Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a display panel including an active area and a non-active area, and a polarizing plate on the display panel, the polarizing plate including a polarizing layer. The polarizing layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active area and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active area, and the second pattern is spaced apart from the first pattern. Thus, moisture absorption of the polarizing layer can be delayed.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0095960, filed on July 31, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to display devices, and more specifically to rollable display devices that can improve display panel warping caused by moisture. Background Technology

[0004] Display devices used in computer monitors, televisions, mobile phones, etc., include self-emissive organic light-emitting displays (OLEDs) and liquid crystal displays (LCDs) that require a separate light source.

[0005] As display devices are increasingly used in various fields such as computer monitors, televisions, and personal mobile devices, display devices with large display areas and reduced size and weight have been studied.

[0006] In addition, recently, rollable display devices, in which the display components, wiring, etc. are formed on a flexible substrate made of flexible plastic and can display images even when rolled up, have attracted attention as the next generation of display devices. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a display device that minimizes moisture absorption by a polarizing plate.

[0008] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a display device that minimizes moisture penetration through the side surfaces of the display panel and the polarizing plate.

[0009] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a display device that can improve the warping of the display panel caused by moisture absorption by the polarizing plate.

[0010] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a display device that can suppress cracks in the substrate of a display panel caused by moisture absorption by a polarizing plate.

[0011] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the purposes mentioned above, and other purposes not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description.

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a display panel, the display panel including an active region and an active region; and a polarizing plate on the display panel, the polarizing plate including a polarizing layer. The polarizing layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active region and a second pattern corresponding to the active region, and the second pattern is spaced apart from the first pattern.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a display panel including an active region and an active region; a polarizing plate on the display panel, the polarizing plate including a polarizing layer; protective layers disposed on opposite surfaces of the polarizing layer; and a winding unit coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel. The polarizing layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active region and a second pattern corresponding to the active region and surrounding the first pattern. The first pattern and the second pattern are spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protective layers.

[0014] Further details of the exemplary embodiments are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0015] According to this disclosure, the barrier film is configured to surround the sides of the display panel and the polarizing plate. This inhibits moisture penetration.

[0016] According to this disclosure, the polarization layer corresponding to the non-active region is patterned. This delays moisture penetration through the polarization layer.

[0017] According to this disclosure, warping of the display panel and cracks in the substrate can be suppressed by inhibiting moisture absorption in the polarization layer.

[0018] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those illustrated above, and this specification includes many more effects. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The above and other aspects, features and other advantages of this disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 4This is a plan view of the display portion of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the display portion of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged cross-sectional view of region A;

[0026] Figures 7A to 7E This is a plan view of a polarization layer according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 8 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the display portion of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a plan view of the display portion of a display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 10 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the display portion of a display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0030] Figure 11A and Figure 11B The moisture absorption test results of the polarization layer according to the comparative embodiment and the embodiment are shown respectively. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as methods for achieving these advantages and features, will become clear from the exemplary embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, but will be implemented in various forms. The exemplary embodiments are provided by way of example only so that those skilled in the art can fully understand the disclosure and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure will be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

[0032] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, numbers, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings used to describe exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are merely examples, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals generally denote the same elements. Furthermore, in the following description of this disclosure, detailed descriptions of known related technologies may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the subject matter of this disclosure. Terms such as “comprising,” “having,” and “consisting of” as used herein are generally intended to allow for the addition of additional components, unless these terms are used in conjunction with the term “only.” Any reference to the singular may include the plural unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0033] Even without explicit explanation, components are interpreted as including the normal tolerance range.

[0034] When using terms such as “on top of,” “above,” “below,” and “close to” to describe the positional relationship between two parts, one or more parts may be positioned between the two parts, unless these terms are used with the terms “close to” or “directly.”

[0035] When an element or layer is placed "on" another element or layer, the other layer or element may be placed directly on or between the other element.

[0036] Although the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components. Therefore, the first component mentioned below can be the second component in the technical concept of this disclosure.

[0037] Throughout the manual, the same reference numerals usually indicate the same components.

[0038] For ease of description, the dimensions and thickness of each component shown in the accompanying drawings are illustrated, and this disclosure is not limited to the dimensions and thickness of the components shown.

[0039] Features of various embodiments of this disclosure may be attached or combined with each other in part or in whole, and may be interlocked and operated in various technical ways, and these embodiments may be performed independently of each other or in association with each other.

[0040] The contents of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] <Display Devices - Rollable Display Devices>

[0042] A rollable display device can refer to a display device that can display images even when rolled up. Rollable display devices can have greater flexibility than conventional typical display devices. A rollable display device can freely change shape depending on whether it is used. Specifically, when not in use, the rollable display device can be rolled up for storage to reduce its size. When in use, the rolled-up rollable display device can be unwound and reused.

[0043] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a display portion DP and a receiving portion HP.

[0044] The display portion DP is configured to display an image to a user. For example, display elements, circuitry for driving the display elements, wiring, components, etc., can be disposed in the display portion DP. In this document, the display device 100 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is a rollable display device. Therefore, the display portion DP can be configured to be wound or unfolded. For example, the display portion DP may include a flexible display panel and a back cover for winding or unfolding. Referring later... Figures 4 to 6 The description shows more details about part of the DP.

[0045] The housing portion HP serves as a casing that can accommodate the display portion DP. The display portion DP can be wound and housed within the housing portion HP, and the display portion DP can be unfolded and presented outside the housing portion HP.

[0046] The receiving portion HP includes an opening HPO, through which the display portion DP can move into and out of the receiving portion HP. The display portion DP can move up and down through the opening HPO of the receiving portion HP.

[0047] Meanwhile, the display portion DP of the display device 100 can change from a fully unfolded state to a fully wrapped state, and from a fully wrapped state to a fully unfolded state.

[0048] Figure 1A The fully extended state of the display portion DP of the display device 100 is shown. The fully extended state refers to the state in which the display portion DP of the display device 100 is presented outside the receiving portion HP. That is, the fully extended state can be defined as the state in which the display portion DP is extended to its maximum extent so that it cannot be extended further and is presented outside the receiving portion HP so that the user can view the image on the display device 100.

[0049] Figure 1B The diagram shows the fully wound state of the display portion DP of the display device 100. The fully wound state refers to a state where the display portion DP of the display device 100 is contained within the receiving portion HP and may not be able to be further wound. In other words, the fully wound state can be defined as the state where the display portion DP is wound and contained within the receiving portion HP when the user is not viewing an image on the display device 100, as it is preferable for aesthetic reasons to contain the display portion DP within the receiving portion HP. Furthermore, in the fully wound state where the display portion DP is contained within the receiving portion HP, the size of the display device 100 is reduced and it is easier to transport.

[0050] Additionally, a movable part is provided for winding or unwinding the display portion DP to change the display portion DP to a fully unwinding state or a fully wound state.

[0051] <Movement Section>

[0052] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the winder 151 and the display portion DP of a display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. For ease of description, Figure 3 Only the housing section HP, the winder 151, and the display section DP are shown.

[0053] First, refer to Figure 2 The moving part MP includes a winding unit 150 and a lifting unit 160.

[0054] The winding unit 150 is wound or unwound and fixed to the display portion DP of the winding unit 150 while rotating clockwise or counterclockwise. The winding unit 150 includes a winder 151 and a winder support 152.

[0055] The winder 151 is a component on which the display portion DP is wound. The winder 151 may have, for example, a cylindrical shape. The lower edge of the display portion DP may be fixed to the winder 151. When the winder 151 rotates, the display portion DP, whose lower edge is fixed to the winder 151, may be wound around the winder 151. Conversely, when the winder 151 rotates in the opposite direction, the display portion DP wound around the winder 151 may be unwound from the winder 151.

