Combining device and method for manufacturing display device

Abstract

A coupling device and a method for manufacturing a display device are provided. The coupling device includes: a support member including a cavity; and a window fixing chuck facing the support member. The support member includes: a first portion including a first through hole extending from the cavity; and a second portion extending downward from the first portion and including a second through hole extending from the cavity. A first distance between a first inner surface of the first portion and a first outer surface of the first portion is smaller than a second distance between a second inner surface of the second portion and a second outer surface of the second portion. The first inner surface of the first portion and the second inner surface of the second portion form a cavity.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0067129, filed on June 3, 2020, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a support, a bonding device including the support, and a method of manufacturing a display device using the bonding device. Background Art

[0004] Electronic products, such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation systems, and smart TVs, may include a display device for displaying images. The display device may generate images and may provide the images displayed on a display screen to a user.

[0005] With the advancement of display technology, various types of display devices have been developed recently. For example, a display device for displaying images on its front surface and also on its rear surface and side surfaces has been developed.

[0006] The display device may include a display panel that displays an image, and may also include a window that can be provided on the display panel and protect the display panel. The display panel and the window may be processed to be arranged along the front surface, rear surface, and side surface of the display device to display images on the front surface, rear surface, and side surface thereof.

[0007] It will be understood that this background in the technical section is intended, in part, to provide a useful background for understanding the present technology. However, this background in the technical section may also include ideas, concepts, or cognitions that were not known or understood by those skilled in the relevant art before the corresponding effective filing date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Embodiments provide a support capable of preventing coupling failure between a display panel and a window, a coupling device including the support, and a method of manufacturing a display apparatus using the coupling device.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the coupling device may include: a support member including a cavity; and a window fixing chuck facing the support member. The support member may include: a first portion including a first through hole extending from the cavity; and a second portion including a second through hole extending from the cavity. The second portion may extend downward from the first portion. A first distance between a first inner surface of the first portion and a first outer surface of the first portion may be smaller than a second distance between a second inner surface of the second portion and a second outer surface of the second portion. The first inner surface of the first portion and the second inner surface of the second portion may form a cavity.

[0010] In an embodiment, a length of the first through hole of the first portion may be smaller than a length of the second through hole of the second portion.

[0011] In an embodiment, a size of the first through hole when viewed in an extending direction of the first through hole may be larger than a size of the second through hole when viewed in an extending direction of the second through hole.

[0012] In an embodiment, the second distance of the second portion may increase as approaching a lower portion of the second portion from an upper portion of the second portion.The upper portion of the second portion may be adjacent to the first portion.

[0013] In an embodiment, the first portion may include a plurality of first through holes, the second portion may include a plurality of second through holes, and the lengths of the plurality of second through holes may increase as the lengths approach the lower portion of the second portion from the upper portion of the second portion.

[0014] In an embodiment, the number of the plurality of first through-holes of the first portion may be smaller than the number of the plurality of second through-holes of the second portion.

[0015] In an embodiment, an interval between the plurality of first through-holes of the first portion may be different from an interval between the plurality of second through-holes of the second portion.

[0016] In an embodiment, the support member may extend in a third direction intersecting a plane defined by a first direction and a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction. The first outer surface of the first portion may include a curved surface that is convex in an upward direction when viewed in the first direction. The second outer surface of the second portion may include a plane defined by the first direction and the third direction.

[0017] In an embodiment, the first distance of the first portion may be measured in a normal direction to the first outer surface of the first portion, and the second distance of the second portion may be measured in a second direction.

[0018] In an embodiment, the window fixing chuck may include a groove. The groove may face the support and extend in the first direction. The window fixing chuck may include a concave curved surface at an inner distal end of the groove facing the curved surface of the first outer surface of the first portion.

[0019] In an embodiment, the second inner surface of the second portion may include a surface inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the third direction.

[0020] In an embodiment, the second distance of the second portion may be uniform (or constant) from an upper portion of the second portion to a lower portion of the second portion.The upper portion of the second portion may be adjacent to the first portion.

[0021] In an embodiment, the first portion may include a plurality of first through holes, and sizes of the plurality of first through holes when viewed in an extending direction of the plurality of first through holes may decrease as approaching the second portion from a central portion of the first portion.

[0022] In an embodiment, the second portion may include a plurality of second through holes. The sizes of the plurality of second through holes when viewed in the direction in which the plurality of second through holes extend may decrease as the size approaches the lower portion of the second portion from the upper portion of the second portion. The upper portion of the second portion may be adjacent to the first portion.

[0023] In an embodiment, the first through hole may extend in one direction.

[0024] In an embodiment, a size of the first through hole when viewed in an extending direction of the first through hole may be the same as a size of the second through hole when viewed in an extending direction of the second through hole.

[0025] In an embodiment, the second portion may include a plurality of second through holes. The intervals between the plurality of second through holes may increase as the distance from the upper portion of the second portion to the lower portion of the second portion approaches. The upper portion of the second portion may be adjacent to the first portion.

[0026] In an embodiment, the coupling device may include a plurality of cavities, a plurality of first through holes, and a plurality of second through holes. The plurality of first through holes and the plurality of second through holes may extend from the plurality of cavities.

[0027] According to an embodiment, a method of manufacturing a display device may include: placing a display panel on an outer surface of a support member, the support member may include a first portion and a second portion extending downward from the first portion, the first portion including a first through-hole and the second portion including a second through-hole; placing a window in a groove of a window fixing chuck on the support member; placing the support member in the groove; and attaching the display panel to the window by introducing air into the first through-hole of the first portion and into the second through-hole of the second portion, the air moving the display panel toward the window. The air may pass through the first through-hole of the first portion more quickly than through the second through-hole of the second portion.

[0028] In an embodiment, the method may further include introducing air into a cavity included in the support. The first through-hole of the first portion and the second through-hole of the second portion may extend from the cavity. A first distance between the first inner surface of the first portion and the first outer surface of the first portion may be less than a second distance between the second inner surface of the second portion and the second outer surface of the second portion. The first inner surface of the first portion and the second inner surface of the second portion may form a cavity.

[0029] In an embodiment, attaching the display panel to the window may include: attaching a first bent portion of the display panel to a second bent portion of the window by introducing air into a first through hole of the first portion, the first bent portion being disposed on the first through hole, and the second bent portion being adjacent to the first bent portion; and attaching multiple first flat portions of the display panel to multiple second flat portions of the window by introducing air into the second through hole of the second portion, the first flat portion being disposed on the second through hole, and the second flat portions being adjacent to the first flat portions.

[0030] In an embodiment, the length of the first through hole of the first portion may be smaller than the length of the second through hole of the second portion. The size of the first through hole when viewed in the extension direction of the first through hole of the first portion may be larger than the size of the second through hole when viewed in the extension direction of the second through hole of the second portion.

[0031] According to an embodiment, the support may include: a first portion, the first portion including a first through hole; and a second portion extending from the first portion in a downward direction and including a second through hole. The first portion and the second portion may form a cavity in the support. The first through hole of the first portion and the second through hole of the second portion may extend from the cavity of the support. The first distance between the first inner surface of the first portion and the first outer surface of the first portion may be smaller than the second distance between the second inner surface of the second portion and the second outer surface of the second portion. The first inner surface of the first portion and the second inner surface of the second portion may form a cavity. The first portion may discharge air introduced into the cavity after the air passes through the first through hole of the first portion more quickly than through the second through hole of the second portion.

[0032] In an embodiment, the length of the first through hole of the first portion may be smaller than the length of the second through hole of the second portion. The size of the first through hole when viewed in the extending direction of the first through hole may be larger than the size of the second through hole when viewed in the extending direction of the second through hole. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Illustrative, non-limiting embodiments will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 A perspective view showing a bonding device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0035] Figure 2 shows that by using Figure 1 A side view of a display panel and a window combined with the combined device depicted in FIG.

[0036] Figure 3 Shown Shown Figure 2 Schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel depicted in FIG.

[0037] Figure 4 Shown is shown in Figure 3 Schematic cross-sectional view of a single pixel arranged in the display element layer and circuit element layer depicted in FIG.

