Display devices

Abstract

This application relates to a display device. The display device includes: a window; a display module on the rear surface of the window, including a folded region and a non-folded region adjacent to the folded region; and a protective cover on the rear surface of the display module, the protective cover including: a cover portion configured to cover the folded region and the non-folded region of the display module; and a retaining portion extending from the cover portion in a first direction or in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and protruding to the outside of the display module when viewed in a plane.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0102602, filed on August 14, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to display devices with reduced defects. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs are under development. These devices include display devices that provide information. In addition to display devices, electronic devices also include various electronic modules.

[0005] Electronic devices are manufactured by assembling display devices with electronic modules. In this case, the electronic modules are arranged in an organized manner using an outer housing and brackets. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a display device that can be protected from external impacts while being transferred during the manufacturing process of an electronic device.

[0007] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a display device comprising: a window; a display module on a rear surface of the window, including a folded region and a non-folded region adjacent to the folded region; and a protective cover on the rear surface of the display module, the protective cover including: a cover portion configured to cover the folded region and the non-folded region of the display module; and a retaining portion extending from the cover portion in a first direction or in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and protruding to the outside of the display module when viewed in a plane.

[0008] Windows may include thin-film glass.

[0009] The non-folding area may include a first non-folding area and a second non-folding area separated by the folding area, wherein the cover portion includes: a first cover portion configured to support the folding area and the first non-folding area of ​​the display module; and a second cover portion configured to support the second non-folding area.

[0010] The display module may also include a non-curved region and a curved region that curves from the non-curved region. The non-curved region includes both folded and non-folded regions, wherein the second cover portion covers the curved region.

[0011] The first cover portion may include: a first body portion connected to the second cover portion; a first portion extending from the first body portion in a direction away from the second cover portion; and a second portion extending from the first body portion in another direction intersecting the first direction.

[0012] The first and second parts can be rod-shaped, and when viewed in a plane, the first and second parts can be perpendicular to each other.

[0013] The second part can be configured to overlap with the folded area.

[0014] The second cover portion may include: a second body portion connected to the first cover portion and configured to cover a second non-folded area; and an arm portion extending in a direction intersecting the second body portion and configured to cover a portion of the curved area.

[0015] The second cover portion may also include a sidewall portion that extends from the arm portion and is configured to cover the remainder of the curved area.

[0016] The retaining portion may include a first retaining portion connected to the first portion and a second retaining portion connected to the second portion.

[0017] The retaining portion may include a third retaining portion that extends from the arm portion in a direction away from the second body portion.

[0018] The retaining portion can be bent from the cover portion and can be configured to cover part of the side surface of the display module.

[0019] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a display device comprising: a folding region; a first non-folding region adjacent to the folding region; a second non-folding region adjacent to the folding region; a window; a display module on the rear surface of the window, and including a non-bent region and a bent region bending from the non-bent region, the non-bent region corresponding to the folding region, the first non-folding region, and the second non-folding region; a first release film on the window; a second release film below the display module; and a protective cover below the second release film, the protective cover comprising: a first cover portion configured to support the folding region and the first non-folding region of the display device; a second cover portion extending from the first cover portion and configured to support the second non-folding region and the bent region of the display module; and a retaining portion respectively connected to the first cover portion and the second cover portion.

[0020] The display device may also include an adhesive member located between the first and second release films, outside the display module, and configured to attach the first and second release films.

[0021] The second release film may include: a first portion overlapping a first non-folded region; a second portion overlapping a second non-folded region; and a third portion overlapping a folded region, wherein the protective cover further includes an adhesive member attached to the third portion.

[0022] The cutting line can be defined between the first part and the third part, and also between the second part and the third part.

[0023] The first cover portion may include: a first portion extending in a first direction on the lower surface of the first portion of the second release film; and a second portion extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction on the lower surface of the third portion of the second release film, and including an adhesive member.

[0024] The second part can expose a portion of the second non-folded region and the curved region.

[0025] The second cover portion can cover a portion of the exposed curved area and the second non-folded area, and can be spaced apart from the display module in the thickness direction.

[0026] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a display device comprising: a window; a display module on the rear surface of the window, including a folded region and a non-folded region adjacent to the folded region; and a protective cover on the rear surface of the display module, the protective cover including: a cover portion covering the folded region and the non-folded region of the display module; and retaining portions extending from the cover portion in a first direction or in a second direction intersecting the first direction, protruding to the outside of the display module when viewed in a plane, and connected to each other on the outside of the display module.

