Display device manufacturing equipment and display device manufacturing method using the same

Abstract

The present invention discloses a display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method using the same. The display device manufacturing method according to the present invention includes: providing a stage for arranging a display unit, wherein the display unit is coated with a primary-hardened adhesive member; attaching a release film to the primary-hardened adhesive member using a pressure-applying unit; secondary-hardening the primary-hardened adhesive member using a hardening unit to form an adhesive member; separating the release film from the adhesive member; cleaning the release film using a cleaning unit; and reusing the cleaned release film.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method using the same, and more particularly, to a display device including an adhesive member with improved reliability. Background Art

[0002] In a display device, a display panel may be combined with a window. The display panel and the window may be bonded via an adhesive member disposed between the display panel and the window. The adhesive member may use a transparent acrylic-based hardener. The transparent hardener may be an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or an optically clear resin (OCR). Furthermore, the transparent hardener may include a light-curing adhesive or a heat-curing adhesive, and the material thereof is not limited to one. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical problems solved

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide an adhesive member having improved reliability by preventing an adhesive material from being exposed to an oxygen environment after pre-hardening the adhesive material during the process of forming the adhesive member.

[0005] Solution to the problem

[0006] A method for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: providing a stage for arranging a display unit, the display unit being coated with a primary-hardened adhesive member; attaching a release film to the primary-hardened adhesive member by a pressure-applying unit; secondary-hardening the primary-hardened adhesive member by a hardening unit to form an adhesive member; separating the release film from the adhesive member; cleaning the release film by a cleaning unit; and reusing the cleaned release film.

[0007] The feature of the present invention may be that the bonding member is an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0008] Its feature may be that the pressure unit includes a first roller, a second roller and a chain, wherein the first roller is arranged above the table, the second roller is arranged between the table and the first roller, and the chain is combined with the first roller and the second roller to rotate, wherein the release film is attached to the chain.

[0009] It may be characterized in that the release film is pressed by the second roller while being moved in one direction from one end to the other end of the display unit, thereby being attached to the once-hardened adhesive member.

[0010] It may be characterized in that when the release film is attached to the once-hardened adhesive member, the first roller moves in a perpendicular direction perpendicular to one direction and being a thickness direction of the display unit to be adjacent to the display unit.

[0011] The feature of the invention may be that the secondary curing is performed after the release film is attached to the primary cured adhesive member.

[0012] The feature thereof may be that the secondary curing is performed while the release film is attached to the primary cured adhesive member.

[0013] The feature of the invention may be that the hardening unit and the second roller move simultaneously in one direction.

[0014] It may be characterized in that when the release film is separated from the bonding member, the first roller moves in a perpendicular direction perpendicular to the one direction and being a thickness direction of the display unit to move away from the display unit.

[0015] The invention may be characterized in that the cleaned release film is reused.

[0016] The method may be characterized in that it further comprises the step of bonding the window to the adhesive member.

[0017] The display unit may be characterized in that the display unit is flexible and includes a display panel and an optical film, the display panel includes a plurality of pixels, and the optical film is arranged on the display panel, and wherein the adhesive member that has been hardened once is coated on the optical film.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display device manufacturing apparatus includes a table, a first roller, a second roller, a chain, a release film, a cleaning unit and a hardening lamp, wherein: the table is used to arrange the display unit coated with an adhesive member; the first roller is arranged on the table; the second roller is arranged between the table and the first roller; the chain is combined with the first roller and the second roller to rotate; the release film is attached to the chain; the cleaning unit cleans the release film; and the hardening lamp hardens the adhesive member, wherein the release film is separated from the display unit after hardening the adhesive member and is cleaned by the cleaning unit so as to be reused.

[0019] The feature of the present invention may be that the bonding member is an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0020] It may be characterized in that the release film is pressed by the second roller while being moved in one direction from one end to the other end of the display unit, thereby being attached to the adhesive member.

[0021] It may be characterized in that when the release film is attached to the adhesive member, the first roller moves in a perpendicular direction perpendicular to one direction and being a thickness direction of the display unit to be adjacent to the display unit.

[0022] It may be characterized in that the hardening is performed after the release film is attached to the adhesive member.

[0023] The feature may be that the hardening is performed while the release film is attached to the adhesive member.

[0024] The feature of the invention may be that the hardening lamp and the second roller move simultaneously in one direction.

