reference line CL 1 The second thickness t at the intersection vertex 2 The curve of the folding area FR is equal to or smaller than the first reference line CL. 1 The second thickness t at the intersection vertex 2 For example, the diameter t of each of the spacers SP is 3 The second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be 2 From about 60% to about 88%.

[0112] The diameter t of the spacer SP 3 The curve of the folding region FR and the first reference line CL 1 The second thickness t at the intersection vertex 2 In the same case, when the display device 1 is folded, the spacer SP may be in contact with both surfaces of the second adhesive layer 420 .

[0113] Fig.11 It is shown how the spacers SP are distributed in the second adhesive layer 420 when the display device 1 is in its unfolded state. Fig.12 shows how the spacers SP are distributed in the second adhesive layer 420 when the display device 1 is in its folded state, and Fig.13 It shows that when the display device 1 is Fig.12 How the spacer SP is distributed in the second adhesive layer 420 when its folded state is switched back to its unfolded state.

[0114] If the diameter t of each of the spacers SP 3 is the second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 2 60% or more, when the display device 1 is in its folded state (eg Fig.12 ) and switches from its collapsed state to its expanded state (as Fig.13 ), the spacers SP may be arranged in alignment with each other in the second adhesive layer 420. When the display device 1 is switched from its folded state to its unfolded state, the spacers SP tend to randomly disperse away from their aligned state. However, due to the diameter t 3 is the second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 2 60% or more of the folded state, the spacers SP can be prevented from being randomly scattered when the display device 1 is switched from its folded state to its unfolded state. Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown in , a plurality of spacers SP may be provided and the plurality of spacers SP may contact each other. Fig.13As shown in FIG. 4 , regardless of whether the display device 1 is in its folded state or switched from its folded state to its unfolded state, the display device 1 can provide uniformly increased impact resistance due to the second adhesive layer 420 .

[0115] In addition, since the diameter t of the spacer SP 3 is the second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 2 The spacer SP may not interfere with the movement of a portion of the second adhesive layer 420 adjacent to the display panel 100 and the second member 300 in response to the relative movement of the display panel 100, the first member 200, and the second member 300. In addition, stress of the display device 1 may be relieved.

[0116] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the display device according to the previous embodiment.

[0117] Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a folded state. Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A partial cross-sectional view of a display device. Fig.16 yes Fig.14 a partial cross-sectional view of a display device in its folded state, and Fig.17 It is shown Fig.14 A graph showing a change in thickness of the second adhesive layer in a display device in a folded state thereof.

[0118] Reference Figures 14 to 17 , the display device 2 is different from the display device 1 in that the display device 2 is folded outwardly so that parts of the second surface 1 b of the display device 2 face each other.

[0119] For example, the display panel 100 may have a first panel length L 100FR and the second panel length L 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 . The first panel length L 100FR In the folding region FR, and the second panel length L 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 In the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2, respectively. The second member 300 may have a (1-1)th member length L 300FR and the length L of the (1-2)th component 300NFR1 and L 300NFR2 . The length of the (1-1) component is L 300FR In the folding region FR, and the (1-2)th component length L 300NFR1 and L 300NFR2In the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 respectively. The first panel length L 100FR Can be greater than the length L of the (1-1)th component 300FR , and the second panel length L 100NFR1 and L 100NFR2 can be smaller than the length L of the (1-2)th component 300NFR1 and L 300NFR2 .

[0120] like Fig.16 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 , portions of a surface of the second member 300 opposite to a surface of the second member 300 facing the display panel 100 may face each other.

[0121] Reference Fig.17 , the "Out5R" portion corresponding to the folding region FR of the display device 2 is located at the center of the length d from the first short side SS1 to the second short side SS2 of the display device 2. The portion of the length d from 0 to the "Out5R" portion may correspond to the first non-folding region NFR1 of the display device 2, and the portion beyond the "Out5R" portion may correspond to the second non-folding region NFR2 of the display device 2.

[0122] First reference line CL 1 Can be located in the "Out5R" section.

[0123] When the display device 2 is folded, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 420 (ie, the second thickness t 2 ) The curve of the folding region FR and the first reference line CL 1 The intersection vertex may be smaller than that in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2.

[0124] The second thickness t 2 The first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be about 25 μm, and the curve of the folding region FR may be about 25 μm from the first reference line CL. 1 The intersection vertex may be about 24 μm. For example, at the intersection of the curve of the folding region FR and the first reference line CL 1 The second thickness t at the intersection vertex 2 The second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be 2 About 96% of

[0125] The diameter t of each of the spacers SP 3 The thickness of the second adhesive layer 420 when the display device 2 is folded (ie, the second thickness t 2 ) is related. The diameter t of each of the spacers SP3 It may be smaller than the second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2. 2 and the curve of the folding region FR and the first reference line CL 1 The second thickness t at the intersection vertex 2 The curve of the folding area FR is equal to or smaller than the first reference line CL. 1 The second thickness t at the intersection vertex 2 For example, the diameter t of each of the spacers SP is 3 The second thickness t in the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second non-folding region NFR2 may be 2 From about 60% to about 96%.

[0126] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a folded state. Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a folded state.

[0127] Fig.18 and Fig.19 Shows Figure 1 The display device 1 or Fig.14 The folding direction of the display device 2 can be changed.