[0056] Reference Figure 3 The winder 151 may include at least a portion of its outer peripheral surface having a flat surface and another portion of its outer peripheral surface having a curved surface. The winder 151 is generally cylindrical in shape, but may be partially flat. That is, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the winder 151 is flat, while another portion of the outer peripheral surface is curved. At least one flexible film 130 of the display portion DP and the printed circuit board 140 may be mounted on the flat surface portion of the winder 151. The winder 151 may be entirely cylindrical or may have any shape on which the display portion DP can be wound, but is not limited thereto.

[0057] Refer again Figure 2The winder support 152 supports the winder 151 from both sides. Specifically, the winder support 152 is placed on the bottom surface HPF of the receiving portion HP. Furthermore, the upper surface of each winder support 152 is combined with both ends of the winder 151. Thus, the winder support 152 can support the winder 151 spaced apart from the bottom surface HPF of the receiving portion HP. In this document, the winder 151 can be rotatably combined with the winder support 152.

[0058] The lifting unit 160 moves the display section DP up and down according to the drive of the winding unit 150. The lifting unit 160 includes a linkage unit 161, a top rod 162, a slide rail 163, a slider 164, a motor 165, and a rotating unit 166.

[0059] The linkage unit 161 of the lifting unit 160 includes multiple links 161a and 161b and a hinge unit 161c connecting the multiple links 161a and 161b. Specifically, the multiple links 161a and 161b include a first link 161a and a second link 161b. The first link 161a and the second link 161b cross in a scissor-like manner and are rotatably hinged to each other via the hinge unit 161c. Thus, when the linkage unit 161 moves up and down, the multiple links 161a and 161b can rotate in directions that are further away from or closer to each other.

[0060] The top rod 162 of the lifting unit 160 is fixed to the uppermost end of the display section DP. The top rod 162 is connected to the linkage unit 161 and can move the display section DP up and down according to the rotation of the multiple linkages 161a and 161b of the linkage unit 161. That is, the display section DP can be moved up and down through the top rod 162 and the linkage unit 161.

[0061] The push rod 162 covers only a portion of the surface adjacent to the uppermost edge of the display portion DP, so as not to obscure the image displayed on the front surface of the display portion DP. The display portion DP and the push rod 162 can be fixed with screws, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0062] The slide rail 163 of the lifting unit 160 provides a travel path for a plurality of links 161a and 161b. A portion of each link 161a and 161b can be rotatably clamped to the slide rail 163, and its movement can be guided along the track of the slide rail 163. A portion of each link 161a and 161b can also be clamped to a slider 164 movably disposed along the slide rail 163 and move along the track of the slide rail 163.

[0063] Motor 165 can be connected to a power generation unit, such as a separate external power source or a built-in battery, and is supplied with power from the power generation unit. Motor 165 generates rotational power and provides driving force to rotating unit 166.

[0064] The rotary unit 166 is connected to the motor 165 and configured to convert the rotational movement of the motor 165 into linear reciprocating movement. That is, the rotary unit 166 can convert the rotational movement of the motor 165 into linear reciprocating movement of a structure fixed to the rotary unit 166. For example, the rotary unit 166 can be implemented as a ball screw including a shaft and a nut clamped to the shaft, but is not limited thereto.

[0065] The motor 165 and the rotating unit 166 can raise and lower the display section DP in conjunction with the linkage unit 161. The linkage unit 161 has a linkage structure and can receive driving force from the motor 165 and the rotating unit 166 and repeatedly perform folding and unfolding operations.

[0066] Specifically, when the motor 165 is driven, the structure of the rotating unit 166 can move linearly. That is, a portion of the rotating unit 166 connected to the second link 161b can move linearly. Thus, one end of the second link 161b can move towards the motor 165. Furthermore, multiple links 161a and 161b are folded, thereby reducing the height of the link unit 161. Additionally, when the multiple links 161a and 161b are folded, the top rod 162 connected to the first link 161a moves downward. Furthermore, the end of the display portion DP connected to the top rod 162 also moves downward.

[0067] Therefore, when the display portion DP is fully wound around the winder 151, the linkage unit 161 of the lifting unit 160 remains folded. That is, the lifting unit 160 can have its minimum height when the display portion DP is fully wound around the winder 151. When the display portion DP is fully unfolded, the linkage unit 161 of the lifting unit 160 remains unfolded. That is, the lifting unit 160 can have its maximum height when the display portion DP is fully unfolded.

[0068] Simultaneously, when the display portion DP is wound, the winder 151 can rotate and the display portion DP can be wound onto the winder 151. (Refer to...) Figure 3 As an example, the lower edge of the display portion DP is connected to the winder 151. Furthermore, when the winder 151 rotates clockwise along the first direction DR1, the display portion DP can be wound around the winder 151, so that the rear surface of the display portion DP can be in close contact with the surface of the winder 151.

[0069] When the display portion DP is unwound, the winder 151 can rotate and the display portion DP can be unwound from the winder 151. (See reference...) Figure 3As an example, when the winder 151 rotates counterclockwise in the second direction DR2, the display portion DP wound on the winder 151 can be unwound from the winder 151 and then presented outside the receiving portion HP.

[0070] In some embodiments, a moving portion MP that differs structurally from the moving portion MP described above can also be applied to the display device 100. That is, the winding unit 150 and the lifting unit 160 described above can be configured differently, as long as the display portion DP can be wound and unwound. Some of their components can be omitted or other components can be added.

[0071] <Display section>

[0072] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the display portion of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the display portion of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Reference Figure 4 The display section DP includes a back cover 110, a display panel 120, a flexible film 130, a printed circuit board 140, a barrier film 170, and a polarizing plate 180.

[0074] Display panel 120 is configured to display images to a user. Display panel 120 may include display elements for displaying images, driving elements for driving the display elements, and wiring for transmitting various signals to the display elements and driving elements. The display elements can be defined differently depending on the type of display panel 120. For example, if display panel 120 is an organic light-emitting display panel, the display elements may each be an organic light-emitting element consisting of an anode, an organic emitting layer, and a cathode. For example, if display panel 120 is a liquid crystal display panel, the display elements may be liquid crystal display elements. Hereinafter, it will be assumed that display panel 120 is an organic light-emitting display panel, but display panel 120 is not limited to organic light-emitting display panels. Furthermore, since the display device 100 according to the embodiments of this disclosure is a rollable display device, display panel 120 can be implemented as a flexible display panel to be wound on or unwound from the winder 151.

[0075] Display panel 120 includes active area AA and passive area NA.

[0076] The active area AA refers to the area on the display panel 120 where an image is displayed. Within the active area AA, multiple pixels comprising multiple sub-pixels and circuitry for driving these sub-pixels can be provided. The multiple sub-pixels are the smallest unit of the active area AA, and a display element can be disposed on each of the multiple sub-pixels. For example, an organic light-emitting element consisting of an anode, an organic emitting layer, and a cathode can be disposed on each of the multiple sub-pixels, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the circuitry for driving the multiple sub-pixels can include driving elements, wiring, etc. For example, the circuitry can consist of thin-film transistors, storage capacitors, gate lines, data lines, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0077] The passive region NA refers to the area where no image is displayed. The passive region NA can extend from the active region AA. Various wiring, circuits, etc., for driving the organic light-emitting elements in the active region AA can be provided in the passive region NA. For example, link lines for transmitting signals to multiple sub-pixels and circuits in the active region AA, or driver ICs such as gate driver ICs and data driver ICs, can be provided in the passive region NA. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0078] A barrier film 170 and a polarizing plate 180 can be provided on the display panel 120. (See below for further details.) Figure 6 Describe the barrier film 170 and the polarizing plate 180.

[0079] The flexible film 130 includes various components located on a flexible base film and is used to provide signals to multiple sub-pixels and circuits in the active region AA. The flexible film 130 can be electrically connected to the display panel 120. The flexible film 130 is placed on one end of the non-active region NA of the display panel 120 and provides power voltage, data voltage, etc. to multiple sub-pixels and circuits in the active region AA. Figure 4 The number of flexible films 130 shown is merely an example and is not limited thereto. The number of flexible films 130 can vary depending on the design and is not limited thereto.

