Display device and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

A display device and a method of manufacturing a display device are provided, the display device including a protective member disposed on a display panel. A bonding layer is disposed between the display panel and the protective member. The bonding layer is configured to bond the display panel with the protective member. The bonding layer includes a first region having a first light transmittance and a second region having a second light transmittance lower than the first light transmittance.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0064072, filed on May 28, 2020, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The inventive concepts relate to a display device and a method of manufacturing the display device. BACKGROUND

[0003] A display device is a device that displays an image. The display device includes a display panel such as an organic light emitting display panel or a liquid crystal display panel. The display device can include a protective member such as a window for protecting the display panel from external impact. For example, the window is widely used as a protective member for a portable electronic device such as a smart phone.

[0004] In addition, the window and the display panel are manufactured in a bonded state to minimize the overall thickness of the display device and facilitate the assembly process. For adhesion between the display panel and the window, an optically clear resin (OCR) transparent liquid type adhesive can be used. During lamination of the adhesive, an inkjet printing apparatus can be used. SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects of the inventive concepts provide a display device having improved efficiency and reliability of a lamination process of an adhesion layer that bonds a window to a display panel.

[0006] Aspects of the inventive concepts also provide a method of manufacturing a display device having improved efficiency and reliability of a lamination process of an adhesion layer that bonds a window to a display panel.

[0007] However, aspects of the inventive concepts are not limited to those aspects expressly set forth herein. The above and other aspects of the inventive concepts will become more apparent by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] An example embodiment of a display device includes a display panel. A protective member is disposed on the display panel. An adhesion layer is disposed between the display panel and the protective member. The adhesion layer is configured to bond the display panel and the protective member. The adhesion layer includes a first region having a first light transmittance and a second region having a second light transmittance lower than the first light transmittance.

[0009] An exemplary embodiment of a method for manufacturing a display device includes an ink application step, wherein the ink application step includes applying a first ink having a first light transmittance on a first area of ​​a first substrate and applying a second ink having a second light transmittance lower than the first light transmittance on a second area of ​​the first substrate. A second substrate is placed and pressed onto the first substrate to which the first and second inks are applied. The first and second inks are cured to form a bonding layer configured to bond the first and second substrates. One of the first and second substrates is a display panel, and the other is a protective member.

[0010] According to the display device and the method of manufacturing the display device according to the exemplary embodiments, the efficiency and reliability of a lamination process of an adhesive layer bonding a window to a display panel may be improved.

[0011] The effects of the present inventive concept are not limited to the aforementioned effects, and various other effects are included in this specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The above and other aspects and features of the disclosure will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is a plan view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0014] Figure 2 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1 A sectional view taken along line II-II';

[0015] Figure 3 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept Figure 2 An enlarged view of area A;

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of a region A showing a state in which light is shielded or transmitted in a bonding layer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0017] Figure 5 is a plan view of a bonding layer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0018] Figure 6 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept Figure 5 An enlarged view of region B;

[0019] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating a process of applying a first ink and a second ink to a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0020] Figure 8 is a plan view showing a process of applying a first ink and a second ink by Figure 7 the process according to the exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0021] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a process of applying a second ink after Figure 7 the process according to the exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0022] Figure 10 is a plan view showing a process of applying a first ink and a second ink by Figure 7 and Figure 9 the process according to the exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0023] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which a protective member is lowered above a display panel to which a first ink and a second ink are applied according to the exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0024] Figures 12 to 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII' of Figure 11 the exemplary embodiment according to the present inventive concept;

[0025] Figure 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0026] Figure 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0027] Figure 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0028] Figure 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0029] Figure 19 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0030] Figure 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0031] Figure 21 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0032] Figures 22 to 24is a perspective view illustrating steps of applying a first ink and a second ink according to a method of manufacturing a display device according to other exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept;

[0033] Figure 25 is a plan view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept;

[0034] Figure 26 is a plan view of a bonding layer according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept; and

[0035] Figures 27 to 30 is a perspective view illustrating a step of applying a first ink and a second ink according to a method of manufacturing a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present inventive concept will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are shown. However, the present inventive concept may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.

[0037] It will be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being "on" another layer, element, or substrate, the layer or element can be directly on the other layer, element, or substrate, or intervening layers and / or intervening elements may also be present. However, when a layer or element is referred to as being "directly on" another layer, element, or substrate, there are no intervening layers and / or intervening elements. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like components. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity.

[0038] Although the terms "first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element without departing from the teachings of one or more exemplary embodiments. Describing an element as a "first" element may not require or imply the presence of a second element or other elements. The terms "first," "second," etc. may also be used herein to distinguish between elements of different categories or sets. For simplicity, the terms "first," "second," etc. may respectively represent "first category (or first set)," "second category (or second set)," etc.

[0039] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 is a plan view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0041] Reference Figure 1The display device 10 according to exemplary embodiments can have a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view. The display device 10 can have a rectangular shape having right-angled corners in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2). However, the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the display device 10 can have a rectangular shape having rounded corners in a plan view. In other exemplary embodiments, the display device 10 can have various different shapes such as a polygonal shape, a spherical shape, an irregular shape, etc.

[0042] In the drawings, the first direction DR1 denotes a horizontal direction of the display device 10 in a plan view, and the second direction DR2 denotes a vertical direction of the display device 10 in a plan view. Further, the third direction DR3 denotes a thickness direction of the display device 10. The first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 cross each other perpendicularly. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and in other exemplary embodiments, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 can cross each other at various different angles. The third direction DR3 is a direction crossing a plane on which the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 are positioned, and crosses both the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 perpendicularly. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the third direction DR3 can cross the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 at various different angles. However, it should be understood that the directions mentioned in exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept refer to relative directions, and exemplary embodiments are not limited to the mentioned directions.

[0043] Unless defined otherwise, the terms "above", "top surface", and "upper side (edge)" as used herein with respect to the third direction DR3 refer to a side (edge) of a display surface of the display panel 100, and the terms "below", "bottom surface", and "lower side (edge)" as used herein refer to a side (edge) opposite to the display surface of the display panel 100.

[0044] The display device 10 displays an image through a display area DPA, and various devices including the display area DPA can be included in the display device 10. Examples of the display device 10 can include, but are not limited to, a smart phone, a mobile phone, a tablet PC, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a television, a game console, a wristwatch-type electronic device, a head-mounted display, a monitor of a personal computer, a laptop computer, a car navigation system, a car dashboard, a digital camera, a camcorder, an outdoor billboard, an electronic billboard, various medical devices, various inspection devices, various home appliances (such as a refrigerator and a washing machine) including the display area DPA, an Internet of Things device, etc. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0045] The display device 10 includes a display area DPA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DPA is a region where an image is displayed, and the non-display area NDA is a region where no image is displayed.

[0046] A plurality of pixels PX may be provided in the display area DPA. Pixels PX are basic units for displaying images. In an exemplary embodiment, the pixels PX may include red pixels, green pixels, and blue pixels. However, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. The plurality of pixels PX may be alternately arranged in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2). For example, the pixels PX may be arranged in a matrix, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0047] The non-display area NDA may be disposed around the display area DPA and may surround the display area DPA. Figure 1 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the display area DPA may be formed in a rectangular shape, and the non-display area NDA may be provided around all four sides of the display area DPA. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the display area DPA may extend to one or more edges of the display device 10, and the non-display area NDA may not surround these edges.

[0048] In the following, reference will be made to Figure 2 Components of the display device 10 are described.

[0049] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0050] Reference Figure 2 The display device 10 includes a display panel 100, a protective member 200 for the display device 10 disposed on the display panel 100, and a bonding layer 300 interposed between the display panel 100 and the protective member 200 for the display device 10 (eg, interposed between the display panel 100 and the protective member 200 in the third direction DR3).

