Apparatus for manufacturing display device and method of manufacturing display device using apparatus

Abstract

Disclosed are an apparatus for manufacturing a display device and a method of manufacturing a display device using the apparatus. The apparatus includes a sheet portion defining a bending line extending in a first direction, a target panel attachment portion disposed on the sheet portion, and a magnet portion disposed under the sheet portion and including a first magnet portion on one side in a second direction crossing the first direction with respect to the bending line and a second magnet portion on the other side in the second direction, wherein the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion are symmetrical with respect to the bending line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to apparatus for manufacturing a display device and a method for manufacturing a display device using the apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smartphones, tablet PCs, digital cameras, laptops, navigation devices, and smart televisions (TVs), include display devices for displaying images. Display devices include display panels that generate and display images, and various input devices.

[0003] In display devices, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) use organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) to generate light through the recombination of electrons and holes to display images. OLEDs can feature fast response times, high brightness, and wide viewing angles, and can be driven with low power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One aspect of this disclosure provides apparatus for manufacturing a display device, which is capable of performing reliable lamination between a curved display panel and a curved window.

[0005] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a display device using equipment for manufacturing display devices, which is capable of performing reliable lamination between a curved display panel and a curved window.

[0006] According to an embodiment, an apparatus for manufacturing a display device is provided, and the apparatus includes: a sheet portion defining a curved line extending in a first direction; a target panel attachment portion disposed on the sheet portion; and a magnet portion disposed below the sheet portion and including a first magnet portion located on one side of a second direction intersecting the first direction relative to the curved line and a second magnet portion located on the other side of the second direction, wherein the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion are symmetrical with respect to the curved line.

[0007] According to an embodiment, a method for manufacturing a display device is provided, and the method includes: arranging a target panel and a panel-window connecting member on a panel-window connecting device, the panel-window connecting device including a sheet portion defining a curved line extending in a first direction, a target panel attachment portion disposed on the sheet portion, and a magnet portion disposed below the sheet portion and including a first magnet portion located on one side of a second direction intersecting the first direction relative to the curved line and a second magnet portion located on the other side of the second direction; folding the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion relative to the curved line; and contacting the peak of the target panel with the peak of the window by moving the panel-window connecting device upward.

[0008] The aspects of this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical aspects not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0009] An apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment is provided to solve the above problems.

[0010] A method for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment is provided for solving another problem mentioned above.

[0011] Specific details of other implementation methods are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 This is a transmission view of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0014] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line I-I';

[0015] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line II-II';

[0016] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment being folded;

[0017] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the folding operation state of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0018] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0019] Figures 7 to 15 This is a cross-sectional view of each processing step of a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0020] Figure 16 This is a transmission view of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0021] Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A cross-sectional view taken from line III-III';

[0022] Figure 18This is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment being folded;

[0023] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing the folding operation state of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0024] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment; and

[0025] Figures 21 to 29 This is a cross-sectional view of each processing step of a method for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The specific structural and functional descriptions of the embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only. The present invention can be embodied in many different forms without departing from its spirit and essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments of the present invention are disclosed for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the invention. That is, the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0027] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being related to another element, such as by being “connected to” or “attached to” another element, the element is directly connected to or attached to the other element, or there may be an intermediary element between them. Conversely, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as being related to another element, such as by being “directly connected to” or “directly attached to” another element, there is no intermediary element. Other expressions describing relationships between elements, such as “between,” “directly between,” “adjacent,” or “directly adjacent,” should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0028] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals will indicate the same or similar parts.

[0029] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or part from another. Therefore, the first element, component, area, layer, or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, area, layer, or part without departing from the teachings herein.

[0030] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “at least one,” as used herein, do not indicate a limitation of quantity and are intended to include both the singular and the plural. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, “element” has the same meaning as “at least one element.” “At least one” should not be construed as limiting “a” or “an.” “Or” means “and / or.” As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should also be understood that when the terms “comprise” and / or “comprising” or “include” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the stated features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or clusters thereof.

[0031] Furthermore, relative terms such as “lower” or “bottom” and “upper” or “top” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another as shown in the figures. It should be understood that relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device other than those depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in one of the figures is flipped, an element described as being on the “lower” side of another element will subsequently be oriented on the “upper” side of that element. Thus, the exemplary term “lower” can cover both “lower” and “upper” orientations depending on the specific orientation of the figure. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures is flipped, an element described as being “below” or “beneath” another element will subsequently be oriented as being “above” that element. Thus, the exemplary term “below” or “beneath” can cover both “above” and “below” orientations.

