Bending test device and bending test method using the same

Abstract

The present application provides a bending test device and a bending test method using the bending test device. The bending test device includes a clamp, a shaft member, a driving member, a sliding member, and a guide rail member, wherein the clamp includes first to third support members arranged in a first direction; the shaft member includes first, second, and third shafts extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and connected to the first to third support members, respectively; the driving member is connected to the first shaft and provides a rotational force to the first shaft; the sliding member includes first and second sliders connected to the second and third shafts, respectively; and the guide rail member extends in the first direction and guides the movement of the first and second sliders. When the first shaft rotates the first support member in a first rotational direction, the second and third support members rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and interest in Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0055604, filed on May 11, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a bending test apparatus and a bending test method using the bending test apparatus. Background Technology

[0004] Flexible equipment is characterized by its ability to be flexibly bent for user convenience. However, due to bending stress, such flexible equipment may be damaged, destroyed, or deformed, necessitating bending characteristic testing or durability testing for bending stress resistance.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to develop an apparatus and method for testing the reliability of flexible displays, flexible display panels, flexible substrates, base substrates of flexible substrates, and flexible devices composed of the listed components.

[0006] It should be understood that this background section is partly intended to provide useful context for understanding the technology. However, this background section may also include ideas, concepts, or knowledge that were not known or understood by a person skilled in the art prior to the relevant valid application date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure provides a bending test apparatus capable of performing various types of bending tests and a bending test method using the bending test apparatus.

[0008] This disclosure also provides a bending test apparatus that can reduce equipment manufacturing and maintenance costs, and a bending test method using the bending test apparatus.

[0009] However, the aspects of this disclosure are not limited to those set forth herein. These and other aspects of the disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the following detailed description of the disclosure.

[0010] An embodiment of a bending test apparatus can include a clamp, a shaft member, a driving member, a sliding member, and a guide rail member, wherein the clamp includes a first support member, a second support member rotatably connected to one side of the first support member, and a third support member rotatably connected to the other side of the first support member, wherein the first support member, the second support member, and the third support member are arranged in a first direction; the shaft member includes a first shaft, a second shaft, and a third shaft, wherein the first shaft, the second shaft, and the third shaft extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are connected to the first support member, the second support member, and the third support member, respectively; the driving member is connected to the first shaft and provides a rotational force to the first shaft; the sliding member includes a first slider and a second slider connected to the second shaft and the third shaft, respectively; and the guide rail member extends in the first direction and guides a movement of the first slider and a movement of the second slider, wherein when the first shaft rotates the first support member in a first rotational direction, the second support member and the third support member rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0011] The second support member and the third support member can be separated from the first support member by different gaps.

[0012] One side of the first support member can be rotated upward, the other side of the first support member can be rotated downward, and a gap between the first support member and the second support member can be greater than a gap between the first support member and the third support member.

[0013] A radius of curvature of a test target can determine the gap between the first support member and the second support member, and can determine the gap between the first support member and the third support member.

[0014] The bending test apparatus can further include a first connecting member connecting the first support member to the second support member, and a second connecting member connecting the first support member to the third support member.

[0015] The first connecting member can include a pair of first gears connected to the first support member and the second support member, respectively, and the second connecting member can include a pair of second gears connected to the first support member and the third support member, respectively.

[0016] One side of the first support member can be rotated upward, the other side of the first support member can be rotated downward, and a size of the pair of first gears of the first connecting member can be greater than a size of the pair of second gears of the second connecting member.

[0017] A radius of curvature of a test target can determine the size of the pair of first gears of the first connecting member and the size of the pair of second gears of the second connecting member.

[0018] The guide rail member can include a first guide rail guiding the first slider and a second guide rail guiding the second slider.

[0019] The first guide rail and the second guide rail can be respectively disposed at different distances from the clamp.

[0020] The first guide rail and the second guide rail can at least partially overlap each other in the second direction.

[0021] The first guide rail and the second guide rail can be disposed at the same height.

[0022] When the first support member is rotatable in the first rotational direction, the second shaft and the third shaft can move toward the first shaft.

[0023] The second shaft and the third shaft can move parallel to the first direction.

[0024] When the first support member is rotated in the first rotational direction, the first slider and the second slider of the sliding member can move toward the first shaft.

[0025] The first slider and the second slider of the sliding member can be respectively disposed at different distances from the clamp.

[0026] When the first support member is rotated in the first rotational direction, the clamp can be transformed into a first folded state such that lower surfaces of the first support member and the second support member can face each other and upper surfaces of the first support member and the third support member can face each other.

[0027] When the first support member is rotated in the second rotational direction in the first folded state, the clamp can be transformed into a second folded state such that upper surfaces of the first support member and the second support member can face each other and lower surfaces of the first support member and the third support member can face each other.

[0028] An embodiment of a bending test device can include a first support member, a second support member disposed on one side of the first support member in a first direction, a third support member disposed on the other side of the first support member in the first direction, a pair of first gears respectively connected to an edge of the first support member in the first direction and to an edge of the second support member in the first direction, and a pair of second gears respectively connected to the other edge of the first support member in the first direction and to an edge of the third support member in the first direction, wherein the first support member rotates the pair of first gears to move a position of the edge of the second support member in the first direction, and the first support member rotates the pair of second gears to move a position of the edge of the third support member in the first direction.