[0051] The display panel 100 may display images and videos. Examples of the display panel 100 include not only self-luminous display panels such as an organic light-emitting display (OLED) panel, an inorganic electroluminescent (EL) display panel, a quantum dot (QED) display panel, a micro-LED display panel, a nano-LED display panel, a plasma display panel (PDP), a field emission display (FED) panel, and a cathode ray tube (CRT) display panel, but also light-receiving display panels such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel and an electrophoretic display (EPD) panel.

[0052] The protective member 200 for the display device is disposed above the display surface of the display panel 100. Here, the display surface of the display panel 100 refers to the surface from which light is emitted to display an image. In an exemplary embodiment in which the display device 10 is a transmissive display device or a double-sided display device that displays images on both surfaces, both surfaces (e.g., the front and rear surfaces in the third direction DR3) may serve as display surfaces. In this exemplary embodiment, the protective member 200 for the display device 10 may be disposed on either or both surfaces (e.g., the front and / or rear surfaces in the third direction DR3).

[0053] The display panel 100 may also include a polarizing member and / or a shock absorbing layer. The polarizing member may be disposed on the display panel 100. The polarizing member polarizes light passing therethrough. The polarizing member may be used to reduce reflection of external light. The shock absorbing layer may absorb external shock and protect the display device 10 and the display panel 100 from external shock.

[0054] In addition, the display device 10 may further include a touch member. The touch member may be formed as a separate panel or film to be disposed between the display panel 100 and the protective member 200, directly formed on the display panel 100, or formed inside the display panel 100.

[0055] The protective member 200 for the display device 10 may be referred to as a window, protective glass, protective film, cover member, cover glass, cover film, cover plate, etc. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the protective member 200 for the display device 10 will be simply referred to as a protective member 200 .

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective member 200 may have a plate-like sheet shape having a predetermined thickness. The protective member 200 may have a planar shape substantially similar to the planar shape of the display device 10 to which the protective member 200 is applied, and the protective member 200 may cover the entire surface of the display panel 100 (e.g., the upper surface and / or lower surface of the display panel 100). When the display device 10 has a rectangular shape, the planar shape of the protective member 200 may also be rectangular.

[0057] The protective member 200 may be disposed on the display surface of the display panel 100. Although the present disclosure is not limited thereto, in an exemplary embodiment, the protective member 200 may have an area larger than that of the display panel 100. The display panel 100 completely overlaps the protective member 200 in the third direction DR3.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the side surfaces of the protective member 200 may protrude outward from the side surfaces of the display panel 100. The protective member 200 may protrude from any side surface of the display panel 100. For example, when the display panel 100 has a rectangular shape, the protective member 200 may protrude from all four side surfaces of the display panel 100. The distances by which the protective member 200 protrudes from adjacent side surfaces of the display panel 100 may be different on one or more side surfaces, or may be the same on all side surfaces.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective member 200 may include ultra-thin glass (UTG) or thin glass. In exemplary embodiments where the protective member 200 is formed from an ultra-thin film or thin film, the protective member 200 may have flexible properties. For example, the protective member 200 may be twisted, bent, folded, or curled. In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective member 200 (e.g., the length in the third direction DR3) may be in a range of approximately 10 μm to approximately 300 μm. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. In one exemplary embodiment, the protective member 200 has a thickness in a range of approximately 30 μm to approximately 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the protective member 200 may be approximately 50 μm.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, the protective member 200 may include soda-lime glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, or lithium aluminosilicate glass. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0061] The protective member 200 may include chemically strengthened glass or thermally strengthened glass to provide strong rigidity. Chemical strengthening may be achieved through an ion exchange process using an alkaline salt. In an exemplary embodiment, the ion exchange process may be performed two or more times. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0062] like Figure 2 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the bonding layer 300 is positioned directly on the upper surface of the display panel 100. Figure 2 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the protective member 200 is directly positioned on the upper surface of the bonding layer 300. The bonding layer 300 positioned between the display panel 100 and the protective member 200 may bond the display panel 100 to the protective member 200. For example, the display panel 100 and the protective member 200 may be mutually bonded to each other through the bonding layer 300.

[0063] A portion of the bonding layer 300 may be optically transparent, while another portion thereof may be optically opaque. For example, since light emitted from the display panel 100 is visible to the user after passing through the bonding layer 300, at least a portion of the bonding layer 300 may be optically transparent while another portion thereof may be optically opaque, thereby preventing light leakage. Figures 4 to 7 An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described in detail.

[0064] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Magnified view of area A. Figure 4 are diagrams illustrating a state in which light is shielded or transmitted in a bonding layer according to an embodiment. Figure 5 is a plan view of a bonding layer according to an embodiment. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Magnified view of area B.

[0065] Further references Figures 3 to 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the bonding layer 300 can bond the protective member 200 disposed thereover and the display panel 100 disposed therebelow to each other. For example, the protective member 200 and the display panel 100 are bonded to each other via the bonding layer 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the bonding layer 300 may have a tack / adhesive strength of at least approximately 500 gf / in at room temperature (25°C) and 50% humidity, preventing the protective member 200 from peeling from the sides of the display panel 100. Furthermore, the bonding layer 300 may have a storage modulus in the range of approximately 80 MPa to approximately 120 MPa under the above conditions to provide resistance to external impact and ensure resilience (recovery) against deformation. Furthermore, the bonding layer 300 may have predetermined creep properties to relieve stress when folded or bent; these creep properties may range from approximately 50% to approximately 800% under the above conditions.

[0066] The bonding layer 300 may include a first region 310 as a light-transmitting region and a second region 320 as a light-blocking region. For example, the first region 310 may be a region that transmits light emitted from the display panel 100, and the second region 320 may be a region that blocks light emitted from the display panel 100. The first region 310 allows light emitted from the display panel 100 to pass through the first region 310 of the bonding layer 300 so that it can be recognized by the user. The second region 320 can prevent light emitted from the display panel 100 from being viewed in unintended areas and prevent light leakage.

[0067] The first region 310 may have a first light transmittance, and the second region 320 may have a second light transmittance. The first light transmittance of the first region 310 may be greater than the second light transmittance of the second region 320. In an exemplary embodiment, the first light transmittance of the first region 310 may be greater than or equal to approximately 90%, or greater than or equal to approximately 95%. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. The second light transmittance of the second region 320 may be less than the first light transmittance of the first region 310. In an exemplary embodiment, the second light transmittance of the second region 320 may be less than or equal to approximately 5%, or less than or equal to approximately 1%. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0068] The shape of the first region 310 in a plan view may correspond to the shape of the display area DPA of the display device 10 in a plan view, and the first region 310 may overlap the display area DPA in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third direction DR3). For example, the first region 310 may be disposed in the display area DPA.

[0069] The first region 310 may be directly positioned on the display panel 100 thereunder, and the protective member 200 may be directly positioned on the first region 310. That is, the first surface of the first region 310 of the bonding layer 300 may directly contact the display panel 100 thereunder, and the second surface of the bonding layer 300 facing away from the first region 310 may directly contact the protective member 200 thereover. For example, Figure 2 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lower surface of the first region 310 of the bonding layer 300 may directly contact the upper surface of the display panel 100, and the upper surface of the first region 310 of the bonding layer 300 may directly contact the lower surface of the protective member 200. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, at least one layer may be interposed between the first and second regions 310, 320 of the bonding layer 300 and the display panel 100, and / or between the first and second regions 310, 320 of the bonding layer 300 and the protective member 200. While the first region 310 directly contacts the protective member 200 above it and the display panel 100 below it, the first region 310 may adhere to both of the aforementioned components. The bonding layer 300 may have bonding strength (or adhesive strength) on both the upper and lower sides of the first region 310 and may bond (or adhere) to the protective member 200 above the bonding layer 300 and the display panel 100 below the bonding layer 300, thereby combining (e.g., adhering) the protective member 200 to the display panel 100.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, the first region 310 may include an adhesive material such as a transparent resin. For example, the first region 310 may include an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0071] The first region 310 may include a light-curable resin that is cured by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-curable resin may be composed of a monomer, an oligomer, or the like, and may be cured by polymerizing into a polymer due to irradiation with light of a specific wavelength, thereby exhibiting adhesive strength. The light-curable resin may include, for example, one or more materials selected from acrylic resins, polysiloxane resins, epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, and composite resins thereof. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0072] In addition, the first region 310 may include a photoinitiator that generates free radicals or ions due to light stimulation such as ultraviolet light. In an exemplary embodiment, the photoinitiator may include at least one compound selected from α-hydroxy ketone, monoacylphosphine oxide or bisacylphosphine oxide, benzophenone, thioxanthone, ketone sulfone, benzyl ketal, phenylglyoxylate, borate, titanocene, oxime ester-based photoinitiators, etc. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0073] The shape of the second region 320 in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the first and second directions DR1 and DR2) may correspond to the shape of the non-display area NDA of the display device 10 in a plan view, and the second region 320 may overlap the non-display area NDA in a thickness direction (e.g., the third direction DR3). For example, the second region 320 may be disposed in the non-display area NDA.