[0032] Taking into account the errors associated with measurements and a particular number of measurements (i.e., limitations of the measurement system), as used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the value and means within an acceptable deviation range for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, “about” can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, or ±5% of the value.

[0033] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should also be understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and in the context of this disclosure, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0034] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to illustrative cross-sectional views as idealized embodiments. Therefore, variations in the shape of the figures are expected due to factors such as manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Consequently, the embodiments described herein should not be construed as being limited to the specific shapes of the regions shown herein, but rather include deviations in shape due to factors such as manufacturing. For example, regions shown or described as flat may generally have rough and / or non-linear characteristics. Furthermore, sharp corners shown may be rounded. Therefore, the regions shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to represent the precise shapes of the regions, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0035] In the following description, detailed exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a transmission view of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 are directions that intersect each other in different directions, and for example, indicate directions that intersect perpendicularly in a plan view. In the illustrated figures, the first direction DR1 may indicate the lateral direction (width direction) of the device 10 used to manufacture the display device, and the second direction DR2 may indicate the longitudinal direction (length direction) of the device 10 used to manufacture the display device. In the exemplary embodiments below, one side of the first direction DR1 refers to the right direction in a plan view, the other side of the first direction DR1 refers to the left direction in a plan view, and one side of the second direction DR2 refers to the upper direction in a plan view, and the other side of the second direction DR2 refers to the lower direction in a plan view. However, it should be understood that the directions mentioned in the exemplary embodiments refer to relative directions, and the exemplary embodiments are not limited to the mentioned directions.

[0038] Reference Figure 1The apparatus 10 for manufacturing a display device is an apparatus for stacking (or connecting) a display panel (or target panel) of a display device with a window. For example, the apparatus 10 for manufacturing a display device may be an apparatus for forming a curved display panel having a curved surface by linearly deforming the display panel of the display device and for stacking (or connecting) the linearly deformed curved display panel with a curved window.

[0039] A display device can refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen. For example, display devices can include televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and portable electronic devices that provide a display screen, such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, electronic watches, smartwatches, watch phones, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-book readers, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, game consoles, digital cameras, etc.

[0040] An apparatus 10 for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a sheet portion SH, a panel attachment member AM disposed on the upper part of the sheet portion SH, and a compression rod CS disposed on the lower part of the sheet portion SH. The sheet portion SH may be disposed between the compression rod CS and the panel attachment member AM. In other words, the compression rod CS may be spaced apart from the panel attachment member AM when the sheet portion SH is located therebetween.

[0041] The planar shape of the sheet section SH may be, for example, rectangular. The planar shape of the sheet section SH is not limited to this, and may also be square, circular, elliptical, or other polygonal shapes. In the following description, the planar shape of the sheet section SH will primarily be described as rectangular.

[0042] The sheet portion SH may include a long side extending in a first direction DR1 and a short side extending in a second direction DR2. A bend line BL extending in the second direction DR2 may be defined in the sheet portion SH. The sheet portion SH may be bent or folded relative to the bend line BL. The bend line BL may be located at a point that bisects the long side of the sheet portion SH extending in the first direction DR1. Therefore, the sheet portion SH may be symmetrical relative to the bend line BL.

[0043] The sheet portion SH includes a first sheet portion SH1 arranged to overlap with the bending line BL, and a second sheet portion SH2 and a third sheet portion SH3 located on one side and the other side of the first sheet portion SH1 in the first direction DR1 (see...). Figure 2Compared to the surface (or lower surface) of the second sheet portion SH2, the surface (or lower surface) of the first sheet portion SH1 can be positioned closer to the inside (the side facing the panel attachment member AM). In other words, the first sheet portion SH1 can be a first recess located in the center portion of the sheet portion SH and recessed inward. The first sheet portion SH1 can be formed to intersect with the long side of one side of the sheet portion SH in the second direction DR2 and the long side of the other side in the second direction DR2.

[0044] The sheet portion SH may include silicon. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the sheet portion SH may include sheets well known in the art for stacking display panels and windows.

[0045] The compression rod CS can be arranged to overlap with the first sheet portion SH1 of the sheet portion SH in the thickness direction. The compression rod CS can extend in the second direction DR2. The compression rod CS can be arranged to overlap with the bending line BL of the sheet portion SH. One end and the other end of the compression rod CS in the second direction DR2 can be located outside the long side of one side and the long side of the other side of the sheet portion SH in the second direction DR2, respectively.

[0046] The compression rod CS can be arranged below the first sheet portion SH1 or in the first recess.

[0047] The compression rod CS may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The width of the first sheet portion SH1 in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the width (or diameter) of the compression rod CS in the first direction DR1.