[0027] Based on the above, the display device includes a retaining portion and a cover portion that completely covers the display module, and thus effectively protects the components, including the window and the display module, from external impacts during the manufacturing process. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The above and other aspects of this disclosure will become readily apparent when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and by referring to the following detailed description, in which:

[0029] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 3A This is a plan view showing a display panel according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 3C This is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a protective cover according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 6 This is a front view showing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 7 This is a rear view showing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figures 8A to 8D This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 9A This is a perspective view showing a protective cover according to other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 9B This is a plan view illustrating a display device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0041] Figure 10 This is a view showing a transfer tray according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Some aspects of this disclosure and methods of implementing this disclosure can be more readily understood by referring to the detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the described embodiments may be implemented in a variety of different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments shown herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey aspects of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques that are not essential for those skilled in the art to fully understand aspects of this disclosure are not described.

[0043] Unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals, characters, or combinations thereof denote the same elements throughout the drawings and written description, and therefore, descriptions of the same elements will not be repeated. Furthermore, portions irrelevant to the description of the embodiments may be omitted for clarity.

[0044] In the accompanying drawings, the relative dimensions of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. Furthermore, crosshairs and / or shading used in the drawings are generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for particular materials, material properties, dimensions, scale, commonalities between the elements shown, or any other characteristics, properties, or attributes of the elements, unless otherwise stated.

[0045] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views that serve as schematic diagrams of implementations and / or intermediate structures. Thus, variations in the illustrated shapes should be anticipated, for example, due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Furthermore, the specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed herein are merely illustrative for the purpose of describing embodiments based on the concepts of this disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the specifically shown areas, but should include, for example, deviations in shape due to manufacturing processes.

[0046] For example, an implantation region shown as rectangular will typically have rounded or curved features at its edges and / or a gradient of implantation concentration, rather than a binary change from an implantation region to a non-implantation region. Similarly, the implantation region formed by implantation may result in some implantation in the area between the implantation region and the surface through which the implantation occurs. Therefore, the regions shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to represent the actual shape of the areas of the device, nor are they intended to be limiting. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various different ways without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure.

[0047] In the detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth for illustrative purposes to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various embodiments can be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments.

[0048] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “below,” “above,” “up,” etc., may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element (or feature) or feature (or feature) as shown in the figures. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures, spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, the element described as “below,” “under,” or “below” other elements or features will consequently be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary terms “below” and “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, when a first part is described as being arranged “above” a second part, this means that the first part is arranged above or below the second part, and not limited to the upper side of the second part based on the direction of gravity.

[0049] Furthermore, in this specification, the phrase "in a plane" or "plan view" refers to the target portion viewed from above, and the phrase "in a cross section" refers to the cross section formed by vertically cutting the target portion viewed from the side.

[0050] It should be understood that when an element, layer, region, or component is referred to as being "formed on," "on," "connected to," or "linked to" another element, layer, region, or component, it may be directly formed on, directly on, directly connected to, or directly linked to another element, layer, region, or component, or it may be indirectly formed on, indirectly on, indirectly connected to, or indirectly linked to another element, layer, region, or component, such that one or more intermediary elements, layers, regions, or components may exist. For example, when a layer, region, or component is referred to as being "electrically connected" or "electrically linked" to another layer, region, or component, it may be directly electrically connected or directly electrically linked to another layer, region, or component, or an intermediary layer, region, or component may exist. However, "direct connection / direct link" refers to a component being directly connected to or directly linked to another component without an intermediary component. Similarly, other expressions describing relationships between components (such as "between," "directly between," or "proximately" and "directly adjacent to") can be interpreted similarly. Furthermore, it should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or there can be one or more intermediary elements or layers.

[0051] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion described below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0052] In this example, the x-axis, y-axis, and / or z-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. The same applies to the first direction, the second direction, and / or the third direction.

[0053] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “have,” “having,” “includes,” and “including” specify the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0054] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree and are intended to allow for inherent deviations in measured or calculated values ​​as recognized by those skilled in the art. As used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the value as well as the average of the values ​​within an acceptable range of deviations from the particular value, as determined by those skilled in the art taking into account the measurement in question and errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the value. Additionally, the word “may” as used in describing embodiments of this disclosure means “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.”