[0025] A feature thereof may be that the display unit is flexible and includes a display panel and an optical film, the display panel includes a plurality of pixels, and the optical film is arranged on the display panel.

[0026] Effects of the Invention

[0027] According to the present invention, a release film is attached to the primary bonded member after primary hardening. By subsequently performing secondary hardening with the release film attached, the primary bonded member can be protected from exposure to oxygen during the secondary hardening. Furthermore, by providing a release film that can be reused by a cleaning unit, process costs can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 is a combined perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2C is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 7is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Description of Reference Signs

[0043] DU: Display Unit

[0044] ADL: Bonding components

[0045] POL: Optical Film

[0046] DP: Display Panel

[0047] AD: Display device manufacturing equipment

[0048] PR: Pressure Unit

[0049] RF: Release film

[0050] CL: Cleaning Unit DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] In this specification, when a certain component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is mentioned as being "on", "connected to" or "coupled to" another component, it means that it can be directly arranged on / directly connected to / coupled to another component, or a third component can be arranged between them.

[0052] The same reference numerals refer to the same components. In addition, in the drawings, in order to effectively describe the technical content, the thickness, proportion and size of the components are exaggerated.

[0053] “And / or” includes all combinations of more than one that can be defined by the relevant components.

[0054] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. can be used to describe various constituent elements, the above constituent elements should not be limited by the above terms. The above terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from another constituent element. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first constituent element can be referred to as the second constituent element, and similarly, the second constituent element can also be referred to as the first constituent element. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the expression of the singular includes the expression of the plural number.

[0055] In addition, terms such as "lower", "lower side", "upper", and "upper side" are used to describe the relationship between the components shown in the drawings. The above terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions shown in the drawings.

[0056] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. In addition, terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0057] It should be understood that terms such as "including" or "having" are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or possibility of adding one or more other features or numbers, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1 is a combined perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2C is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] The display device EA can be a device activated by an electrical signal. The display device EA can include various embodiments. For example, the display device EA can include a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a computer, a smart TV, etc. In this embodiment, the display device EA is exemplarily shown as a smart phone.

[0060] The display device EA displays an image IM in the transmission area TA. The image IM may include at least one of a static image and a dynamic image. Figure 1 , a clock and a plurality of icons are shown as an example of the image IM.

[0061] The transmission area TA may have a quadrilateral shape parallel to each of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. However, this is exemplarily shown, and the transmission area TA may have various shapes and is not limited to one embodiment.

[0062] The frame area BZA is adjacent to the transmissive area TA. The frame area BZA may surround the transmissive area TA. However, this is shown as an example, and the frame area BZA may be arranged adjacent to only one side of the transmissive area TA, or the frame area BZA may be omitted. The display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include various embodiments and is not limited to a single embodiment.

[0063] The normal direction of the front surface FS may correspond to the thickness direction DR3 (hereinafter referred to as the third direction) of the display device EA. In this embodiment, the front surface (or upper surface) and the rear surface (or lower surface) of each component are defined based on the direction in which the image IM is displayed. The front surface and the rear surface are opposite to each other in the third direction DR3.

[0064] In addition, the directions indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 can be changed to different directions as relative concepts. Hereinafter, the first direction to the third direction are referred to as the directions indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3, respectively, and are referenced by the same reference numerals.

[0065] The outer shape of the appearance of the display apparatus EA may be defined by the window WM and the exterior housing HU. The front surface FS of the display apparatus EA may be substantially defined on the window WM.

[0066] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the display device EA can be folded around the specified folding axes FX1 and FX2. Figure 2A As shown, the display device EA-F1 can be folded about a first folding axis FX1. The first folding axis FX1 can be defined on the window WM. Therefore, in the first mode, the display device EA-F1 is folded into a shape in which different portions of the window WM face each other and the outer housing HU is exposed to the outside.

[0067] Or, as Figure 2BAs shown, the display device EA-F2 can also be folded about a second folding axis FX2. The second folding axis FX2 can be defined on the external housing HU. Therefore, in the second mode, the display device EA-F2 is folded into a shape in which different portions of the external housing HU face each other and the window WM is exposed to the outside. Even when the display device EA-F2 is folded, the image IM displayed by the display device EA-F2 can be easily viewed by the user.