[0080] Simultaneously, driver ICs such as gate driver ICs and data driver ICs can be disposed on the flexible film 130. Driver ICs are components configured to process data for displaying images and drive signals for processing that data. Driver ICs can be mounted using methods such as chip-on-glass (COG), chip-on-film (COF), and tape-on-carrier (TCP). For ease of description, the driver IC is described as being mounted on the flexible film 130 using the COF method, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0081] A printed circuit board 140 is disposed on and connected to one end of the flexible film 130. The printed circuit board 140 is configured to provide signals to a driver IC. The printed circuit board 140 provides various signals to the driver IC, such as drive signals and data signals. Various components can be disposed on the printed circuit board 140. For example, a timing controller, a power supply unit, etc., can be disposed on the printed circuit board 140. Meanwhile, Figure 4 Two printed circuit boards 140 are shown. However, the number of printed circuit boards 140 is not limited to this and can vary depending on the design.

[0082] At the same time, despite Figure 4 Although not shown, an additional printed circuit board connected to the printed circuit board 140 may also be provided. For example, the printed circuit board 140 may be referred to as a source printed circuit board (source PCB) S-PCB on which a data driver is mounted. The additional printed circuit board connected to the printed circuit board 140 may be referred to as a control printed circuit board (control PCB) C-PCB on which a timing controller or the like is mounted. The additional printed circuit board may be provided inside the winder 151 or in a receiving portion HP outside the winder 151.

[0083] A back cover 110 is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 120, the flexible film 130, and the printed circuit board 140, and supports the display panel 120, the flexible film 130, and the printed circuit board 140. Therefore, the size of the back cover 110 can be larger than the size of the display panel 120. The back cover 110 can protect other components of the display portion DP from the influence of the external environment. The back cover 110 can be made of a rigid material, but at least a portion of the back cover 110 can be flexible to be wound or unfolded together with the display panel 120. For example, the back cover 110 can be made of a metallic material such as stainless steel (SUS) or Invar alloy or plastic. However, the material of the back cover 110 is not limited to these. The material of the back cover 110 can be varied according to the design, as long as it meets performance requirements such as thermal deformation, radius of curvature, and stiffness.

[0084] The back cover 110 includes multiple support areas PA, fixed areas FA, and multiple flexible areas MA. No openings 111 are provided in the support areas PA and fixed areas FA. Multiple openings 111 are provided in the flexible areas MA. Specifically, starting from the top of the back cover 110, the first support area PA1, the first flexible area MA1, the fixed areas FA1 and FA2, the second flexible area MA2, and the second support area PA2 are sequentially arranged.

[0085] The first support region PA1 of the back cover 110 is the uppermost region of the back cover 110 and is clamped to the top rod 162. The first support region PA1 includes a first alignment hole AH1 for clamping to the top rod 162. In this case, the first support region PA1 can be clamped to the top rod 162 by means of screws, but is not limited thereto. Since the first support region PA1 is clamped to the top rod 162, the back cover 110 can move up or down simultaneously when the linkage unit 161 clamped to the top rod 162 moves up or down. The display panel 120 attached to the back cover 110 can also move up or down. Figure 4 Five first alignment holes AH1 are shown, but the number of first alignment holes AH1 is not limited to this. Furthermore, Figure 4 The diagram shows the back cover 110 being clamped to the push rod 162 using the first alignment hole AH1. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the back cover 110 can be clamped to the push rod 162 without the alignment hole.

[0086] A first flexible region MA1 extends from the first support region PA1 toward the underside of the back cover 110. Multiple openings 111 are provided in the first flexible region MA1. The display panel 120 is attached to the first flexible region MA1.

[0087] When the display portion DP is wound around the winder 151 to be housed inside the receiving portion HP, the first flexible region MA1 of the back cover 110 can be wound around the winder 151. The lower end portion and the central portion of the display panel 120 attached to the first flexible region MA1 can also be wound around the winder 151. Here, the first flexible region MA1 of the back cover 110 includes a plurality of openings 111. Thus, the first flexible region MA1 of the back cover 110 can be highly flexible and can be easily wound together with the display panel 120 onto the winder 151.

[0088] The fixed region FA extends from the first flexible region MA1 toward the underside of the back cover 110. The fixed region FA allows the flexible film 130 and the printed circuit board 140 to be wound around the winder 151 flat rather than bent to protect the flexible film 130 and the printed circuit board 140. In addition, the winder 151 may also be partially flat corresponding to the fixed region FA.

[0089] Multiple fixing holes 112 are provided in the fixing area FA. Each of the multiple fixing holes 112 is disposed between the flexible films 130. This allows for more stable fixing of the flexible films 130 and the printed circuit board 140 to the fixing area FA. Meanwhile, Figure 4 The number of mounting holes 112 shown is merely an example and can be determined based on the number of printed circuit boards 140, the number of flexible films 130, etc.

[0090] Meanwhile, the back cover 110 can be divided into a first back cover 110a and a second back cover 110b, wherein a plurality of fixing holes 112 in the first fixing region FA1 and a plurality of fixing holes 112 in the second fixing region FA2 are disposed therebetween. That is, the first back cover 110a includes a first support region PA1, a first flexible region MA1 and a first fixing region FA1, while the second back cover 110b includes a second fixing region FA2, a second flexible region MA2 and a second support region PA2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The back cover 110 can be formed as a single unit.

[0091] The second flexible region MA2 extends from the fixed region FA toward the lower side of the back cover 110. Furthermore, multiple openings 111 are provided in the second flexible region MA2.

[0092] The second flexible region MA2 is extended so that the active region AA of the display panel 120 can be exposed outside the receiving portion HP. For example, when the back cover 110 and the display panel 120 are in the fully unfolded state, the area from the second support region PA2 fixed to the winder 151 of the back cover 110 to the fixed region FA to which the flexible film 130 and the printed circuit board 140 are attached can be placed inside the receiving portion HP. At the same time, the fixed region FA and the first flexible region MA1 to which the display panel 120 is attached can be exposed outside the receiving portion HP. In this case, if the length from the second support region PA2 fixed to the winder 151 to the second flexible region MA2 and the fixed region FA is less than the length from the second support region PA2 to the opening HPO of the receiving portion HP, a portion of the first flexible region MA1 to which the display panel 120 is attached can be placed inside the receiving portion HP. As a result, since a portion of the lower end of the active region AA of the display panel 120 is placed inside the receiving portion HP, it may be difficult to view the image. Therefore, the length from the second support region PA2 fixed to the winder 151 to the second flexible region MA2 and the fixed region FA can be designed to be equal to the length from the second support region PA2 fixed to the winder 151 to the opening HPO of the accommodating portion HP.

[0093] The second support region PA2 of the back cover 110 is the lowest region of the back cover 110 and is clamped and secured to the winder 151. The second support region PA2 may include a second alignment hole AH2 for clamping to the winder 151. In this case, the second support region PA2 can be clamped to the winder 151 by screws, but is not limited thereto. Since the second support region PA2 is clamped to the winder 151, the back cover 110 can be wound onto or unwound from the winder 151 when the winder 151 rotates. Figure 4 Two second alignment holes AH2 are shown, but the number of second alignment holes AH2 is not limited to this. Furthermore, Figure 4The diagram shows the back cover 110 being clamped to the winder 151 using the second alignment hole AH2. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The back cover 110 can also be secured to the winder 151 without the alignment hole.

[0094] The flexible region MA of the back cover 110 is wound together with or unwound from the winding device 151 along with the display panel 120. The flexible region MA may overlap with at least the display panel 120 of other components of the display portion DP.