[0048] The material of the compression bar CS is not limited, but may include materials with higher strength than the sheet portion SH.

[0049] A panel attachment member AM may be arranged on the upper part of the sheet portion SH. The planar shape of the panel attachment member AM may be substantially the same as the planar shape of the sheet portion SH described above. For example, the panel attachment member AM may include a long side extending in the first direction DR1 and a short side extending in the second direction DR2. The panel attachment member AM may be bent or folded relative to the bending line BL. The bending line BL may be located at a point that bisects the long side of the panel attachment member AM extending in the first direction DR1. Therefore, the panel attachment member AM may be symmetrical with respect to the bending line BL. A display panel, which will be described later, may be attached to the panel attachment member AM.

[0050] The panel attachment member AM may include an electrostatic chuck. When a current is applied to the panel attachment member AM, a static charge equal to or greater than a reference value is formed on the surface of the panel attachment member AM, allowing the display panel to attach to the panel attachment member AM via electrostatic attraction caused by the static charge. Conversely, when no current is applied to the panel attachment member AM, no static charge equal to or greater than a reference value is formed on the surface of the panel attachment member AM, allowing the display panel to be separated from the panel attachment member AM.

[0051] In some implementations, the panel attachment member AM may include an adhesive such as Velcro.

[0052] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'. Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II'.

[0053] First, refer to Figure 2 Sheet Material Department SH (see Figure 1 It may also include a third sheet portion SH3. A magnet portion MT may be arranged on the third sheet portion SH3. Compared with the surface (or lower surface) of the second sheet portion SH2, the surface (or lower surface) of the third sheet portion SH3 may be positioned closer to the inside (the side facing the panel attachment member AM). In other words, the third sheet portion SH3 may be an inwardly recessed second recess.

[0054] The second sheet portion SH2 may have a second thickness t2, and the third sheet portion SH3 may have a third thickness t3 that is less than the second thickness t2.

[0055] The third sheet portion SH3 does not completely intersect the long side of one side and the long side of the other side of the sheet portion SH in the second direction DR2, and one end and the other end of the third sheet portion SH3 may be located between the long side of one side and the long side of the other side of the sheet portion SH in the second direction DR2. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the third sheet portion SH3 may also completely intersect the long side of one side and the long side of the other side of the sheet portion SH in the second direction DR2.

[0056] The magnet part MT can be arranged below the third sheet part SH3. The magnet part MT can be arranged to overlap with the third sheet part SH3 in the thickness direction, and can be arranged not to overlap with the adjacent second sheet part SH2 in the thickness direction.

[0057] Reference Figure 3The first sheet portion SH1 may have a first thickness t1. The first thickness t1 may be less than the second thickness t2. The first thickness t1 may be greater than or less than the third thickness t3. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first thickness t1 may be substantially the same as the third thickness t3.

[0058] The magnet portion MT may include a first magnet portion MT1 located on the opposite side of the bending line BL in the first direction DR1, and a second magnet portion MT2 located on the same side of the bending line BL in the first direction DR1. The first magnet portion MT1 and the second magnet portion MT2 may each be arranged below the third sheet portion SH3.

[0059] The first magnet section MT1 and the second magnet section MT2 can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the curved line BL.

[0060] Each of the first magnet section MT1 and the second magnet section MT2 can be multiple. Figure 3 In this embodiment, each of the first magnet portion MT1 and the second magnet portion MT2 is illustrated as four, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and each of the first magnet portion MT1 and the second magnet portion MT2 may be one to three, or five or more.

[0061] The first magnet section MT1 and the second magnet section MT2 may have different polarities. For example, the first magnet section MT1 may have an N pole, and the second magnet section MT2 may have an S pole. As another example, the first magnet section MT1 may have an S pole, and the second magnet section MT2 may have an N pole.

[0062] The sheet section (SH) and the magnet section (MT) can be referred to as the pad section (PAD).

[0063] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment being folded.

[0064] Reference Figure 4 The apparatus 10 for manufacturing a display device can be bent or folded relative to the bending line BL. The apparatus 10 for manufacturing a display device can be bent or folded relative to a compression rod CS arranged to overlap with the bending line BL.

[0065] More specifically, for the folding operation, the compression rod CS moves upward in the upward direction (the upward direction on the third direction DR3), and the sheet portion SH and the panel attachment member AM move downward relative to the compression rod CS. Figure 4In the example of a folding operation, the compression rod CS moves upward in the upward direction (the upward direction on DR3), and the remaining sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM, except for the sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS, move downward relative to the compression rod CS. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and in the folding operation, only the compression rod CS moves upward in the upward direction (the upward direction on DR3), and the remaining sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM, except for the sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS, can be folded while remaining fixed. In some embodiments, in the folding operation, the remaining sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM, except for the sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS, can move downward while the compression rod CS remains fixed.