[0055] When one or more implementations can be carried out differently, a specific process sequence can be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two consecutively described processes can be performed substantially simultaneously, or in the reverse order of the described sequence.

[0056] The electronic or electrical devices and / or any other related devices or components described herein according to embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits), software, or a combination of software, firmware, and hardware. For example, various components of these devices may be formed on a single integrated circuit (IC) chip or on separate IC chips. Additionally, various components of these devices may be implemented on a flexible printed circuit film, a tape-on-a-package (TCP), a printed circuit board (PCB), or formed on a substrate.

[0057] Furthermore, the various components of these devices can be processes or threads that run on one or more processors in one or more computing devices, execute computer program instructions, and interact with other system components for performing the various functions described herein. The computer program instructions are stored in memory implemented in the computing device using standard storage devices, such as random access memory (RAM). The computer program instructions may also be stored in other non-transitory computer-readable media, such as CD-ROMs, flash drives, etc. Additionally, those skilled in the art will recognize that, without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of this disclosure, the functions of various computing devices may be combined or integrated into a single computing device, or the functions of a particular computing device may be distributed across one or more other computing devices.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, 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 terms, such as those defined in common dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and / or the context of this specification, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0059] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view showing an electronic device ED according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 1A The deployed state of the electronic device ED is shown, and Figure 1B The folded state of the electronic device ED is shown.

[0061] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe electronic device ED may include a display surface DS defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. The electronic device ED can provide an image IM to a user through the display surface DS.

[0062] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image IM, and the non-display area NDA may not display an image IM. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. However, the shapes of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA may be changed, and are not limited thereto.

[0063] In the following text, the direction substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 can be referred to as the third direction DR3. Furthermore, the phrase "when observed in the plane" can indicate the state of observation along the third direction DR3. In the following text, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are directions represented by the first direction axis, the second direction axis, and the third direction axis, respectively.

[0064] The electronic device ED may include a folded region FA and multiple non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2. The non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 may include a first non-folded region NFA1 and a second non-folded region NFA2. In the second direction DR2, the folded region FA may be located between the first non-folded region NFA1 and the second non-folded region NFA2.

[0065] like Figure 1B As shown, the folding region FA can be folded about a folding axis FX that is substantially parallel to the first direction DR1. The folding region FA can have a curvature (e.g., a predetermined curvature) and a radius of curvature (e.g., a predetermined radius of curvature). The electronic device ED can be folded inward (inward folding) such that the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 face each other, and such that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside.

[0066] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the electronic device ED can be folded outward (outward folding) so that the display surface DS is exposed to the outside. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the electronic device ED can be folded inward and outward in an unfolded state; however, it should not be limited to or restricted by this. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the electronic device ED can operate in one of the following modes: unfolding, inward folding, and outward folding.

[0067] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing an electronic device ED according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0068] refer to Figure 2The electronic device ED may include a display unit DD, an electronic module EM, a power module PSM, and housings EDC1 and EDC2. In some embodiments, the power module PSM may also include a mechanical structure to control the folding operation of the display unit DD.

[0069] The display unit DD can generate images and sense external input. The display unit DD may include a window WM and a display module DM. The window WM can provide the front surface of the electronic device ED. The window WM may include thin-film glass. That is, the window WM can have a thin thickness. For example, the window WM can have a thickness equal to or less than about 30 μm.

[0070] The display unit (DD) can be used as a component of the electronic device (ED).

[0071] The display module (DM) may include at least a display panel (DP). Figure 2 In this context, the display module DM is shown as the same as the display panel DP; however, the display module DM can be a stacked structure in which multiple components are stacked.

[0072] The display panel DP may include display areas DA corresponding to electronic devices ED (reference). Figure 1A ) and non-display area NDA (reference) Figure 1A The display module DM includes a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA. In this disclosure, the expression "area / part corresponds to another area / part" can mean "area / part overlaps with another area / part," and the corresponding "area and part" should not be limited to having the same size as each other. The display module DM may include a driver chip DIC located on the non-display area DP-NDA. The display module DM may also include a flexible circuit film FCB coupled to the non-display area DP-NDA.

[0073] The driver chip (DIC) may include driving elements for driving the pixels of the display panel (DP), such as data driving circuitry. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a structure in which the driver chip DIC is mounted on a display panel DP; however, this disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby restricted. For example, the driver chip DIC may be mounted on a flexible circuit film FCB.