[0068] The first folding axis FX1 and the second folding axis FX2 can exist simultaneously within the display device EA. In this case, the display device EA can be deformed into the first mode display device EA-F1 or the second mode display device EA-F2 depending on the direction of the external force. Alternatively, the first folding axis FX1 or the second folding axis FX2 can also selectively exist within the display device EA. In addition, although the first folding axis FX1 and the second folding axis FX2 are shown extending in the first direction DR1, this is not limited to this, and the folding axes FX1 and FX2 can extend in various directions.

[0069] refer to Figure 2C The display device EA may include a window WM, a display panel DP, an optical film POL, an adhesive member ADL, a circuit board DC, a protective layer PTL, and an outer case HU. As described above, the window WM is combined with the outer case HU to define the appearance of the display device EA.

[0070] The display panel DP and the optical film POL coupled to the display panel DP may be defined as a display unit DU. The display unit DU may be provided to the display device manufacturing apparatus AD (refer to FIG. 1 ) in a process of being adhered to the window WM by an adhesive member ADL. Figure 3 ) of Taiwan ST (reference Figure 3 ) on the unit. This will be described below.

[0071] The window WM is arranged on the display panel DP to cover the front surface IS of the display panel DP. The window WM may include an optically transparent insulating material. In addition, the window WM may be flexible. For example, the window WM may include a resin film such as polyimide, a resin substrate, or a thin film glass substrate.

[0072] The window WM may have a multi-layer structure or a single-layer structure. For example, the window WM may have a laminated structure of a plurality of plastic films bonded by an adhesive, or a laminated structure of a glass substrate and a plastic film bonded by an adhesive.

[0073] The window WM includes a front surface FS exposed to the outside. The front surface FS of the display device EA may be substantially defined by the front surface FS of the window WM. Specifically, the transmissive area TA may be an optically transparent area. The transmissive area TA may have a shape corresponding to the active area AA. For example, the transmissive area TA may overlap the entire surface or at least a portion of the active area AA. The image IM displayed on the active area AA of the display panel DP is visible from the outside through the transmissive area TA.

[0074] The frame area BZA may be a region having a relatively low light transmittance compared to the transmission area TA. The frame area BZA defines the shape of the transmission area TA. The frame area BZA may be adjacent to the transmission area TA and surround the transmission area TA.

[0075] The frame area BZA may have a predetermined color. If the window WM is provided as a glass substrate or a plastic substrate, the frame area BZA may be a color layer printed or deposited on one surface of the glass or plastic substrate. Alternatively, the frame area BZA may be formed by coloring a corresponding area of the glass or plastic substrate.

[0076] The bezel area BZA may cover the peripheral area NAA of the display panel DP to prevent the peripheral area NAA from being seen from the outside. In addition, this is shown as an example, and in the window WM according to one embodiment of the present invention, the bezel area BZA may also be omitted.

[0077] The display panel DP may be any one of a liquid crystal display panel, a plasma display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, a MEMS display panel (microelectromechanical system display panel), an electrowetting display panel, and an organic light-emitting display panel. When the display panel DP is a liquid crystal display panel, the display device EA may further include a backlight unit disposed below the display panel DP. In the present invention, the type of the display panel DP is not limited to one.

[0078] The display panel DP includes a plurality of pixels PX. The configuration of at least one transistor included in the pixel PX and a light emitting element connected to the at least one transistor may be variously changed according to the type of the display panel DP and is not limited to a certain embodiment.

[0079] The display panel DP includes a front surface IS including an active area AA and a peripheral area NAA. The active area AA may be an area activated according to an electrical signal.

[0080] In this embodiment, the active area AA may be the area displaying the image IM. The transmissive area TA at least overlaps with the active area AA. For example, the transmissive area TA overlaps with the entire surface or at least a portion of the active area AA. Therefore, the user can see the image IM through the transmissive area TA.

[0081] The peripheral area NAA may be an area covered by the frame area BZA. The peripheral area NAA is adjacent to the active area AA. The peripheral area NAA may surround the active area AA. A driving circuit or driving wiring for driving the active area AA may be arranged in the peripheral area NAA.

[0082] The peripheral area NAA may be provided with various signal lines or pads PD or electronic components that provide electrical signals to the active area AA. The peripheral area NAA may be covered by the bezel area BZA so as not to be visible from the outside.

[0083] Although not separately shown, the display apparatus EA may further include a window covering the display panel DP and a chassis member or a molding member combined with the window to define an appearance of the display apparatus EA.