[0029] Embodiments of a bending test method can include arranging a test target on a jig including a first support member connected to a first shaft, a second support member connected to a second shaft, and a third support member connected to a third shaft, rotating the first support member in a first rotational direction by the first shaft, rotating the second support member in a second rotational direction by a first connecting member connecting the first support member and the second support member, rotating the third support member in the second rotational direction by a second connecting member connecting the first support member and the third support member, and causing the jig to be in a folded state.

[0030] A bending test apparatus and a bending test method using the same according to various embodiments can perform various types of bending tests.

[0031] A bending test apparatus and a bending test method using the same according to various embodiments can reduce equipment manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0032] Effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and various other effects are included in the specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0033] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a flexible display panel related to a bending test apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0035] Figure 2 is a perspective view of Figure 1 a flexible display panel in a folded state;

[0036] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of Figure 1 ;

[0037] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a bending test apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0038] Figure 5 is a plan view of Figure 4 a bending test apparatus;

[0039] Figures 6 to 8 is a view showing a jig member of Figure 1 a bending test apparatus being converted from an unfolded state to a first folded state;

[0040] Figures 9 to 11 is a view showing a jig member of Figure 1 a bending test apparatus being converted from an unfolded state to a second folded state; and

[0041] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating a bending test method using a bending test apparatus of Figure 4 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the disclosure are shown. The present disclosure may, however, be embodied in different forms, and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0043] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout the disclosure, the expression "at least one of a, b or c" means a, b, c alone, only a and b, only a and c, only b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0044] The terms "and" and "or" can be used in the inclusive and exclusive sense, and can be understood to be equivalent to "and / or". In the specification and claims, the phrase "at least one of" is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from the group of...". For example, "at least one of A and B" can be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B".

[0045] Expressions used in the singular encompass their plural counterparts, unless they plainly denote a different meaning in the context.

[0046] In this specification, it is to be understood that terms such as "include," "have," and "comprise" and their conjugates are intended to indicate the existence of the features or components mentioned in the specification, but are not intended to exclude the possibility of one or more other features or components being present or being added.

[0047] It will also be understood that when a layer is referred to as being "on" another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or intervening layers can also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements present. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity.

[0048] ​While the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, a first element discussed below may be referred to as a second element without departing from the teachings of one or more embodiments. Describing an element as a “first” element does not require or imply the existence of a second element or other elements. The terms “first,” “second,” etc., may also be used herein to distinguish elements of different categories or groups. For the sake of brevity, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may respectively refer to “first class (or first group),” “second class (or second group),” etc.

[0049] In the following embodiments, when layers, regions, or elements are referred to as being “connected,” it should be understood that they may be directly connected, or there may be interposers between layers, regions, or elements. For example, when layers, regions, or elements are referred to as being “electrically connected,” they may be directly electrically connected, or layers, regions, or elements may be indirectly electrically connected and there may be interposers.

[0050] Furthermore, terms such as "below," "lower part," "above," and "upper part" are used to describe the relationships of the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are used as relative concepts and can be described with reference to the directions indicated in the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Furthermore, when a layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element is referred to as being below another layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element, it may be directly below the other layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element, or an intermediate layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element may exist therein. Conversely, when a layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element is referred to as being directly below another layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element, an intermediate layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element may not exist between them. Additionally, "above" or "on" can include being positioned above or below an object, and does not necessarily imply a direction based on gravity.

[0052] The spatially relative terms “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” etc., are used herein for convenience in describing the relationship between one element or component and another, as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations shown in the drawings, the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, in the case where the device shown in the figures is flipped, a device located “below” or “under” another device can be placed “above” another device. Therefore, the illustrative term “below” can include both a lower position and an upper position. The device may also be oriented in other directions, and therefore the spatially relative terms can be interpreted differently depending on the orientation.

[0053] Additionally, the term "overlapping" or "overlap" means that a first object can be above or below a second object or to the side of the second object, or vice versa. Additionally, the term "overlapping" can include layering, stacking, facing or facing towards, extending above, covering or partially covering, or any other suitable term as would be recognized and understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terms "facing" and "facing towards" mean that a first element can be directly or indirectly opposite a second element. In the case where a third element is interposed between the first and second elements, the first and second elements can be understood to be indirectly opposite each other, although still facing each other. When elements are described as "not overlapping" or "not to overlap," this can include the elements being spaced apart from each other, offset from each other, or arranged side-by-side each other, or any other suitable term as would be recognized and understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0054] The phrase "in plan view" means to view an object from the top, while the phrase "in schematic cross-sectional view" means to view a cross-section of an object that is cut vertically from the side.

[0055] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" includes the recited value and means within a range of acceptable deviations of the specified value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art considering the measurement in question and the error in measurement associated with the particular amount being measured (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations of the recited value, or within ± 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%.

[0056] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0057] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] For ease of explanation, a flexible display panel is first described.