[0066] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the folding operation state of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] Reference Figure 5 ,pass Figure 4 During the operation of the equipment 10 for manufacturing display devices, the sheet section SH and the panel attachment member AM can be folded relative to the compression rod CS.

[0068] More specifically, the first sheet material section SH1 and in Figure 4 The area of ​​the panel attachment member AM, which is arranged to overlap with the first sheet portion SH1, can be bent to form such a shape. Figure 5 The curved shape shown can be flattened to form a flat shape, and the second sheet portion SH2 and the third sheet portion SH3 can be flattened. Similarly, in Figure 4 The area of ​​the panel attachment member AM, which is arranged to overlap with the second sheet section SH2 and the third sheet section SH3, can be flattened to form a flat shape.

[0069] Compared to Figure 5 The curved line BL shown in the figure, the second sheet portion SH2 forming a flat shape on the other side of the first direction DR1, can be in direct contact with the second sheet portion SH2 forming a flat shape on one side of the first direction DR1.

[0070] In addition, relative to Figure 5 The curved line BL shown indicates that the first magnet portion MT1 on the third sheet portion SH3, which has a flat shape on the other side of the first direction DR1, can be magnetically connected to the second magnet portion MT2 on the third sheet portion SH3, which has a flat shape on one side of the first direction DR1.

[0071] In the following description, a method for manufacturing a display device using an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment will be described. In the exemplary embodiments described below, the same components as those in the exemplary embodiments described will be referred to by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment. Figures 7 to 15 This is a cross-sectional view of each processing step of a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] First, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The target panel PN and the panel-window connection member PWA are arranged on the panel-window connection device 10. The panel-window connection device 10 includes a sheet portion SH that defines a curved line BL extending in one direction, a target panel attachment portion AM (also called panel attachment member AM) arranged on the sheet portion SH, and a magnet portion MT. The magnet portion MT is arranged below the sheet portion SH and includes a first magnet portion MT1 located on one side of the curved line BL in another direction that intersects the first direction, and a second magnet portion MT2 located on the other side in the other direction (S10).

[0074] The panel-window connection device 10 used in the method of manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment and the above-mentioned... Figures 1 to 5 The apparatus 10 for manufacturing a display device described herein is substantially the same. More specifically, the panel-window connection apparatus 10 may include a sheet portion SH, a panel attachment member AM disposed on the upper part of the sheet portion SH, and a compression rod CS disposed on the lower part of the sheet portion SH. The sheet portion SH may be disposed between the compression rod CS and the panel attachment member AM. In other words, the compression rod CS may be spaced apart from the panel attachment member AM when the sheet portion SH is located therebetween. The sheet portion SH, the panel attachment member AM, and the compression rod CS have been described above, and therefore their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0075] The target panel PN can be arranged on the panel attachment member AM. The panel-window connection member PWA can be arranged on the upper part of the target panel PN.

[0076] The panel attachment member AM may include an electrostatic chuck. When a current is applied to the panel attachment member AM, a static charge equal to or greater than a reference value is formed on the surface of the panel attachment member AM, allowing the display panel to attach to the panel attachment member AM via electrostatic attraction caused by the static charge. Conversely, when no current is applied to the panel attachment member AM, no static charge equal to or greater than a reference value is formed on the surface of the panel attachment member AM, allowing the display panel to be separated from the panel attachment member AM.

[0077] The target panel PN is a panel that displays a screen or image, and for example, the target panel PN can include not only self-emissive display panels such as organic light-emitting display panels (OLED), inorganic light-emitting display panels (EL), quantum dot light-emitting display panels (QED), micro LED display panels (micro LED), nano LED display panels (nano LED), plasma display panels (PDP), field emission display panels (FED), and cathode ray display panels (CRT), but also light-receiving display panels such as liquid crystal display panels (LCD) and electrophoretic display panels (EPD). In the following description, organic light-emitting display panels will be used as examples of target panel PN, and unless otherwise specified, the organic light-emitting display panel applied to the exemplary embodiments is abbreviated as target panel PN. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to organic light-emitting display panels, and other target panel PNs listed above or known in the art may be applied within the scope of the shared spirit of the art.

[0078] Panel-to-window (PWA) connectors can be used for windows described later (see [link to PWA]). Figure 10 The panel-window (PWA) is connected to the target panel (PN). The panel-window connection component (PWA) may include an optically clear connection component. For example, the panel-window connection component (PWA) may include an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0079] Subsequently, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 8 The sheet section SH and the target panel attachment section AM are folded relative to the bending line BL.

