Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a display module including: a first folding area extending in a first direction; a first non-folding area located on a first side of the first folding area in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a second non-folding area located on a second side of the first folding area in the second direction; a second folding area extending in the second direction; a third non-folding area located on a first side of the second folding area in the first direction; and a fourth non-folding area located on a second side of the second folding area in the first direction, wherein the display module includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface is a display surface, and in an outer folding operation state, the display device is folded with respect to the second folding area such that the second surface in the third non-folding area and the second surface in the fourth non-folding area face each other.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0097883, filed on August 5, 2020, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device capable of switching states between a folded state and an unfolded state. BACKGROUND

[0004] A display device displays an image. The market share of a display device having the same or smaller volume or thickness and a larger display screen has increased compared to a conventional display device. In addition, a flexible display device such as a foldable display device or a bendable display device has been developed, which has a structure that can be folded and unfolded when needed to provide a larger screen.

[0005] Based on the display screen, a foldable display device can include an inward foldable display device in which the display screen is folded inward, and an outward foldable display device in which the display screen is folded outward.

[0006] The foldable display device can be an inward foldable display device or an outward foldable display device, but is not limited thereto, and can be an inward / outward foldable display device capable of both inward folding and outward folding. SUMMARY

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure provide an inward / outward foldable display device capable of both inward folding and outward folding.

[0008] However, aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to the aspects set forth herein. The above and other aspects of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing in detail the following detailed description of the present disclosure given by reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a display device can include a display module including: a first folding area extending in a first direction; a first non-folding area located on a first side of the first folding area in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a second non-folding area located on a second side of the first folding area in the second direction; a second folding area extending in the second direction; a third non-folding area located on a first side of the second folding area in the first direction; and a fourth non-folding area located on a second side of the second folding area in the first direction, wherein the display module can include a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface being a display surface, and in an outer folding operation state, the display device is folded with respect to the second folding area such that the second surface in the third non-folding area and the second surface in the fourth non-folding area face each other.

[0010] The display device can further include a metal plate disposed on the second surface of the display module.

[0011] In an inner folding operation state, the display device can be folded with respect to the first folding area such that the first surface in the first non-folding area and the first surface in the second non-folding area face each other.

[0012] The metal plate can include: a first metal plate disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other; a second metal plate disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other; a third metal plate disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other; and a fourth metal plate disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other. Each of the first metal plate to the fourth metal plate can have an overall pattern.

[0013] The metal plate can further include: a fifth metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the first non-folding area; and a sixth metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the second non-folding area.

[0014] Each of the fifth metal plate and the sixth metal plate can include a plurality of first patterns extending in the second direction and arranged in the first direction.

[0015] Each of the fifth metal plate and the sixth metal plate can not be disposed in the first folding area.

[0016] The metal plate can further include a seventh metal plate disposed in an intersection region of the first folding area and the second folding area, the seventh metal plate can include a plurality of second patterns separated from the first metal plate to the sixth metal plate adjacent thereto.

[0017] The metal plate can further include a seventh metal plate disposed in a portion of the first folding area that does not overlap the second folding area, the seventh metal plate including a plurality of third patterns.

[0018] The display device can further include a main plate disposed under the metal plate. The main plate can include a first main plate disposed in an area in which the first non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other, a second main plate disposed in an area in which the second non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other, a third main plate disposed in an area in which the first non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other, and a fourth main plate disposed in an area in which the second non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other.

[0019] The display device can further include a first gear unit disposed in a portion of the second folding area that does not overlap the first folding area. The first gear unit can include an extension extending in the second direction, and at least one engaging portion extending from the extension in the first direction.

[0020] The at least one engaging portion can include a plurality of engaging portions, and the plurality of engaging portions can be disposed in and overlap the main plate.

[0021] An overlapping length of the main plate and the at least one engaging portion in an unfolded state of the display device can be greater than an overlapping length of the main plate and the at least one engaging portion in an outer folding operation state of the display device.

[0022] The display device can further include a second gear unit disposed along the first folding area. The second gear unit can be used to perform an inner folding operation of the display device.

[0023] The first gear unit can be used to perform an outer folding operation of the display device.

[0024] According to another embodiment, a display device capable of an inner folding operation and an outer folding operation can include a display module including a first folding area extending in a first direction, a first non-folding area located on a first side of the first folding area in a second direction, the second direction crossing the first direction, a second non-folding area located on a second side of the first folding area in the second direction, a second folding area extending in the second direction, a third non-folding area located on a first side of the second folding area in the first direction, a fourth non-folding area located on a second side of the second folding area in the first direction, a first surface and a second surface, the second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface being a display surface, and a metal plate disposed on the second surface of the display module. One of the first folding area and the second folding area is a folding area for the inner folding operation, and the other of the first folding area and the second folding area is a folding area for the outer folding operation. The metal plate is disposed in at least one of the first folding area and the second folding area.

[0025] The first folding area can be a folding area for an inner folding operation, and the second folding area can be a folding area for an outer folding operation. After the inner folding operation, the first surface in the first non-folding area and the first surface in the second non-folding area can face each other with respect to the first folding area, and after the outer folding operation, the second surface in the third non-folding area and the second surface in the fourth non-folding area can face each other with respect to the second folding area.