[0038] Figure 5 Shown Shown Figure 1 An enlarged perspective view of the support member depicted in FIG.

[0039] Figures 6A to 6C Shown Shown Figure 5 Various shapes of through holes are depicted in the figure.

[0040] Figure 7A Shown along Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0041] Figures 7B to 7D Schematic cross-sectional views showing various shapes of the first through-hole are shown.

[0042] Figure 8 Shown along Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0043] Figure 9 Shown along Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line III-III'.

[0044] Figure 10 Shown Shown Figure 8 The first part and Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of the second part of the two is depicted in FIG.

[0045] Figure 11 An enlarged view showing the first through hole and the second through hole when viewed from the first outer surface and the second outer surface is shown.

[0046] Figure 12 Shown is shown in Figure 10 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a first through hole and a second through hole adjacent to each other in a schematic cross-sectional view of .

[0047] Figures 13 to 21 Shown using Figure 1 A perspective view and a schematic cross-sectional view of a method for manufacturing a display device by combining the apparatus depicted in FIG.

[0048] Figure 22 A perspective view showing a support for connection with a display panel and a window is shown.

[0049] Figure 23 A perspective view showing a display device manufactured by a display panel, a window, and a support coupled to each other is shown.

[0050] Figure 24 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0051] Figure 25 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0052] Figure 26 Shown Shown Figure 25 Schematic cross-sectional view of the construction of the support depicted in FIG.

[0053] Figure 27 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0054] Figure 28 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0055] Figure 29 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0056] Figure 30 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0057] Figure 31 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0058] Figure 32 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0059] Figure 33 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0060] Figure 34 Shown along Figure 33 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV'.

[0061] Figure 35 Shown along Figure 33 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line V-V'.

[0062] Figure 36 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings that illustrate embodiments. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0064] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout this disclosure, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" means only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0065] The terms "and" and "or" can be used in a conjunctive or disjunctive sense and can be understood as equivalent to "and / or". In the specification and claims, for the purposes of its meaning and interpretation, the phrase "at least one of..." is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from the group of..." For example, "at least one of A and B" can be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B".

[0066] Unless it has an obviously different meaning in the context, an expression used in the singular encompasses expressions in the plural.

[0067] In this description, when a component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" one or more other components, the component may be directly disposed on or directly connected to the one or more other components, or at least one intermediate component may be present therebetween.

[0068] Like reference numerals denote like components. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, in order to effectively explain the technical content, the thickness, proportion and size of the components are exaggerated.

[0069] The term "and / or" includes one or more combinations defined by the associated components.

[0070] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and vice versa, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is intended to also include the plural form.

[0071] Additionally, the terms "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc. are used herein to describe one component's relationship to one or more other components illustrated in the figures. Relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

[0072] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," "upper," etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or component and another element or component as shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, where the device shown in the accompanying drawings is turned over, a device positioned "below" or "beneath" another device may be placed "above" the other device. Thus, the illustrative term "below" may include both lower and upper positions. The device may also be oriented in other directions, and therefore the spatially relative terms may be interpreted differently depending on the orientation.

[0073] In addition, the terms "overlap" or "overlapping" mean that a first object can be above or below a second object or to the side of the second object, and vice versa. In addition, the term "overlap" can include layering, stacking, facing or facing, extending on, covering or partially covering, or any other suitable term that one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate and understand. The terms "facing" and "facing" mean that a first element can be directly or indirectly opposite to a second element. In the case where a third element is between the first and second elements, the first and second elements can be understood to be indirectly opposite to each other, although still facing each other. When an element is described as "not overlapping" or "will not overlap" with another element, this can include the elements being spaced apart, offset from each other, or separated from each other, or any other suitable term that one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate and understand.

[0074] The phrase "in a plan view" means that an object is viewed from the top, and the phrase "in a schematic cross-sectional view" means that a section when vertically cutting the object is viewed from the side.

[0075] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurements in question and the errors associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value.

[0076] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meanings as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art. In addition, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be understood to have the same meanings as those defined in the art according to the context, and should not be understood as idealized or overly formalized unless otherwise defined herein.

[0077] It should be understood that the terms "includes," "comprising," "having," and the like and variations thereof are used to indicate the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, components, elements, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, components, elements, or combinations thereof.

[0078] Now, embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0079] Figure 1 A perspective view showing a bonding device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0080] Reference Figure 1 , the bonding device BOD according to the embodiment may include a stage STG, a support SUP, a column COL, a tensioning portion TNP, a first moving portion MOV1, a second moving portion MOV2, a third moving portion MOV3, a roller ROL, a roller support RSP, and a window fixing chuck FCK.

[0081] The platform STG may have a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 that may intersect the first direction DR1. The pillars COL may extend in a third direction DR3 while being disposed on opposite sides of the platform STG that may face each other in the first direction DR1. The pillars COL may face each other in the first direction DR1.

[0082] The third direction DR3 may be defined as indicating a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In this description, the terms "on," "above," "below," "upward direction," or "downward direction" may refer to a relative position or direction when viewed in the third direction DR3.

[0083] The support SUP may be provided on the platform STG. The support SUP may be placed between the columns COL. The lower portion of the support SUP may be provided in the recess RES defined in the platform STG.

[0084] The support SUP may extend in the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. A through hole AH may be defined in the support SUP. The structure of the through hole AH will be discussed further below. The support SUP may be formed to be rigid and may include stainless steel.

[0085] The tension portion TNP may be disposed to face opposite sides of the platform STG facing each other in the second direction DR2 .The tension portion TNP may extend in the first direction DR1 .

[0086] The first moving portion MOV1 may be disposed between the tension portion TNP and the opposite side of the platform STG in the second direction DR2. The first moving portion MOV1 may be inserted into the recess RES1 defined on the opposite side of the platform STG in the second direction DR2 while moving in the second direction DR2. The first moving portion MOV1 may be associated with the tension portion TNP, thereby driving the tension portion TNP to move in the second direction DR2.

[0087] Although not shown, the stage STG may have therein a driving unit for driving the first moving part MOV1 , but no limitation is imposed on the position of the driving unit.

[0088] The second movable portion MOV2 may have a generally frame shape. For example, the second movable portion MOV2 may have a generally quadrangular frame shape, but the shape of the second movable portion MOV2 is not limited. The second movable portion MOV2 may be associated with the column COL. The column COL may be connected to the second movable portion MOV2 at its outer surface, which may be opposite to the inner surface of the column COL. The second movable portion MOV2 may be movable in the third direction DR3.

[0089] Although not shown, the column COL may have therein a driving unit for driving the second moving part MOV2 , but no limitation is imposed on the position of the driving unit.

[0090] The third movable portion MOV3 may be arranged to extend in the first direction DR1 and face each other in the second direction DR2. The second movable portion MOV2 may be connected to the third movable portion MOV3 at its inner side surface, which may face each other in the first direction DR1. The third movable portion MOV3 may be adjacent to the inner side surface of the second movable portion MOV2 that may face each other in the first direction DR1. The third movable portion MOV3 is movable in the second direction DR2.

[0091] Although not shown, the second moving part MOV2 may have therein a driving unit for driving the third moving part MOV3 , but no limitation is imposed on the position of the driving unit.

[0092] The roller support RSP may extend in the second direction DR2. The roller support RSP may be associated with the third mobile portion MOV3. The roller support RSP connected to the corresponding third mobile portion MOV3 may be arranged or disposed in the first direction DR1. Fixing grooves FGV may be defined on inner surfaces of the tensioning portion TNP that may face each other in the second direction DR2.

[0093] The rollers ROL may be disposed between and associated with roller supports RSP connected to corresponding third moving parts MOV3. The rollers ROL may each have a generally cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1. The rollers ROL may face each other in the second direction DR2. The third moving parts MOV3 may drive the rollers ROL to move in the second direction DR2, and the second moving parts MOV2 may drive the rollers ROL to move in the third direction DR3.

[0094] The rollers ROL are rotatably connected to the roller support RSP. For example, the rollers ROL can rotate about their rotation axes parallel to the first direction DR1. The rollers ROL can move in the second direction DR2 along the roller support RSP.