[0080] The sheet section SH and the target panel attachment section AM can be bent or folded relative to the compression rod CS, which is arranged to overlap with the bending line BL.

[0081] More specifically, for the folding operation, the compression rod CS moves upward in the upward direction (the upward direction on the third direction DR3), and the sheet portion SH and the panel attachment member AM move downward relative to the compression rod CS. Figure 8In the example of a folding operation, the compression rod CS moves upward in the upward direction (the upward direction on DR3), and the remaining sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM, except for the sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS, move downward relative to the compression rod CS. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and in the folding operation, only the compression rod CS moves upward in the upward direction (the upward direction on DR3), and the remaining sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM, except for the sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS, can be folded while remaining fixed. In some embodiments, in the folding operation, the remaining sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM, except for the sheet portion SH and panel attachment member AM arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS, can move downward while the compression rod CS remains fixed.

[0082] pass Figure 8 The above operations, in which the panel-window connection device 10, the target panel PN, and the panel-window connection component PWA can be performed as follows: Figure 9 The ground shown is folded.

[0083] More specifically, the first sheet section SH1 is arranged in... Figure 8 The area of ​​the panel attachment member AM that overlaps with the first sheet section SH1, and the arrangement in Figure 8 The area of ​​the target panel PN overlapping with the first sheet section SH1 and the area of ​​the panel-window connecting member PWA can be bent to form such a Figure 9 The curved shape shown, and the remaining areas of the second sheet portion SH2, the third sheet portion SH3, the target panel PN, and the panel-window connection member PWA can be flattened to form a flat shape. Similarly, arranged in Figure 9 The area of ​​the panel attachment member AM that overlaps with the second sheet section SH2 and the third sheet section SH3 can be flattened to form a flat shape.

[0084] Compared to Figure 9 The curved line BL shown in the figure, the second sheet portion SH2 forming a flat shape on the other side of the first direction DR1, can be in direct contact with the second sheet portion SH2 forming a flat shape on one side of the first direction DR1.

[0085] In addition, relative to Figure 9 The curved line BL shown indicates that the first magnet portion MT1 on the third sheet portion SH3, which has a flat shape on the other side of the first direction DR1, can be magnetically connected to the second magnet portion MT2 on the third sheet portion SH3, which has a flat shape on one side of the first direction DR1.

[0086] Subsequently, by moving the panel-window connection device 10 upward, the peak of the target panel PN comes into contact with the peak of the window W (S30).

[0087] According to the method of manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment, a first magnet portion MT1 on a third sheet portion SH3 with a flat shape located on the other side of the first direction DR1 relative to the bending line BL is magnetically connected to a second magnet portion MT2 on a third sheet portion SH3 with a flat shape located on one side of the first direction DR1. This prevents the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W from being attached by the panel-window connection member PWA before the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W, that is, before the peak portion of the target panel PN contacts the peak portion of the window W by moving the panel-window connection device 10 upward (S30).

[0088] In addition, the first sheet portion SH1 may be a first recess located in the center of the sheet portion SH and recessed inward, and have a first thickness t1 smaller than the second thickness t2, so that the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W can be prevented from being attached by the panel-window connecting member PWA before the peak portion of the target panel PN and the peak portion of the window W are brought into contact by the upward moving panel-window connecting device 10 (S30).

[0089] exist Figure 11 The diagram shows that by moving the panel-window connection device 10 upward, the peak of the target panel PN contacts the peak of the window W (S30).

[0090] Subsequently, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 12 The curved portion of the target panel PN (excluding the peak) and the curved portion of the window W (excluding the peak) are connected (S40).

[0091] More specifically, as described above, the sheet portion SH includes a first recess (or first sheet portion SH1) recessed in the thickness direction in an area arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS. The compression rod CS is arranged in the first recess. When the peak of the target panel PN contacts the peak of the window W by moving the panel-window connecting device 10 upward, the peak of the sheet portion SH is compressed and moved to the periphery of the peak. The material of the sheet portion SH that is moved to the periphery of the peak can connect the curved portion of the target panel PN other than the peak and the curved portion of the window W other than the peak.

[0092] Subsequently, referring to Figure 6 , Figure 13 and Figure 14As the compression rod CS moves downward, the first magnet part MT1 and the second magnet part MT2, which are connected to each other, separate, and the flat part of the target panel PN and the flat part of the window W are connected (S50).

[0093] Subsequently, referring to Figure 15 Remove panel-window connection device 10.