[0026] The metal plate can include a first metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the first non-folding area, and a second metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the second non-folding area. Each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate can include a plurality of patterns extending in the second direction and arranged in the first direction.

[0027] The display apparatus can further include a gear unit for the outer folding operation disposed in the second folding area. The gear unit for the outer folding operation can include an extension portion extending in the second direction, and an engagement portion extending from the extension portion in the first direction.

[0028] A cross-sectional shape of the engagement portion can include a circle having a predetermined curvature. The display apparatus can be folded out according to the predetermined curvature of the engagement portion.

[0029] According to the display apparatus of the disclosure, both inner folding and outer folding are possible. Accordingly, a three-dimensional image can be displayed to a user in various ways.

[0030] Effects of the disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and various other effects are included in the specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0031] Some embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail by referring to the attached drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a display apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0033] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a first operation state of a display apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0034] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a second operation state of a display apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0035] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of a display apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0036] Figure 5 is a schematic enlarged side view of region A of Figure 2

[0037] Figure 6 is a schematic enlarged plan view of region B of Figure 4

[0038] Figure 7 is a schematic enlarged side view of a sixth metal plate and a display module of Figure 5

[0039] Figure 8 is a schematic view showing a second folding operation of a display device according to an embodiment; Figure 9

[0040] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a first operation state of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0041] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a second operation state of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0042] Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a display device in which Figure 11

[0043] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view showing another example of a second operation state of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0044] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view showing another example of a display device in which Figure 13

[0045] Figure 15 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to another embodiment;

[0046] Figure 16 is a schematic enlarged plan view of region C of Figure 15

[0047] Figure 17 is a schematic plan view showing a modified example of Figure 16

[0048] Figure 18 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to yet another embodiment; and

[0049] Figure 19 is a schematic enlarged plan view of region D of Figure 18 DETAILED DESCRIPTION​​​​​​​​​

[0050] The specific configurations and functions of the embodiments of the present disclosure disclosed herein are for the purpose of illustrating the embodiments of the present disclosure only. The present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms without departing from the spirit and significant characteristics of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed only for illustrative purposes, and should not be interpreted as limiting the present disclosure. For example, the claimed invention is defined by the scope of the claims.

[0051] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being associated with another element, such as "coupled" or "connected" to another element, it can be directly coupled or connected to the other element, or intervening elements can be present therebetween. In contrast, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being associated with another element, such as "directly coupled" or "directly connected" to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Other expressions that describe the relationship between elements, such as "between," "directly between," "adjacent," or "directly adjacent," should be interpreted in the same way.

[0052] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals will denote the same or similar parts.

[0053] It will be understood that, although the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Therefore, the "first element," "first component," "first region," "first layer," or "first section" discussed below can be called a second element, a second component, a second region, a second layer, or a second section without deviating from the teachings herein.

[0054] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, "a," "an," "the," and "at least one" are not intended to refer to a quantity of, but rather to include the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, "a" means "at least one" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "or" is intended to mean "and / or" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," or "includes" and / or "including" when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0055] In addition, relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top" can be used herein to describe one element's or feature's relationship to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, elements described as being on the "lower" side of other elements would then be oriented on the "upper" sides of the other elements. The term "lower" can, therefore, encompass both an orientation of "lower" and "upper," depending on the particular orientation of the figure. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements would then be oriented "above" the other elements. The terms "below" or "beneath" can, therefore, encompass both an orientation of above and below, depending on the particular orientation of the figure.

[0056] As used herein, the term "about" or "approximately" includes the recited value and the average value within an acceptable range of deviation determined by one of ordinary skill in the art when considering the measurement in question and the error associated with the measurement of the 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%, or ± 5% of the recited value.

[0057] Unless otherwise defined or suggested herein, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0058] In the description and claims, the phrase "at least one of" is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from a group consisting of." For example, "at least one of A and B" can be understood as meaning "A, B, or A and B."

[0059] Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments described herein are not to be construed as being limited to the particular shapes illustrated herein but include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as flat can often have rough and / or nonlinear features. Moreover, illustrated corners can typically be rounded. Thus, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region and are not intended to limit the scope of the present claims.

[0060] Embodiments of the present disclosure will hereinafter be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0062] Referring to Figure 1 , the display device 1 can be a foldable display device. The meaning of the term "foldable" can include bendable, rollable, etc. In addition, the term "foldable" should be interpreted to include "partially foldable", "completely foldable", "inward foldable", and "outward foldable".

[0063] The display device 1 according to an embodiment can include an inward foldable display device and an outward foldable display device. In other words, the display device 1 can be capable of being inward folded (see Figure 2 "inner folding" of FIG. 1A) to be in an inward folding operation state and capable of being outward folded (see Figure 3an outer folding operation state. Here, the inner folding operation state can indicate an operation state in which the display device 1 is folded such that the display surfaces face each other, and the outer folding operation state can indicate an operation state in which the display device 1 is folded such that the display surfaces face outward (such that the other surfaces opposite the display surfaces face each other).