[0074] The second region 320 may be disposed outside the first region 310. For example, the second region 320 may be positioned on at least one side of the first region 310 (e.g., a side in the first direction DR1 and / or the second direction DR2). In an exemplary embodiment, the second region 320 may be disposed on all sides of the first region 310 and may be disposed to surround the first region 310 (e.g., surround the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2). However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the second region 320 may be disposed only on a partial portion of a side surface of the first region 310.

[0075] The boundary surface BD may be positioned between the first region 310 and the second region 320. The boundary surface BD may include a portion that is not parallel to the outer side of the bonding layer 300 or the second region 320 in a plan view. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the boundary surface BD may extend in a direction inclined to the first direction DR1 and / or the second direction DR2 in at least a local region in a plan view. For example, at least a local portion of the boundary surface BD may be formed to be inclined relative to the first direction DR1 and / or the second direction DR2 in a plan view. In addition, the boundary surface BD may be formed in a curved shape in at least a local portion in a plan view. Figure 6 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 , in at least a partial portion having a curved shape, the boundary surface BD may include a portion facing the display device (referring to FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 10) of the external protrusion shape, toward the display device (refer to Figure 1 10) and / or a shape formed as a combination thereof, etc. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. Therefore, the boundary surface BD may include at least one inflection point in a plan view.

[0076] like Figure 3 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the boundary surface BD in the cross-sectional view may be formed perpendicular to the display panel 100 and / or the protective member 200. However, the exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. The cross-sectional shape of the boundary surface BD may be formed differently. A detailed description thereof will be given later through other exemplary embodiments, etc.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, the second region 320 may include the same material as the first region 310 (e.g., a transparent resin, a photocurable resin, or a photoinitiator). However, the second region 320 may include more photoinitiator per unit area than the first region 310. For example, the concentration of the photoinitiator included in the second region 320 may be greater than the concentration of the photoinitiator included in the first region 310.

[0078] Therefore, by pre-curing with ultraviolet radiation to be described later, the second ink in the second region 320 (refer to Figures 7 to 10 320a) may have a larger ink content than the first ink in the first region 310 (refer to Figures 7 to 10 Thereafter, in the vacuum surface bonding process, the second ink (reference Figures 7 to 10 The droplets of ink 320a) can mix with each other, but the second ink (refer to Figures 7 to 10 320a) and the first ink (reference Figures 7 to 10 310a) do not mix with each other, so that the second ink in the second area 320 (refer to Figures 7 to 10 320a) and the first ink in the first area 310 (refer to Figures 7 to 10 Thus, the first region 310 through which light is transmitted and the second region 320 that blocks light can be clearly distinguished, and each of the first region 310 and the second region 320 can be formed to correspond to each of the display area DPA and the non-display area NPA of the display device 10.

[0079] The second region 320 may further include a dye or pigment. The dye or pigment may absorb light. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the dye or pigment may be a black dye or pigment that absorbs all light in the visible wavelength range. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the dye or pigment may be a dye or pigment that absorbs light outside the wavelength range of a specific color (e.g., red, blue, or white) and reflects light within the wavelength range of the specific color (e.g., red, blue, or white). Therefore, as Figure 4 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 , the second region 320 includes a dye or a pigment, and the second region 320 may absorb most of the light L emitted from the display panel 100 and block the light L emitted from the display panel 100 .

[0080] The second region 320 may be directly positioned on the display panel 100 located therebelow, and the protective member 200 may be directly positioned on the second region 320. That is, the first surface of the second region 320 of the bonding layer 300 may directly contact the display panel 100 located therebelow, and the second surface of the second region 320 of the bonding layer 300 facing away from the display panel 100 may directly contact the protective member 200 located thereover. Figure 2 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lower surface of the second region 320 of the bonding layer 300 can directly contact the upper surface of the display panel 100, and the upper surface of the second region 320 of the bonding layer 300 can directly contact the lower surface of the protective member 200. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited to this. While the second region 320 directly contacts the protective member 200 above it and the display panel 100 below it, the second region 320 can be bonded to the two components mentioned above (e.g., the protective member 200 and the display panel 100). The bonding layer 300 can have a certain bonding strength (or adhesive strength) on both the upper and lower sides in the second region 320 and can be bonded (e.g., bonded) to the protective member 200 above and the display panel 100 below, thereby combining (e.g., adhering) the protective member 200 to the display panel 100.

[0081] The bonding strength (e.g., adhesive strength) of the bonding layer 300 in the second region 320 may correspond to the bonding strength (e.g., adhesive strength) in the first region 310. For example, the deviation (e.g., difference) between the bonding strength (e.g., adhesive strength) of the bonding layer 300 bonded (e.g., adhered) to the display panel 100 thereunder in the second region 320 and the bonding strength (e.g., adhesive strength) of the bonding layer 300 bonded (e.g., adhered) to the display panel 100 thereunder in the first region 310 may be approximately 10% or less or approximately 50% or less. Furthermore, the deviation (e.g., difference) between the bonding strength (e.g., adhesive strength) of the bonding layer 300 bonded (e.g., adhered) to the protective member 200 thereover in the second region 320 and the bonding strength (e.g., adhesive strength) of the bonding layer 300 bonded (e.g., adhered) to the protective member 200 thereover in the first region 310 may be approximately 10% or less or approximately 50% or less.

[0082] like Figure 3 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the thickness TH2 of the second region 320 (e.g., the length in the third direction DR3) may be substantially the same as the thickness TH1 of the first region 310 (e.g., the length in the third direction DR3). However, the thicknesses TH1 and TH2 of the first and second regions 310 and 320 are not limited thereto and may have a range of about 25 μm to about 50 μm or about 15 μm to about 80 μm.

[0083] The outer side of the second region 320 may be aligned with the side surfaces of the display panel 100 and the protective member 200. For example, Figure 3 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the side surfaces of the display panel 100, the bonding layer 300 (such as the second region 320), and the protective member 200 may all be aligned with the alignment plane AGL or an alignment line having a straight cross-sectional shape (for example, extending in the third direction DR3). The side surfaces of the display panel 100, the bonding layer 300, and the protective member 200 are not limited thereto, but may be cut surfaces (such as surfaces cut together on the same line).

[0084] As described later, the first region 310 and the second region 320 of the bonding layer 300 may be formed together in one process.

[0085] Will refer to Figures 7 to 14 The exemplary embodiment of the present invention describes in detail a method of manufacturing the bonding layer 300 and the display device 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the bonding layer 300 may be formed by an inkjet printing method.

[0086] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating a process of applying a first ink and a second ink to a display panel. Figure 8Is shown by Figure 7 A plan view of the process of applying the first ink and the second ink. Figure 9 It is shown in Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a process of applying a second ink after the process of FIG. Figure 10 Is shown by Figure 7 and Figure 9 First, refer to the plan view of the first ink and the second ink applied by the process. Figures 7 to 10 A process of applying the first ink 310 a and the second ink 320 a to the display panel 100 through the inkjet printing method is described.