[0095] The window fixing chuck FCK may be disposed above the support SUP. The window fixing chuck FCK may have therein a groove GOV that may extend in the first direction DR1. The groove GOV may have a generally concave shape at an inner distal end thereof.

[0096] Figure 2 Shown is shown by using Figure 1 A side view of a display panel and a window combined with the combined device depicted in FIG.

[0097] exist Figure 2 , the display panel DP and the window WIN are illustrated by way of example to show their side surfaces when viewed in the first direction DR1.

[0098] Reference Figure 2 , the bonding device BOD may be configured so that the display panel DP bondable to the window WIN may be disposed on the support SUP, and the window WIN may be disposed in the groove GOV of the window fixing chuck FCK. Figure 19 The shape of the display panel DP disposed on the support SUP and the shape of the window WIN disposed in the groove GOV of the window fixing chuck FCK are depicted.

[0099] The display panel DP may not be directly disposed on the support SUP, but may be placed on the support SUP via a guide film GFM. For example, a guide film GFM may be prepared, and the display panel DP may be disposed on the guide film GFM. The guide film GFM may be disposed on the support SUP.

[0100] The guide film GFM may include a flexible plastic material. For example, the guide film GFM may include a plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0101] The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. The display panel DP according to an embodiment may be an emissive display panel, but the present disclosure is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic light-emitting display panel or a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. The emissive layer of an organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The emissive layer of a quantum dot light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots or quantum rods. An example in which an organic light-emitting display panel may be used as the display panel DP will be described below.

[0102] The window WIN may be provided on the display panel DP. The window WIN may include glass. The window WIN may be defined as ultra-thin glass (UTG). The ultra-thin glass may be tempered glass and may have strong durability that is not easily broken even when subjected to bending.

[0103] In addition to glass, the window WIN may also include a synthetic resin film. The window WIN may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the window WIN may include: synthetic resin films that can be coupled to each other by an adhesive, or a glass substrate with a plastic film coupled thereto by an adhesive.

[0104] The adhesive ADH may be disposed between the display panel DP and the window WIN. The adhesive ADH may include an optically clear adhesive (OCA), but no limitation is imposed on the material of the adhesive ADH.

[0105] The adhesive ADH may be provided on the top surface of the display panel DP. The adhesive ADH may be attached to the top surface of the display panel DP, and thereafter, the window WIN may be adhered to the adhesive ADH. The adhesive ADH may combine the display panel DP and the window WIN with each other. Figure 1 The bonding device BOD may be used to bond the display panel DP and the window WIN to each other.

[0106] After the display panel DP and the window WIN are bonded together, the guide film GFM may be separated from the display panel DP. Although not shown, an adhesive may be additionally provided between the guide film GFM and the display panel DP to attach the guide film GFM to the display panel DP. The window WIN bonded to the display panel DP may protect the display panel DP from external scratches and impacts.

[0107] Although not shown, the display panel DP and the window WIN may be provided therebetween with an input sensing part for detecting an external input and an anti-reflection layer for preventing reflection of external light.

[0108] Figure 3 Shown Shown Figure 2 Schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel. Figure 4 Shown is the setting Figure 3 Schematic cross-sectional view of a single pixel in the display element layer and circuit element layer depicted in FIG.

[0109] Reference Figure 3 The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the substrate SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0110] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding or adjacent to the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI). The display element layer DP-OLED may be disposed on or in the display area DA.

[0111] Pixels may be provided in the circuit element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED. Each pixel may include a transistor provided in the circuit element layer DP-CL and may also include a light emitting element provided in the display element layer DP-OLED and electrically connected to the transistor.

[0112] The thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL to cover or overlap the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) may include an inorganic layer and an organic layer disposed between the inorganic layers. The inorganic layer may protect the pixels from moisture and / or oxygen. The organic layer may protect the pixels from foreign matter such as dust particles.

[0113] Reference Figure 4 , the pixel PX may include a transistor TR and a light-emitting element OLED. The light-emitting element OLED may include a first electrode AE, a second electrode CE, a hole control layer HCL, an electron control layer ECL, and an emission layer EML. The first electrode AE ​​may be an anode, and the second electrode CE may be a cathode.

[0114] The transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED may be disposed on a substrate SUB. Although a single transistor TR is shown by way of example, the pixel PX may actually include at least one capacitor and a plurality of transistors for driving the light-emitting element OLED. The display area DA may include an emission area PA in which the light-emitting element OLED may be disposed, and may further include a non-emission area NPA surrounding or adjacent to the emission area PA.

[0115] The buffer layer BFL may be disposed on the substrate SUB, and the buffer layer BFL may be an inorganic layer. The semiconductor pattern may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include polycrystalline silicon. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the semiconductor pattern may include amorphous silicon or metal oxide.

[0116] The semiconductor pattern may have electrical characteristics that may vary depending on whether the semiconductor pattern is doped or undoped. The semiconductor pattern may include a doped region and an undoped region. The doped region may be implanted with n-type or p-type impurities. The doped region may have a greater electrical conductivity than the undoped region and may substantially serve as a source electrode and a drain electrode of the transistor TR. The undoped region may substantially correspond to an active region or active area (or a channel region or channel area) of the transistor TR.

[0117] The transistor TR may include a source S, an active portion A, and a drain D formed of a semiconductor pattern. A first dielectric layer INS1 may be disposed on the semiconductor pattern. The first dielectric layer INS1 may be provided with or disposed with a gate G of the transistor TR thereon.

[0118] A second dielectric layer INS2 may be provided on the gate G. A third dielectric layer INS3 may be provided on the second dielectric layer INS2. A connection electrode CNE may be provided or provided between the transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED, which may electrically connect the transistor TR to the light-emitting element OLED. The connection electrode CNE may include a first connection electrode CNE1 and a second connection electrode CNE2 on the first connection electrode CNE1.

[0119] The first connection electrode CNE1 may be disposed on the third dielectric layer INS3 and may be electrically connected to the drain electrode D through a first contact hole CH1 defined in the first to third dielectric layers INS1 to INS3. A fourth dielectric layer INS4 may be disposed on the first connection electrode CNE1. A fifth dielectric layer INS5 may be provided or disposed on the fourth dielectric layer INS4. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be disposed on the fifth dielectric layer INS5. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be electrically connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 through a second contact hole CH2 defined in the fifth and fourth dielectric layers INS5 and INS4.

[0120] The sixth dielectric layer INS6 may be disposed on the second connection electrode CNE2. The circuit element layer DP-CL may be defined as a layer including the buffer layer BFL to the sixth dielectric layer INS6. The first to sixth dielectric layers INS1 to INS6 may be inorganic layers or organic layers.

[0121] The first electrode AE ​​may be disposed on the sixth dielectric layer INS6. The first electrode AE ​​may be electrically connected to the second connection electrode CNE2 through a third contact hole CH3 defined in the sixth dielectric layer INS6. A pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed on the first electrode AE ​​and the sixth dielectric layer INS6, and the pixel defining layer PDL may expose a portion of the first electrode AE. The pixel defining layer PDL may have an opening PX_OP that may expose a portion of the first electrode AE.

[0122] The hole control layer HCL may be disposed on the first electrode AE ​​and the pixel defining layer PDL. The hole control layer HCL may be commonly disposed in the emission area PA and the non-emission area NPA. The hole control layer HCL may include a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

[0123] The emission layer EML may be disposed on the hole control layer HCL. The emission layer EML may be disposed at a position that may correspond to the opening PX_OP. The emission layer EML may include one or more of an organic light-emitting material and an inorganic light-emitting material. The emission layer EML may generate one of red light, green light, and blue light.

[0124] The electron control layer ECL may be disposed on the emission layer EML and the hole control layer HCL. The electron control layer ECL may be commonly disposed in the emission area PA and the non-emission area NPA. The electron control layer ECL may include an electron transport layer and an electron injection layer.

[0125] The second electrode CE may be disposed on the electronic control layer ECL. The second electrode CE may be commonly disposed in the pixel PX. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the light emitting element OLED. The section where the light emitting element OLED may be disposed may be defined as a display element layer DP-OLED.