[0064] Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the inner folding operation state can be referred to as a first operation state, and the outer folding operation state can be referred to as a second operation state.

[0065] Hereinafter, in embodiments, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 can intersect with each other in different directions. Figure 1 In the schematic perspective view of FIG. 1, for convenience of description, a horizontal direction, a vertical direction, and a thickness direction of the display device 1 can be defined as the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3, respectively. In the following embodiments, the first direction DR1 includes a rightward direction with respect to the display device 1 in the perspective view and a leftward direction with respect to the display device 1 in the perspective view. The second direction DR2 includes an upward direction with respect to the display device 1 in the perspective view and a downward direction with respect to the display device 1 in the perspective view. The third direction DR3 includes a direction from the other surface of the display device 1 toward the display surface and a direction from the display surface of the display device 1 toward the other surface. However, it should be understood that the directions mentioned in the embodiments refer to relative directions, and the embodiments are not limited to the mentioned directions.

[0066] The display device 1 can have a rectangular shape in a plan view. For example, the display device 1 can include long sides LS1 and LS2 extending in the first direction DR1 and short sides SS1 and SS2 extending in the second direction DR2 in the plan view. The first long side LS1 of the display device 1 can be located at one side of the display device 1 in the second direction DR2, and the second long side LS2 thereof can be located at the other side of the display device 1 in the second direction DR2. The first short side SS1 of the display device 1 can be located at one side of the display device 1 in the first direction DR1, and the second short side SS2 thereof can be located at the other side of the display device 1 in the first direction DR1.

[0067] As described above, the display device 1 can be a foldable display device that can be folded inwardly or outwardly into the first operation state or the second operation state, respectively. The display device 1 can be in the first operation state or the second operation state with respect to a folding area defined in the display device 1.

[0068] A first folding area FA1 for the first operation state and a second folding area FA2 for the second operation state can be defined in the display device 1.

[0069] The first folding area FA1 can extend in the second direction DR2, and the second folding area FA2 can extend in the first direction DR1. The first folding area FA1 can be formed to cross an area from the first long side LS1 to the second long side LS2 of the display device 1, and the second folding area FA2 can be formed to cross an area from the first short side SS1 to the second short side SS2 of the display device 1.

[0070] The first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can intersect each other. In other words, the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can be disposed to overlap each other at an intersection point. The first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2 can not overlap each other except for the intersection point of the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2.

[0071] The first folding area FA1 can be located between the center portions of the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 of the display device 1. The non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 can be further defined in the display device 1 with respect to the first folding area FA1 located between the center portions of the first long side LS1 and the second long side LS2 of the display device 1. For example, the first non-folding area NFA1 can be located on the other side of the first folding area FA1 in the first direction DR1, and the second non-folding area NFA2 can be located on the side of the first folding area FA1 in the first direction DR1.

[0072] Similarly, the second folding area FA2 can be located between the center portions of the first short side SS1 and the second short side SS2 of the display device 1. The non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 can be further defined in the display device 1 with respect to the second folding area FA2 located between the center portions of the first short side SS1 and the second short side SS2 of the display device 1. For example, the third non-folding area NFA3 can be located on the side of the second folding area FA2 in the second direction DR2, and the fourth non-folding area NFA4 can be located on the other side of the second folding area FA2 in the second direction DR2.

[0073] The first non-folding area NFA1 can be disposed to overlap the third non-folding area NFA3, the fourth non-folding area NFA4, and the second folding area FA2 located on the other side of the first folding area FA1 in the first direction DR1, and the second non-folding area NFA2 can be disposed to overlap the third non-folding area NFA3, the fourth non-folding area NFA4, and the second folding area FA2 located on the side of the first folding area FA1 in the first direction DR1.

[0074] Similarly, a third non-folded area NFA3 can be disposed to overlap the first non-folded area NFA1, the second non-folded area NFA2, and the first folded area FA1 located on one side of the second folded area FA2 in the second direction DR2, and a fourth non-folded area NFA4 can be disposed to overlap the first non-folded area NFA1, the second non-folded area NFA2, and the first folded area FA1 located on the other side of the second folded area FA2 in the second direction DR2.

[0075] As will be described below, the display device 1 can include a display module 100 (see Figure 4 ). The display module 100 can include a display surface displaying an image and another surface opposite the display surface. The display surface and the other surface of the display module 100 can face each other. In a first operation state of the display device 1, the display device 1 can be folded such that the display surfaces of the display module 100 face each other, and in a second operation state, the display device 1 can be folded such that the other surfaces of the display module 100 face each other.

[0076] The first operation state and the second operation state of the display device 1 will be described in detail with reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 .

[0077] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a first operation state of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a second operation state of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0078] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , as described above with reference to Figure 1 , in the first operation state of the display device 1, the display device 1 can be folded such that the display surfaces of the display module 100 face each other, and in the second operation state, the display device 1 can be folded such that the other surfaces of the display module 100 face each other.

[0079] Specifically, in the first operation state of the display device 1, the display device 1 can be folded with respect to the first folded area FA1 such that the display surfaces of the first non-folded area NFA1 and the second non-folded area NFA2 face each other.