[0087] Hereinafter, for ease of description, the sizes of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are shown as larger than their actual sizes, and for ease of explanation, the number of droplets of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a is shown as smaller than their actual numbers. For example, the sizes, number of droplets, and shapes of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are not limited to those shown in the drawings. In actual processes, the sizes of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may be smaller than shown, the number of droplets of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may be larger than shown, and the shapes of the droplets of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may vary.

[0088] Reference Figures 7 to 10 In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel 100 may include a first panel area 110 and a second panel area 120. A position of the first panel area 110 where the display panel 100 is disposed corresponds to a position of the first area 310 where the bonding layer 300 is disposed, and a position of the second panel area 120 where the display panel 100 is disposed corresponds to a position of the second area 320 where the bonding layer 300 is disposed.

[0089] The inkjet printing apparatus 400 may include a first printing unit 410 and a second printing unit 420. The first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may be applied by the first printing unit 410 and the second printing unit 420. After the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are applied, the first ink 310a forms a bonding layer (see FIG. Figures 2 to 6 The first area of ​​300) (refer to Figures 2 to 6 310 in FIG), the second ink 320a forms the second region of the bonding layer 300 (refer to FIG Figures 2 to 6 320 in the .

[0090] Therefore, the position where the first ink 310a is dropped on the display panel 100 by the inkjet printing device 400 may be aligned with the position where the bonding layer (refer to FIG. Figures 2 to 6 The first area of ​​300) (refer to Figures 2 to 6 310) corresponds to the position where the second ink 320a is dropped by the inkjet printing device 400, and the position where the bonding layer is provided (refer to Figures 2 to 6 The second area of ​​300) (refer to Figures 2 to 6 For example, the first ink 310 a may be provided in the first panel region 110 of the display panel 100 , and the second ink 320 a may be provided in the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 .

[0091] In addition, the first ink 310a may include the above-mentioned first region (refer to Figures 2 to 6 310) contained in the material (eg, translucent resin, photocurable resin, photoinitiator, etc.), the second ink 320a may include the second region (refer to Figures 2 to 6 The material contained in 320 (for example, translucent resin, light-curable resin, photoinitiator, dye or pigment, etc.)

[0092] In an exemplary embodiment, the viscosity of the first ink 310a may be in a range of about 8 cP to about 20 cP. The viscosity of the second ink 320a may be greater than the viscosity of the first ink 310a. In an exemplary embodiment, the viscosity of the second ink 320a may be in a range of about 1.5 times to about 2 times the viscosity of the first ink 310a. For example, the viscosity of the second ink 320a may be in a range of about 8 cP to about 30 cP or in a range of about 8 cP to about 40 cP. Therefore, since the viscosity of the second ink 320a is different from that of the first ink 310a, the second ink 320a will not mix with the first ink 310a applied to its periphery, and a boundary surface may be formed between the second ink 320a and the first ink 310a (refer to Figure 3 BD in ).

[0093] The first printing unit 410 may eject different inks (eg, first ink 310a and second ink 320a) on the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120. Figure 7 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of , the first printing unit 410 may include a plurality of first inkjet heads 411 that discharge the first ink 310 a , at least one second inkjet head 412 that discharges the second ink 320 a , and a first printing head 413 .

[0094] Although the second printing unit 420 may eject one type of ink (eg, the second ink 320a), exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. Figure 9 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5 , the second printing unit 420 may include a second printing head 422 and at least one third inkjet head 421 that releases the second ink 320 a .

[0095] The first to third inkjet heads 411 , 412 , and 421 may include a plurality of nozzles and may be connected to separate ink storage units to eject predetermined ink (eg, the first ink 310 a or the second ink 320 a ) on the display panel 100 .

[0096] The first inkjet head 411 and the second inkjet head 412 of the first printing unit 410 may be arranged along the first direction DR1. The second inkjet head 412 may be arranged outside the first inkjet head 411 based on the arrangement direction (e.g., the first direction DR1). For example, the second inkjet head 412 arranged outside among the plurality of first inkjet heads 411 and the plurality of second inkjet heads 412 may eject the second ink 320a, and the first inkjet head 411 arranged inside the second inkjet head 412 may eject the first ink 310a. The first inkjet head 411 ejecting the first ink 310a and the second inkjet head 412 ejecting the second ink 320a may be respectively attached to the bonding layer (refer to Figures 2 to 6 The first area of ​​300) (refer to Figures 2 to 6 310 in) and the second area (refer to Figures 2 to 6 The position of 320 in FIG.

[0097] In an exemplary embodiment, the second printing unit 420 may release only one type of ink. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. The third inkjet head 421 may eject the second ink 320a. A plurality of third inkjet heads 421 may be arranged along the second direction DR2. The second ink 320a may be ejected from at least some of the third inkjet heads 421 positioned on the outside (e.g., positioned on the outside in the second direction DR2). The other third inkjet heads 421 positioned on the inside may eject the first ink 310a or may not eject both the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a.

[0098] The first and second printing heads 413 and 422 may be connected to separately provided moving members and may move the first and second printing units 410 and 420 in the first and second directions DR1 and DR2 , respectively.

[0099] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 7 to 10 The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 describes a process of applying a first ink 310 a and a second ink 320 a .

[0100] The first printing unit 410 may apply the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a while moving in the second direction DR2. When the second printing unit 420 moves in the first direction DR1, the second printing unit 420 may apply the second ink 320a to the display device (refer to FIG. Figure 110) is a partial area of ​​the second panel area 120 to which the second ink 320a is not applied by the first printing unit 410. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the second printing unit 420 may apply the first ink 310a as well as the second ink 320a.

[0101] The first printing unit 410 may apply the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a while moving along the second direction DR2. However, in the above process, although the first printing unit 410 may apply the second ink 320a to the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100, the second ink 320a may be applied only to a partial portion of the second panel region 120, rather than to the entire second panel region 120 of the display panel 100. For example, although the first printing unit 410 may apply the second ink 320a to a partial portion of the second panel region 120 located on a first side edge and an opposite second side edge of the second panel region 120 in the first direction DR1, the second ink 320a may not be applied to a partial portion of the second panel region 120 located on the first side edge and the opposite second side edge of the second panel region 120 in the second direction DR2. For example, during the process of applying the second ink 320a, the first printing unit 410 may apply the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a, but may apply the second ink 320a only to regions adjacent to the first side and the opposite second side of the display panel 100 in the first direction DR1. The second ink 320a may not be applied to regions adjacent to the first side and the opposite second side of the display panel 100 in the second direction DR2.

[0102] While the second printing unit 420 moves in the first direction DR1, the second printing unit 420 may apply the second ink 320a to an area not yet applied with ink by the first printing unit 410. For example, the second printing unit 420 may apply the second ink 320a to a local portion of the second panel region 120 located on a first side edge and an opposite second side edge of the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 in the second direction DR2. As a result, the first printing unit 410 and the second printing unit 420 may apply the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a together to the bonding layer (refer to FIG. Figures 2 to 6 300 in FIG. 300 ) corresponds to the entire area (eg, the first panel area 110 and the second panel area 120 of the display panel 100 ).

[0103] However, the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are applied to the bonding layer (refer to Figures 2 to 6The method of applying the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a to the area corresponding to the bonding layer (refer to FIG300 ) is not limited thereto. For example, when the display panel 100 extends the same length in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, after the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are applied by the first printing unit 410 as described above, the display panel 100 can be rotated, and the second ink 320a can be applied again by the first printing unit 410 as in the second printing unit 420 described above. In this exemplary embodiment, the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a can be applied to the bonding layer (refer to FIG300 ) using only the first printing unit 410. Figures 2 to 6 300 in the table) corresponds to the entire area.

[0104] The process of applying the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may include pre-curing using ultraviolet irradiation. While the pre-curing module follows the first printing unit 410 and the second printing unit 420 as they move via the moving member, the pre-curing module, which is also movable via the moving member, may irradiate the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a applied to the display panel 100 with ultraviolet light. The first ink 310a and the second ink 320a applied to the display panel 100 may be partially cured by the ultraviolet irradiation, thereby preventing the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a from flowing to undesired areas.