[0126] A first voltage may be applied to the first electrode AE ​​through the transistor TR, and a second voltage may be applied to the second electrode CE. Holes and electrons injected into the emission layer EML may combine with each other to generate excitons, and the light emitting element OLED may emit light when the excitons return to a ground state.

[0127] Figure 5 Shown Shown Figure 1 An enlarged perspective view of the support member depicted in FIG. Figures 6A to 6C Shown Shown Figure 5 Various shapes of through holes are depicted in the figure.

[0128] By way of example, Figures 6A to 6C An enlarged view of a flatly developed through-hole AH is shown.

[0129] Reference Figure 5 The support member SUP may include a first portion PT1, a connecting portion CP, and a second portion PT2 disposed between the first portion PT1 and the connecting portion CP. The second portion PT2 may extend downward from the first portion PT1. The first portion PT1 may extend in a first direction DR1. When viewed in the first direction DR1, the first portion PT1 may have a generally curved surface that may bulge in an upward direction. The second portion PT2 may have a generally flat plate shape defined by the first direction DR1 and a third direction DR3. The second portion PT2 may extend in the first direction D1.

[0130] The through hole AH may include a first through hole AH1 defined in the first portion PT1 and a second through hole AH2 defined in the second portion PT2. Figure 6A As shown in FIG, the first through-hole AH1 and the second through-hole AH2 may each have a substantially circular shape, but no limitation is imposed on the shapes of the first through-hole AH1 and the second through-hole AH2.

[0131] For example, the first through hole AH1 and the second through hole AH2 may each have a substantially polygonal shape, such as Figure 6B For another example, the first through hole AH1 and the second through hole AH2 may each have a substantially quadrangular shape as shown in FIG. Figure 6C The roughly oval shape shown in .

[0132] Return to reference Figure 5 The first through holes AH1 may be defined on the outer surface of the first portion PT1. For example, the first through holes AH1 may be defined on the curved surface of the first portion PT1. The first through holes AH1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The first through holes AH1 may be regularly arranged in a matrix shape or may be randomly arranged.

[0133] The second through holes AH2 may be defined on opposite side surfaces of the second portion PT2 that may face each other in the second direction DR2. The second through holes AH2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. The second through holes AH2 may be regularly arranged in a matrix shape or randomly arranged.

[0134] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6A , the first through holes AH1 and the second through holes AH2 may be alternately arranged in the first direction DR1. For example, the first through holes AH1_R arranged in the nth column may be alternately arranged with the second through holes AH2_R arranged in the nth column (where n is a natural number). However, this is an example, and the arrangement positions of the first through holes AH1 and the second through holes AH2 are not limited.

[0135] Refer again Figure 5 , the external exposed surface of the support member SUP may be defined as an outer surface OS. The outer surface OS may be defined by the curved surface of the first portion PT1 and the opposing side surfaces of the second portion PT2 that may face each other in the second direction DR2. When the outer surface OS is observed from the outside of the support member SUP, the first through hole AH1 may have a size that is larger than that of the second through hole AH2. The number of the first through holes AH1 may be smaller than the number of the second through holes AH2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0136] Figure 7A Shown along Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II'. Figures 7B to 7DSchematic cross-sectional views showing various shapes of the first through-hole are shown.

[0137] Reference Figure 7A , the support SUP may have therein a cavity (or hole) CVT that may be open in a downward direction. The cavity CVT may be continuously defined from the first portion PT1 to the second portion PT2, and may be open at the connection portion CP.

[0138] The support SUP may have an inner surface IS defined as indicating a surface that may define the cavity CVT. The outer surface OS of the support SUP may be defined as indicating a surface opposite to the inner surface IS of the support SUP.

[0139] The first through holes AH1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and may extend from the cavity CVT in the third direction DR3. The first through holes AH1 may each have a substantially quadrangular shape when viewed in the second direction DR2, but no limitation is imposed on the shape of the first through holes AH1.

[0140] For example, refer to Figure 7B , each of the first through holes AH1 may have a substantially curved shape at left and right sides thereof. The first through holes AH1 may include a width that may decrease upward. Figure 7C , the first through holes AH1 may each have a substantially trapezoidal shape that may be bilaterally symmetrical. Figure 7D , the first through holes AH1 may each have a substantially trapezoidal shape that may be bilaterally asymmetrical.

[0141] Figure 8 Shown along Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0142] In the following description, the first portion PT1 may have an inner surface defined as a first inner surface IS1 by which a cavity CVT may be defined, and the first portion PT1 may also have an outer surface defined as a first outer surface OS1 opposite to the inner surface of the first portion PT1. The second portion PT2 may have an inner surface defined as a second inner surface IS2 by which a cavity CVT may be defined, and the second portion PT2 may also have an outer surface defined as a second outer surface OS2 opposite to the inner surface of the second portion PT2.

[0143] Reference Figure 8 , first through holes AH1 defined in the first portion PT1 may extend from the cavity CVT. The first through holes AH1 may extend toward the first outer surface OS1 of the first portion PT1 and may open on the first outer surface OS1. When viewed in the first direction DR1, five first through holes AH1 may be defined in the support member SUP, but no limitation is imposed on the number or arrangement of the first through holes AH1.

[0144] The first through holes AH1 may extend radially. For example, the first through holes AH1 may be arranged in a substantially fan-shaped shape. The intervals between the first through holes AH1 may increase as approaching the first outer surface OS1 from the first inner surface IS1.

[0145] The first through holes AH1 may be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first through holes AH1 may be spaced apart from each other at various intervals.

[0146] When viewed in the first direction DR1, the cavity CVT defined in the first portion PT1 may have a generally circular shape. The cavity CVT defined in the second portion PT2 may extend in the third direction DR3. The cavity CVT defined in the second portion PT2 may have a width WT in the second direction DR2, and the width WT may decrease in a downward direction, for example. The cavity CVT defined in the first portion PT1 may have a maximum width in the second direction DR2, which may be greater than the maximum width of the cavity CVT defined in the second portion PT2.

[0147] The connection portion CP may define a lower portion of the support SUP and may be provided at Figure 1 The width WT of the cavity CVT may be constant at the connection portion CP, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The second inner surface IS2 may be defined as inner side surfaces of the second portion PT2 that may face each other in the second direction DR2. The second outer surface OS2 may be defined as outer side surfaces of the second portion PT2 that may face each other in the second direction DR2. The outer side surfaces of the second portion PT2 may be defined as opposing side surfaces of the second portion PT2.

[0148] When viewed in the first direction DR1, the first inner surface IS1 may be defined as a curved surface that may be concave upward. When viewed in the first direction DR1, the first outer surface OS1 may be defined as a curved surface that may be convex upward. The second outer surfaces OS2 may each have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. The second inner surfaces IS2 may each have an inclined surface that may be inclined at a certain angle or a predetermined angle relative to the third direction DR3. The second inner surfaces IS2 may have shapes that are generally symmetrical with each other.

[0149] In the following, Figure 8 One second outer surface OS2 selected from the second outer surface OS2 and the second inner surface IS2 and its opposite second inner surface IS2 are explained by way of example.

[0150] The second portion PT2 may have a thickness greater than that of the first portion PT1 and may extend downward from the first portion PT1. For example, a first distance DT1 between the first inner surface IS1 and the first outer surface OS1 may be smaller than a second distance DT2 between the second inner surface IS2 and the second outer surface OS2.

[0151] The thickness of the first portion PT1 may be defined as a first distance DT1, and the thickness of the second portion PT2 may be defined as a second distance DT2. The first distance DT1 may be defined as a distance measured in a normal direction of the first outer surface OS1. The second distance DT2 may be defined as a distance measured in a second direction DR2.

[0152] The second distance DT2 may increase as approaching the lower portion of the second portion PT2 from the upper portion of the second portion PT2, which may be adjacent to the first portion PT1. In this sense, the thickness of the second portion PT2 may increase in a downward direction.

[0153] Figure 9 Shown along Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line III-III'.

[0154] Reference Figure 9 The second through-hole AH2 defined in the second portion PT2 may extend from the cavity CVT. The second through-hole AH2 may extend toward the second outer surface OS2 and may open on the second outer surface OS2.