[0095] Multiple openings 111 are provided in the flexible region MA of the back cover 110. During the winding or unfolding of the display portion DP, the multiple openings 111 may deform due to the stress applied to the display portion DP. Specifically, during the winding or unfolding of the display portion DP, the flexible region MA of the back cover 110 may deform as the multiple openings 111 contract or expand. Furthermore, due to the contraction or expansion of the multiple openings 111, the sliding phenomenon of the display panel 120 provided on the flexible region MA of the back cover 110 can be minimized. Therefore, the stress applied to the display panel 120 can be minimized.

[0096] Reference Figure 4 Multiple openings 111 are offset from multiple openings 111 in adjacent rows. For example, multiple openings 111 in a row are offset from multiple openings 111 in each row adjacent to the corresponding row. Specifically, the center of multiple openings 111 in odd-numbered rows may be offset from the center of multiple openings 111 in even-numbered rows by, for example, as much as 1 / 2 the row-direction width of each opening 111. Figure 4 The placement of the multiple openings 111 shown is merely an example, but is not limited to this.

[0097] In this configuration, the plurality of openings 111 formed in the flexible region MA are not formed in the first support region PA1 and the second support region PA2. That is, only the first alignment hole AH1 and the second alignment hole AH2 are formed in each of the first support region PA1 and the second support region PA2. However, the plurality of openings 111 formed in the flexible region MA are not formed in the first support region PA1 and the second support region PA2. Furthermore, the shapes of the first alignment hole AH1 and the second alignment hole AH2 are different from the shapes of the plurality of openings 111. The first support region PA1 and the second support region PA2 are respectively fixed to the top rod 162 and the winder 151. Therefore, the first support region PA1 and the second support region PA2 need to have higher rigidity than the flexible region MA. Specifically, because the first support region PA1 and the second support region PA2 are rigid, they can be securely fixed to the top rod 162 and the winder 151. Therefore, the display portion DP is fixed to the winder 151 and the top rod 162 of the moving portion MP and can be moved into and out of the receiving portion HP according to the operation of the moving portion MP.

[0098] In the display device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a back cover 110 including a plurality of openings 111 is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 120 to support and protect the display panel 120. The back cover 110 may be made of a metallic material and thus may have rigidity. Furthermore, the flexible region MA of the back cover 110 in which the display panel 120 is disposed includes a plurality of openings 111, and thus the back cover 110 may have improved flexibility. Therefore, in the fully unfolded state where the display portion DP of the display device 100 is outside the receiving portion HP, the back cover 110, made of a rigid material and having high rigidity, can support the display panel 120 to flatten it. Conversely, in the fully wound state where the display portion DP of the display device 100 is received inside the receiving portion HP, the back cover 110, which has high flexibility due to the plurality of openings 111, can be wound together with the display panel 120 onto the winder 151 and received.

[0099] Furthermore, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the back cover 110 includes a first back cover 110a and a second back cover 110b spaced apart from each other. Thus, the back cover 110 can be formed to correspond to various sizes of the display panel 120. As the size of the display device 100 increases, the size of the display panel 120 also increases. In this case, the size of the back cover 110 needs to be larger than the size of the display panel 120. Therefore, a single back cover 110 needs to be manufactured to a large size. However, it is very difficult to manufacture a single back cover 110 corresponding to a large-sized display device during the manufacturing process. Therefore, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the back cover 110 is configured to include a first back cover 110a and a second back cover 110b. Thus, a first back cover 110a and a second back cover 110b that are smaller in size than the display device 100 can be used. Meanwhile, although not shown in the figures, the first back cover 110a and the second back cover 110b are fixed using a base plate, a bottom cover, a top cover, and a fixing member.

[0100] Reference Figure 5 A back cover 110 is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 120, and a barrier film 170 and a polarizing plate 180 are disposed on the front surface of the display panel 120. In this document, the front surface of the display panel 120 may refer to the surface corresponding to the viewing direction, and the rear surface of the display panel 120 may refer to the surface on the side opposite to the viewing direction.

[0101] The display panel 120 includes a substrate 121, a buffer layer 122, a pixel unit 123, an encapsulation layer 124, and an encapsulation substrate 125.

[0102] The substrate 121 serves as a base member supporting various components of the display panel 120 and may be made of an insulating material. The substrate 121 may be made of a flexible material so that the display panel 120 can be wound or unfolded. For example, the substrate 121 may be made of a plastic material such as polyimide (PI).

[0103] The buffer layer 122 can suppress the diffusion of moisture and / or oxygen that permeates from the outside of the substrate 121. The buffer layer 122 can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers of silicon oxide (SiOx) and silicon nitride (SiNx), but is not limited thereto.

[0104] Pixel unit 123 includes a plurality of organic light-emitting elements and circuitry for driving the organic light-emitting elements. Pixel unit 123 may correspond to an active region AA. Each organic light-emitting element may include an anode, an organic emitting layer, and a cathode.

[0105] The anode can supply holes to the organic emitter layer and can be made of a conductive material with a high work function. For example, the anode can be made of tin oxide (TO), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium zinc tin oxide (ITZO), etc., but is not limited to these.

[0106] The organic emitting layer can receive holes from the anode and electrons from the cathode and emit light. Depending on the color of the light emitted from the organic emitting layer, it can be one of the following: red, green, blue, white, etc. Furthermore, if the organic emitting layer is white, it can also provide color filters for various colors.

[0107] The cathode can supply electrons to the organic emitting layer and can be made of a conductive layer with a low work function. For example, the cathode can be made of one or more materials selected from the group consisting of metals such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), and aluminum (Al) and their alloys, but is not limited thereto.

[0108] Meanwhile, depending on the transmission direction of the light emitted from the organic light-emitting element, the display panel 120 can be classified as either top-emitting or bottom-emitting.

[0109] In a top-emitting type, light emitted from the organic light-emitting element is released towards the upper side of the substrate 121 on which the organic light-emitting element is formed. If the display panel 120 is a top-emitting type, a reflective layer may also be provided below the anode. This is to release the light emitted from the organic light-emitting element towards the upper side of the substrate 121, i.e., towards the cathode.

[0110] In a bottom-emitting type, light emitted from the organic light-emitting element is released towards the underside of the substrate 121 on which the organic light-emitting element is formed. If the display panel 120 is a bottom-emitting type, the anode can be made of only a transparent conductive material, while the cathode can be made of a metallic material with high reflectivity. This is to release the light emitted from the organic light-emitting element towards the underside of the substrate 121.

[0111] Subsequently, for ease of description, the display device 100 according to the embodiments of this disclosure will be described as a bottom-emitting type display device, but is not limited thereto.

[0112] In pixel unit 123, a circuit for driving organic light-emitting elements is provided. The circuit may consist of TFTs, storage capacitors, gate lines, data lines, power lines, etc. The components of the circuit can be varied depending on the design of the display device 100.

[0113] An encapsulation layer 124 is provided on the pixel unit 123, covering the pixel unit 123. The encapsulation layer 124 seals the organic light-emitting element of the pixel unit 123. The encapsulation layer 124 can protect the organic light-emitting element of the pixel unit 123 from external moisture, oxygen, impact, etc. The encapsulation layer 124 can be formed by alternately stacking multiple inorganic layers and multiple organic layers. For example, the inorganic layers can be made of inorganic materials such as silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), and aluminum oxide (AlOx), but are not limited thereto. For example, the organic layers can be made of epoxy polymers or acrylic polymers, but are not limited thereto.

[0114] An encapsulation substrate 125 is disposed on the encapsulation layer 124. The encapsulation substrate 125, together with the encapsulation layer 124, protects the organic light-emitting element of the pixel unit 123. The encapsulation substrate 125 protects the organic light-emitting element of the pixel unit 123 from external moisture, oxygen, impact, etc. The encapsulation substrate 125 can be made of a metallic material with high corrosion resistance and easily processed into foil or thin film. Examples of metallic materials include aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and alloys of iron (Fe) and Ni. Therefore, since the encapsulation substrate 125 is made of a metallic material, it can be implemented in the form of an ultrathin film and can provide high resistance to external impacts and scratches.