[0080] In the second operation state of the display device 1, the display device 1 can be folded with respect to the second folded area FA2 such that the other surfaces of the third non-folded area NFA3 and the fourth non-folded area NFA4 face each other.

[0081] The first and second operation states of the display device 1 can be implemented by a gear unit provided in each of the first and second folding areas FA1 and FA2 of the display device 1. Reference will be made to Figure 4 A more detailed description will be given.

[0082] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0083] Reference will be made to Figure 4 As described above, the display device 1 can include a display module 100.

[0084] The display module 100 can have a shape similar to that of the display device 1 described above. The display module 100 can include a display panel. The display panel can be an organic light emitting display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, a plasma display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, a quantum dot light emitting display panel, a micro light emitting diode (LED) display panel, a nano LED display panel, or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, an organic light emitting display panel can be used as the display panel.

[0085] The display panel can include a flexible substrate including a flexible polymer material such as polyimide (PI). Accordingly, the display panel can be curved, bent, folded, or rolled. The display panel can include pixels. The pixels of the display panel can be located in a central portion of the display panel. The display panel can further include a driving circuit or a signal line for applying a signal to the pixels. The signal line and the driving circuit can be located in an edge portion of the display panel.

[0086] The pixel can include a light emitting layer and a circuit layer for controlling an amount of light emitted from the light emitting layer. The circuit layer can include a wiring, an electrode, and at least one transistor. In an embodiment, the light emitting layer can include an organic light emitting material. The light emitting layer can be sealed by an encapsulation layer. The encapsulation layer can seal the light emitting layer to prevent moisture or the like from penetrating from the outside. The encapsulation layer can be a single layer or a multi-layer inorganic film, or a laminate film formed by alternately laminating an inorganic film and an organic film.

[0087] Although not shown, a window can also be provided on the display module 100 to protect the display module 100. The window can be provided to overlap the display panel in a thickness direction. In a plan view, the window and the display panel can have substantially the same size.

[0088] The window can be made of glass, quartz, or the like. The window can have a thickness of less than about 100 µm. In some embodiments, the window can include ultra-thin glass (UTG). In some embodiments, the window can include a flexible material.

[0089] The display module 100 can be disposed throughout the first and second folding areas FA1 and FA2 and the first through fourth non-folding areas NFA1 through NFA4.

[0090] The display device 1 can further include a metal plate 200 disposed under the display module 100.

[0091] The metal plate 200 can prevent the display module 100 from being bent, or can reduce the degree (e.g., bending angle or bending radius of curvature) to which the display module 100 is bent by an external force. For example, the metal plate 200 can maintain the display module 100 in a relatively flat state even in a case where an external force is applied thereto.

[0092] The metal plate 200 can include a rigid material or a semi-rigid material. Specifically, the metal plate 200 can include a metal material such as stainless steel (SUS) and aluminum, or a polymer such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or the like. For example, the metal plate 200 can be a stainless steel film having a thickness of about 150 µm to about 200 µm. As another example, the metal plate 200 can be an aluminum film having a thickness of about 150 µm to about 200 µm.

[0093] The metal plate 200 can include a first metal plate 210, a second metal plate 220, a third metal plate 230, a fourth metal plate 240, a fifth metal plate 250, and a sixth metal plate 260. The first metal plate 210 can be disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area NFA1 and the third non-folding area NFA3 overlap each other, the second metal plate 220 can be disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area NFA2 and the third non-folding area NFA3 overlap each other, the third metal plate 230 can be disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area NFA1 and the fourth non-folding area NFA4 overlap each other, and the fourth metal plate 240 can be disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area NFA2 and the fourth non-folding area NFA4 overlap each other. In addition, the fifth metal plate 250 can be disposed in a region of the second folding area FA2 overlapping the first non-folding area NFA1, and the sixth metal plate 260 can be disposed in a region of the second folding area FA2 overlapping the second non-folding area NFA2. The fifth metal plate 250 can be disposed between the first metal plate 210 and the third metal plate 230 in a plan view, and the sixth metal plate 260 can be disposed between the second metal plate 220 and the fourth metal plate 240 in a plan view.

[0094] Each of the first metal plate 210, the second metal plate 220, the third metal plate 230, and the fourth metal plate 240 can have a shape of an overall pattern.

[0095] The first metal plate 210 and the second metal plate 220 can be physically separated from each other, and the third metal plate 230 and the fourth metal plate 240 can be physically separated from each other.

[0096] On the other hand, each of the fifth metal plate 250 and the sixth metal plate 260 can include a pattern extending in the first direction DR1. The respective patterns of the fifth metal plate 250 and the sixth metal plate 260 can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2.

[0097] The fifth metal plate 250 and the sixth metal plate 260 can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other while the first gear unit 410 located in the first folding area FA1 is interposed therebetween, which will be described below.

[0098] Each of the metal plates 210, 220, 230, and 240 of the display device 1 according to an embodiment can be formed in an integral pattern, thereby supporting the upper display module 100 in their positions. On the other hand, each of the fifth metal plate 250 and the sixth metal plate 260 of the display device 1 can be formed in a plurality of patterns, and thus the second operating state of the display device 1 can be more easily achieved, which will be described below.