[0059] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a flexible display panel related to a bending test device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the flexible display panel of FIG. 1 in a folded state. Figure 1 FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the flexible display panel of FIG. 1 in a folded state. Figure 3 FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1. Figure 1 FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1.

[0060] Referring toFigures 1 to 3 A flexible display panel is exemplified as a test target of the bending test apparatus. The flexible display panel can be a display panel having flexibility to be folded or unfolded. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the flexible display panel can be referred to as a display panel T.

[0061] The display panel T can include a first area A1, a second area A2, a third area A3, a first folding area FA1 disposed between the first area A1 and the second area A2, and a second folding area FA2 disposed between the first area A1 and the third area A3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0062] The first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2 can each have a substantially rectangular shape. The first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2 can each have two edges extending in a first direction X and two edges extending in a second direction Y crossing or intersecting the first direction X. The two edges extending in the second direction Y can be longer than the two edges extending in the first direction X. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0063] The first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2 can be identical or different in size from each other. In an embodiment, the first area A1, the second area A2, and the third area A3 can be identical in size to each other, and the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can be identical in size to each other. Here, the edges extending in the second direction Y of the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2 can be identical in length to each other.

[0064] The size of each of the first area A1, the second area A2, and the third area A3 can be greater than that of the first folding area FA1 or the second folding area FA2. In detail, the two edges extending in the first direction X of each of the first area A1, the second area A2, and the third area A3 can be longer than the two edges extending in the first direction X of each of the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2. In an embodiment, the size of the first area A1 can be greater than the size of each of the second area A2 and the third area A3.

[0065] The second area A2 and the third area A3 can be symmetrically disposed with respect to the first area A1. The first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can be symmetrically disposed with respect to the first area A1. The first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can be disposed in parallel with each other. In an embodiment, the second area A2 and the third area A3 and the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can be asymmetrically disposed with respect to the first area A1.

[0066] Although shapes, sizes, and arrangements shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C are shown by way of example, the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2 can have various different shapes, sizes, and arrangements. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Although shapes, sizes, and arrangements shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C are shown by way of example, the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2 can have various different shapes, sizes, and arrangements.

[0067] The first folding area FA1 of the display panel T can be folded outward, and the second folding area FA2 of the display panel T can be folded inward. In an embodiment, the term "folded inward" can mean that the display panel T is folded such that its display surface can be curved to face inward, and the term "folded outward" can mean that the display panel T is folded such that its display surface can be curved to face outward. The display surface can be a surface having a screen. In an embodiment, the term "folded inward" can mean that the display panel T is folded such that portions of one or certain surfaces thereof can face each other, and the term "folded outward" can mean that the display panel T is folded such that portions of another surface thereof can face each other. Here, the one or certain surfaces can be a front surface of the display panel T, and the other surface can be a rear surface of the display panel T. The front surface can be, but is not limited to, a display surface for including a screen. For example, both the front surface and the rear surface can be a display surface. In an embodiment, the first folding area FA1 can be foldable inward, and the second folding area FA2 can be foldable outward.

[0068] The first folding area FA1 and / or the second folding area FA2 of the display panel T can be folded in two directions. The folding in two directions can mean that one area can be folded in one direction with respect to the folding area to face one or certain surfaces of one area, and can also be folded in another direction to face another surface of another area. For example, in Figure 1 In FIG. 1C, the second area A2 can be rotated by about 180° along the first folding area FA1 such that one or certain surfaces of the first area A1 and the second area A2 can face each other, and can be rotated by about -180° along the first folding area FA1 such that other surfaces of the first area A1 and the second area A2 can face each other.

[0069] In the folded state, the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can each have a predetermined radius of curvature.

[0070] The display panel T can include a substrate SUB, a circuit driving layer DRL disposed on the substrate SUB, an emission layer EML disposed on the circuit driving layer DRL, an encapsulation layer ENL disposed on the emission layer EML, and a touch layer TSL disposed on the encapsulation layer ENL. The display panel T can include a first lower member PLM1, a second lower member PLM2, and a third lower member PLM3.

[0071] In the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate including a flexible polymer material such as polyimide or the like. Accordingly, the display panel T can be bent, curved, folded, or rolled. In an embodiment, the substrate SUB can include sub-substrates that overlap a barrier layer disposed therebetween in a thickness direction. In this case, each sub-substrate can be a flexible substrate.

[0072] The circuit driving layer DRL can be disposed on the substrate SUB. The circuit driving layer DRL can include a circuit that drives the emission layer EML of a pixel. The circuit driving layer DRL can include a thin film transistor.

[0073] The emission layer EML can be disposed on the circuit driving layer DRL. The emission layer EML can include an organic emission layer. The emission layer EML can emit light having various brightness levels according to a driving signal transmitted from the circuit driving layer DRL.

[0074] The encapsulation layer ENL can be disposed on the emission layer EML. The encapsulation layer ENL can include an inorganic layer or a laminate layer of an inorganic layer and an organic layer.

[0075] The touch layer TSL can be disposed on the encapsulation layer ENL. The touch layer TSL can be a layer for recognizing a touch input, and can function as a touch member.