[0155] The second through holes AH2 may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the third direction DR3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second through holes AH2 may extend in a direction inclined with respect to the second direction DR2.

[0156] The second through holes AH2 may be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals in the third direction DR3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second through holes AH2 may be spaced apart from each other at various intervals.

[0157] As the thickness of the second portion PT2 increases in a downward direction, the second through hole AH2 may have a length that may increase as approaching a lower portion of the second portion PT2 from an upper portion of the second portion PT2 .

[0158] Figure 10 Shown Shown Figure 8 The first part and Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of the second part of the two is depicted in FIG. Figure 11 An enlarged view of the first through hole and the second through hole as viewed from the first outer surface and the second outer surface is shown. Figure 12 Shows that can be Figure 10An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a first through hole and a second through hole adjacent to each other in a schematic cross-sectional view of .

[0159] Reference Figure 10 , the second through holes AH2 may be arranged below the first through holes AH1. The intervals between the first through holes AH1 may be different from the intervals between the second through holes AH2. For example, the intervals between the first through holes AH1 may be smaller than the intervals between the second through holes AH2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the intervals between the first through holes AH1 may be the same as the intervals between the second through holes AH2.

[0160] The interval between the first through holes AH1 may be defined as the distance between two adjacent or neighboring first through holes AH1. The interval between the second through holes AH2 may be defined as the distance between two adjacent or neighboring second through holes AH2.

[0161] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 , the first through hole AH1 may have a size larger than that of the second through hole AH2. When the first outer surface OS1 is viewed from the outside, the size of the first through hole AH1 may be defined as indicating the area of ​​the first through hole AH1. Alternatively, when viewed in the extending direction of the first through hole AH1, the size of the first through hole AH1 may be defined as indicating the area of ​​the first through hole AH1.

[0162] Reference Figure 11 , the areas of the plurality of first through holes AH1 may each be defined as the plane area of ​​the first through hole AH1. Since the first through hole AH1 has a substantially circular shape, when the first through hole AH1 has a first diameter DMT1, the area of ​​the first through hole AH1 may be π(DMT1 / 2) 2 .

[0163] Refer again Figure 10 and Figure 11 When the second outer surface OS2 is viewed from the outside, the size of the second through hole AH2 may be defined as indicating the area of ​​the second through hole AH2. Alternatively, when viewed in the second direction DR2 or the extending direction of the second through hole AH2, the size of the second through hole AH2 may be defined as indicating the area of ​​the second through hole AH2.

[0164] Refer again Figure 11 , the areas of the plurality of second through holes AH2 may each be defined as the planar area of ​​the second through hole AH2. Since the second through hole AH2 has a substantially circular shape, when the second through hole AH2 has the second diameter DMT2, the area of ​​the second through hole AH2 may be π(DMT2 / 2) 2 .

[0165] The first diameter DMT1 may be greater than the second diameter DMT2. Therefore, the area of ​​each of the first through holes AH1 may be greater than the area of ​​each of the second through holes AH2.

[0166] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 12 The size of the first through hole AH1 may be defined as the thickness of the first through hole AH1. The size of the second through hole AH2 may be defined as the thickness of the second through hole AH2. The thickness may be defined as a value measured in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of each of the first through hole AH1 and the second through hole AH2.

[0167] Reference Figure 12 The value measured in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the first through-hole AH1 can be roughly defined as the first diameter DMT1 of the first through-hole AH1. The value measured in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the second through-hole AH2 can be roughly defined as the second diameter DMT2 of the second through-hole AH2. Because the first diameter DMT1 can be greater than the second diameter DMT2, the thickness of the first through-hole AH1 can be greater than the thickness of the second through-hole AH2.

[0168] The first through hole AH1 may have a length LT1 that is less than the length LT2 of the second through hole AH2. The length LT1 of the first through hole AH1 may be substantially the same as the first distance DT1, and the length LT2 of the second through hole AH2 may be substantially the same as the second distance DT2. The length LT1 of the first through hole AH1 may be defined as a distance measured in the direction in which the first through hole AH1 extends. The length LT2 of the second through hole AH2 may be defined as a distance measured in the second direction DR2, or the direction in which the second through hole AH2 extends.

[0169] Refer again Figure 10 , the plurality of first through holes AH1 may extend radially while having equal sizes. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the plurality of first through holes AH1 may extend radially while having different sizes. The plurality of second through holes AH2 may extend in the second direction DR2 while having equal sizes. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the plurality of second through holes AH2 may extend in the second direction DR2 while having different sizes.

[0170] Figures 13 to 21 Shown using Figure 1 A perspective view and a schematic cross-sectional view of a method for manufacturing a display device by combining the apparatus depicted in FIG.

[0171] By way of example, Figures 13 to 21 The display panel DP and the guide film GFM are shown, but the adhesive ADH is omitted. Figure 20 and Figure 21 An enlarged view of the support element SUP is shown, but the illustration of the window fixing chuck FCK is omitted.

[0172] Reference Figure 13 When viewed in the second direction DR2, the guide film GFM may have a length greater than that of the display panel DP. The display panel DP may be disposed on the guide film GFM and bonded to the guide film GFM. The bonding between the guide film GFM and the display panel DP may be performed in a first processing chamber (not shown). Although not shown, an adhesive ADH may be disposed on the display panel DP. For example, an adhesive may be used to attach the display panel DP to the guide film GFM.

[0173] The second process chamber (not shown) may receive the guide film GFM and the display panel DP, which may be bonded to each other. The second process chamber may perform a bonding process to bond the window WIN to the display panel DP. The following processes may all be substantially performed together at the second process chamber.

[0174] Reference Figure 14 The jig JIG may be provided and disposed on opposite ends of the guide film GFM that may face each other in the second direction DR2. The jig JIG may clamp opposite sides of the guide film GFM that may face each other in the first direction DR1. The jig JIG may carry the guide film GFM.

[0175] Reference Figure 15 , the jig JIG can move the guide film GFM onto the support SUP. The jig JIG can be moved downward to provide the guide film GFM on the support SUP.

[0176] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 The jig JIG may move the guide film GFM downward and may position a portion of the guide film GFM on the first portion PT1. This portion of the guide film GFM may overlap with the central portion of the display panel DP. The first outer surface OS1 may contact the portion of the guide film GFM that may overlap with the central portion of the display panel DP. Therefore, the central portion of the display panel DP may be adjacent to the first outer surface OS1.

[0177] The jig JIG can move the opposite side of the guide film GFM downward to be anchored in the fixing groove FGV defined on the tensioning portion TNP. Thereafter, the jig JIG can be removed from the guide film GFM.

[0178] The opposite sides of the guide film GFM can be fixed to the fixing groove FGV. Although not shown, the fixing groove FGV may have a fixing unit (e.g., a screw for pressing the guide film GFM) therein to fix the opposite sides of the guide film GFM. The first moving part MOV1 can drive the tensioning part TNP to move away from each other in the second direction DR2 and unfold the guide film GFM into a flat state.

[0179] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17 , the roller ROL may move in the third direction DR3 and the second direction DR2. As discussed above, the second moving portion MOV2 may drive the roller ROL to move in the third direction DR3, and the third moving portion MOV3 may drive the roller ROL to move in the second direction DR2.

[0180] The roller ROL may be disposed adjacent to a position between the connection portion CP and a lowermost one of the second through-holes AH2 . The roller ROL may be positioned close to the second outer surface OS2 .

[0181] The roller ROL may move the guide film GFM while in contact with the guide film GFM. The roller ROL may drive a portion of the guide film GFM that may be adjacent to the display panel DP to move toward a position between the connection portion CP and a lowermost one of the second through holes AH2.

[0182] The roller ROL may force the guide film GFM to move toward the second outer surface OS2 and contact the second outer surface OS2. The display panel DP may be spaced apart upward from the roller ROL. In essence, the roller ROL may allow the display panel DP to have a position adjacent to the second outer surface OS2.

[0183] When the roller ROL drives the guide film GFM to move, the tension part TNP may also move together with the roller ROL. As the roller ROL moves toward the support SUP and becomes close to each other, the first moving part MOV1 may drive the tension part TNP to move close to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0184] In the following Figures 18 to 21 In the embodiment, the tensioning part TNP will be omitted.