[0099] The metal plate 200 of the display device 1 according to an embodiment can not be disposed in the first folding area FA1. Thus, in the case where the display device 1 is switched from the non-folded state to the first operating state, stress caused by the metal plate 200 can be prevented.

[0100] The display device 1 according to an embodiment can further include a main plate 300 disposed under the metal plate 200.

[0101] The main plate 300 can include a first main plate 310, a second main plate 320, a third main plate 330, and a fourth main plate 340. The first main plate 310 can be disposed in an area in which the first non-folding area NFA1 and the third non-folding area NFA3 overlap each other, the second main plate 320 can be disposed in an area in which the second non-folding area NFA2 and the third non-folding area NFA3 overlap each other, the third main plate 330 can be disposed in an area in which the first non-folding area NFA1 and the fourth non-folding area NFA4 overlap each other, and the fourth main plate 340 can be disposed in an area in which the second non-folding area NFA2 and the fourth non-folding area NFA4 overlap each other.

[0102] The first main plate 310, the second main plate 320, the third main plate 330, and the fourth main plate 340 can be physically spaced apart from each other.

[0103] As described above, the first and second operation states of the display device 1 can be implemented by the gear unit disposed in each of the first and second folding areas FA1 and FA2 of the display device 1.

[0104] The display device 1 according to embodiments can further include gear units 400 (including first and second gear units 410 and 450) disposed in the first and second folding areas FA1 and FA2, respectively. The first gear unit 410 can be disposed in the first folding area FA1, and the second gear unit 450 can be disposed in the second folding area FA2. The first gear unit 410 can extend in a second direction DR2, which is an extension direction of the first folding area FA1, and the second gear unit 450 can extend in a first direction DR1, which is an extension direction of the second folding area FA2.

[0105] The first gear unit 410 can be configured to switch the display device 1 from the unfolded state to the first operation state, and the second gear unit 450 can be configured to switch the display device 1 from the unfolded state to the second operation state.

[0106] A detailed structure of each of the gear units 410 or 450 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 9

[0107] Figure 5 is a schematic enlarged side view of the area A of Figure 2 Figure 6 is a schematic enlarged plan view of the area B of Figure 4 Figure 7 is a schematic enlarged side view of the sixth metal plate and the display module of Figure 5

[0108] With reference to Figures 5 to 7 , the first gear unit 410 can include first engaging portions 411, connecting portions 413, a shaft 415, and a main gear 417.

[0109] In detail, the first engaging portion 411 can be connected to an adjacent connecting portion 413. The first engaging portion 411 can include an upper engaging portion disposed to overlap the first metal plate 210 and the third metal plate 230 in a side view, and a lower engaging portion disposed to overlap the second metal plate 220 and the fourth metal plate 240 in a side view. The upper and lower engaging portions can be separated from each other in a thickness direction. A plurality of first engaging portions 411 can be disposed. The connecting portion 413 can be disposed between adjacent first engaging portions 411. The connecting portion 413 can be connected with the adjacent first engaging portions 411. The connecting portion 413 can be disposed to overlap the first metal plate 210, the second metal plate 220, the third metal plate 230, and the fourth metal plate 240 in a side view.​​​​

[0110] The shaft 415 can extend in the second direction DR2. A plurality of shafts 415 can be provided. In the side view, the shaft 415 can be located below the sixth metal plate 260 and above the fifth metal plate 250. The shaft 415 can pass through the first joint 411 and the connection 413. The shaft 415 can be located on the left and right sides of the main gear 417 and can extend to be connected to the main gear 417 in the side view.

[0111] Further referring to Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the second gear unit 450 can include an extension 451 extending in the first direction DR1, and a second joint 455 branching from the extension 451.

[0112] Further referring to Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the second joint 455 can be provided in and overlap the adjacent main plate 300.

[0113] For example, the second joint 455 located above the second folding area FA2 and on the left side of the first folding area FA1 can be provided in and overlap the first main plate 310, the second joint 455 located above the second folding area FA2 and on the right side of the first folding area FA1 can be provided in and overlap the second main plate 320, the second joint 455 located below the second folding area FA2 and on the left side of the first folding area FA1 can be provided in and overlap the third main plate 330, and the second joint 455 located below the second folding area FA2 and on the right side of the first folding area FA1 can be provided in and overlap the fourth main plate 340.

[0114] Figure 4 It is shown that the number of the second joint 455 overlapping each of the first main plate 310, the second main plate 320, the third main plate 330, and the fourth main plate 340 is 5, but the number of the second joint 455 overlapping each of the first main plate 310, the second main plate 320, the third main plate 330, and the fourth main plate 340 is not limited to 5 and can be less than or greater than 5.

[0115] The remaining components shown in Figures 5 to 7 but not described above have been described with reference to Figures 1 to 4 , and thus repetitive description will be omitted.