[0105] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 11 to 14 A process of forming the bonding layer 300 including the first region 310 and the second region 320 using the first ink 310 a and the second ink 320 a applied to the display panel 100 through a vacuum surface bonding process is described.

[0106] Figure 11 is a diagram showing a state in which the protective member is lowered above the display panel to which the first ink and the second ink are applied. Figures 12 to 14 It is along Figure 11 A sectional view taken along line XII-XII'. Figures 12 to 14 The appearance of the first ink 310 a and the second ink 320 a that changes as the protective member 200 descends is shown.

[0107] Reference Figures 11 to 14 , the protection member 200 may be lowered above the display panel 100 to which the first ink 310 a and the second ink 320 a are applied, and the bonding layer 300 may be formed when the protection member 200 disposed thereon presses the first ink 310 a and the second ink 320 a .

[0108] When the protective member 200 descends above the display panel 100, the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a applied (e.g., in the form of droplets) to the display panel 100 come into contact with the bottom surface of the protective member 200. Thereafter, as the protective member 200 continues to descend, the thickness (e.g., the length in the third direction DR3) of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may decrease, and the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may spread outward (e.g., in the first direction DR1 and / or the second direction DR2). In other words, while the thickness (e.g., the length in the third direction DR3) of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may decrease, the area of ​​the top surface of the display panel 100 (e.g., in a plane defined by the first and second directions DR1 and DR2) covered by the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may increase. As a result, the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may cover all or a majority of the top surface of the display panel 100. Therefore, the first ink 310 a may form the first region 310 of the bonding layer 300 , and the second ink 320 a may form the second region 320 of the bonding layer 300 .

[0109] In the above process, a droplet of the first ink 310a may mix with other nearby droplets of the first ink 310a and combine with each other, and no physical boundary may be formed between the multiple droplets of the first ink 310a. However, the second ink 320a may have a different viscosity and / or a different photoinitiator concentration than the first ink 310a. Therefore, the second ink 320a and the first ink 310a do not mix with each other, and a boundary surface BD may be formed between the second ink 320a and the first ink 310a.

[0110] In an exemplary embodiment, the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may cover the entire portion or a majority of the top surface of the display panel 100. After the above process in which the first and second regions 310, 320 of the bonding layer 300 are formed by disposing the protective member 200 on the first and second regions 310, 320 of the bonding layer 300, the entire portion of the bonding layer 300 is irradiated with ultraviolet light by a separately provided ultraviolet irradiation module. The bonding layer 300 is then completely cured, thereby completing the formation of the bonding layer 300.

[0111] According to the display device (refer to Figure 110) and / or the method of manufacturing the bonding layer 300 according to the exemplary embodiment described above, different types of inks (e.g., the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a) can be applied in one process using an inkjet printing method. Furthermore, the ability of the second region 320 to block light emitted from the display panel 100 can be formed during the process of forming the bonding layer 300 that bonds the protective member 200 to the display panel 100.

[0112] Therefore, the printed layer provided on the protection member 200 can be reduced (refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 The thickness of BM_1, BM_2) (for example, the length in the third direction DR3, refer to Figure 15 TH3 in), or printed layer (refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 BM_1, BM_2) itself may be unnecessary. Therefore, it is possible to prevent or suppress the Figure 15 and Figure 16 The bubbles and gaps that may occur in the step between BM_1, BM_2) and the protective member 200 are reduced, thereby improving process reliability. In addition, the formation of the printing layer (refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 BM_1, BM_2) process, so that the process efficiency can be improved, the display device can be manufactured (refer to Figure 1 10) can reduce the cost required, the thickness of the bonding layer 300 can be reduced, and the display device (refer to Figure 1 The thickness of 10) can be reduced.

[0113] In addition, in the above description, the application of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a to the display panel 100 has been described. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a may be applied to the protective member 200 instead of the display panel 100, and the vacuum surface bonding process may be performed using the display panel 100. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the application of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a is performed on a first substrate that can serve as the display panel 100 or the protective member 200, and then a second substrate that serves as the other of the display panel 100 or the protective member 200 is arranged and pressed on the first substrate to which the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are applied. The first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are then cured to bond the first substrate and the second substrate to each other.

[0114] Hereinafter, other exemplary embodiments of a display device and a method for manufacturing the same will be described. In the following exemplary embodiments, descriptions of elements identical or substantially identical to those of the above exemplary embodiments will be omitted or simplified, and for ease of explanation, differences will be mainly described.

[0115] First, display devices according to other exemplary embodiments will be described.

[0116] Figure 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0117] Reference Figure 15 In an exemplary embodiment, the protective member 200 is Figure 3 The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2 is different in that the protection member 200 further includes a printed layer BM_1 .

[0118] like Figure 15 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the protective member 200 may further include a printed layer BM_1 disposed in the edge region. The printed layer BM_1 is disposed in the non-display area NDA. The printed layer BM_1 may be an edge coating. The printed layer BM_1 may be disposed on the upper surface of the second area 320. For example, the lower surface of the printed layer BM_1 may directly contact the upper surface of the second area 320. The printed layer BM_1 may be an outermost black matrix layer and / or a decorative layer that imparts aesthetic appeal. The printed layer BM_1 may distinguish the display area DPA from the non-display area NDA. For example, the inner side of the printed layer BM_1 may be the boundary between the display area DPA and the non-display area NDA. The printed layer BM_1 may overlap with the second area 320 of the bonding layer 300 (e.g., overlap in the third direction DR3). The inner surface of the printed layer BM_1 may be aligned with the inner surface of the second area 320. The outer side surface of the printed layer BM_1 may be aligned with the outer side surface of the protective member 200. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited to this. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the outer side of the printed layer BM_1 may be positioned further inward than the outer side surface of the protection member 200 .

[0119] The printed layer BM_1 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the protective member 200. For example, the upper surface of the printed layer BM_1 may directly contact the bottom surface of the protective member 200. While the printed layer BM_1 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the protective member 200, it may also be disposed within the protective member 200. For example, as will be described later, the protective member 200 may include several layers. In this exemplary embodiment, not only the outermost layer but also an intermediate layer may be selected as the layer on which the printed layer BM_1 is applied.

[0120] The thickness TH3 of the printed layer BM_1 (e.g., the length in the third direction DR3) may be within a range of approximately 10 μm or less, or approximately 20 μm or less. The thickness TH2_1 of the second region 320 may be smaller than the thickness TH1 of the first region 310. For example, the thickness TH2_1 of the second region 320 may be smaller than the thickness TH1 of the first region 310 by an amount equal to the thickness TH3 of the printed layer BM_1. Therefore, the thickness TH4_1, which is the sum of the thickness TH2_1 of the second region 320 and the thickness TH3 of the printed layer BM_1, may be substantially equal to the thickness TH1 of the first region 310.

[0121] exist Figure 15 In the exemplary embodiment, the second region 320 can still be formed in the process of forming the bonding layer 300 that bonds the protection member 200 and the display panel 100 to each other. Therefore, as described above, it is possible to improve process reliability and process efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce the size of the display device (refer to FIG. Figure 1 In addition, since the printed layer BM_1 is additionally provided in the non-display area NDA, the light blocking rate of the non-display area NDA can be improved.

[0122] Figure 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0123] Reference Figure 16 , this exemplary embodiment is similar to Figure 15 The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3 is different in that the inner surface of the printed layer BM_2 and the inner surface of the second region 320 are not aligned with each other.

[0124] For example, the protective member 200 according to this exemplary embodiment may include a printed layer BM_2, but the inner surface of the printed layer BM_2 and the inner surface of the second region 320 may not be aligned with each other. For example, the side surface of the second region 320 closest to the display area DPA may be positioned farther from the display area DPA than the side surface of the printed layer BM_2 closest to the display area DPA. In other words, a portion of the printed layer BM_2 may protrude inward relative to the inner surface of the second region 320. At least a partial portion of the printed layer BM_2 may overlap with the second region 320. The portion of the printed layer BM_2 that protrudes inward relative to the inner surface of the second region 320 may extend beyond the boundary surface BD and may overlap with the first region 310 (e.g., in the third direction DR3).