[0084] In the present embodiment, the display panel DP is assembled in a flat state with the active area AA and the peripheral area NAA facing the window WM. However, this is shown as an example, and a portion of the peripheral area NAA in the display panel DP may be curved. In this case, a portion of the peripheral area NAA faces the rear surface of the display device EA, so that the bezel area BZA in the front surface FS of the display device EA can be reduced. Alternatively, the display panel DP may be assembled in a state in which a portion of the active area AA is also curved. Alternatively, in the display panel DP according to one embodiment of the present invention, the peripheral area NAA may be omitted.

[0085] The circuit board DC can be connected to the display panel DP. The circuit board DC may include a flexible substrate CF and a main substrate MB. The flexible substrate CF may include an insulating film and conductive wiring mounted on the insulating film. The conductive wiring is connected to the pads PD to electrically connect the circuit board DC and the display panel DP.

[0086] In this embodiment, the flexible substrate CF can be assembled in a bent state. Therefore, the main substrate MB can be placed on the rear surface of the display panel DP, thereby being stably accommodated within the space provided by the external housing HU. Alternatively, in this embodiment, the flexible substrate CF can be omitted, and in this case, the main substrate MB can be directly connected to the display panel DP.

[0087] The main substrate MB may include signal lines and electronic components (not shown). The electronic components may be connected to the signal lines to electrically connect to the display panel DP. The electronic components generate various electrical signals (e.g., signals for generating an image IM or signals for sensing an external input) or process sensed signals. In addition, the main substrate MB may be provided in plurality corresponding to each of the electrical signals generated and processed, and is not limited to a single embodiment.

[0088] Furthermore, in the display device EA according to one embodiment of the present invention, the driver circuit that provides electrical signals to the active area AA may be mounted directly on the display panel DP. In this case, the driver circuit may be mounted in the form of a chip or formed together with the pixel PX. In this case, the area of the circuit board DC may be reduced or omitted. The display device EA according to one embodiment of the present invention may include various embodiments and is not limited to a single embodiment.

[0089] The optical film POL may be disposed between the window WM and the display panel DP. The optical film POL reduces the reflectivity of the display panel DP from external light (hereinafter, ambient light) incident from the outside of the window WM. In this embodiment, the optical film POL may include a polarizing film or a color filter.

[0090] The adhesive member ADL is disposed between the optical film POL and the window WM. The adhesive member ADL bonds the optical film POL to the window WM. If the optical film POL according to the present invention is a color filter formed in the display panel DP, the adhesive member ADL can also essentially bond the display panel DP to the window WM. The adhesive member ADL can include any one of an optically clear adhesive, an optically clear resin, and a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0091] Since the display apparatus EA according to the present invention has a folding property, the adhesive member ADL disposed between the display panel DP and the window WM may be provided as an optical clear resin.

[0092] The protective layer PTL is arranged below the display panel DP. The protective layer PTL may be composed of multiple layers, and the protective layer PTL may include various layers for alleviating stress applied to the display panel DP when folded or protecting the display panel DP from external impact. For example, the protective layer PTL may include a buffer layer, a light shielding layer, and a heat dissipation layer, wherein the buffer layer has a foam shape and absorbs impacts of the display panel DP, the light shielding layer blocks light from the display panel DP, and the heat dissipation layer releases heat generated from the display panel DP to the outside.

[0093] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] The display device manufacturing apparatus and the display device manufacturing method using the same according to the present invention relate to a display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method using the same that forms an adhesive member ADL attached to the display unit DU during the process of bonding the window WM to the display unit DU. Figures 3 to 7 A display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method using the same according to one embodiment of the present invention are described.

[0095] The display device manufacturing method according to the present invention may include providing a stage ST, attaching a release film RF, forming an adhesive member ADL, separating the release film RF, and cleaning the release film RF.

[0096] refer to Figure 3 , the display device manufacturing apparatus AD according to the present embodiment includes a stage ST, a pressing unit PR, a cleaning unit CL, and a release film RF.

[0097] The stage ST may be a structure for supporting a target substrate for forming the bonding member ADL. The display unit DU is arranged on the stage ST. The display unit DU may be defined as Figure 2C The display panel DP and the optical film POL are shown in a state where they are combined via an adhesive layer (not shown).

[0098] The pressing unit PR may include a first roller RL1, a second roller RL2, and a chain CH. The pressing unit PR may be configured to attach and press the release film RF onto the initial bonding member P-ADL (also referred to as a primary hardened bonding member).