[0115] A first adhesive layer AD1 may be disposed between the encapsulation layer 124 and the encapsulation substrate 125. The first adhesive layer AD1 can bond the encapsulation layer 124 and the encapsulation substrate 125. The first adhesive layer AD1 may be made of an adhesive material and may be a thermosetting or naturally curable adhesive. For example, the first adhesive layer AD1 may be made of optically transparent adhesive (OCA), pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0116] The first adhesive layer AD1 can be configured to cover the encapsulation layer 124 and the pixel unit 123. That is, the pixel unit 123 can be sealed by the buffer layer 122 and the encapsulation layer 124, and the encapsulation layer 124 and the pixel unit 123 can be sealed by the buffer layer 122 and the first adhesive layer AD1. The first adhesive layer AD1, together with the encapsulation layer 124 and the encapsulation substrate 125, can protect the organic light-emitting element of the pixel unit 123 from external moisture, oxygen, impact, etc. In this document, the first adhesive layer AD1 may also contain a desiccant. The desiccant may include moisture-absorbing particles and can absorb moisture and oxygen from the outside to minimize the penetration of moisture and oxygen into the pixel unit 123.

[0117] A back cover 110 is disposed on the encapsulation substrate 125. The back cover 110 may be configured to contact the encapsulation substrate 125 of the display panel 120 to protect the display panel 120. The back cover 110 may be made of a rigid material to protect the display panel 120.

[0118] A second adhesive component AD2 is disposed between the encapsulation substrate 125 and the back cover 110. The second adhesive component AD2 can bond the encapsulation substrate 125 and the back cover 110. The second adhesive component AD2 can be made of an adhesive material and can be a thermosetting or naturally curable adhesive. For example, the adhesive component AD2 can be made of optically transparent adhesive (OCA), pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0119] Micro-sealants MS can be provided on the side surface of the display panel 120. The micro-sealants MS can be disposed between the substrate 121 and the back cover 110 to surround the side surface of the display panel 120. That is, the sides of the display panel 120 can be sealed by the micro-sealants MS. The micro-sealants MS can protect the display panel 120 from external moisture, oxygen, impact, etc. The micro-sealants MS can be made of photocurable acrylic resin, but are not limited to this.

[0120] A barrier film 170 is provided on the front surface of the display panel 120. The barrier film 170 protects the display panel 120 from external impacts, moisture, heat, etc. The barrier film 170 can be made of a lightweight and shatterproof polymer resin. For example, the barrier film 170 can be made of a cyclic olefin polymer (COP), but is not limited thereto. The barrier film 170 can also be made of polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc.

[0121] A third adhesive layer AD3 may be disposed between the display panel 120 and the barrier film 170. The third adhesive layer AD3 can bond the display panel 120 and the barrier film 170. The third adhesive layer AD3 may be made of an adhesive material and may be a thermosetting or naturally curable adhesive. For example, the third adhesive layer AD3 may be made of optically transparent adhesive (OCA), pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), etc., but is not limited to these. Meanwhile, the third adhesive layer AD3 and the barrier film 170 are shown as separate components, but are not limited to these. The third adhesive layer AD3 may be a component of the barrier film 170.

[0122] A polarizer 180 is disposed on the barrier film 170. The polarizer 180 is configured to suppress the reflection and recognition of external light incident on the display device 100. The polarizer 180 may have a structure in which multiple layers are stacked.

[0123] A fourth adhesive layer AD4 may be disposed between the barrier film 170 and the polarizer 180. The fourth adhesive layer AD4 can bond the barrier film 170 and the polarizer 180. The fourth adhesive layer AD4 may be made of an adhesive material and may be a thermosetting or naturally curable adhesive. For example, the fourth adhesive layer AD4 may be made of optically transparent adhesive (OCA), pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), etc., but is not limited thereto. Meanwhile, the fourth adhesive layer AD4, the barrier film 170, and the polarizer 180 are shown as separate components, but are not limited thereto. The fourth adhesive layer AD4 may be a component of the barrier film 170 or the polarizer 180.

[0124] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 6 A more detailed description of polarizer 180.

[0125] <Specific Structure of the Polarizing Plate>

[0126] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged cross-sectional view of region A.

[0127] Reference Figure 6 The polarizer 180 includes a phase delay layer 181, a first protective layer 182, a polarization layer 183, a second protective layer 184, and a surface layer 185.

[0128] Based on the polarization angle of external light in polarization layer 183, phase retardation layer 181 can have a transmission axis within a range of ±45 degrees. Thus, external light incident on phase retardation layer 181 can be circularly polarized through phase retardation layer 181.

[0129] The polarizing layer 183 can linearly polarize light incident from the outside of the display device 100. The polarizing layer 183 can be formed as a stretched film of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based polymer film containing iodine or dichroic dyes, but is not limited thereto.

[0130] A first protective layer 182 and a second protective layer 184 are respectively disposed on two surfaces of the polarization layer 183. The polarization layer 183 is made of a PVA-based material that absorbs moisture well. Therefore, since the first protective layer 182 and the second protective layer 184 are respectively disposed on two surfaces of the polarization layer 183, damage to the polarization layer 183 caused by heat or moisture can be suppressed. The first protective layer 182 and the second protective layer 184 can be made of materials without phase difference to avoid affecting the polarization state of the polarization layer 183. For example, the first protective layer 182 and the second protective layer 184 can be made of triacetyl cellulose (TAC), but are not limited thereto.

[0131] A surface layer 185 is disposed on the outermost side of the polarizer 180 and enhances the mechanical strength of the polarizer 180. Furthermore, the surface layer 185 serves to suppress glare and reflection, thereby improving the visibility of the display device 100. The surface layer 185 can be formed as an anti-glare (AG) layer, a semi-glare (SG) layer, a low-reflection (LR) layer, or an anti-glare and low-reflection (AGLR) layer formed by a surface treatment method, but is not limited thereto.

[0132] The polarization layer 183 includes a first pattern 183a and a second pattern 183b. The first pattern 183a and the second pattern 183b can be formed by patterning a material layer that forms the polarization layer 183. Here, the patterning of the polarization layer 183 can be performed only in the region corresponding to the non-active region NA of the display panel 120. If the patterning of the polarization layer 183 is also performed in the region corresponding to the active region AA, the patterned region may be identified or the polarization efficiency may be reduced. Therefore, the patterning of the polarization layer 183 can be performed only in the region corresponding to the non-active region NA.

[0133] The first pattern 183a can correspond to the active area AA, and the second pattern 183b can correspond to the non-active area NA. That is, the first pattern 183a can overlap with the active area AA of the display panel 120, and the second pattern 183b can overlap with the non-active area NA of the display panel 120. Thus, the second pattern 183b can be formed around the first pattern 183a. In the figures, the second pattern 183b is shown as including a plurality of second patterns 183b, but is not limited thereto. The second pattern 183b can also be formed as a single second pattern 183b.

[0134] The first pattern 183a and the second pattern 183b can be spaced apart from each other by means of a patterned hole H. Furthermore, if a plurality of second patterns 183b are formed, the plurality of second patterns 183b can be spaced apart from each other by means of a patterned hole H. That is, the first pattern 183a and the plurality of second patterns 183b can be spaced apart from each other. Furthermore, the hole H can be filled with a second protective layer 184 or a first protective layer 182. Since the polarization layer 183 is divided into the first pattern 183a and the second pattern 183b, the absorption of moisture by the polarization layer 183 can be delayed. Specifically, the permeation of moisture and oxygen may occur from the second pattern 183b, which is a side portion of the polarization plate 180, towards the first pattern 183a, which is a central portion of the polarization plate 180. Here, the separate patterns 183a and 183b of the polarization layer 183 can absorb moisture and oxygen independently of each other. Furthermore, the movement path of moisture and oxygen can be extended or blocked by the protective layers 182 and 184 provided on the hole H between the patterns 183a and 183b. Therefore, the penetration of moisture and oxygen into the region of polarization layer 183 corresponding to the active region AA can be delayed. Furthermore, mass degradation and warping caused by moisture absorption by polarization layer 183 can be suppressed.