[0125] exist Figure 16In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second region 320 can still be formed in the process of forming the bonding layer 300 that bonds the protection member 200 and the display panel 100. Therefore, as described above, it is possible to improve process reliability and process efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce the size of the display device (refer to FIG. Figure 1 In addition, when the printed layer BM_2 is additionally provided in the non-display area NDA, the light blocking rate of the non-display area NDA may be improved.

[0126] Figure 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment.

[0127] Reference Figure 17 , this exemplary embodiment is similar to Figure 3 The exemplary embodiment is different in that a portion of the second region 320_3 of the bonding layer 300_3 covers at least a partial portion of the outer surface of the display panel 100 .

[0128] According to the present exemplary embodiment, the outer surface of the second region 320_3 may not be aligned with the alignment plane AGL, but may protrude outward relative to the alignment plane AGL to cover at least a partial portion of the outer surface of the display panel 100. In this exemplary embodiment, the outer surface of the second region 320_3 may not be aligned with the outer surface of the protection member 200 and the outer surface of the display panel 100.

[0129] In the process described above, the second ink (refer to Figures 7 to 13 The second ink 320a in the second region 320_3 may flow out of the display panel 100 and cover a portion of the outer surface of the display panel 100. In this state, the second ink 320a may be cured by ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, the second region 320_3 may cover a portion of the outer surface of the display panel 100. Furthermore, in the third direction DR3, an empty space may be located between a partial portion of the bottom surface of the protective member 200 and the second region 320_3. For example, the empty space may be formed between the outer edge of the bottom surface of the protective member 200 and the upper surface of the second region 320_3 overlapping therewith.

[0130] exist Figure 17 In the exemplary embodiment, the second region 320_3 can still be formed in the process of forming the bonding layer 300 that bonds the protection member 200 and the display panel 100. Therefore, as described above, it is possible to improve process reliability and process efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce the size of the display device (refer to FIG. Figure 1 10) thickness.

[0131] Figure 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment.

[0132] Referring to Figure 18 The present exemplary embodiment is different from the exemplary embodiment of Figure 17 in that the outer surface of the second area 320_4 of the bonding layer 300_4 can be aligned with the alignment plane AGL.

[0133] For example, an empty space can be positioned between the second area 320_4 and a partial portion of the bottom surface of the protective member 200. For example, an empty space is formed between the outer lateral edge of the bottom surface of the protective member 200 and the upper surface of the second area 320_4 overlaid therewith. However, the outer surface of the second area 320_4 can be aligned with the alignment plane AGL. That is, the outer surface of the second area 320_4 can be aligned with the outer surface of the protective member 200 (e.g., the outer lateral edge of the protective member 200) and the outer surface of the display panel 100.

[0134] According to Figure 18 the outer surface of the second area 320_4 of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 17 may be formed by cutting or scribing the second area 320_3 of the exemplary embodiment of

[0135] In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 18 , the second area 320_4 can still be formed in a process of forming the bonding layer 300 that bonds the protective member 200 and the display panel 100. Accordingly, as described above, process reliability and process efficiency can be improved, cost can be reduced, and the thickness of the display apparatus (refer to 10 in Figure 1 ) can be reduced.

[0136] Figure 19 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display apparatus according to still another exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0137] Referring to Figure 19 , the present exemplary embodiment is different from the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3 in that the bonding layer 300_5 further includes a boundary area BA_5 between the first area 310 and the second area 320 (e.g., in the first direction DR1).

[0138] For example, although the bonding layer 300_5 according to the present exemplary embodiment can include the first area 310 and the second area 320, the boundary area BA_5 can further be included between the first area 310 and the second area 320 (e.g., between the first area 310 and the second area 320 in the first direction DR1).

[0139] The boundary area BA_5 can be disposed in the non-display area NDA. In an exemplary embodiment, the boundary area BA_5 can be formed in the process described above by causing the first ink (refer to Figures 7 to 13310a) and the second ink (reference Figures 7 to 13 320a) in the mixture is partially mixed to form. Figure 19 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a gradient phenomenon may occur in the boundary area BA_5. For example, when the first ink (refer to Figures 7 to 13 310a) and the second ink (reference Figures 7 to 13 320a) when partially mixed with a second ink (reference Figures 7 to 13 A portion of the dye or pigment in 320a) may be separated from the second ink (refer to Figures 7 to 13 Therefore, the boundary area BA_5 may include a dye or pigment.

[0140] The concentration of the dye or pigment in the boundary area BA_5 may decrease as the distance from the second area 320 increases. Therefore, the light blocking rate of the boundary area BA_5 may decrease in the direction from the second area 320 toward the first area 310. Alternatively, the boundary area BA_5 may have a third light transmittance, and the third light transmittance of the boundary area BA_5 may increase within the boundary area BA_5 in the direction from the second area 320 toward the first area 310. Similarly, the third light transmittance may decrease as the distance from the second area 320 decreases. For example, the area where the light blocking rate or light transmittance changes may be provided between the first area 310 and the second area 320. The third light transmittance of the boundary area BA_5 may be greater than the light transmittance of the second area 320 and less than the light transmittance of the first area 310.

[0141] exist Figure 19 In the exemplary embodiment, the second region 320 can still be formed in the process of forming the bonding layer 300 that bonds the protection member 200 and the display panel 100. Therefore, as described above, it is possible to improve process reliability and process efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce the size of the display device (refer to FIG. Figure 1 10) thickness.

[0142] Figure 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0143] Reference Figure 20 , this exemplary embodiment is similar to Figure 3 The exemplary embodiment is different in that a boundary surface BD_6 between the first region 310 and the second region 320 has at least a partial region that is not perpendicular to the display panel 100 and / or the protective member 200 in a cross-sectional view. For example, the boundary surface BD_6 does not substantially extend linearly in the third direction DR3.

[0144] For example, the first region 310 and the second region 320 according to this exemplary embodiment may include a boundary surface BD_6 therebetween (e.g., between them in the first direction DR1). However, at least a partial portion of the boundary surface BD_6 in a cross-sectional view may not be perpendicular to the display panel 100 and / or the protective member 200 (such as the upper surface of the display panel 100 and / or the protective member 200). For example, at least a partial portion of the boundary surface BD_6 may extend in a direction inclined relative to the third direction DR3 in a cross-sectional view. In other words, at least a partial portion of the boundary surface BD_6 may be formed to be inclined relative to the third direction DR3 in a cross-sectional view. Therefore, partial portions of the first region 310 and the second region 320 may overlap in the thickness direction (the third direction DR3).

[0145] In addition, the boundary surface BD_6 may be at least partially formed into a curved shape in a cross-sectional view. The curved shape of at least a local portion of the boundary surface BD_6 may include a portion facing the display device (referring to Figure 1 10) of the external protrusion shape, toward the display device (refer to Figure 1 10) and / or a shape formed as a combination thereof, etc. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. Therefore, the boundary surface BD_6 may include at least one inflection point in a cross-sectional view.

[0146] exist Figure 20 In the exemplary embodiment, the second region 320 can still be formed in the process of forming the bonding layer 300 that bonds the protection member 200 and the display panel 100. Therefore, as described above, it is possible to improve process reliability and process efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce the size of the display device (refer to FIG. Figure 1 10) thickness.

[0147] Hereinafter, methods of manufacturing a display device according to other exemplary embodiments will be described.

[0148] Figure 21 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment. Figures 22 to 24 is a perspective view illustrating steps of applying first ink and second ink according to a method of manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept. Hereinafter, the direction in which the first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7 move is referred to as the direction in which the first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7 move toward the display device in the second direction DR2 (referring to FIG. Figure 1 10).