[0094] After the panel-window connection device 10 is removed, it can be reused. More specifically, typically, the target panel PN and the panel-window connection device 10 are joined by adhesives or the like. In this case, it may be difficult to reuse the panel-window connection device 10 after the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W is completed. However, in the panel-window connection device 10 according to this exemplary embodiment, a panel attachment member AM including an electrostatic chuck is used to attach the target panel PN, and therefore, even after the panel-window connection device 10 has been used in the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W, it can be reused again.

[0095] Furthermore, as described above, relative to the curved line BL, the first magnet portion MT1 on the third sheet portion SH3, which is located on the other side of the first direction DR1 and has a flat shape, is magnetically connected to the second magnet portion MT2 on the third sheet portion SH3, which is located on one side of the first direction DR1 and has a flat shape. This prevents the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W from being attached by the panel-window connection member PWA before the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W, that is, before the peak portion of the target panel PN comes into contact with the peak portion of the window W by moving the panel-window connection device 10 upward (S30).

[0096] In addition, the first sheet portion SH1 may be a first recess located in the center of the sheet portion SH and recessed inward, and have a first thickness t1 smaller than the second thickness t2, so that the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W can be prevented from being attached by the panel-window connecting member PWA before the peak portion of the target panel PN and the peak portion of the window W are brought into contact by the upward moving panel-window connecting device 10 (S30).

[0097] In the following description, another exemplary embodiment of the apparatus for manufacturing a display device will be described. In the exemplary embodiments described below, the same components as those in the exemplary embodiments described will be referred to by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0098] Figure 16 This is a transmission view of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment. Figure 17 It is along Figure 16The cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment being folded. Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing the folding operation state of an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0099] Reference Figures 16 to 19 The apparatus 11 for manufacturing a display device according to this exemplary embodiment and according to Figures 1 to 5 The difference between the equipment 10 for manufacturing display devices is that the sheet portion SH_1 does not include the first sheet portion SH1, and the compression rod CS_1 has an elliptical cross-sectional shape.

[0100] More specifically, in the apparatus 11 for manufacturing a display device according to this exemplary embodiment, the sheet portion SH_1 does not include the first sheet portion SH1, and the cross-sectional shape of the compression rod CS_1 may be elliptical. The pad portion PAD_1 according to this exemplary embodiment may include the sheet portion SH_1 and the magnet portion MT.

[0101] According to this exemplary embodiment where the cross-sectional shape of the compression rod CS_1 has an elliptical shape, the major axis of the cross-sectional shape of the compression rod CS_1 may extend in the thickness direction, and the minor axis of the cross-sectional shape of the compression rod CS_1 may extend in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction.

[0102] In the following, a method for manufacturing a display device using equipment for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment will be described. In the exemplary embodiments described below, the same components as those in the exemplary embodiments described will be referred to by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0103] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment. Figures 21 to 29 This is a cross-sectional view of each processing step of a method for manufacturing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0104] Reference Figure 20 and Figure 21The target panel PN and the panel-window connection member PWA are arranged on the panel-window connection device 11. The panel-window connection device 11 includes a sheet portion SH_1 that defines a curved line BL extending in one direction, a target panel attachment portion AM (also called panel attachment member AM) arranged on the sheet portion SH_1, and a magnet portion MT. The magnet portion MT is arranged below the sheet portion SH and includes a first magnet portion MT1 located on one side of the curved line BL in the opposite direction that intersects the one direction, and a second magnet portion MT2 located on the other side in the opposite direction (S10).

[0105] The panel-window connection device 11 used in the method of manufacturing a display device according to this exemplary embodiment and the above-mentioned... Figures 16 to 19 The apparatus 11 for manufacturing a display device described herein is substantially the same. A target panel PN may be arranged on a panel attachment member AM. A panel-window connection member PWA may be arranged on the upper part of the target panel PN.

[0106] The panel attachment member AM may include an electrostatic chuck. When a current is applied to the panel attachment member AM, a static charge equal to or greater than a reference value is formed on the surface of the panel attachment member AM, allowing the display panel to attach to the panel attachment member AM via electrostatic attraction caused by the static charge. Conversely, when no current is applied to the panel attachment member AM, no static charge equal to or greater than a reference value is formed on the surface of the panel attachment member AM, allowing the display panel to be separated from the panel attachment member AM.

[0107] The target panel PN is a panel that displays a screen or image, and for example, the target panel PN can include not only self-emissive display panels such as organic light-emitting display panels (OLED), inorganic light-emitting display panels (EL), quantum dot light-emitting display panels (QED), micro LED display panels (micro LED), nano LED display panels (nano LED), plasma display panels (PDP), field emission display panels (FED), and cathode ray display panels (CRT), but also light-receiving display panels such as liquid crystal display panels (LCD) and electrophoretic display panels (EPD). In the following description, organic light-emitting display panels will be used as examples of target panel PN, and unless otherwise specified, the organic light-emitting display panel applied to the exemplary embodiments is abbreviated as target panel PN. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to organic light-emitting display panels, and other target panel PNs listed above or known in the art may be applied within the scope of the shared spirit of the art.