[0076] The touch layer TSL can include a sensing area and a sensing electrode.

[0077] In an embodiment, the substrate SUB, the circuit driving layer DRL, the emission layer EML, the encapsulation layer ENL, and the touch layer TSL can be arranged or disposed across the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2. In an embodiment, at least one of the substrate SUB, the circuit driving layer DRL, the emission layer EML, the encapsulation layer ENL, and the touch layer TSL can be arranged or disposed in at least one of the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, the first folding area FA1, and the second folding area FA2.

[0078] The first lower member PLM1, the second lower member PLM2, and the third lower member PLM3 can be respectively arranged or disposed in the first area A1, the second area A2, and the third area A3. The first lower member PLM1, the second lower member PLM2, and the third lower member PLM3 can respectively support the first area A1, the second area A2, and the third area A3. The first lower member PLM1, the second lower member PLM2, and / or the third lower member PLM3 can not be arranged or disposed in the first folding area FA1 and / or the second folding area FA2 of the display panel T. This can reduce the folding stress at the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2.

[0079] The distance between the first lower member PLM1, the second lower member PLM2, and the third lower member PLM3 can be the same as or different from each other. In an embodiment, the distance between the first lower member PLM1 and the second lower member PLM2 can be greater than the distance between the first lower member PLM1 and the third lower member PLM3. Although the present specification can be directed to a case where the first folding area FA1 can be folded outward and the second folding area FA2 can be folded inward, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0080] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a bending test device according to an embodiment. Figure 5 is Figure 4 is a plan view of a bending test device.

[0081] A bending test device 1 according to an embodiment refers to a device for testing reliability of a test target having flexibility. In the following description, the test target can include Figures 1 to 3 a display panel T of FIG. 1, but is not limited thereto. For example, the test target can be a flexible device. As another example, the test target can be at least one of components constituting the display panel T, such as a protection film, a cover window, a flexible substrate, and a base substrate of the flexible substrate. As another example, the test target can be at least one of layers constituting the display panel T, such as a circuit driving layer DRL, an emitting layer EML, an encapsulation layer ENL, and / or a touch layer TSL. As another example, the test target can be a bendable member having at least one folding axis.

[0082] In an embodiment, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z can cross or intersect with each other in different directions. In the drawings, the first direction X can represent a length direction of the bending test device 1, the second direction Y can represent a width direction thereof, and the third direction Z can represent a height direction thereof. The third direction Z can include an upper direction toward a top of the drawing and a lower direction toward a bottom of the drawing. In this regard, one or a certain surface of a member facing the upper direction can be referred to as an upper surface, and the other surface of the member facing the lower direction can be referred to as a lower surface. However, it should be understood that the one or more directions referred to in an embodiment refer to relative directions, and the embodiment is not limited to the one or more directions referred to.

[0083] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The bending test device 1 can include a clamp member 100 (also referred to as a clamp), a shaft member 200, a driving member 300, a sliding member 400, and a guide rail member 500. The bending test device 1 can include a connection member 600.

[0084] The clamp member 100 can fold or unfold the display panel T. The clamp member 100 can include support members rotatably connected to each other. The clamp member 100 can be folded and unfolded according to the rotation of the support members.

[0085] The clamp member 100 can include a first support member 110, a second support member 120, and a third support member 130.

[0086] The first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130 can be arranged or disposed in the first direction X. In an embodiment, the first support member 110 can be arranged or disposed between the second support member 120 and the third support member 130.

[0087] The first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130 can each include a substantially rectangular plate having an upper surface and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. Although the first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130 are shown by way of example to have the shapes shown and the sizes shown, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0088] The first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130 can support the display panel T. In the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the display panel T can be fixed by fixing members such as a clamp, a lamination adhesive layer, a vacuum suction member, etc. In an embodiment, the display panel T can be aligned across the first support member 110 to the third support member 130. In detail, the first area A1, the second area A2, and the third area A3 of the display panel T can be aligned on the first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130, respectively. Here, the first folding area FA1 can be aligned between the first support member 110 and the second support member 120, and the second folding area FA2 can be aligned between the first support member 110 and the third support member 130. In an embodiment, the display panel T can be aligned across only the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 or the first support member 110 and the third support member 130. For example, the bending test device 1 can simultaneously test two display panels T each having one folding axis and one display panel T having two folding axes, so that it can be folded in a substantially Z-shaped shape.

[0089] The first support member 110 can be rotated by a rotational force from the driving member 300, which will be described later. The first support member 110 can be rotated in a first rotational direction and / or a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. For example, the first rotational direction can be a clockwise direction, and the second rotational direction can be a counterclockwise direction.

[0090] The second support member 120 can be rotatably connected to one side or some side of the first support member 110, and the third support member 130 can be rotatably connected to the other side of the first support member 110. The first support member 110 to the third support member 130 can be rotatably connected to each other by a connection member 600, which will be described later.