[0099] The first roller RL1 is disposed above the stage ST. The first roller RL1 may perform a rotational motion and may perform an up / down motion along a thickness direction (ie, a third direction DR3) of the display unit DU.

[0100] The second roller RL2 may be disposed between the stage ST and the first roller RL1. The second roller RL2 may rotate and move from one end of the display unit DU toward the other end. That is, it may move along the first direction DR1 on the display unit DU. The second roller RL2 may have a smaller diameter than the first roller RL1.

[0101] The chain CH can rotate in conjunction with the first roller RL1 and the second roller RL2. Therefore, when the first roller RL1 rotates clockwise, the second roller RL2, connected to the first roller RL1 via the chain CH, can also rotate clockwise. A release film RF can be attached to the chain CH.

[0102] The cleaning unit CL may be disposed at one side of the first roller RL1 and may be configured to remove foreign matter from the used release film RF so that the release film RF can be reused in a subsequent process.

[0103] A release film RF can be provided to adhere to the chain CH and, during the rotation of the first and second rollers RL1 and RL2, is pressed by the second roller RL2, thereby adhering to the initial bonding member P-ADL (also referred to as the primary hardened bonding member). The release film RF is not limited to any particular type, as long as one and the other opposing surfaces thereof contain an adhesive substance. In the present invention, the bonding force between the release film RF and the bonding member ADL (including the initial bonding member P-ADL) can be stronger than the bonding force between the release film RF and the chain CH.

[0104] In the display device manufacturing method, during the step of providing a stage ST, a display unit DU coated with a preliminary adhesive member P-ADL (the primary hardened adhesive member of the claims) can be provided on the stage ST. The preliminary adhesive member P-ADL can be applied to the display unit DU using an inkjet method. The preliminary adhesive member P-ADL can include a transparent acrylic-based hardener. In the present invention, the transparent hardener, serving as a light-curing adhesive, can be an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0105] The initial adhesive member P-ADL can be applied to the display unit DU and then irradiated with UV light once. The hardened material applied by inkjet is applied to the display unit DU in a low-viscosity state, and the initial adhesive member P-ADL can have a predetermined viscosity after the initial curing.

[0106] The display device manufacturing method may include a step of attaching a release film RF. The release film RF may be attached to the preliminary bonding member P-ADL by a pressure applying unit PR.

[0107] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, when attaching the release film RF to the display unit DU, the first roller RL1 can move along the third direction DR3 to approach the display unit DU. The second roller RL2, connected to the first roller RL1 via the chain CH, can apply pressure to the release film RF and attach it to the initial bonding member P-ADL while moving along the first direction DR1 from one end to the other end of the display unit DU due to the rotation of the first roller RL1.

[0108] When the release film RF is attached to the preliminary bonding member P-ADL, as the first roller RL1 moves along the third direction DR3 to be adjacent to the display unit DU, a portion of the chain CH may overlap from one end to the other end of the display unit DU.

[0109] The display device manufacturing method may include forming an adhesive member ADL. The adhesive member ADL may be formed by secondary curing of the initial adhesive member P-ADL. The secondary curing may be performed by irradiating the initial adhesive member P-ADL with UV light using a curing unit UVD after the release film RF is attached to the initial adhesive member P-ADL and before the release film RF is removed from the chain CH. The curing unit UVD may be provided between the chain CH and the first roller RL1.

[0110] The display device manufacturing method may include a step of separating the used release film RF-F. The used release film RF-F may be removed from the adhesive member ADL formed by the secondary hardening. At this time, the first roller RL1 may move along the third direction DR3 to move away from the display unit DU.

[0111] refer to Figure 6 The display device manufacturing method may include a step of cleaning the used release film RF-F. After the secondary hardening, the used release film RF-F may be cleaned by a cleaning unit CL.

[0112] refer to Figure 7, a step of reusing the cleaned release film RF-R may be included. The cleaned release film RF-R may be disposed on the additional display unit DU-1 coated with the initial adhesive member P-ADL, so that it can be reused in the process of forming the adhesive member ADL.

[0113] Although not shown, it may include placing the window WM (reference Figure 2C ) is bonded to the display unit DU on which the adhesive member ADL is formed.