[0116] Figure 8 and Figure 9 are schematic views showing a second folding operation of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0117] Referring toFigure 8 and Figure 9 As described above, the second bonding part 455 can be disposed in and overlap the adjacent main plate 300.

[0118] In the unfolded state of the display device 1, each of the first main plate 310, the second main plate 320, the third main plate 330, and the fourth main plate 340 and the second bonding part 455 can be disposed to overlap each other while having the first overlap length L1.

[0119] When the display module 100 switches to the second operation state, the other surface of the display module 100 can be subjected to a compressive stress, and the display surface of the display module 100 can be subjected to a tensile stress. If the compressive stress is applied to the other surface of the display module 100 when the display device 1 switches to the second operation state, the length of the other surface of the display module 100 adjacent to the second bonding part 455 can be shortened. If the second bonding part 455 is connected to the adjacent first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330, the length of the other surface of the display module 100 can be maintained despite the tendency of the length of the other surface of the display module 100 to be shortened. Thus, a wrinkle can occur on the other surface of the display module 100. This can be visually recognized by a user and cause a screen defect.

[0120] To prevent the wrinkle caused by the compressive stress applied to the other surface of the display module 100 when the display device 1 switches to the second operation state, it can be considered that the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330 and the second bonding part 455 are disconnected to allow the second bonding part 455 to further move into the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330.

[0121] In other words, when the display device 1 according to the embodiment switches to the second operation state, the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330 and the second bonding part 455 can be disconnected so that the second bonding part 455 further moves into the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330, thereby preventing the occurrence of a wrinkle on the other surface of the display module 100.

[0122] As shown in Figure 9 After the display device 1 switches to the second operation state, the first overlap length L1 of the second bonding part 455 and each of the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330 can increase to a second overlap length L2.

[0123] Further, as shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown in FIG. 1, the second coupling portion 455 can have a circular cross-sectional shape. The circular cross-sectional shape of the second coupling portion 455 can have a predetermined curvature. The display module 100 and the metal plate 200 can be switched to the second operation state by the circular shape (having the predetermined curvature) of the portion of the second coupling portion 455 connected to the extension portion 451.

[0124] As described above, each of the first metal plate 210, the second metal plate 220, the third metal plate 230, and the fourth metal plate 240 of the display device 1 according to the embodiment can be formed in an integral pattern, thereby supporting the display module 100 of the upper portion in their positions. On the other hand, each of the fifth metal plate 250 and the sixth metal plate 260 of the display device 1 can be formed in a plurality of patterns, and thus can be used to more easily achieve the second operation state of the display device 1.

[0125] Figure 10 FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a first operation state of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0126] Referring to Figure 10 Since the display device 1 according to the embodiment is capable of being switched from the unfolded state to the first operation state, after the display device 1 in the unfolded state is placed on an arbitrary support, a user can easily see a screen of the display device 1 by folding only an upper portion (e.g., a first non-folded area NFA1 of Figure 1

[0127] Figure 11 FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a second operation state of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 12 FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a display device in which Figure 11

[0128] Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 Since the display device 1 according to the embodiment is capable of being switched from the unfolded state to the second operation state, in the second operation state, a user can also see an image on an area including a folded area (e.g., a second folded area FA2 of Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1, after the display device 1 in the second operation state is placed on a support, a user can see an image displayed in the folded area (e.g., the second folded area FA2). Figure 12

[0129] Figure 13 FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating another example of a second operation state of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 14 ​​​is a schematic perspective view showing another example of a display device in which the display device is used Figure 13 .

[0130] Referring to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , since the display device 1 according to the embodiment is capable of switching from the unfolded state to the second operation state, each of the unfolded areas (the third unfolded area NFA3 and the fourth unfolded area NFA4 of Figure 1 and Figure 3 ) can display an image.

[0131] In detail, the display device 1 according to the embodiment is capable of switching from the unfolded state to the second operation state so that an image can be displayed in each of the unfolded areas (for example, the third unfolded area NFA3 and the fourth unfolded area NFA4 of Figure 1 and Figure 3 ), and in a perspective view as shown in Figure 13 , an arc shape can be formed by the unfolded areas and the folded areas, thereby showing a screen or sharing a screen with a third person sitting on the opposite side.

[0132] Hereinafter, other embodiments will be described. In the following embodiments, components identical to those of the above-described embodiments can be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0133] Figure 15 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to another embodiment. Figure 16 is a schematic enlarged plan view of the area C of Figure 15 .

[0134] Referring to Figure 15 and Figure 16 , the display device 2 according to the embodiment can differ from the display device 1 of Figures 1 to 9 at least in that the metal plate 200_1 of the display device 2 further includes a seventh metal plate 270 and an eighth metal plate 280.

[0135] In detail, the metal plate 200_1 of the display device 2 according to the embodiment can further include a seventh metal plate 270 and an eighth metal plate 280.

[0136] The seventh metal plate 270 and the eighth metal plate 280 can be disposed in the first folded area FA1. The seventh metal plate 270 can be disposed on one side of the second folded area FA2 in the second direction DR2, and the eighth metal plate 280 can be disposed on the other side of the second folded area FA2 in the second direction DR2.