[0074] The electronic module (EM) may include at least one main controller. The EM may include a wireless communication module, a camera module, a proximity sensor module, an image input module, an audio input module, an audio output module, memory, and an external interface module. Modules may be mounted on a circuit substrate or electrically connected to each other via a flexible circuit board. The EM may be electrically connected to the power supply module (PSM).

[0075] The main controller controls the overall operation of the electronic device ED. For example, the main controller can activate or deactivate the display unit DD in response to user input. The main controller can control the operation of the display unit DD and other modules. The main controller may include at least one microprocessor.

[0076] The display module DM, electronic module EM, and power module PSM can be housed in housings EDC1 and EDC2. Figure 2 In the illustration, the two housings EDC1 and EDC2 are shown as separate from each other; however, they should not be limited to this or by this limitation. In some embodiments, the electronic device ED may also include a hinged structure to connect the two housings EDC1 and EDC2 to each other. Housings EDC1 and EDC2 may be connected to a window WM. Housings EDC1 and EDC2 may protect the display module DM, electronic module EM, and power module PSM housed therein.

[0077] Figure 3A This is a plan view illustrating a display panel DP according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3B Is with Figure 3A Line II-II' corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the display unit DD according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 3C This is a cross-sectional view showing a display unit DD according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0078] refer to Figure 3A The display panel (DP) may include a display area (DP-DA) and a non-display area (DP-NDA) surrounding the display area (DP-DA). The display area (DP-DA) and the non-display area (DP-NDA) can be distinguished from each other based on whether or not pixels (PX) are arranged there. Pixels (PX) may be located in the display area (DP-DA). The scan driver (SDV), data driver, and transmit driver (EDV) may be located in the non-display area (DP-NDA). The data driver can be used as... Figure 3A The circuit of the driver chip DIC is shown.

[0079] The display panel DP may include a first region AA1, a second region AA2, and a curved region BA, which are distinct from each other in the second direction DR2. The second region AA2 and the curved region BA may be part of the non-display region DP-NDA. The curved region BA may be located between the first region AA1 and the second region AA2. The first region AA1 may be a non-curved region.

[0080] Figure 3B The image shows a display panel DP in its unfolded state before being folded. This is assumed to be the case when the display panel DP is installed in an electronic device ED. Figure 1AIn the unfolded state of the electronic device ED shown, the first area AA1 and the second area AA2 of the display panel DP can be located on different planes. This is in Figure 3C As shown in the image. See below for reference. Figure 3C Describe the shape of the curved region BA.

[0081] Refer again Figure 3A The first region AA1 can correspond to Figure 1A The display surface DS. The first region AA1 may include a first non-folded region NFA10, a second non-folded region NFA20, and a folded region FA0. The first non-folded region NFA10, the second non-folded region NFA20, and the folded region FA0 may respectively correspond to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The first non-folded region NFA1, the second non-folded region NFA2, and the folded region FA.

[0082] In the first direction DR1, the lengths of the bending region BA and the second region AA2 can be less than the length of the first region AA1. Regions with shorter lengths in the bending axis direction can be easily bent.

[0083] The display panel (DP) may include multiple pixels (PX), multiple scan lines SL1 to SLm, multiple data lines DL1 to DLn, multiple emission lines EL1 to ELm ("m" and "n" are natural numbers), a first control line CSL1 and a second control line CSL2, a power line PL, and multiple pads (PD). Pixels (PX) may be connected to scan lines SL1 to SLm, data lines DL1 to DLn, and emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0084] Scan lines SL1 to SLm can extend in the first direction DR1 and can be connected to the scan driver SDV. Data lines DL1 to DLn can extend in the second direction DR2 and can be connected to the driver chip DIC while passing through the bend region BA. Transmit lines EL1 to ELm can extend in the first direction DR1 and can be connected to the transmit driver EDV.

[0085] The power line PL may include a portion extending along a second direction DR2 and a portion extending along a first direction DR1. The portion extending along the first direction DR1 and the portion extending along the second direction DR2 may be located on different layers. The portion of the power line PL extending along the second direction DR2 may extend to a second region AA2 via a bending region BA. The power line PL may provide a first voltage to the pixel PX.

[0086] The first control line CSL1 can be connected to the scan driver SDV and can extend through the bend area BA to the lower end of the second area AA2. The second control line CSL2 can be connected to the transmit driver EDV and can extend through the bend area BA to the lower end of the second area AA2.