[0091] With the rotation of the first support member 110, the second support member 120 and the third support member 130 can rotate in opposite directions by interworking with the first support member 110. For example, with the rotation of the first support member 110 in the first rotation direction, the second support member 120 and the third support member 130 can rotate in the second rotation direction. For example, the driving member 300, which will be described later, can transmit a rotational force to one or a certain support member, so that the other support members rotate to interwork therewith, which can enable the bending test device 1 to perform both inward folding tests and outward folding tests using one or a certain driving member 300. For example, the first support member 110 can have a rotation angle in an approximate range of from about 0° to about 90° or from about 0° to about -90°. Also, the first support member 110 can rotate in the first rotation direction and then rotate in the second rotation direction, and the second support member 120 and the third support member 130 can rotate in the second rotation direction and then rotate in the first rotation direction by interworking with the first support member 110. In this way, the bending test device 1 can perform folding tests in two directions. For example, the first support member 110 can have a rotation angle in an approximate range of from about 0° to about 180° or from about -90° to about 90°.

[0092] In an embodiment, the first support member 110 to the third support member 130 can be connected in the first direction X so that the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 can rotate in the first rotation direction, and the second support member 120 can rotate in the second rotation direction.

[0093] The first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130 can be spaced apart from each other. In detail, the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 can be separated by a first gap G1, and the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 can be separated by a second gap G2. In an embodiment, the first gap G1 can be greater than the second gap G2. In an embodiment, the first gap G1 can be approximately equal to or less than the second gap G2.

[0094] The gap between the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 and between the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 can vary according to a radius of curvature of the first folding area FA1 and / or the second folding area FA2 of the display panel T. The radius of curvature can be determined based on a folding direction of the display panel T, a folding scheme, and / or a distance between the lower members PLM1, PLM2, and PLM3 of the display panel T. In an embodiment, the first folding area FA1 for folding the display panel T outward can be aligned across the first support member 110 and the second support member 120, and the second folding area FA2 for folding the display panel T inward can be aligned across the first support member 110 and the third support member 130. The first gap G1 can be greater than the second gap G2. In an embodiment, the first gap G1 can be less than a distance between the first lower member PLM1 and the second lower member PLM2 of the display panel T, and the second gap G2 can be less than a distance between the first lower member PLM1 and the third lower member PLM3.

[0095] The shaft member 200 can provide a rotation axis for rotation of the support members 110, 120, and 130. The shaft member 200 can include shafts extending in parallel in the second direction Y and connected with the support members 110, 120, and 130, respectively.

[0096] The shaft member 200 can include a first shaft 210, a second shaft 220, and a third shaft 230.

[0097] The first shaft 210 can be connected with the first support member 110. The first shaft 210 can be connected to the driving member 300. The first shaft 210 can rotate the first support member 110 with a rotational force from the driving member 300.

[0098] The second shaft 220 and the third shaft 230 can be connected with the second support member 120 and the third support member 130, respectively. The first shaft 210, the second shaft 220, and the third shaft 230 can be formed to be separated from or integrated with the first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130, respectively. In an embodiment, the first support member 110 can be fixedly connected to the first shaft 210, and the second support member 120 and the third support member 130 can be rotatably connected to the second shaft 220 and the third shaft 230, respectively. In an embodiment, the first support member 110 to the third support member 130 can be fixedly connected to the first shaft 210 to the third shaft 230, respectively, and the second shaft 220 and the third shaft 230 can be rotatably connected with the first sliding member 410 and the second sliding member 420 (as will be described later). Although, in an embodiment, the rotation axes of the first shaft 210, the second shaft 220, and the third shaft 230 can be arranged or disposed to pass through the centers of the first support member 110, the second support member 120, and the third support member 130, respectively, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0099] The driving member 300 can provide a rotational force for folding or unfolding the clamp member 100. In an embodiment, the driving member 300 can be connected with the first shaft 210 to provide a rotational force for rotating the first support member 110. In an embodiment, the driving member 300 can be connected with the second shaft 220 or the third shaft 230. The driving member 300 can include a driving motor, for example, a servo motor, for example, as a driving device for rotating the first shaft 210.

[0100] The sliding member 400 can be connected to the shaft member 200 and can be slidably coupled with the guide rail member 500 (which will be described later). The sliding member 400 can be symmetrically arranged or disposed at both ends of the shaft member 200.

[0101] The sliding member 400 can include a first slider 410 and a second slider 420.

[0102] The first slider 410 can be connected with the second shaft 220. The first slider 410 can be rotatably connected with the second shaft 220 and slidably coupled with the first guide rail 510 of the guide rail member 500. The first slider 410 can linearly move in the first direction X along the first guide rail 510 of the guide rail member 500. The first slider 410 can include a pair of members connected with both ends of the second shaft 220.

[0103] The second slider 420 can be connected with the third shaft 230. The second slider 420 can be rotatably connected with the third shaft 230 and slidably coupled with the second guide rail 520 of the guide rail member 500. The second slider 420 can linearly move in the first direction X along the second guide rail 520 of the guide rail member 500. The second slider 420 can include a pair of members connected with both ends of the third shaft 230.