[0149] Reference Figure 21 , according to the manufacturing display device of this exemplary embodiment (refer to Figure 1 10) method and Figures 7 to 14 The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is different in that the first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7 travel in the same direction.

[0150] For example, in manufacturing a display device according to this exemplary embodiment (refer to Figure 1 In the method of 10), the first printing unit 410_7 may include a first printing head 412_7 and a plurality of first inkjet heads 411_7, and the second printing unit 420_7 may include a second printing head 422_7 and a plurality of second inkjet heads 421_7. The plurality of first inkjet heads 411_7 and the plurality of second inkjet heads 421_7 may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0151] The first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7 may move in the same direction. For example, although the first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7 may move in the second direction DR2, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, the first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7 may be initially positioned at the display device (refer to FIG. Figure 1 10) on the first side in the second direction DR2 or adjacent to the first side, and can be directed toward the display device (refer to Figure 1 10) in the second direction DR2 of the second side of the opposite direction. The direction of the first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7 can be the same as Figure 21 The direction arrow of the second direction DR2 points to the opposite direction. The second printing unit 420_7 can move in the traveling direction (eg, toward the display device (refer to FIG. 2 ) in the second direction DR2). Figure 1 In other words, the second printing unit 420_7 may be positioned on the first side of the first printing unit 410_7 in the second direction DR2. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0152] The first printing unit 410_7 may eject the first ink 310a from all the first inkjet heads 411_7, and the second printing unit 420_7 may eject the second ink 320a from all the second inkjet heads 421_7. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the first printing unit 410_7 may be configured as follows: Figures 7 to 14 Both the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a are jetted as in the exemplary embodiment of FIG.

[0153] Further references Figure 22 , when the display panel 100 is provided in the display device (refer to Figure 110) on the first side in the second direction DR2 and extending in the first direction DR1, the second panel region 120 (the second panel region 120 and the bonding layer (refer to Figure 2 and Figure 14 The second area of ​​300) (refer to Figure 2 and Figure 14 When applying the second ink 320a, the second ink 320a can be ejected from at least most of the second inkjet heads 421_7 of the second printing unit 420_7. At the same time, the first ink 310a from the first printing unit 410_7 can be ejected onto the bonding layer (refer to FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 14 The first area of ​​300) (refer to Figure 2 and Figure 14 310 in the figure). However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the first ink 310a may be ejected earlier or later than the second ink 320a depending on the distance between the first printing unit 410_7 and the second printing unit 420_7, the width of the area where the second ink 320a is applied in the second direction DR2, the sizes of the first ink 310a and the second ink 320a, and the like.

[0154] Further references Figure 23 In an exemplary embodiment, the first printing unit 410_7 may be positioned toward the display device (refer to Figure 1 10) ejects the first ink 310a while moving in the direction of the second side in the second direction DR2. In this process, the second printing unit 420_7 can eject the second ink 320a only from some of the second inkjet heads 421_7 located at the first side end and the opposite second side end in the first direction DR1. Therefore, the second ink 320a can be ejected onto the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100, which is located adjacent to the first and second side edges (e.g., the first and second side edges in the first direction DR1) of the first panel region 110 of the display panel 100.

[0155] Reference Figure 24 In an exemplary embodiment, when the display panel 100 is provided in the display device (referring to Figure 1 When applying the second ink 320a to the second panel region 120 extending in the first direction DR1 and on the second side in the second direction DR2, the second ink 320a may be ejected from at least most of the second inkjet heads 421_7 of the second printing unit 420_7. In this case, the first printing unit 410_7 may not eject the first ink 310a.

[0156] Since the subsequent processes have been described, repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0157] exist Figures 21 to 24 In an exemplary embodiment, the bonding layer (refer to Figures 2 to 6 The second area of ​​300) (refer to Figures 2 to 6 320 in the figure) can still be used to form a bonding layer (refer to Figures 2 to 6 Therefore, as described above, it is possible to improve process reliability and process efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce the size of the display device (refer to Figure 1 10) thickness.

[0158] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 25 to 30 A display device 10_8 and a method of manufacturing the display device 10_8 according to still another exemplary embodiment are described.

[0159] Figure 25 is a plan view of a display device according to still another exemplary embodiment. Figure 26 is a plan view of a bonding layer according to yet another exemplary embodiment. Figures 27 to 30 is a diagram illustrating steps of applying first and second inks according to a method of manufacturing a display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment. The direction in which the first and second printing units 410_8 and 420_8 move is referred to as a direction toward the second side of the display device 10_8 in the second direction DR2.

[0160] First, refer to Figure 25 and Figure 26 According to the present exemplary embodiment, the display device 10_8 and Figures 1 to 6 The embodiment is different in that the non-display area NDA includes the non-display area protrusion PR_8, and the second area 320_8 of the bonding layer 300_8 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes a second area protrusion 321_8 corresponding to the non-display area protrusion PR_8.

[0161] For example, the display device 10_8 according to this exemplary embodiment may further include a non-display area protrusion PR_8. The non-display area protrusion PR_8 is an area in which no image is displayed. The non-display area protrusion PR_8 may be formed to protrude from the non-display area NDA located on a first side (e.g., an upper side in the second direction DR2 in a plan view defined in the first and second directions DR1 and DR2) toward an opposite second side (e.g., a lower side in the second direction DR2 in a plan view defined in the first and second directions DR1 and DR2). The non-display area protrusion PR_8 may protrude toward the display area DPA and may be surrounded (e.g., surrounded in the first direction DR1) by the display area DPA located on the first and second sides of the non-display area protrusion PR_8 in the first direction DR1.

[0162] In the non-display area NDA extending along the first direction DR1, the width of a portion in which the non-display area protrusion PR_8 is positioned (e.g., the length in the second direction DR2) may be greater than the width of a portion in which the non-display area protrusion PR_8 is not positioned (e.g., the length in the second direction DR2). Therefore, the width of the display area DPA positioned on the second side of the non-display area protrusion PR_8 in the second direction DR2 (e.g., the length in the second direction DR2) may be smaller than the width of the display area DPA positioned on the first side of the non-display area NDA in the second direction DR2 in which the non-display area protrusion PR_8 is not positioned (e.g., the length in the second direction DR2).

[0163] Therefore, the bonding layer 300_8 according to this exemplary embodiment may further include a second region protrusion 321_8. The second region protrusion 321_8 may be disposed on the non-display region protrusion PR_8 and may be disposed so as to overlap the non-display region protrusion PR_8. The second region protrusion 321_8 may be formed to protrude from the second region 320_8 located on a first side (e.g., an upper side in the second direction DR2 in plan view) toward a second side (e.g., a lower side in the second direction DR2 in plan view). The second region protrusion 321_8 may protrude toward the first region 310_8. For example, the first region 310_8 may surround the second region protrusion 321_8 in the first direction DR1 and may be positioned adjacent to the first side and an opposing second side of the second region protrusion 321_8 in the first direction DR1.

[0164] In the second region 320_8 of the bonding layer 300_8 extending in the first direction DR1, the width of the portion where the second-region protrusion 321_8 is located (e.g., the length in the second direction DR2) may be greater than the width of the portion where the second-region protrusion 321_8 is not located (e.g., the length in the second direction DR2). Therefore, the width of the first region 310_8 located on the second side of the second-region protrusion 321_8 (e.g., the lower side in the second direction DR2 in plan view) in the second direction DR2 may be smaller than the width of the first region 310_8 located on the first side of the bonding layer 300_8 in the second direction DR2 where the second-region protrusion 321_8 is not located.

[0165] Further references Figure 27 In the method of manufacturing the display device 10_8 according to the present exemplary embodiment, the first printing unit 410_8 may include a first printing head 412_8 and a plurality of first inkjet heads 411_8, and the second printing unit 420_8 may include a second printing head 422_8 and a plurality of second inkjet heads 421_8.