[0087] When viewed in a plane, the pad PD can be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the second region AA2. The driver chip DIC, power line PL, first control line CSL1, and second control line CSL2 can be connected to the pad PD. The flexible circuit film FCB can be electrically connected to the pad PD through an anisotropic conductive adhesive layer.

[0088] refer to Figure 3B and Figure 3C The display unit DD may include a window WM and a display module DM (see [link]). Figure 2 ).

[0089] The display module DM may include an optical film LF, a display panel DP, a panel protective layer PPL, a barrier layer BRL, a support layer PLT, a cover layer SCV, a heat dissipation layer, a buffer layer CUL, an insulating layer INL, spacers SPC, a step difference compensation pattern CP, and a second adhesive layer AL2, a third adhesive layer AL3, a fourth adhesive layer AL4, a fifth adhesive layer AL5, a sixth adhesive layer AL6, a seventh adhesive layer AL7, an eighth adhesive layer AL8, a ninth adhesive layer AL9, a tenth adhesive layer AL10, and an eleventh adhesive layer AL11. The second adhesive layers AL2 to the eleventh adhesive layer AL11 may include transparent adhesives, such as pressure-sensitive adhesives or optically transparent adhesives. In some embodiments of this disclosure, some of the above components may be omitted. For example, the step difference compensation pattern CP and the tenth and eleventh adhesive layers AL10 and AL11 associated with the step difference compensation pattern CP may be omitted.

[0090] The optical film LF can be located in Figure 3A In the first region AA1 shown, the optical film LF can at least cover the display area DP-DA. The optical film LF can be attached to the window WM through the second adhesive layer AL2, and the optical film LF can be attached to the display panel DP through the third adhesive layer AL3.

[0091] The panel protective layer PPL can be located below the display panel DP. The panel protective layer PPL protects the lower portion of the display panel DP. The panel protective layer PPL can comprise a flexible plastic material. For example, the panel protective layer PPL can comprise polyethylene terephthalate. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the panel protective layer PPL may not be located in the bending region BA. The panel protective layer PPL can be attached to the display panel DP via a fourth adhesive layer AL4, and the panel protective layer PPL can be attached to the barrier layer BRL via a fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0092] The panel protective layer PPL may include a first panel protective layer PPL-1 protecting a first region AA1 of the display panel DP and a second panel protective layer PPL-2 protecting a second region AA2 of the display panel DP. When the bending region BA is bent, the second panel protective layer PPL-2, together with the second region AA2, may be located below the first region AA1 and the first panel protective layer PPL-1. Because the panel protective layer PPL is not located in the bending region BA, the bending region BA can be bent more easily. The fourth adhesive layer AL4 may include a first portion AL4-1 corresponding to the first panel protective layer PPL-1 and a second portion AL4-2 corresponding to the second panel protective layer PPL-2.

[0093] The barrier layer (BRL) can be located beneath the panel protective layer (PPL). The barrier layer (BRL) increases resistance to compressive forces caused by external pressure. Therefore, the barrier layer (BRL) can reduce or prevent deformation of the display panel (DP). The barrier layer (BRL) can comprise flexible plastic materials, such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. Furthermore, the barrier layer (BRL) can be a colored film with low light transmittance. The barrier layer (BRL) can absorb light incident upon it from the outside. For example, the barrier layer (BRL) can be a black plastic film. When the display unit (DD) is viewed from above the window (WM), the components beneath the barrier layer (BRL) are not visible to the user. The panel protective layer (PPL) can be bonded to the barrier layer (BRL) via a fifth adhesive layer (AL5), and the barrier layer (BRL) can be bonded to the support layer (PLT) via a sixth adhesive layer (AL6).

[0094] The support layer PLT can be located below the barrier layer BRL. The support layer PLT can comprise a material with an elastic modulus equal to or greater than about 60 GPa. The support layer PLT can comprise a metallic material, such as stainless steel. For example, the support layer PLT can comprise stainless steel (e.g., SUS 304), however, it should not be limited to or restricted by this. The support layer PLT can comprise various metallic materials. The support layer PLT can support the display panel DP. Furthermore, the display unit DD can have improved heat dissipation performance through the support layer PLT.

[0095] Multiple openings OP can be defined in the region of the support layer PLT corresponding to the folded region FA0. The flexibility of the support layer PLT can be improved by the openings OP. The sixth adhesive layer AL6 may include a first portion AL6-1 and a second portion AL6-2 spaced apart from the first portion AL6-1. Since the sixth adhesive layer AL6 is not located in the region corresponding to the folded region FA0, the flexibility of the support layer PLT can be improved.