[0108] Panel-to-window (PWA) connectors can be used for windows described later (see [link to PWA]). Figure 24The panel-window (PWA) is connected to the target panel (PN). The panel-window connection component (PWA) may include an optically clear connection component. For example, the panel-window connection component (PWA) may include an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0109] Subsequently, referring to Figure 20 and Figure 22 The sheet section SH_1 and the target panel attachment section AM (S20) are folded relative to the bending line BL.

[0110] The sheet section SH_1 and the target panel attachment section AM can be bent or folded relative to the compression rod CS_1 arranged to overlap with the bending line BL.

[0111] More specifically, for the folding operation, the compression rod CS_1 moves upward in the upward direction (the upward direction on the third direction DR3), and the sheet portion SH_1 and the panel attachment member AM move downward relative to the compression rod CS_1. By... Figure 22 The above operations, in which the panel-window connection device 11, the target panel PN, and the panel-window connection component PWA can be performed as follows: Figure 23 The ground shown is folded.

[0112] Subsequently, referring to Figure 20 and Figure 24 By moving the panel-window connection device 11 upward, the peak of the target panel PN comes into contact with the peak of the window W (S30).

[0113] According to the method of manufacturing a display device according to this exemplary embodiment, a first magnet portion MT1 on a third sheet portion SH3 with a flat shape located on the other side of the first direction DR1 relative to the bending line BL is magnetically connected to a second magnet portion MT2 on a third sheet portion SH3 with a flat shape located on one side of the first direction DR1. This prevents the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W from being attached to the window W before the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W, that is, before the peak portion of the target panel PN contacts the peak portion of the window W by moving the panel-window connection device 11 upward (S30).

[0114] Furthermore, in the process (S30) where the peak of the target panel PN contacts the peak of the window W by moving the panel-window connecting device 11 upward, since the long axis of the cross-sectional shape of the compression rod CS_1 is formed to extend in the thickness direction, it is possible to prevent the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W from being attached to the panel-window connecting member PWA before the peak of the target panel PN contacts the peak of the window W by moving the panel-window connecting device 11 upward (S30).

[0115] exist Figure 25 The diagram shows that by moving the panel-window connection device 11 upward, the peak of the target panel PN contacts the peak of the window W (S30).

[0116] Subsequently, referring to Figure 20 and Figure 26 The curved portion of the target panel PN (excluding the peak) and the curved portion of the window W (excluding the peak) are connected (S40).

[0117] More specifically, as described above, the sheet portion SH_1 is compressed by the compression rod CS_1 in the area arranged to overlap with the compression rod CS_1 and moved to the periphery of the peak portion, and the material of the sheet portion SH_1 that has been moved to the periphery of the peak portion can connect the curved portion of the target panel PN other than the peak portion and the curved portion of the window W other than the peak portion.

[0118] Subsequently, referring to Figure 20 and Figure 26 Rotate the compression rod CS_1 by 90 degrees (S40_1).

[0119] Then, refer to Figure 20 , Figure 27 and Figure 28 While the compression rod CS_1 moves downward, the first magnet part MT1 and the second magnet part MT2, which are connected to each other, separate, and the flat part of the target panel PN and the flat part of the window W are connected (S50).

[0120] Subsequently, referring to Figure 29 Remove panel-window connection device 11.

[0121] After the panel-window connection device 11 is removed, it can be reused. More specifically, typically, the target panel PN and the panel-window connection device 11 are joined by adhesives or the like. In this case, it may be difficult to reuse the panel-window connection device 11 after the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W is completed. However, in the panel-window connection device 11 according to this exemplary embodiment, a panel attachment member AM including an electrostatic chuck is used to attach the target panel PN, and therefore, even after the panel-window connection device 11 has been used in the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W, it can be reused again.

[0122] Furthermore, as described above, relative to the curved line BL, the first magnet portion MT1 on the third sheet portion SH3, which is located on the other side of the first direction DR1 and has a flat shape, is magnetically connected to the second magnet portion MT2 on the third sheet portion SH3, which is located on one side of the first direction DR1 and has a flat shape. This prevents the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W from being attached by the panel-window connection member PWA before the attachment process between the target panel PN and the window W, that is, before the peak portion of the target panel PN is brought into contact with the peak portion of the window W by moving the panel-window connection device 11 upward (S30).