[0114] According to the present invention, a release film RF is attached to the primary adhesive member P-ADL after primary curing. By subsequently performing secondary curing with the release film RF attached, the primary adhesive member P-ADL can be protected from exposure to oxygen during the secondary curing. Furthermore, by providing a release film RF that can be reused by the cleaning unit CL, process costs can be reduced.

[0115] According to the present invention, in a foldable display device EA, by using an optically clear resin (OCR) to bond the display unit DU to the window WM, a refractive index similar to that of the window WM can be achieved compared to using an optically clear adhesive (OCA). This reduces light scattering, improves brightness and contrast, and protects against external impact and scattering. Therefore, a display device EA with improved foldable characteristics can be provided.

[0116] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device using a display device manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 1 to 7 The same / similar reference numerals are used for the same / similar components, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0117] Below, reference Figures 8 to 13A display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method using the same according to one embodiment of the present invention are described.

[0118] The display device manufacturing method according to the present invention may include providing a stage ST, attaching a release film RF, forming an adhesive member ADL, separating the release film RF, and cleaning the release film RF.

[0119] refer to Figure 8 , the display device manufacturing apparatus AD-1 according to the present embodiment includes a stage ST, a pressing unit PR, a cleaning unit CL, a hardening unit US, and a release film RF.

[0120] The stage ST may be a structure for supporting a target substrate for forming the bonding member ADL. The display unit DU is arranged on the stage ST.

[0121] The pressing unit PR may include a first roller RL1, a second roller RL2, and a chain CH. The pressing unit PR may be configured to attach and press the release film RF onto the initial bonding member P-ADL (also referred to as a primary hardened bonding member).

[0122] The first roller RL1 is disposed above the stage ST. The first roller RL1 may perform a rotational motion and may perform an up / down motion along a thickness direction (ie, a third direction DR3) of the display unit DU.

[0123] The second roller RL2 may be disposed between the stage ST and the first roller RL1. The second roller RL2 may rotate and move from one end of the display unit DU toward the other end. That is, it may move along the first direction DR1 on the display unit DU. The second roller RL2 may have a smaller diameter than the first roller RL1.

[0124] The chain CH can rotate in conjunction with the first roller RL1 and the second roller RL2. Therefore, when the first roller RL1 rotates clockwise, the second roller RL2, connected to the first roller RL1 via the chain CH, can also rotate clockwise. A release film RF can be attached to the chain CH.

[0125] The cleaning unit CL may be disposed at one side of the first roller RL1 and may be configured to remove foreign matter from the used release film RF so that the release film RF can be reused in a subsequent process.

[0126] The release film RF may be provided to be attached to the chain CH, and is pressed by the second roller RL2 during the rotational movement of the first roller RL1 and the second roller RL2 to be attached to the preliminary bonding member P-ADL (the once-hardened bonding member of claims).

[0127] In this embodiment, the hardening unit US is arranged adjacent to the second roller RL2 so as to move simultaneously with the second roller RL2 and irradiate UV when the second roller RL2 presses the release film RF to the initial bonding member P-ADL and moves.

[0128] In the display device manufacturing method, during the step of providing a stage ST, a display unit DU coated with a preliminary adhesive member P-ADL (the primary hardened adhesive member of the claims) can be provided on the stage ST. The preliminary adhesive member P-ADL can be applied to the display unit DU using an inkjet method. The preliminary adhesive member P-ADL can include a transparent acrylic-based hardener. In the present invention, the transparent hardener, serving as a light-curing adhesive, can be an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0129] The preliminary adhesive member P-ADL may be in a state of being coated on the display unit DU and subjected to one UV (ultraviolet) irradiation.

[0130] The display device manufacturing method may include a step of attaching a release film RF. The release film RF may be attached to the preliminary bonding member P-ADL by a pressure applying unit PR.

[0131] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In this embodiment, when attaching the release film RF to the display unit DU, the first roller RL1 may only rotate above the display unit DU. The second roller RL2, connected to the first roller RL1 via the chain CH, may apply pressure to the release film RF and attach it to the initial bonding member P-ADL while moving from one end of the display unit DU to the other in the first direction DR1 due to the rotation of the first roller RL1.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the hardening unit US may secondarily harden the initial bonding member P-ADL while moving simultaneously with the second roll RL2 in the same direction as the second roll RL2. Figure 9 , as an example, the intermediate adhesive member S-ADL that is hardened while the release film RF is attached is exemplarily shown.