[0135] Typically, the polarizer of a display device comprises a PVA-based polymer film as a polarizing layer to polarize incident light. However, PVA-based polymer materials may experience a decrease in modulus when exposed to moisture. Consequently, the neutral plane of the display panel shifts, which can lead to increased stress on the substrate and consequently, cracks in the substrate.

[0136] Furthermore, PVA-based polymer materials exhibit excellent moisture absorption, thus changing in volume according to humidity. That is, the polarizing layer absorbs moisture and expands in high-humidity environments, while releasing moisture and shrinking in low-humidity environments. This results in warping along the stretching direction of the polarizing layer. Consequently, warping occurs in the polarizing plate and the display panel to which it is attached.

[0137] However, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the portion of the polarization layer 183 corresponding to the non-active region NA is patterned to delay moisture absorption. Specifically, the polarization layer 183 may be patterned such that a first pattern 183a corresponding to the active region AA and a second pattern 183b corresponding to the non-active region NA are spaced apart from each other. Furthermore, the second pattern 183b may be configured to surround the first pattern 183a. Thus, even if moisture or oxygen permeates through the side of the polarization plate 180, the second pattern 183b disposed on the side of the polarization layer 183 can independently absorb moisture. Therefore, moisture absorption of the first pattern 183a can be delayed. Here, the second pattern 183b is the portion of the polarization layer 183 corresponding to the non-active region NA. Thus, most of the polarization layer 183 is formed as the first pattern 183a. Therefore, the second pattern 183b can suppress the overall deformation and warping of the polarization layer 183.

[0138] Furthermore, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, protective layers 182 and 184 may be disposed on the hole H between the first pattern 183a and the second pattern 183b of the polarization layer 183. That is, the first pattern 183a and the second pattern 183b may be spaced apart from each other by the protective layers 182 and 184. Thus, the protective layers 182 and 184 may block moisture or oxygen from flowing from the second pattern 183b to the first pattern 183a or extend its movement path. Therefore, the penetration of moisture or oxygen into the first pattern 183a can be minimized.

[0139] Furthermore, in the display device 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a plurality of second patterns 183b can be formed, and the plurality of second patterns 183b can be spaced apart from each other by protective layers 182 and 184. That is, moisture absorption of the plurality of second patterns 183b can occur sequentially from the second pattern 183b disposed on the outside of the polarization layer 183 to the second pattern 183b adjacent to the first pattern 183a. Furthermore, the protective layers 182 and 184 can be disposed between the plurality of adjacent second patterns 183b to minimize the moisture absorption process from the outside of the plurality of second patterns 183b to the first pattern 183a. Therefore, moisture absorption and deformation of the first pattern 183a can be suppressed. As a result, the modulus reduction of the polarization layer 183 can be suppressed and cracks in the substrate 121 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the warpage of the polarization layer 183 can be minimized and the warpage of the display panel 120 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the deformation of the polarization layer 183 can be suppressed, thereby improving the display quality and reliability of the display device 100.

[0140] <Patterned Structure of Polarization Layer>

[0141] Figures 7A to 7EThis is a plan view of a polarization layer according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For ease of illustration, Figures 7A to 7E Only one corner of polarization layer 183 and a portion of its adjacent area are shown; the same structure can be applied to other areas not shown. Meanwhile, Figures 7A to 7E Any one or combination of the structures of polarization layer 183 shown can be applied to Figure 6 The polarization layer 183 is shown in the figure. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Various pattern structures can be applied as long as the region of the polarization layer 183 corresponding to the non-active region NA is patterned.

[0142] Reference Figure 7A The polarizing layer 183 includes a first pattern 710a and a second pattern 720a. The first pattern 710a may correspond to the active region AA of the display panel 120, and the second pattern 720a may correspond to the non-active region NA of the display panel 120. The second pattern 720a may be configured to surround the first pattern 710a. In particular, the second pattern 720a may have a closed-loop shape. The first pattern 710a and the second pattern 720a may be spaced apart from each other by a hole H. Furthermore, the hole H between the first pattern 710a and the second pattern 720a may have a closed-loop shape. In addition, although not shown in the figure, either of the protective layers 182 and 184 disposed on the hole H may have a closed-loop shape. Thus, even if moisture and oxygen permeate into the polarizing plate 180, the second pattern 720a corresponding to the non-active region NA can first independently absorb the moisture. Furthermore, even if moisture and oxygen permeate into the hole H, the protective layers 182 and 184 inside the hole H can block such permeation and prolong the movement path of the moisture and oxygen. Therefore, the second pattern 720a and the hole H act as barriers, thereby minimizing the moisture absorption of the first pattern 710a.

[0143] Reference Figure 7BThe polarization layer 183 includes a first pattern 710b and second patterns 721b and 722b. The first pattern 710b may correspond to the active region AA of the display panel 120, and the second patterns 721b and 722b may correspond to the non-active region NA of the display panel 120. The second patterns 721b and 722b may include a plurality of first sub-patterns 721b and a plurality of second sub-patterns 722b. The plurality of first sub-patterns 721b may be configured to correspond to the edges of the first pattern 710b. The plurality of first sub-patterns 721b may have a line shape. The plurality of second sub-patterns 722b may be disposed between the plurality of first sub-patterns 721b to correspond to the corners of the first pattern 710b. The plurality of second sub-patterns 722b may have a dot shape. The plurality of first sub-patterns 721b and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722b may be configured to surround the first pattern 710b. The plurality of first sub-patterns 721b and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722b may be configured as a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns. The first pattern 710b, multiple first sub-patterns 721b, and multiple second sub-patterns 722b can be spaced apart from each other through holes H. Furthermore, holes H can be formed as multiple lines arranged in rows or columns.

[0144] at the same time, Figure 7B The number and shape of the plurality of first sub-patterns 721b and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722b shown can be varied as needed.

[0145] If moisture and oxygen permeate into the polarizing plate 180, moisture absorption can occur independently in some of the plurality of first sub-patterns 721b and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722b disposed on the outermost side. Furthermore, the plurality of first sub-patterns 721b and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722b are arranged in multiple rows or columns, thereby delaying the diffusion of moisture and oxygen. Here, the plurality of first sub-patterns 721b and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722b can be spaced apart from each other by holes H formed as multiple lines arranged in rows or columns. Thus, the protective layers 182 and 184 inside the holes H can block the permeation of moisture and oxygen and prolong their movement path. Therefore, the plurality of first sub-patterns 721b, the plurality of second sub-patterns 722b, and the holes H act as barriers, thereby minimizing the moisture absorption of the first pattern 710b.

[0146] Reference Figure 7CThe polarization layer 183 includes a first pattern 710c and a plurality of second patterns 720c. The first pattern 710c may correspond to the active region AA of the display panel 120, and the plurality of second patterns 720c may correspond to the non-active region NA of the display panel 120. The plurality of second patterns 720c may be formed in a dot shape. The plurality of second patterns 720c may be arranged around the first pattern 710c. The plurality of second patterns 720c may be arranged in multiple rows or columns. The first pattern 710c and the plurality of second patterns 720c may be spaced apart from each other by apertures H. Furthermore, the apertures H may be formed as multiple lines arranged in rows or columns.

[0147] Meanwhile, although the multiple second patterns 720c are shown as identical to each other in the figures, the multiple second patterns 720c can be formed in various sizes. Furthermore, the multiple second patterns 720c can be divided into multiple first sub-patterns corresponding to the edges of the first pattern 710c and multiple second sub-patterns corresponding to the corners of the first pattern 710c. Furthermore, Figure 7C The number and shape of the multiple second patterns 720c shown can be varied as needed.