[0123] Furthermore, in the process (S30) where the peak of the target panel PN contacts the peak of the window W by moving the panel-window connecting device 11 upward, since the long axis of the cross-sectional shape of the compression rod CS_1 is formed to extend in the thickness direction, it is possible to prevent the flat portion of the target panel PN and the flat portion of the window W from being attached to the panel-window connecting member PWA before the peak of the target panel PN contacts the peak of the window W by moving the panel-window connecting device 11 upward (S30).

[0124] Based on the apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment and the method for manufacturing a display device using the apparatus, reliable stacking between a curved display panel and a curved window can be performed.

[0125] The effects of the exemplary embodiments are not limited to those shown above, and many other effects are included in this specification.

[0126] Although embodiments of the invention have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions, and substitutions may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for manufacturing a display device, the apparatus comprising: A sheet portion, wherein a curved line extending in a first direction is defined in the sheet portion; A target panel attachment portion is disposed on the sheet portion; as well as The magnet portion is disposed below the sheet portion and includes a first magnet portion located on one side of a second direction intersecting the first direction relative to the bending line, and a second magnet portion located on the other side of the second direction. Wherein, the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion are symmetrical with respect to the curved line, and The device is configured to stack or connect a linearly deformed curved display panel with a curved window.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion is spaced apart from the target panel attachment portion via the sheet portion.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein, In the folding operation state, the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion are folded relative to the bending line.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The first magnet part and the second magnet part are connected in the folding operation state.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein, The target panel attachment includes an electrostatic chuck.

6. The device according to claim 4, further comprising: A compression rod is disposed below the sheet portion and extends along the bend line. In the folding operation state, the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion are folded relative to the compression rod.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein, The sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion are folded by moving the compression rod upward.

8. The device according to claim 6, wherein, The sheet portion includes a first recess in the thickness direction in a region arranged to overlap with the compression rod, and The compression rod is arranged in the first recess.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion is arranged in a second recess in the thickness direction of the sheet portion.

10. The device according to claim 6, wherein, The cross-sectional shape of the compression rod includes an elliptical shape.

11. A method of manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: The target panel and the panel-window connection components are arranged on a panel-window connection device, the panel-window connection device comprising: A sheet portion, wherein a curved line extending in a first direction is defined in the sheet portion; Target panel attachment portion, the target panel attachment portion being disposed on the sheet portion; and A magnet portion, the magnet portion being disposed below the sheet portion and comprising a first magnet portion located on one side of a second direction intersecting the first direction relative to the bending line and a second magnet portion located on the other side of the second direction; Fold the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion relative to the bend line; and The panel-window connection device is moved upward to bring the peak of the target panel into contact with the peak of the window.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, In the arrangement of the target panel and the panel-window connecting member, each of the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion is spaced apart from the target panel attachment portion through the sheet portion.

13. The method according to claim 11, wherein, During the folding of the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion relative to the bending line, the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion are connected.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The target panel attachment includes an electrostatic chuck, and The target panel is attached to the electrostatic chuck.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The panel-window connection device further includes a compression rod disposed below the sheet portion and extending along the curvature. Specifically, during the folding of the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion, the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion are folded relative to the compression rod.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, During the folding of the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion, the sheet portion and the target panel attachment portion are folded by moving the compression rod upward.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The sheet portion includes a first recess in the thickness direction in a region arranged to overlap with the compression rod. The compression rod is arranged in the first recess, and when the peak of the target panel contacts the peak of the window by moving the panel-window connection device upward, the peak of the sheet portion is compressed and moves to the periphery of the peak of the sheet portion, and The material of the sheet portion that is moved to the periphery of the peak will connect the curved portion of the target panel, excluding the peak of the target panel, to the curved portion of the window, excluding the peak of the window.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, After the curved portion of the target panel is connected to the curved portion of the window, the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion, which are connected to each other, are separated while the compression rod is moved downward, and the flat portion of the target panel and the flat portion of the window are connected.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, When the peak of the target panel contacts the peak of the window by moving the panel-window connection device upward, the peak of the sheet portion is compressed and moves to the periphery of the peak of the sheet portion. The material of the sheet portion that is moved to the periphery of the peak will connect the curved portion of the target panel, excluding the peak of the target panel, to the curved portion of the window, excluding the peak of the window. The cross-sectional shape of the compression rod includes an elliptical shape, and After connecting the curved portion of the target panel to the curved portion of the window, the compression rod is rotated 90 degrees.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, After the curved portion of the target panel is connected to the curved portion of the window, the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion, which are connected to each other, are separated while the compression rod is moved downward, and the flat portion of the target panel and the flat portion of the window are connected.

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