[0137] As described above, the display device 1 according to the embodiment can be capable of switching from the unfolded state to the second operation state so that an image can be displayed in each of the unfolded areas (for example, the third unfolded area NFA3 and the fourth unfolded area NFA4 of Figure 16As illustrated in FIG. 27, the seventh metal plate 270 can include a pattern. The pattern of the seventh metal plate 270 can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. The pattern of the seventh metal plate 270 can be arranged in a matrix in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0138] However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the pattern of the seventh metal plate 270 can be arranged in various ways.

[0139] The pattern arrangement method of the eighth metal plate 280 and the pattern arrangement method of the seventh metal plate 270 can be substantially the same or different.

[0140] The display device 2 according to the embodiment can further include the seventh metal plate 270 and the eighth metal plate 280, and the display module 100 can be more effectively supported in the first folding area FA1. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the display module 100 from sagging in the first folding area FA1.

[0141] Even in this embodiment, when switching to the second operation state, the other surface of the display module 100 can be subjected to a compressive stress, and the display surface of the display module 100 can be subjected to a tensile stress. If the compressive stress is applied to the other surface of the display module 100 when the display device 2 switches to the second operation state, the length of the other surface of the display module 100 adjacent to the second joint 455 can tend to be shortened. If the second joint 455 is connected to the adjacent first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330, the length of the other surface of the display module 100 can be maintained despite the tendency of the length of the other surface of the display module 100 to be shortened. Accordingly, a wrinkle can occur on the other surface of the display module 100. This can be visually recognized by a user and can cause a screen defect.

[0142] In order to prevent the wrinkle caused by the compressive stress applied to the other surface of the display module 100 when the display device 2 switches to the second operation state, it can be considered that the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330 and the second joint 455 are disconnected to allow the second joint 455 to further move into the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330.

[0143] In other words, when the display device 2 according to the embodiment switches to the second operation state, the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330 and the second joint 455 can be disconnected so that the second joint 455 further moves into the first main plate 310 and the third main plate 330, thereby preventing a wrinkle from occurring on the other surface of the display module 100.

[0144] Figure 17 is a schematic plan view showing a modification example of Figure 16 FIG. 27.

[0145] Referring toFigure 17 The display device according to the embodiment and the display device 2 of Figure 16 may differ at least in that the seventh metal plate 270_1 includes openings OP.

[0146] Specifically, the seventh metal plate 270_1 of the display device according to the embodiment can include a plurality of openings OP.

[0147] The openings OP can include rows extending in the second direction DR2 as shown in Figure 17 . For example, the rows of adjacent openings OP can be alternately disposed (or can be disposed in a zigzag manner).

[0148] The openings OP can completely penetrate the seventh metal plate 270_1 in the thickness direction. The material of the seventh metal plate 270_1 can completely surround the openings OP.

[0149] Figure 18 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to still another embodiment. Figure 19 is a schematic enlarged plan view of a region D of Figure 18 .

[0150] Referring to Figure 18 and Figure 19 , the display device 3 according to the embodiment can differ from the display device 1 of Figures 1 to 9 at least in that the display device 3 further includes a ninth metal plate 290 disposed in an overlapping region of the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2.

[0151] Specifically, the display device 3 according to the embodiment can further include the ninth metal plate 290 disposed in the overlapping region of the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2.

[0152] As shown in Figure 19 , the ninth metal plate 290 can include a pattern. The pattern of the ninth metal plate 290 can be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. The pattern of the ninth metal plate 290 can be arranged in a matrix in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0153] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the pattern of the ninth metal plate 290 can be arranged in various ways.

[0154] The display device 3 according to the embodiment can further include the ninth metal plate 290, and the display module 100 can be more effectively supported in the overlapping region of the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the display module 100 from sagging in the overlapping region of the first folding area FA1 and the second folding area FA2.

[0155] In this embodiment, when the display device 3 switches to the second operation state, the other surface of the display module 100 can be subjected to a compressive stress, and the display surface of the display module 100 can be subjected to a tensile stress. If the compressive stress is applied to the other surface of the display module 100 when the display device 3 switches to the second operation state, the length of the other surface of the display module 100 adjacent to the second joint 455 can tend to be shortened. If the second joint 455 is connected to the adjacent first and third main boards 310 and 330, the length of the other surface of the display module 100 can be maintained despite the tendency of the length of the other surface of the display module 100 to be shortened. Thus, a wave can occur on the other surface of the display module 100. This can be visually recognized by the user and can cause a screen defect.

[0156] To prevent the wave caused by the compressive stress applied to the other surface of the display module 100 when the display device 3 switches to the second operation state, it can be considered that the first and third main boards 310 and 330 and the second joint 455 are disconnected to allow the second joint 455 to further move into the first and third main boards 310 and 330.

[0157] In other words, when the display device 3 according to the embodiment switches to the second operation state, the first and third main boards 310 and 330 and the second joint 455 can be disconnected so that the second joint 455 further moves into the first and third main boards 310 and 330, thereby preventing the wave from occurring on the other surface of the display module 100.