[0185] Reference Figure 18 , the window fixing chuck FCK can be placed on the support SUP. The window fixing chuck FCK can be arranged to face the support SUP. Essentially, the platform STG can be moved to a position where the window fixing chuck FCK can be provided, and thus the window fixing chuck FCK can be provided on the support SUP. The window fixing chuck FCK can be placed so that the groove GOV can face the support SUP or overlap with it. The groove GOV can have a generally concave shape at its inner distal end which can face the support SUP or overlap with it.

[0186] The window WIN may be disposed in the groove GOV. The window WIN disposed in the groove GOV may have a generally bent shape. Although not shown, the window fixing chuck FCK may have a vacuum adsorption hole on its inner surface, which may define the groove GOV, so that the vacuum adsorption hole can adsorb and fix the window WIN thereto.

[0187] The first portion PT1 may face the groove GOV. The first outer surface OS1 having a curved surface may face the groove GOV. The window fixing chuck FCK may have a concave curved surface at an inner distal end of the groove GOV, which may face or overlap the first outer surface OS1.

[0188] The guide film GFM may be disposed on the outer surface of the support SUP, and the display panel DP may be disposed on the guide film GFM. The outer surface of the support SUP may be defined by a first outer surface OS1 and a second outer surface OS2. Therefore, the guide film GFM may place the display panel DP on the outer surface of the support SUP. Although Figure 18 Although not shown in the figure, the adhesive ADH may be provided on the display panel DP.

[0189] The guide film GFM may be disposed on the platform STG and may extend along the roller ROL to be disposed on the first and second outer surfaces OS1 and OS2. The roller ROL may guide the display panel DP and the guide film GFM and position them adjacent to the second outer surface OS2.

[0190] The display panel DP may be disposed along a first outer surface OS1 having a curved surface and along a second outer surface OS2 having planes defined by first and third directions DR1 and DR3, resulting in a generally bent shape. The display panel DP may include a first bent portion BP1 and a first flat portion PP1. The first bent portion BP1 may be disposed on the first outer surface OS1. The first flat portion PP1 may be disposed on the second outer surface OS2. The first bent portion BP1 may be disposed on the first through-hole AH1, and the first flat portion PP1 may be disposed on the second through-hole AH2.

[0191] The first bending portion BP1 may have a substantially bent shape, and the first flat portion PP1 may have a substantially flat shape. When the display panel DP is unfolded, the first bending portion BP1 may be disposed between the first flat portions PP1.

[0192] The window WIN may include a second bent portion BP2, which may correspond to the first bent portion BP1, and a second flat portion PP2, which may correspond to the first flat portion PP1. When the window WIN is unfolded, the second bent portion BP2 may be positioned between the second flat portions PP2. The binding device BOD may attach the first bent portion BP1 to the second bent portion BP2, and may also attach the first flat portion PP1 to the second flat portion PP2. This operation will be discussed in further detail below.

[0193] The connection portion CP may be disposed in the recess RES of the platform STG. The platform STG may have an air injection hole AIH extending in the third direction DR3 at a portion thereof where the recess RES may be defined. The air injection hole AIH may overlap with the cavity CVT when viewed in the third direction DR3.

[0194] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 19 , the support SUP may be disposed in the groove GOV, and thus the display panel DP may be placed in the groove GOV. In order to allow the support SUP to be disposed in the groove GOV, the window fixing chuck FCK may be moved in the third direction DR3 to become close to the support SUP.

[0195] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the support member SUP may be movable in the third direction DR3 to be arranged in the groove GOV. In essence, the platform STG may be movable in the third direction DR3 to place the support member SUP in the groove GOV. Alternatively, the window fixing chuck FCK and the support member SUP may be simultaneously movable in the third direction DR3 to become closer to each other.

[0196] When the window fixing chuck FCK moves in the third direction DR3 to insert the support member SUP into the groove GOV, the display panel DP and the window WIN can be spaced apart from each other so as not to allow the adhesive ADH to attach the display panel DP to the window WIN. Therefore, in the groove GOV, the display panel DP can be positioned to be spaced apart from the window WIN by a certain or predetermined distance. The distance between the display panel DP and the window WIN can be in the range of about 0.2 mm to about 0.3 mm.

[0197] Reference Figure 20 , air AIR may be introduced into the cavity CVT and may be provided to the first through-hole AH1 and the second through-hole AH2 through the cavity CVT. The cavity CVT, the first through-hole AH1, and the second through-hole AH2 may substantially define an air path through which the air AIR may flow.

[0198] For example, although the air AIR may be supplied to the cavity CVT and the first and second through holes AH1 and AH2 , various fluids or gases including air may be supplied to the cavity CVT and the first and second through holes AH1 and AH2 .

[0199] Increasing the size or decreasing the length of the air flow space can promote an increase in the air speed passing through the space. As discussed above, the first length LT1 of the first through hole AH1 can be smaller than the second length LT2 of the second through hole AH2, and the size of the first through hole AH1 can be larger than the size of the second through hole AH2. In other words, the area of ​​the first through hole AH1 can be larger than the area of ​​the second through hole AH2, for example, Figure 12Therefore, the air AIR may pass through the first through-holes AH1 more quickly than through the second through-holes AH2 and may then be discharged outward from the first portion PT1.

[0200] Air AIR that may pass through the first through-hole AH1 may be supplied to the display panel DP. The pressure (or air pressure) of the air AIR introduced into the first through-hole AH1 may force the first bent portion BP1 of the display panel DP to move away from the first portion PT1. Therefore, the window WIN may receive the first bent portion BP1 at its second bent portion BP2 adjacent to the first bent portion BP1.

[0201] The air AIR introduced into the first through hole AH1 may force the first bend portion BP1 to move toward the second bend portion BP2, and thus the first bend portion BP1 may be attached to the second bend portion BP2. In essence, the adhesive ADH provided on the display panel DP may attach the first bend portion BP1 to the second bend portion BP2.

[0202] Reference Figure 21 After passing through the first through-hole AH1, the air AIR may pass through the second through-hole AH2 and then be discharged outward from the second portion PT2. As discussed above, the second length LT2 of the second through-hole AH2 may increase in the downward direction. The air AIR may first pass through the second through-hole AH2, which may have a relatively small length. Therefore, the air AIR may pass through the second through-hole AH2 sequentially from the upper portion to the lower portion of the second portion PT2.

[0203] The display panel DP can be supplied with air AIR that can pass through the second through-holes AH2. The pressure (or air pressure) of the air AIR introduced into the second through-holes AH2 can force the first flat portion PP1 of the display panel DP to move away from the second portion PT2. The first flat portion PP1 can be sequentially pushed outward from the top to the bottom of the second portion PT2. The window WIN can receive the first flat portion PP1 at its second flat portion PP2 adjacent to the first flat portion PP1.

[0204] The air AIR introduced into the second through hole AH2 may force the first flat portion PP1 to move toward the second flat portion PP2, and thus the first flat portion PP1 may be attached to the second flat portion PP2. In essence, the adhesive ADH provided on the display panel DP may attach the first flat portion PP1 to the second flat portion PP2.

[0205] The first flat portion PP1 may be sequentially attached to the second flat portion PP2 from a portion of the first flat portion PP1 that may be adjacent to the first bent portion BP1 to a distal end of the first flat portion PP1. Therefore, air AIR introduced into the first and second through holes AH1 and AH2 may force the display panel DP to move toward the window WIN, and accordingly, the display panel DP may be attached to the window WIN.

[0206] Although not shown, after the display panel DP is attached to the window WIN, the guide film GFM may be separated from the display panel DP.

[0207] When the display panel DP in the bent state is inserted into and attached to the window WIN in the bent state, without using the bonding device BOD of the present disclosure, the first flat portion PP1 may be first attached to the second flat portion PP2 of the window WIN. In this case, bonding failure may occur in which the first bent portion BP1 may not be attached to the second bent portion BP2.

[0208] On the contrary, according to an embodiment, the bonding device BOD may be configured so that the display panel DP can be sequentially attached to the window WIN from the first bent portion BP1 to the first flat portion PP1, which may facilitate bonding of the display panel DP to the window WIN. Accordingly, there may be no bonding failure between the display panel DP and the window WIN.