[0128] Reference Fig.18 and Fig.19 In each of the display device 3 and the display device 4, a first folding region FR1, a second folding region FR2, a first non-folding region NFR1, a second non-folding region NFR2, and a third non-folding region NFR3 may be provided. The first non-folding region NFR1 is provided between the first folding region FR1 and the second folding region FR2. The second non-folding region NFR2 is separated from the first non-folding region NFR1 by the first folding region FR1. The third non-folding region NFR3 is separated from the first non-folding region NFR1 by the second folding region FR2.

[0129] Fig.18 Examples and Figure 1 and Figure 2 The embodiment differs in that the first surface 1a of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the first surface 1a of the second non-folding region NFR2 face each other, and the first surface 1a of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the first surface 1a of the third non-folding region NFR3 face each other.

[0130] Fig.19 Examples and Figure 1 and Figure 2The embodiment of the present invention is different in that the first surface 1a of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the first surface 1a of the second non-folding region NFR2 face each other, and the second surface 1b of the first non-folding region NFR1 and the second surface 1b of the third non-folding region NFR3 face each other. The display device 3 and the display device 4 are almost the same as the display device 1, and therefore, their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0131] While the present invention has been described with reference to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A folding area is an area that is folded or bent when the display device is folded; Display panel; A first component is arranged on the display panel; A second component is arranged below the display panel; A first adhesive layer, disposed between the display panel and the first component; as well as a second adhesive layer, disposed between the display panel and the second member, Wherein, a spacer is provided in the second adhesive layer, The spacer is disposed in the folding region, and When the display device is in an inwardly folded state, a diameter of each of the spacers is 60% to 88% of a thickness of the second adhesive layer in a non-bent portion of the display device.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer each include a pressure sensitive adhesive.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The second adhesive layer has a light transmittance lower than that of the first adhesive layer.

4. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising: a first unfolded region disposed on a first side of the folded region; a second unfolded region disposed on a second side of the folded region; a first surface; as well as a second surface, facing away from the first surface of the display device, wherein the first member has a first surface facing the first adhesive layer and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the first member, The second member has a first surface facing the second adhesive layer and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the second member, and The first surface and the second surface of the display device are the second surface of the first member and the second surface of the second member, respectively.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The display device is configured to be folded inwardly, and when the display device is in the inwardly folded state, the first surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the first surface of the display device in the second non-folding area face each other.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: When the display device is in the inwardly folded state, the side surface of the display panel is disposed on the inner side of the side surface of the first member in the first unfolded area.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: When the display device is in the inwardly folded state, the second adhesive layer has a thickness greater in the first unfolded region than in the folded region.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The spacer has a spherical shape.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: The second adhesive layer has a first surface facing the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the second adhesive layer, and When the display device is in the inwardly folded state, the spacer contacts the first surface and the second surface of the second adhesive layer in the folded region.

10. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The first member includes an upper functional member, a third adhesive layer, and a window, wherein the upper functional member is disposed on the display panel, wherein the third adhesive layer is disposed on the upper functional member, and wherein the window is disposed on the third adhesive layer.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The second component includes a film layer, a fourth adhesive layer and a buffer layer, wherein the film layer is disposed on the display panel, wherein the fourth adhesive layer is disposed on the film layer, and wherein the buffer layer is disposed on the fourth adhesive layer.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The spacer is also disposed in the fourth adhesive layer.

13. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The display device is configured to be folded outwardly, and when the display device is in an outwardly folded state, the second surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the second surface of the display device in the second non-folding area face each other.

14. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The folding area includes a first folding area and a second folding area, Wherein, the display device further includes: A first non-folding area, arranged between the first folding area and the second folding area; a second unfolded region, spaced apart from the first unfolded region by the first folded region; a third non-folding region, separated from the first non-folding region by the second folding region; a first surface; and a second surface, facing away from the first surface of the display device, wherein the first member has a first surface facing the first adhesive layer and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the first member, The second member has a first surface facing the second adhesive layer and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the second member, and The first surface and the second surface of the display device are the second surface of the first member and the second surface of the second member, respectively.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The first surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the first surface of the display device in the second non-folding area face each other, and The first surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the first surface of the display device in the third non-folding area face each other.

16. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The first surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the first surface of the display device in the second non-folding area face each other, and The second surface of the display device in the first non-folding area and the second surface of the display device in the third non-folding area face each other.

17. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The spacers include spherical plastic beads, spherical silica, rod-shaped glass fibers and / or plastic-like materials, and The plastic material includes a polymer or a cross-linked product of a divinylbenzene monomer, a benzoguanamine monomer and a styrene monomer.

18. A display device, comprising: A folding area is an area that is folded or bent when the display device is folded; Display panel; A first component is arranged on the display panel; A second component is arranged below the display panel; A first adhesive layer, disposed between the display panel and the first component; as well as a second adhesive layer, disposed between the display panel and the second member, in, The second adhesive layer is provided with a spacer, The spacer is disposed in the folding region, The first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer each include a pressure-sensitive adhesive, The display device is configured to be folded outwardly, and when the display device is in the outwardly folded state, the thickness of the second adhesive layer in the curved portion of the display device is smaller than the thickness in the non-curved portion of the display device, and A diameter of each of the spacers is 60% to 96% of the thickness of the second adhesive layer in the non-bending portion of the display device.

19. The display device according to claim 18, wherein: The second adhesive layer has a first surface facing the display panel and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the second adhesive layer, and When the display device is in the outward folded state, the spacer is in contact with the first surface and the second surface of the second adhesive layer in the bent portion of the display device.

20. The display device according to claim 18, wherein: The spacers are in contact with each other.

Images