[0104] The first slider 410 and the second slider 420 can be spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y. The first slider 410 and the second slider 420 can be arranged or disposed to be spaced apart from the clamp member 100 by an equal or different distance. In an embodiment, the first slider 410 can be arranged or disposed to be spaced apart from the clamp member 100 by a fifth gap G5, and the second slider 420 can be arranged or disposed to be spaced apart from the clamp member 100 by a sixth gap G6. The fifth gap G5 can be greater than the sixth gap G6. Although, in an embodiment, the second slider 420 can be arranged or disposed to be closer to the clamp member 100 than the first slider 410, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0105] Although, in an embodiment, the first slider 410 and the second slider 420 can each be a linear motion guide, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0106] The guide rail member 500 can extend in the first direction X to guide the motion of the sliding member 400. The guide rail member 500 can be symmetrically arranged or disposed at both sides of the clamp member 100.

[0107] The guide rail member 500 can include a first guide rail 510 and a second guide rail 520.

[0108] The first guide rail 510 can guide the motion of the first slider 410, and the second guide rail 520 can guide the motion of the second slider 420.

[0109] The first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 can be spaced apart from the clamp member 100 in the second direction Y. The first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 can be arranged or disposed to be spaced apart from the clamp member 100 by an equal or different distance. In an embodiment, the first guide rail 510 can be arranged or disposed to be spaced apart from the clamp member 100 by a third gap G3, and the second guide rail 520 can be arranged or disposed to be spaced apart from the clamp member 100 by a fourth gap G4. The third gap G3 can be greater than the fourth gap G4. Although, in an embodiment, the second guide rail 520 can be arranged or disposed to be closer to the clamp member 100 than the first guide rail 510, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0110] The first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 can be arranged or disposed to at least partially overlap. In detail, the first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 can be arranged or disposed to at least partially overlap in the second direction Y. This can ensure a sufficient sliding distance of the first slider 410 and / or the second slider 420 in order to fold or unfold the clamp member 100. The first shaft 210 can be arranged or disposed to cross the first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 at a position where the first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 can overlap each other. In an embodiment, the first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 can be separated by a predetermined distance in the second direction Y to avoid interference between the first slider 410 and the second slider 420.

[0111] The first guide rail 510 and the second guide rail 520 can be arranged or disposed at the same height. Accordingly, the first slider 410, the second slider 420, the first shaft 210, the second shaft 220, and / or the third shaft 230 can be horizontally moved at the same height.

[0112] The connection member 600 can rotatably connect the support members 110, 120, and 130 to each other.

[0113] The connection member 600 can include a first connection member 610 and a second connection member 620.

[0114] The first connection member 610 can rotatably connect the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 to each other. The first connection member 610 can include a pair of first gears 611 coupled to the first support member 110 and the second support member 120, respectively.

[0115] The second connection member 620 can rotatably connect the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 to each other. The second connection member 620 can include a pair of second gears 621 connected to the first support member 110 and the third support member 130, respectively.

[0116] The sizes of the first gears 611 and the second gears 621 can be the same as or different from each other. The sizes of the first gears 611 and the second gears 621 can include radii of the first gears 611 and the second gears 621, respectively. In an embodiment, the size of the first gears 611 can be greater than the size of the second gears 621. In an embodiment, the size of the first gears 611 can be approximately equal to or less than the size of the second gears 621.

[0117] The sizes of the first gear 611 and the second gear 621 can each vary according to a radius of curvature of the first folding area FA1 and / or the second folding area FA2 of the display panel T. The radius of curvature can be determined based on a folding direction of the display panel T, a folding scheme, and / or a distance between the first lower member PLM1, the second lower member PLM2, and the third lower member PLM3 of the display panel T. In an embodiment, the first folding area FA1 for folding the display panel T outward can be aligned across the first support member 110 and the second support member 120, and the second folding area FA2 for folding the display panel T inward can be aligned across the first support member 110 and the third support member 130. The size of the first gear 611 can be greater than the size of the second gear 621. In an embodiment, a radius of the first gear 611 can be less than about half of a distance between the first lower member PLM1 and the second lower member PLM2, and a radius of the second gear 621 can be less than about half of a distance between the first lower member PLM1 and the third lower member PLM3.

[0118] Hereinafter, a description will be given of a bending test apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 6 to 11 An operation of the bending test apparatus 1 will be described.

[0119] Figures 6 to 8 is a view illustrating a clamp member of the bending test apparatus 1 being converted from an unfolded state to a first folded state. Figure 1 is a view illustrating a clamp member of the bending test apparatus 1 being converted from an unfolded state to a second folded state. Figures 9 to 11 Figure 1

[0120] Figure 6 is a side view of the bending test apparatus 1 whose clamp member can be in an unfolded state. Figure 7 is a side view of the bending test apparatus 1 whose clamp member can be converted from an unfolded state to a first folded state. Figure 8 is a side view of the bending test apparatus 1 whose clamp member can be in a first folded state.