[0209] In the above-described coupling process, based on the structures of the support member SUP and the window fixing chuck FCK, the display panel DP and the window WIN can be changed from their flat state to their approximately 180° bent state to couple the first bent portion BP1 and the second bent portion BP2, each having a substantially semicircular shape. By way of example, with respect to the flat display panel DP, the phrase "180° bent state" may indicate a structure in which one of the first flat portions PP1 pivotally moves 180° about the first bent portion BP1 and may face or overlap with the other first flat portion PP1 while extending in the third direction DR3.

[0210] However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the bonding device BOD of the present disclosure can be used to bond a display panel DP and a window WIN, each of which has a variety of curved surfaces. For example, the shape of the groove GOV defined in the window fixing chuck FCK and the shape of the support member SUP can be changed so that the display panel DP and the window WIN can be bonded to each other while having a bending angle equal to or greater than about 90° and less than about 180°. For example, the first bent portion BP1 and the second bent portion BP2 can be processed to have various generally curved shapes.

[0211] Figure 22 A perspective view showing a support for connection with a display panel and a window is shown. Figure 23 A perspective view showing a display device manufactured by a display panel, a window, and a support that can be combined with each other is shown.

[0212] Reference Figure 22 The support body SP may be coupled to the display panel DP and the window WIN, which have a curved structure and may be coupled to each other. The support body SP may be disposed between the first flat portion PP1 of the display panel DP. The support body SP may include a bracket that may support the display panel DP, a battery that may supply power to the display panel DP, and a system board that may control the operation of the display panel DP.

[0213] Reference Figure 22 and Figure 23 The first bent portion BP1 of the display panel DP may define a side display segment SSD of the display device DD. The first flat portion PP1 of the display panel DP may define a front display segment USD of the display device DD and a rear display segment LSD of the display device DD.

[0214] Images can be displayed on the front display segment USD, the rear display segment LSD, and the side display segment SSD. For example, within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the front display segment USD may display a certain or predetermined icon, and the side display segment SSD may display the date, weather, etc. However, this is shown by way of example, and the front display segment USD and the side display segment SSD can display various images. Although not visible in the perspective view, the rear display segment LSD can also display various images.

[0215] Various examples of supports will be described below. For example, the following description will focus on supports whose construction may differ from that of the supports SUP discussed above, and like reference numerals will be used to illustrate like components.

[0216] Figure 24 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0217] Figure 24 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a ...

[0218] Reference Figure 24 The support member SUP_1 may include a first portion PT1, a second portion PT2_1, and a connection portion CP. The through hole AH_1 may include a first through hole AH1 defined in the first portion PT1 and a second through hole AH2_1 defined in the second portion PT2_1. The first through hole AH1 and the second through hole AH2_1 may extend from the cavity CVT. In essence, the first portion PT1 may have the same Figure 10 The construction of the first part PT1 shown in FIG.

[0219] The second portion PT2_1 may have a thickness that is uniform from the top to the bottom of the second portion PT2_1. Therefore, the second outer surface OS2 and the second inner surface IS2_1 may have a second distance DT2_1 therebetween that is uniform or consistent from the top to the bottom of the second portion PT2_1. In this case, the second through holes AH2_1 may have the same length.

[0220] The first through hole AH1 may have a length smaller than that of the second through hole AH2_1 and may have a size larger than that of the second through hole AH2_1. Figure 20 and Figure 21 As discussed in

[15] , air AIR may pass through the first through hole AH1 more quickly than through the second through hole AH2_1. As a result, the first bent portion BP1 of the display panel DP may be first attached to the second bent portion BP2 of the window WIN, and thereafter, the first flat portion PP1 of the display panel DP may be attached to the second flat portion PP2 of the window WIN.

[0221] Figure 25 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 26 Shown Shown Figure 25 Schematic cross-sectional view of the construction of the support depicted in FIG.

[0222] Figure 25 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 5 perspective of the perspective of the perspective, and Figure 26 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a ...

[0223] Reference Figure 25 and Figure 26 The support member SUP_2 may include a first portion PT1, a second portion PT2, and a connection portion CP, and the through hole AH_2 may include a first through hole AH1_1 defined in the first portion PT1 and a second through hole AH2 defined in the second portion PT2. The first through hole AH1_1 and the second through hole AH2 may extend from the cavity CVT.

[0224] The first through hole AH1_1 may have a length smaller than that of the second through hole AH2 and may have a size larger than that of the second through hole AH2. The size of the first through hole AH1_1 may decrease as approaching the second portion PT2 from the central portion of the first portion PT1.

[0225] The air AIR can pass through the first through hole AH1_1 more quickly than through the second through hole AH2. Figure 20 and Figure 21As discussed in , the first bent portion BP1 may be first attached to the second bent portion BP2, and thereafter, the first flat portion PP1 may be attached to the second flat portion PP2.

[0226] Figure 27 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0227] Figure 27 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a ...

[0228] Reference Figure 27 , the support SUP_3 may include a first portion PT1, a second portion PT2, and a connection portion CP. The through hole AH_3 may include a first through hole AH1 defined in the first portion PT1 and a second through hole AH2_2 defined in the second portion PT2.

[0229] The first through hole AH1 may have a length smaller than that of the second through hole AH2_2 and may have a size larger than that of the second through hole AH2_2. The size of the second through hole AH2_2 may decrease from the upper portion of the second portion PT2 to the lower portion of the second portion PT2.

[0230] Therefore, the air AIR may pass through the first through hole AH1 more quickly than through the second through hole AH2_2. As a result, the first bent portion BP1 may be first attached to the second bent portion BP2, and thereafter, the first flat portion PP1 may be attached to the second flat portion PP2.

[0231] Figure 28 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0232] Figure 28 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 5 perspective drawing of a perspective drawing.

[0233] Reference Figure 28 The through holes AH_4 may include first through holes AH1_2 defined in the first portion PT1 of the support member SUP_4 and second through holes AH2 defined in the second portion PT2 of the support member SUP_4. The first through holes AH1_2 may extend in one direction. For example, the first through holes AH1_2 may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be arranged in the second direction DR2.

[0234] Although a schematic cross-sectional configuration is not shown, when viewed in the first direction DR1, the support member SUP_4 may have a structure similar to that of FIG. Figure 10Therefore, the first through hole AH1_2 may have a length smaller than that of the second through hole AH2, and may have a size larger than that of the second through hole AH2.

[0235] Figure 29 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0236] Figure 29 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 5 perspective drawing of a perspective drawing.

[0237] Reference Figure 29 The through holes AH_5 may include first through holes AH1_3 defined in the first portion PT1 of the support member SUP_5 and second through holes AH2 defined in the second portion PT2 of the support member SUP_5. The first through holes AH1_3 may extend in one direction. For example, the first through holes AH1_3 may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0238] Figure 30 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0239] Figure 30 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a ...

[0240] Reference Figure 30 The through hole AH_6 may include a first through hole AH1 defined in the first portion PT1 of the support member SUP_6 and a second through hole AH2_3 defined in the second portion PT2 of the support member SUP_6. The first through hole AH1 may have a length smaller than that of the second through hole AH2_3 and may have the same size as that of the second through hole AH2_3.

[0241] Since the length of the first through hole AH1 may be smaller than that of the second through hole AH2_3, the air AIR may pass through the first through hole AH1 more quickly than through the second through hole AH2_3. Therefore, the first bent portion BP1 may first be attached to the second bent portion BP2, and thereafter, the first flat portion PP1 may be attached to the second flat portion PP2.

[0242] Figure 31 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0243] Figure 31 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a ...

[0244] Reference Figure 31 The through hole AH_7 may include a first through hole AH1 defined in the first portion PT1 of the support member SUP_7 and a second through hole AH2_4 defined in the second portion PT2 of the support member SUP_7. When viewed in the third direction DR3, the intervals between the second through holes AH2_4 may increase as one approaches the lower portion of the second portion PT2 from the upper portion of the second portion PT2. The first through hole AH1 may have a length smaller than that of the second through hole AH2_4, and may have a size larger than that of the second through hole AH2_4.