[0133] The display device manufacturing method may include forming an adhesive member ADL. The adhesive member ADL may be formed while attaching the release film RF to the preliminary adhesive member P-ADL.

[0134] refer to Figure 11The display device manufacturing method may include a step of separating the used release film RF-F. The used release film RF-F may be removed from the adhesive member ADL. At this time, the first roller RL1 may move along the third direction DR3 to move away from the display unit DU.

[0135] refer to Figure 12 The display device manufacturing method may include a step of cleaning the release film RF-F used. The release film RF-F used may be cleaned by a cleaning unit CL.

[0136] refer to Figure 13 , a step of reusing the cleaned release film RF-R may be included. The cleaned release film RF-R may be disposed on the additional display unit DU-1 coated with the initial adhesive member P-ADL, so that it can be reused in the process of forming the adhesive member ADL.

[0137] Although not shown, it may include placing the window WM (reference Figure 2C ) is bonded to the display unit DU on which the adhesive member ADL is formed.

[0138] According to this embodiment, by performing secondary curing while attaching the release film RF, the process time can be shortened.

[0139] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art or those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and changes may be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the ideas and technical field of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0140] Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be determined only by the claims.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a display device, comprising: providing a stage for arranging a display unit coated with a once-hardened adhesive member, wherein the adhesive member is a light-hardening adhesive member; a step of attaching a release film to the once-hardened adhesive member by a pressure-applying unit; a step of secondarily hardening the once-hardened bonding member by a hardening unit, wherein the second hardening is performed by simultaneously moving the hardening unit along with a second roller for attaching the release film to the once-hardened bonding member; a step of separating the release film from the secondary hardened adhesive member; A step of cleaning the release film by a cleaning unit; and Repeat the steps for using the cleaned release film.

2. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 1, wherein: The bonding member is an optically transparent resin.

3. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure applying unit comprises: a first roller arranged above the table; a second roller disposed between the table and the first roller; and a chain, coupled to the first roller and the second roller to rotate, Wherein, the release film is attached to the chain.

4. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 3, wherein: The release film is pressed by the second roller while being moved in one direction from one end to the other end of the display unit, thereby being attached to the once-hardened adhesive member.

5. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 4, wherein: When the release film is attached to the once-hardened adhesive member, the first roller moves in a vertical direction to be adjacent to the display unit, wherein the vertical direction is perpendicular to the one direction and serves as a thickness direction of the display unit.

6. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 4, wherein: The hardening unit moves simultaneously with the second roller in the one direction.

7. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 4, wherein: When the release film is separated from the secondary-hardened adhesive member, the first roller moves in a vertical direction to be away from the display unit, wherein the vertical direction is perpendicular to the one direction and serves as a thickness direction of the display unit.

8. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 1 , further comprising: The step of bonding the window to the secondary hardened adhesive member.

9. The method for manufacturing a display device according to claim 1, wherein: The display unit is flexible and includes a display panel and an optical film, the display panel includes a plurality of pixels, and the optical film is arranged on the display panel, and The once-hardened adhesive member is coated on the optical film.

10. Display device manufacturing equipment, including: a stage for arranging a display unit coated with the adhesive member that has been hardened once; a first roller arranged above the table; a second roller disposed between the table and the first roller; a chain coupled to the first roller and the second roller for rotation; a release film attached to the chain; A cleaning unit for cleaning the release film; as well as A hardening lamp is used to harden the bonded components after the primary hardening. wherein the release film is separated from the display unit after the primary-hardened adhesive member is hardened, and is cleaned by the cleaning unit to be reused, and The second roller attaches the release film to the once-hardened adhesive member while the first roller and the second roller rotate, and the hardening lamp performs the hardening by moving simultaneously with the second roller.

11. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 10, wherein: The bonding member is an optically transparent resin.

12. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 10, wherein: The release film is pressed by the second roller while being moved in one direction from one end to the other end of the display unit, thereby being attached to the once-hardened adhesive member.

13. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 12, wherein: When the release film is attached to the once-hardened adhesive member, the first roller moves in a vertical direction to be adjacent to the display unit, wherein the vertical direction is perpendicular to the one direction and serves as a thickness direction of the display unit.

14. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 13, wherein: The hardening lamp and the second roller move simultaneously in the one direction.

15. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 10, wherein: The display unit is flexible and includes a display panel including a plurality of pixels and an optical film disposed on the display panel.

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