[0148] If moisture and oxygen permeate into the polarizing plate 180, moisture absorption can occur independently in some of the plurality of second patterns 720c disposed on the outermost side. Furthermore, the plurality of second patterns 720c are arranged in multiple rows or columns, thereby delaying the diffusion of moisture and oxygen. Here, the plurality of second patterns 720c are spaced apart from each other by holes H formed as multiple lines arranged in rows or columns. Thus, the protective layers 182 and 184 inside the holes H can block the permeation of moisture and oxygen and prolong their movement path. Therefore, the plurality of second patterns 720c and the holes H act as barriers, thereby minimizing the moisture absorption of the first pattern 710c.

[0149] Reference Figure 7DThe polarizing layer 183 includes a first pattern 710d and a plurality of second patterns 720d. Each of the plurality of second patterns 720d may also be referred to as a sub-pattern. The first pattern 710d may correspond to the active region AA of the display panel 120, and the plurality of second patterns 720d may correspond to the non-active region NA of the display panel 120. Each of the plurality of second patterns 720d may be arranged to surround the first pattern 710d. In particular, each of the plurality of second patterns 720d may have a closed-loop shape. That is, the plurality of second patterns 720d, each formed as a closed loop, may be sequentially arranged away from the first pattern 710d. The first pattern 710d and the plurality of second patterns 720d may be spaced apart from each other by a plurality of holes H. Furthermore, the plurality of holes H between the first pattern 710d and the plurality of second patterns 720d may have a closed-loop shape. In addition, although not shown in the figures, either of the protective layers 182 and 184 disposed on the holes H may have a closed-loop shape.

[0150] at the same time, Figure 7D The number and shape of the multiple second patterns 720d shown can be varied as needed.

[0151] If moisture and oxygen permeate into the polarizing plate 180, moisture absorption can occur independently in the second pattern 720d disposed on the outermost side. Furthermore, the diffusion of moisture and oxygen can be delayed due to the placement of multiple second patterns 720d. Here, the multiple second patterns 720d are spaced apart from each other by multiple pores H. Thus, the protective layers 182 and 184 inside the pores H can block the permeation of moisture and oxygen and prolong their movement path. In particular, the multiple pores H and the multiple second patterns 720d have a closed-loop shape, and thus, moisture and oxygen can be trapped within the closed loop. Therefore, the diffusion of moisture and oxygen can be delayed more effectively. Therefore, the multiple second patterns 720d and the multiple pores H act as barriers, thereby minimizing the moisture absorption of the first pattern 710d.

[0152] Reference Figure 7EThe polarization layer 183 includes a first pattern 710e and second patterns 721e and 722e. The first pattern 710e may correspond to the active region AA of the display panel 120, and the second patterns 721e and 722e may correspond to the non-active region NA of the display panel 120. The second patterns 721e and 722e may include a plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and a plurality of second sub-patterns 722e. The plurality of first sub-patterns 721e may be configured to correspond to the edges of the first pattern 710e. The plurality of second sub-patterns 722e may be configured between the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e to correspond to the corners of the first pattern 710e. At least some of the outlines of the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e may have a zigzag shape. The plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e may be configured to surround the first pattern 710e. The plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e may be configured in multiple rows or multiple columns. The first pattern 710e, multiple first sub-patterns 721e, and multiple second sub-patterns 722e can be spaced apart from each other through the aperture H. Furthermore, the aperture H can be formed as multiple lines, each line having a zigzag outline and arranged in rows or columns.

[0153] at the same time, Figure 7E The number and shape of the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e shown can be varied as needed.

[0154] If moisture and oxygen permeate into the polarizing plate 180, moisture absorption can occur independently in some of the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e disposed on the outermost side. Furthermore, the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e are arranged in multiple rows or columns, thereby delaying the diffusion of moisture and oxygen. Here, the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e can be spaced apart from each other by holes H formed as multiple lines arranged in rows or columns. Thus, the protective layers 182 and 184 inside the holes H can block the permeation of moisture and oxygen and prolong the movement path of moisture and oxygen. In particular, the holes H, as well as the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e and the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e, have a zigzag shape, thereby further prolonging the movement path of moisture and oxygen. Therefore, the plurality of first sub-patterns 721e, the plurality of second sub-patterns 722e, and the holes H act as barriers, thereby minimizing the moisture absorption of the first pattern 710e.

[0155] <Deformation of the barrier membrane>

[0156] Figure 8 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the display portion of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 The display device 800 shown has a similar Figure 5and Figure 6 The display device 100 shown is basically the same configuration as the one shown, except for the positions of the polarizing plate 180 and the barrier film 870. Therefore, repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0157] Reference Figure 8 A polarizing plate 180 is disposed on the front surface of the display panel 120. Furthermore, a barrier film 870 is disposed on the polarizing plate 180. That is, the barrier film 870 can be disposed on the outermost surface of the display panel 120. The barrier film 870 protects the display panel 120 from external impacts, moisture, heat, etc. The barrier film 870 can be made of a lightweight and shatterproof polymer resin. For example, the barrier film 870 can be made of a cyclic olefin polymer (COP), but is not limited thereto. The barrier film 870 can also be made of polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc.

[0158] In another exemplary embodiment of the display device 800 according to this disclosure, a barrier film 870 is configured to cover the polarizing plate 180, thereby more effectively protecting the polarizing plate 180. Specifically, the barrier film 870 minimizes moisture penetration through the front surface of the polarizing plate 180. This minimizes moisture absorption of the polarizing layer 183 and suppresses warping of the polarizing layer 183. Therefore, warping of the display panel 120 can be suppressed, and the reliability of the display device 800 can be improved.

[0159] Figure 9 This is a plan view of the display portion of a display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the display portion of a display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The display device 900 shown has a similar Figure 8 The display device 800 shown has essentially the same configuration as the barrier film 970. Therefore, repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0160] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The barrier film 970 can extend to one surface of the back cover 110 while covering the side surfaces of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180. In this document, one surface of the back cover 110 can refer to the surface on which the display panel 120 is disposed.

[0161] The barrier film 970 can extend to cover a portion of the side of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180. Specifically, the barrier film 970 can extend from a side of the display panel 120 other than the side where the flexible film 130 is disposed to cover the side of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180. That is, the barrier film 970 can cover Figure 9 The top, left, and right sides of the display panel 120 are shown. Since the barrier film 970 is not provided in the area where the flexible film 130 is provided, interference between the barrier film 970 and the flexible film 130 can be minimized. Furthermore, the barrier film 970 can extend from the sides of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180 to one surface of the back cover 110, but is not limited thereto. The barrier film 970 can extend to cover only the sides of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180.

[0162] In another exemplary embodiment of the display device 900 according to this disclosure, a barrier film 970 covers a portion of the sides of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180. Thus, a portion of the sides of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180 can be completely surrounded by the barrier film 970, the back cover 110, the micro-sealant MS, and the second adhesive layer AD2. Therefore, the barrier film 970 can minimize moisture permeation occurring through the sides of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180.

[0163] Furthermore, if the barrier film 970, located on the sides of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180, extends to a surface of the back cover 110, moisture penetration can be more effectively suppressed. That is, the barrier film 970 extends along a surface of the back cover 110, thereby increasing the sealing effect of the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180. Additionally, a moisture penetration path can be added along the contact surface between the barrier film 970 and the back cover 110. Therefore, moisture penetration through the display panel 120 and the polarizer 180 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0164] Furthermore, even if moisture permeates through the side of the polarizing plate 180, a second pattern 183b, spaced apart from and surrounding the first pattern 183a, can be disposed on the outer side of the polarizing layer 183. Therefore, moisture absorption can occur independently in the second pattern 183b, and moisture absorption in the first pattern 183a can be delayed and suppressed. Thus, deformation of the polarizing layer 183 can be suppressed, and cracks in the substrate 121 and warping of the display panel 120 can also be suppressed.