[0245] Figure 32 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0246] Figure 32 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a ...

[0247] Reference Figure 32 The support member SUP_8 may include a first portion PT1_1 and a second portion PT2_2. The first portion PT1_1 may have a convex curved surface at its upper portion, and the second portion PT2_2 may extend downward from the first portion PT1_1. The first portion PT1_1 and the second portion PT2_2 may have the same thickness. For example, the first distance DT1_1 of the first portion PT1_1 may be the same as the second distance DT2_2 of the second portion PT2_2. Figure 32 It includes a first inner surface IS1_1 and a second inner surface IS2_2.

[0248] The through hole AH_8 may include a first through hole AH1_4 defined in the first portion PT1_1 and a second through hole AH2_5 defined in the second portion PT2_2. The first through hole AH1_4 may have the same length as the second through hole AH2_5. The first through hole AH1_4 may have a size greater than that of the second through hole AH2_5.

[0249] Since the size of the first through hole AH1_4 can be larger than the size of the second through hole AH2_5, the air AIR can pass through the first through hole AH1_4 more quickly than through the second through hole AH2_5. As a result, the first bent portion BP1 can be attached to the second bent portion BP2 first, and then the first flat portion PP1 can be attached to the second flat portion PP2.

[0250] Figure 33 A perspective view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 34 Shown along Figure 33 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV'. Figure 35 Shown along Figure 33 Schematic cross-sectional view taken along line V-V'.

[0251] Figure 33 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 5 perspective drawing of a perspective drawing.

[0252] Reference Figure 33 , the through-hole AH may include a first through-hole AH1 defined in the first portion PT1 of the support SUP_9 and a second through-hole AH2 defined in the second portion PT2 of the support SUP_9. Figure 33 The shapes of the first through hole AH1 and the second through hole AH2 shown in FIG. Figure 5 The shapes of the first through hole AH1 and the second through hole AH2 shown in FIG. 5 are substantially the same.

[0253] With such Figure 5 Unlike the structure in which the first through holes AH1 and the second through holes AH2 are alternately arranged with each other, the first through holes AH1 and the second through holes AH2 may be arranged in the same column, as shown in FIG. Figure 33 As shown in . The column can extend in the third direction DR3.

[0254] Reference Figure 34 The support member SUP_9 may have a cavity CVT1 therein, which may open downward. The cavity CVT1 may extend in the third direction DR3 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The cavity CVT1 may be continuously defined from the first portion PT1 to the second portion PT2 and may open at the bottom end of the second portion PT2. The first through hole AH1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and may extend from the cavity CVT1 along the third direction DR3.

[0255] Reference Figure 35 , the first through-hole AH1 may be defined in the first portion PT1, and the second through-hole AH2 may be defined in the second portion PT2. Figure 35 The arrangement structure of the first through holes AH1 and the second through holes AH2 shown in FIG. Figure 10 The arrangement structures of the first through holes AH1 and the second through holes AH2 shown in FIG. 5 are substantially the same, and thus repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0256] Figure 36 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a support according to an embodiment is shown.

[0257] Figure 36 By way of example, the corresponding Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a ...

[0258] Reference Figure 36, the support SUP_10 may include a first portion PT1_1 and a second portion PT2_2. Figure 36 The first part PT1_1 and the second part PT2_2 shown in FIG may have Figure 32 The configurations of the first portion PT1_1 and the second portion PT2_2 shown in FIG are substantially the same. Figure 36 It includes a first inner surface IS1_1 and a second inner surface IS2_2.

[0259] The through hole AH_9 may include a first through hole AH1_4 defined in the first portion PT1_1 and a second through hole AH2_6 defined in the second portion PT2_2. The first through hole AH1_4 may have the same length as the second through hole AH2_6. The first through hole AH1_4 may have the same size as the second through hole AH2_6.

[0260] According to an embodiment, the first bent portion of the display panel can be attached to the second bent portion of the window, and thereafter, the first flat portion of the display panel can be attached to the second flat portion of the window adjacent to the first flat portion. Accordingly, there can be no bonding failure between the first bent portion and the second bent portion.

[0261] Although the present disclosure has been described in conjunction with the embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be modified or altered in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. In addition, the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to limit the technical spirit of the present disclosure, and all technical spirits within the claims and their equivalents should be interpreted as being included in the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A bonding device comprising: a support member including a cavity; as well as A window fixing chuck faces the support member, wherein The support member comprises: a first portion comprising a first through hole extending from the cavity; and a second portion extending from the first portion in a downward direction and comprising a second through hole extending from the cavity, A first distance between a first inner surface of the first portion and a first outer surface of the first portion is smaller than a second distance between a second inner surface of the second portion and a second outer surface of the second portion, and The first inner surface of the first portion and the second inner surface of the second portion form the cavity.

2. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The length of the first through hole of the first portion is smaller than the length of the second through hole of the second portion.

3. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: A size of the first through hole when viewed in an extending direction of the first through hole is larger than a size of the second through hole when viewed in an extending direction of the second through hole.

4. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The second distance of the second portion increases as approaching a lower portion of the second portion from an upper portion of the second portion, the upper portion of the second portion being adjacent to the first portion.

5. The binding device according to claim 4, wherein: The first portion includes a plurality of first through holes, The second portion includes a plurality of second through holes, and The lengths of the plurality of second through holes increase as approaching the lower portion of the second portion from the upper portion of the second portion.

6. The binding device according to claim 5, wherein: The number of the plurality of first through-holes of the first portion is smaller than the number of the plurality of second through-holes of the second portion.

7. The binding device according to claim 5, wherein: Intervals between the plurality of first through-holes of the first portion are different from intervals between the plurality of second through-holes of the second portion.

8. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The support member extends in a third direction intersecting a plane defined by a first direction and a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction, The first outer surface of the first portion includes a curved surface convex in an upward direction when viewed in the first direction, and The second outer surface of the second portion includes a plane defined by the first direction and the third direction.

9. The binding device according to claim 8, wherein: The first distance of the first portion is measured in a normal direction to the first outer surface of the first portion, and The second distance of the second portion is measured in the second direction.

10. The binding device according to claim 9, wherein: The window fixing chuck includes a groove facing the support and extending in the first direction, and The window fixing chuck includes a concave curved surface at an inner distal end of the curved surface of the groove facing the first outer surface of the first portion.

11. The binding device according to claim 8, wherein: The second inner surface of the second portion includes a surface inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the third direction.

12. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The second distance of the second portion is uniform from an upper portion of the second portion to a lower portion of the second portion, the upper portion of the second portion being adjacent to the first portion.

13. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The first portion includes a plurality of first through holes, and The sizes of the plurality of first through holes when viewed in an extending direction of the plurality of first through holes decrease as approaching the second portion from a central portion of the first portion.

14. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The second portion includes a plurality of second through holes, and The sizes of the second through holes as viewed in the extending direction of the second through holes decrease as approaching a lower portion of the second portion from an upper portion of the second part, the upper portion of the second part being adjacent to the first part.

15. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The first through hole extends in one direction.

16. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: A size of the first through hole when viewed in the extending direction of the first through hole is the same as a size of the second through hole when viewed in the extending direction of the second through hole.

17. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The second portion includes a plurality of second through holes, and Intervals between the plurality of second through holes increase as approaching a lower portion of the second portion from an upper portion of the second portion, the upper portion of the second portion being adjacent to the first portion.

18. The binding device according to claim 1, wherein: The combining device includes a plurality of cavities, a plurality of first through holes and a plurality of second through holes, and The plurality of first through holes and the plurality of second through holes extend from the plurality of cavities.

19. A method for manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: placing a display panel on an outer surface of a support member, the support member including a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion in a downward direction, the first portion including a first through hole and the second portion including a second through hole; placing the window in the groove of the window fixing chuck on the support; placing the support member in the groove; as well as by introducing air into the first through-holes of the first portion and the second through-holes of the second portion, the air moving the display panel toward the window, thereby attaching the display panel to the window, The air passes through the first through-holes of the first portion more quickly than through the second through-holes of the second portion.

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