[0166] When applying the second ink 320a (for example, applying the second ink 320a to the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 that is disposed on a first side edge of the display device 10_8 in the second direction DR2 and extends in the first direction DR1 (the second panel region 120 corresponds to the second region 320_8 including the second region protrusion 321_8)), the second ink 320a may be ejected from at least a majority of the second inkjet heads 421_8 of the second printing unit 420_8. Simultaneously, the first ink 310a from the first printing unit 410_8 may be ejected onto a region corresponding to the display area DPA (for example, the first panel region 110 of the display panel 100). However, in the process of causing the first printing unit 410_8 to eject the first ink 310a, the first ink 310a may not be applied to a region of the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 that corresponds to the second region protrusion 321_8. For example, the first printing unit 410_8 is caused to eject the first ink 310 a on a portion other than an area of ​​the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 corresponding to the second region protrusion 321_8 .

[0167] Reference Figure 28In an exemplary embodiment, while the second printing unit 420_8 is moved along the second direction DR2 toward the second side of the display device 10_8, the second printing unit 420_8 may spray the second ink 320a on the area where the first printing unit 410_8 did not spray the first ink 310a in the above step. For example, the second printing unit 420_8 may spray the second ink 320a on the area of ​​the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 corresponding to the second region protrusion 321_8 and the area of ​​the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 extending in the second direction DR2.

[0168] The first ink 310a may have already been ejected onto the first and second side edges of the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100 corresponding to the second region protrusion 321_8 in the first direction DR1. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto. Therefore, the second printing unit 420_8 may eject the second ink 320a from the second inkjet heads 421_8 positioned at the first and second side edges of the display device 10_8 in the first direction DR1, and the second inkjet head 421_8 positioned near the center (e.g., the center corresponding to the second region protrusion 321_8) of the plurality of second inkjet heads 421_8. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the second inkjet head 421_8 ejecting the second ink 320a in this step may vary depending on the shape of the second region 320_8 of the bonding layer 300_8.

[0169] Further references Figure 29 While the first printing unit 410_8 is moved along the second direction DR2 toward the second side of the display device 10_8, the first printing unit 410_8 can eject the first ink 310a onto the first panel region 110 of the display panel 100. In this process, the second printing unit 420_8 can eject the second ink 320a only from a portion of the second inkjet head 421_8 located at the first and second side ends of the display device 10_8 in the first direction DR1. Therefore, on the second panel region 120 of the display panel 100, the second inkjet head 421_8 can eject the second ink 320a onto a portion of the first and second side edges of the first panel region 110 of the display panel 100 in the first direction DR1.

[0170] Reference Figure 30When the second ink 320a is applied to the second panel area 120 of the display panel 100 disposed on the second side edge of the display device 10_8 in the second direction DR2 and extending in the first direction DR1, the second ink 320a can be ejected from at least most of the second inkjet heads 421_8 of the second printing unit 420_8. In this case, the first printing unit 410_8 can not eject the first ink 310a.

[0171] Since the subsequent processes have been described, a repetitive description is omitted.

[0172] In the above, the display device 10_8 having a portion (e.g., the non-display area protrusion PR_8) partially protruding from the non-display area NDA has been described, but the above description can also be applied to a case in which a separate non-display area positioned within the display area DPA is formed separately from the non-display area NDA.

[0173] In Figures 25 to 30 In the exemplary embodiment of the display device 10_8, the second area 320_8 of the bonding layer 300_8 can still be formed in a process of forming the bonding layer 300_8 that bonds the protective member 200 and the display panel 100. Thus, as described above, process reliability and process efficiency can be improved, costs can be reduced, and the thickness of the display device 10_8 can be reduced. In addition, the second area 320_8 of various shapes corresponding to the non-display area NDA formed in various shapes can be formed in one process, thereby improving process efficiency.

[0174] At the end of the detailed description, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many changes and modifications can be made to the disclosed exemplary embodiments without substantially departing from the principles of the inventive concept. Accordingly, the disclosed exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are intended to be taken in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for limitation purposes.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display panel; a protective member, disposed on the display panel; a bonding layer disposed between the display panel and the protective member, the bonding layer being configured to bond the display panel and the protective member; The bonding layer includes a first region formed by curing a first ink having a first light transmittance and a second ink having a second light transmittance by ultraviolet irradiation, and a second region surrounding the first region, wherein the second light transmittance is lower than the first light transmittance. The first ink and the second ink include a transparent resin, and the second ink further includes a pigment and / or a dye, and The viscosity of the second ink is greater than the viscosity of the first ink.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The display device includes a display area configured to display at least one image and a non-display area configured not to display an image, the first area being disposed within the display area, and the second area being disposed within the non-display area.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The first light transmittance is greater than or equal to 95%, and the second light transmittance is less than or equal to 1%.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The thickness of the first region of the bonding layer is equal to the thickness of the second region of the bonding layer.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein The thickness of the first region and the thickness of the second region are in a range of 25 μm to 50 μm.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first surface of the first region of the bonding layer and the first surface of the second region of the bonding layer directly contact the display panel and are bonded to the display panel; and A difference between a bonding strength at which the first surface of the first region of the bonding layer is bonded to the display panel and a bonding strength at which the first surface of the second region of the bonding layer is bonded to the display panel is 10% or less.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The second surface of the first area of ​​the bonding layer and the second surface of the second area of ​​the bonding layer directly contact the protective component and are bonded to the protective component, the second surface of the first area of ​​the bonding layer is opposite to the first surface of the first area of ​​the bonding layer, and the second surface of the second area of ​​the bonding layer is opposite to the first surface of the second area of ​​the bonding layer.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: A difference between a bonding strength of the second surface of the first region of the bonding layer to the protective member and a bonding strength of the second surface of the second region of the bonding layer to the protective member is 10% or less.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The bonding layer further includes a boundary region positioned between the first region and the second region, the boundary region having a third light transmittance that is smaller than the first light transmittance and larger than the second light transmittance.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein The third light transmittance decreases as the distance from the second area decreases.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The protection member further includes a printed layer provided on the first surface of the protection member, and at least a partial portion of the printed layer overlaps the second region.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The first surface of the first region of the bonding layer and the first surface of the second region of the bonding layer directly contact the display panel and are bonded to the display panel; The second surface of the second region of the bonding layer directly contacts the printed layer; and The thickness of the printed layer is in the range of 10 μm or less.

13. A method for manufacturing a display device, the method comprising the following steps: an ink applying step comprising applying a first ink on a first area of ​​a first substrate and applying a second ink on a second area of ​​the first substrate surrounding the first area, the first ink having a first light transmittance and the second ink having a second light transmittance lower than the first light transmittance; placing and pressing a second substrate on the first substrate to which the first ink and the second ink are applied; as well as curing the first ink and the second ink by ultraviolet irradiation to form a bonding layer configured to bond the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein one of the first substrate and the second substrate is a display panel, and the other of the first substrate and the second substrate is a protective member, wherein the first ink and the second ink comprise transparent resin, and the second ink further comprises pigment and / or dye, and The viscosity of the second ink is greater than the viscosity of the first ink.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein The step of at least partially applying the first ink and the step of at least partially applying the second ink are performed simultaneously.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The ink applying step includes applying the first ink and the second ink simultaneously.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein: In the ink applying step, when the second ink is applied, the first ink is not applied.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein: performing the ink applying step by an inkjet printing apparatus including a first printing unit having a plurality of inkjet heads arranged along a first direction; and The plurality of inkjet heads include a plurality of first inkjet heads and at least one second inkjet head, the plurality of first inkjet heads are configured to release the first ink, and the at least one second inkjet head is configured to release the second ink, The at least one second inkjet head is arranged on a first side of the plurality of first inkjet heads relative to the first direction and / or a second side of the plurality of first inkjet heads relative to the first direction, and the second side is opposite to the first side.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein: performing the ink applying step by an inkjet printing apparatus comprising a first printing unit and a second printing unit; The first printing unit includes a plurality of first inkjet heads arranged in a first direction and configured to release the first ink; and The second printing unit includes a plurality of second inkjet heads arranged in the first direction and configured to release the second ink, The second printing unit is arranged adjacent to the first printing unit in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

Images