[0121] In the following description, for convenience of explanation, a state in which the clamp member 100 can be completely unfolded so that the first support member 110 to the third support member 130 are flush with each other can be referred to as an unfolded state. As an example, a state in which the clamp member 100 can be folded so that lower surfaces of the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 face each other and upper surfaces of the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 face each other can be referred to as a first folded state, and a state in which the clamp member 100 can be folded so that upper surfaces of the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 face each other and lower surfaces of the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 face each other can be referred to as a second folded state. ​​

[0122] Referring to Figures 6 to 8 According to the rotation of the first to third support members 110 to 130, the clamp member 100 can be transformed into an unfolded state or a first folded state.

[0123] In detail, in the case where the first support member 110 is rotated in the first rotation direction, the second and third support members 120 and 130 can be rotated in the second rotation direction in cooperation with the first support member 110. In detail, by rotating the first support member 110 to move one end thereof close to the second support member 120 upward and the other end thereof close to the third support member 130 downward, one or certain end of the second support member 120 close to the first support member 110 can be moved upward using the first connecting member 610, and one or certain end of the third support member 130 close to the first support member 110 can be moved downward using the second connecting member 620.

[0124] In the case where the first support member 110 is rotatable in the first rotation direction, the second and third shafts 220 and 230 can be moved toward the first shaft 210 in opposite directions. Accordingly, the first, second, and third shafts 210, 220, and 230 can be pulled close to each other. During the transformation from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the first, second, and third shafts 210, 220, and 230 can be moved such that the heights thereof can be maintained horizontal.

[0125] The first, second, and third shafts 210, 220, and 230 can be arranged or disposed such that the heights thereof can be spaced apart from the guide member 500 by a predetermined height. The predetermined height can be approximately equal to or higher than the height of each of the first and second sliders 410 and 420. This can avoid interference between the first to third shafts 210 to 230 and the first and second sliders 410 and 420. Although not shown, the bending test device 1 can include a shaft support member for supporting the first shaft 210 at the predetermined height.

[0126] In the case where the first support member 110 is rotatable in the first rotation direction, the first and second sliders 410 and 420 can be moved close to each other. In detail, the first and second sliders 410 and 420 can be moved toward the first shaft 210. During the transformation from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the first and second sliders 410 and 420 can be moved such that the heights thereof can be maintained horizontal.

[0127] In a case where the first support member 110 is rotated in the first rotation direction, a first folding area FA1 of the display panel T that can be aligned across the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 can be folded outward, and a second folding area FA2 of the display panel T that can be aligned across the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 can be folded inward.

[0128] The clamp member 100 can be transformed from the unfolded state to the first folded state, and continue to be transformed back to the unfolded state. Because the transformation from the first folded state to the unfolded state can be performed in a reverse manner of the transformation from the unfolded state to the first folded state, a detailed description thereof will be omitted hereinafter.

[0129] The bending test apparatus 1 can implement testing of the display panel T having both the first folding area FA1 foldable outward and the second folding area FA2 foldable inward using one or certain driving member 300 by repeating the transformation between the unfolded state and the first folded state.

[0130] Figure 9 FIG. 1 is a side view of a bending test apparatus showing that a clamp member is in an unfolded state. Figure 10 FIG. 2 is a side view of a bending test apparatus showing that its clamp member can be transformed from the unfolded state to a second folded state. Figure 11 FIG. 3 is a side view of a bending test apparatus showing that its clamp member can be in the second folded state.

[0131] Referring to Figures 9 to 11 , according to the rotation of the first support member 110 to the third support member 130, the clamp member 100 can be transformed to the unfolded state or the second folded state.

[0132] In detail, in a case where the first support member 110 is rotatable in a second rotation direction, the second support member 120 and the third support member 130 can be rotated in the first rotation direction in cooperation with the first support member 110. The second rotation direction can be opposite to the first rotation direction. In detail, by rotating the first support member 110 to move one end thereof close to the second support member 120 downward and the other end close to the third support member 130 upward, one or certain end of the second support member 120 close to the first support member 110 can be moved downward using the first connecting member 610, and one or certain end of the third support member 130 close to the first support member 110 can be moved upward using the second connecting member 620.

[0133] In a case where the first support member 110 is rotatable in the second rotation direction, the second shaft 220 and the third shaft 230 and the first slider 410 and the second slider 420 can move in opposite directions toward the first shaft 210. Because the second shaft 220 and the third shaft 230 and the first slider 410 and the second slider 420 can move in substantially the same manner as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8 the first rotation direction, a detailed description thereof is omitted hereinafter.

[0134] In a case where the first support member 110 is rotatable in the second rotation direction, a first folding area FA1 of the display panel T that is alignable across the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 can be folded inward, and a second folding area FA2 of the display panel T that is alignable across the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 can be folded outward.

[0135] The clamp member 100 can transition from the unfolded state to the second folded state, and continue to transition back to the unfolded state. The transition from the second folded state to the unfolded state can be performed in a manner opposite to the transition from the unfolded state to the second folded state, and a detailed description thereof is omitted hereinafter.

[0136] The bending test apparatus 1 can implement testing of the display panel T having the first folding area FA1 foldable inward and the second folding area FA2 foldable outward using one or the driving member 300 by repeating the transition between the unfolded state and the second folded state.

[0137] The clamp member 100 can transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, and continue to transition to the unfolded state and then to the second folded state.