[0158] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the claimed invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display apparatus comprising: a display module comprising: a first folding area extending in a first direction; a first non-folding area located on a first side of the first folding area in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a second non-folding area located on a second side of the first folding area in the second direction; a second folding area extending in the second direction; a third non-folding area located on a first side of the second folding area in the first direction; and a fourth non-folding area located on a second side of the second folding area in the first direction, a first gear unit disposed in the second folding area; and a second gear unit disposed in the first folding area, wherein the display module comprises a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the first surface being a display surface, one of the first gear unit and the second gear unit performs inner folding, and the other of the first gear unit and the second gear unit performs outer folding, and in an outer folding operation state, the display apparatus is folded with respect to the second folding area such that the second surface in the third non-folding area and the second surface in the fourth non-folding area face each other. 2.The display apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a metal plate disposed on the second surface of the display module.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein in an inner folding operation state, the display apparatus is folded with respect to the first folding area such that the first surface in the first non-folding area and the first surface in the second non-folding area face each other. 4.The display apparatus of claim 3, wherein, the metal plate comprises: a first metal plate disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other; a second metal plate disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other; a third metal plate disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other; and a fourth metal plate disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other, each of the first metal plate to the fourth metal plate has an overall pattern.

5. The display device of claim 4, wherein, the metal plate further comprises: a fifth metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the first non-folding area; and a sixth metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the second non-folding area.

6. The display device of claim 5, wherein, each of the fifth metal plate and the sixth metal plate comprises a plurality of first patterns extending in the second direction and arranged in the first direction.

7. The display device of claim 6, wherein, each of the fifth metal plate and the sixth metal plate is not disposed in the first folding area. 8.The display apparatus of claim 7, wherein, the metal plate further comprises a seventh metal plate disposed in an intersection region of the first folding area and the second folding area, The seventh metal plate includes a plurality of second patterns separated from the first metal plate to the sixth metal plate adjacent thereto.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein The metal plate further includes a seventh metal plate disposed in a portion of the first folding area which does not overlap the second folding area, the seventh metal plate including a plurality of third patterns. 10.The display device of claim 3, further comprising a main plate disposed under the metal plate, wherein, The main plate includes: a first main plate disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other; a second main plate disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area and the third non-folding area overlap each other; a third main plate disposed in a region in which the first non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other; and a fourth main plate disposed in a region in which the second non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area overlap each other.

11. The display device of claim 10, wherein, The first gear unit is disposed in a portion of the second folding area which does not overlap the first folding area, wherein the first gear unit includes an extension extending in the second direction, and at least one engagement portion extending from the extension in the first direction. 12.The display device of claim 11, wherein, the at least one engagement portion includes a plurality of engagement portions, and the plurality of engagement portions are disposed in the main plate and overlap the main plate.

13. The display device of claim 12, wherein, An overlapping length of the main plate and the at least one engagement portion in an unfolded state of the display device is less than an overlapping length of the main plate and the at least one engagement portion in the outer folding operation state of the display device. 14.The display device of claim 13 wherein The second gear unit is used to perform an inner folding operation of the display device.

15. The display device of claim 11, wherein, The first gear unit is used to perform an outer folding operation of the display device, and The first gear unit and the second gear unit have different folding structures from each other. 16.A display device capable of inner folding operation and outer folding operation, comprising: a display module including: a first folding area extending in a first direction; a first non-folding area located on a first side of the first folding area in a second direction, the second direction crossing the first direction; a second non-folding area located on a second side of the first folding area in the second direction; a second folding area extending in the second direction; a third non-folding area located on a first side of the second folding area in the first direction; a fourth non-folding area located on a second side of the second folding area in the first direction, a first surface and a second surface, the second surface opposite to the first surface, the first surface being a display surface; and a metal plate disposed on the second surface of the display module, a first gear unit disposed in the second folding area; and a second gear unit disposed in the first folding area, wherein one of the first folding area and the second folding area is a folding area for the inner folding operation, the other of the first folding area and the second folding area is a folding area for the outer folding operation, one of the first gear unit and the second gear unit performs inner folding, and the other of the first gear unit and the second gear unit performs outer folding, and the metal plate is disposed in at least one of the first folding area and the second folding area. 17.The display device of claim 16, wherein the first folding area is the folding area for the inner folding operation, the second folding area is the folding area for the outer folding operation, after the inner folding operation, the first surface in the first non-folding area and the first surface in the second non-folding area face each other with respect to the first folding area, and after the outer folding operation, the second surface in the third non-folding area and the second surface in the fourth non-folding area face each other with respect to the second folding area. 18.The display device of claim 17, wherein the metal plate includes: a first metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the second non-folding area; and a second metal plate disposed in the second folding area and disposed between the third non-folding area and the fourth non-folding area in the second non-folding area, wherein each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate includes a plurality of patterns extending in the second direction and arranged in the first direction. 19.The display device of claim 18, wherein the first gear unit for the outer folding operation includes: an extension portion extending in the second direction; and an engaging portion extending from the extension portion in the first direction. 20.The display device of claim 19, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the engaging portion includes a circle having a predetermined curvature, and the display device is folded out according to the predetermined curvature of the engaging portion.

Images