[0165] <Moisture Absorption Test of Polarization Layer>

[0166] Figure 11A and Figure 11B The moisture absorption test results of the polarization layer according to the comparative embodiment and the embodiment are shown respectively. Figure 11A The moisture absorption test results of the polarization layer according to the comparative embodiment are shown, and Figure 11B The moisture absorption test results of the polarization layer according to the embodiment are shown. An unpatterned polarization layer was applied to the comparative embodiment and has the same characteristics as... Figure 7E A polarizing layer with a zigzag pattern similar to the one shown is applied in this embodiment. Furthermore, moisture absorption occurs from the right side of the polarizing layer to the left. Consequently, the moisture-absorbing portion of the polarizing layer is transparent, while the unabsorbed, normal portion of the polarizing layer is dark in color.

[0167] Reference Figure 11A As can be seen, there is a difference between the normal portion on the left and the moisture-absorbing portion on the right due to moisture absorption by the polarization layer. In other words, it can be seen that the deformation of the polarization layer occurs along the direction of moisture absorption. Specifically, it can be seen that the polarization layer is not patterned, and thus the deformation gradually increases in the middle portion between the normal portion and the moisture-absorbing portion, with most of the moisture absorbed in the polarization layer.

[0168] Reference Figure 11B As can be seen, there is a clear boundary between the normal pattern on the left and the moisture absorption pattern on the right. That is, the polarization layer according to the embodiment is patterned, and thus the left and right patterns can be spaced apart from each other. Therefore, even if moisture absorption occurs, it will occur independently in the right pattern, thereby suppressing the spread of moisture absorption to the left pattern. Therefore, moisture absorption across the entire polarization layer can be delayed, and thus warping of the polarization layer can be suppressed.

[0169] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can also be described as follows:

[0170] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a display panel, the display panel including an active region and an active region; and a polarizing plate on the display panel, the polarizing plate including a polarizing layer. The polarizing layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active region and a second pattern corresponding to the active region, and the second pattern is spaced apart from the first pattern.

[0171] The second pattern can be set to surround the first pattern.

[0172] The second pattern may include multiple sub-patterns, and one or more of the multiple sub-patterns may have a closed loop shape around the first pattern.

[0173] The second pattern may include: a plurality of first sub-patterns corresponding to the edges of the first pattern; and a plurality of second sub-patterns disposed between the ends of the plurality of first sub-patterns and corresponding to the corners of the first pattern.

[0174] Multiple first sub-patterns can have line shapes, and multiple second sub-patterns can have dot shapes.

[0175] Multiple first subpatterns and multiple second subpatterns can have point shapes.

[0176] Multiple first sub-patterns may have outlines, and multiple second sub-patterns may have outlines, wherein at least one of the outlines of the multiple first sub-patterns and at least one of the outlines of the multiple second sub-patterns have a zigzag shape.

[0177] The display device may also include: a back cover on the rear surface of the display panel; and a barrier film on the polarizing plate.

[0178] The barrier film can cover at least a portion of the side of the polarizing plate and at least a portion of the side of the display panel.

[0179] The display panel may have a first side and multiple second sides different from the first side. The display device may also include a flexible film on the first side of the display panel. The barrier film may cover the sides of the polarizer and the sides of the display panel on the multiple second sides.

[0180] The barrier membrane can contact one surface of the back cover.

[0181] The display device may also include a winding unit coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel and the back cover.

[0182] The polarizing plate may also include protective layers disposed on opposite surfaces of the polarizing layer. The first pattern and the second pattern may be spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protective layers.

[0183] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a display panel including an active region and an active region; a polarizing plate on the display panel, the polarizing plate including a polarizing layer; protective layers disposed on opposite surfaces of the polarizing layer; and a winding unit coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel. The polarizing layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active region and a second pattern corresponding to the active region and surrounding the first pattern. The first pattern and the second pattern are spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protective layers.

[0184] The second pattern may include multiple sub-patterns, and one or more of the multiple sub-patterns may have a closed loop shape around the first pattern.

[0185] The protective layer between the first pattern and the second pattern can have a closed-loop shape.

[0186] The second pattern may include multiple sub-patterns, and at least one of the multiple sub-patterns may have a line shape or a dot shape.

[0187] The second pattern may include multiple sub-patterns, each having an outline, and at least one of the outlines of the multiple sub-patterns may have a zigzag shape.

[0188] The display device may also include: a back cover on the rear surface of the display panel; and a barrier film on the polarizing plate.

[0189] The barrier film can extend to one surface of the back cover and cover a portion of the side surface of the display panel.

[0190] Although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and may be implemented in many different forms without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are illustrative in all respects and do not limit the present disclosure. The scope of protection of the present disclosure should be interpreted based on the appended claims, and all technical concepts within their equivalents should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: The display panel includes an active area and a non-active area; as well as The polarizing plate on the display panel includes a polarizing layer and a protective layer, wherein the protective layer is respectively disposed on two opposite surfaces of the polarizing layer. The polarization layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active region and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active region, wherein the second pattern is spaced apart from the first pattern. The second pattern includes multiple sub-patterns, and Holes are provided between the plurality of sub-patterns, and at least one of the protective layers is filled in the holes.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second pattern is arranged to surround the first pattern.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, One or more of the plurality of sub-patterns have a closed loop shape surrounding the first pattern.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of sub-patterns include: Multiple first sub-patterns corresponding to the edges of the first pattern; and A plurality of second sub-patterns are disposed between the ends of the plurality of first sub-patterns and corresponding to the corners of the first patterns.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, Each of the plurality of first sub-patterns has a line shape, and Each of the plurality of second sub-patterns has a point shape.

6. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The plurality of first sub-patterns and the plurality of second sub-patterns have point shapes.

7. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The plurality of first sub-patterns have outlines, and the plurality of second sub-patterns have outlines, wherein at least one of the outlines of the plurality of first sub-patterns and at least one of the outlines of the plurality of second sub-patterns have a zigzag shape.

8. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: Back cover on the rear surface of the display panel; as well as The barrier film on the polarizing plate.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The barrier film covers at least a portion of the side of the polarizing plate and at least a portion of the side of the display panel.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The display panel has a first side and a plurality of second sides different from the first side, and the display device further includes: The flexible film on the first side of the display panel, The barrier film covers the sides of the polarizing plate and the sides of the display panel on the plurality of second sides.

11. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The barrier membrane is in contact with one surface of the back cover.

12. The display device according to claim 8, further comprising: A winding unit, which is coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel and the back cover.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first pattern and the second pattern are spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protective layers.

14. A display device, comprising: The display panel includes an active area and a non-active area; A polarizing plate on the display panel, the polarizing plate including a polarizing layer; A protective layer is disposed on two opposing surfaces of the polarization layer; as well as A winding unit, coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel. The polarization layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active region and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active region and surrounding the first pattern. The first pattern and the second pattern are spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protective layers. The second pattern includes multiple sub-patterns, and Holes are provided between the plurality of sub-patterns, and at least one of the protective layers is filled in the holes.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, One or more of the plurality of sub-patterns have a closed loop shape surrounding the first pattern.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The protective layer between the first pattern and the second pattern has a closed-loop shape.

17. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, At least one of the plurality of sub-patterns has a line shape or a dot shape.

18. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, Each of the plurality of sub-patterns has an outline, and Wherein, at least one of the outlines of the plurality of sub-patterns has a zigzag shape.

19. The display device according to claim 14, further comprising: Back cover on the rear surface of the display panel; as well as The barrier film on the polarizing plate.

20. The display device according to claim 19, wherein, The barrier film extends to one surface of the back cover and covers a portion of the side surface of the display panel.

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