[0138] The bending test apparatus 1 can implement testing of the display panel T having the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 foldable in two directions using one or the driving member 300 by repeating the transition between the unfolded state, the first folded state, and the second folded state. Further, the bending test apparatus 1 can test the display panel T having two folding areas and two display panels T each having one folding area.

[0139] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating a bending test method of a bending test apparatus using Figure 4 .

[0140] Referring to Figures 1 to 12, the bending test method can include: at step S101, arranging a test target on at least a portion of the jig member 100, the jig member 100 including a first support member 110 connected to a first shaft 210, a second support member 120 connected to a second shaft 220, and a third support member 130 connected to a third shaft 230; at step S102, rotating the first shaft 210 to rotate the first support member 110 in a first rotation direction so that a first connecting member 610 connecting the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 rotates the second support member 120 in a second rotation direction and so that a second connecting member 620 connecting the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 rotates the third support member 130 in the second rotation direction; and at step S103, causing or facilitating the jig member 100 to be folded into a first folded state.

[0141] The bending test method can include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following steps: unfolding the folded jig member 100, rotating the first shaft 210 to rotate the first support member 110 in a second rotation direction; causing the first connecting member 610 connecting the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 to rotate the second support member 120 in a first rotation direction and the second connecting member 620 connecting the first support member 110 and the third support member 130 to rotate the third support member 130 in the first rotation direction; moving the first slider 410 connected to the second shaft 220 and the second slider 420 connected to the third shaft 230 along the guide member 500; and folding the jig member 100 into a second folded state.

[0142] The above-described bending test method is merely an exemplary bending test method, and can be implemented by omitting at least one of the above-described steps or adding at least one other or another step based on the operation of the bending test apparatus 1 with reference to Figures 4 to 11

[0143] At the end of the detailed description, those skilled in the art will understand that many changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments without substantially departing from the principles of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments are used only in a general and descriptive sense and are not for limiting purposes.​

Claims

1. A bending test apparatus comprising: a clamp comprising: a first support member; a second support member rotatably connected to one side of the first support member; and a third support member rotatably connected to the other side of the first support member, wherein the first support member, the second support member, and the third support member are arranged in a first direction; a shaft member comprising a first shaft, a second shaft, and a third shaft, wherein the first shaft, the second shaft, and the third shaft extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are connected to the first support member, the second support member, and the third support member, respectively; a driving member connected to the first shaft and providing a rotational force to the first shaft; a sliding member comprising a first slider and a second slider connected to the second shaft and the third shaft, respectively; and a guide rail member extending in the first direction and guiding a movement of the first slider and a movement of the second slider, wherein, when the first shaft rotates the first support member in a first rotational direction, the second support member and the third support member rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

2. The flex testing apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The second support member and the third support member are separated from the first support member by different gaps. 3.The bending test apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a first connecting member connecting the first support member to the second support member; and a second connecting member connecting the first support member to the third support member. 4.The bending test apparatus of claim 3, wherein: the first connecting member comprises a pair of first gears connected to the first support member and the second support member, respectively, and the second connecting member comprises a pair of second gears connected to the first support member and the third support member, respectively. 5.The bending test apparatus of claim 4, wherein: the one side of the first support member rotates upward, the other side of the first support member rotates downward, and the pair of first gears of the first connecting member are larger in size than the pair of second gears of the second connecting member. The guide rail member comprises:

6. The flex testing apparatus of claim 1, wherein, a first guide rail guiding the first slider; and a second guide rail guiding the second slider. When the first support member rotates in the first rotational direction, the second shaft, the third shaft, and the first slider and the second slider of the sliding member move toward the first shaft.

7. The flex testing apparatus of claim 1, wherein, 8.The bending test apparatus of claim 1, when the first support member rotates in the first rotational direction, the clamp transitions to a first folded state such that lower surfaces of the first support member and the second support member face each other and upper surfaces of the first support member and the third support member face each other, and wherein ​ wherein, when the first support member is rotated in the second rotation direction in the first folded state, the jig transitions to a second folded state such that upper surfaces of the first support member and the second support member face each other, and lower surfaces of the first support member and the third support member face each other.

9. A bending test apparatus comprising: a first support member; a second support member disposed on one side of the first support member in a first direction; a third support member disposed on the other side of the first support member in the first direction; a pair of first gears connected to edges of the first support member in the first direction and edges of the second support member in the first direction, respectively; and a pair of second gears connected to the other edges of the first support member in the first direction and edges of the third support member in the first direction, respectively, wherein the first support member rotates the pair of first gears to move the positions of the edges of the second support member in the first direction, and the first support member rotates the pair of second gears to move the positions of the edges of the third support member in the first direction.

10. A bending test method comprising: arranging a test target on a jig including a first support member connected to a first shaft, a second support member connected to a second shaft, and a third support member connected to a third shaft; rotating the first support member in a first rotation direction by the first shaft; rotating the second support member in a second rotation direction by a first connecting member connecting the first support member and the second support member; rotating the third support member in the second rotation direction by a second connecting member connecting the first support member and the third support member; and bringing the jig into a folded state. ​ ​

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