[0096] The protective layer BPL can be located on the curved area BA of the display panel DP. The protective layer BPL can protect the curved area BA of the display panel DP from external impacts.

[0097] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing a display device 1000 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a protective cover 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0098] Display device 1000 may include a display unit DD. Display device 1000 may include the display unit DD and a protective cover 300 for protecting the display unit DD. That is, display device 1000 may include a protective cover 300 for transferring the manufactured display unit DD during the manufacturing process of electronic device ED without defects.

[0099] refer to Figure 4 The display device 1000 may include a display unit DD, a first release film 100, a second release film 200, and a protective cover 300. The display unit DD may include a window WM (see reference). Figure 2 ) and display module DM (reference) Figure 2 ).

[0100] The first release film 100 can be located above the display unit DD. The second release film 200 can be located below the display unit DD. That is, the first release film 100 and the second release film 200 can respectively cover the upper surface and the lower surface of the display unit DD. The upper surface of the display unit DD can face the first release film 100, and the lower surface of the display unit DD can face the second release film 200.

[0101] The protective cover 300 can be located below the second release film 200. The protective cover 300 can be attached to the second release film 200 and can support the display unit DD. When the protective cover 300 covers the folded area FA, including the window WM containing the thin-film glass and the display module DM, defects that occur when transferring the display unit DD of the display device 1000 can be reduced. This is because the protective cover 300 blocks external impacts and foreign substances.

[0102] Figure 5 It shows upside down Figure 4 The protective cover 300 may be a plastic component such as polycarbonate. The protective cover 300 may be manufactured by conventional plastic molding methods such as extrusion molding and injection molding. However, the materials used for the protective cover 300 should not be limited to or restricted by this, and the protective cover 300 may be a metal component or an organic / inorganic composite component.

[0103] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5The protective cover 300 may include a first cover portion 310, a second cover portion 320, and a plurality of retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c.

[0104] The first cover section 310 can cover the display module DM (see reference). Figure 2 The protective cover 300 covers the folded area FA and the first non-folded area NFA1 of the display module DM. The second cover portion 320 can cover the second non-folded area NFA2 of the display module DM. The protective cover 300 can have various shapes depending on the injection molding process. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the protective cover 300 may include a protrusion formed on the flat plate. For example, the first cover portion 310 may be a flat plate with a rod shape, but may have a protrusion projecting in its thickness direction. In some embodiments, the first cover portion 310 may include a plurality of grooves defined therein. Figure 5 In the middle, the protruding part can increase the strength of the first cover part 310, so that the first cover part 310 does not bend.

[0105] The first cover portion 310 may include a first body portion 311, a first portion 312, and a second portion 313. The first body portion 311 may be connected to the second cover portion 320. The first body portion 311 may be connected to the first portion 312 and the second portion 313. The first portion 312 may extend from the first body portion 311 in a second direction DR2. The first portion 312 may have a rod shape. When viewed in a plane, the second portion 313 may extend from the first body portion 311 perpendicular to the first portion 312. That is, the second portion 313 may extend in a first direction DR1 intersecting the second direction DR2. The second portion 313 may have a rod shape. The first portion 312 and the second portion 313 may have substantially the same width. The width of the first body portion 311 may be greater than the width of each of the first portion 312 and the second portion 313. In some embodiments, the first portion 312, the second portion 313, and the first body portion 311 may have substantially the same width. In some embodiments, the width of each of the first portion 312 and the second portion 313 may be greater than the width of the first main body portion 311.

[0106] The adhesive member ADH can be located on the surface of the second portion 313 facing the second release film 200. The adhesive member ADH can attach the second portion 313 to the second release film 200. That is, the protective cover 300 can be secured to the second release film 200 by the adhesive member ADH. The second release film 200 can be secured to the first release film 100 by other adhesive members. (Refer to...) Figure 6 , Figure 7 as well as Figures 8A to 8D This will be described in detail.

[0107] The second cover portion 320 can support the second non-folding region NFA2. The second cover portion 320 may include a second body portion 321, an arm portion 322, and a sidewall portion 323. The second body portion 321 can be connected to the first cover portion 310. The second body portion 321 can extend from the first body portion 311 of the first cover portion 310. According to some embodiments, the second body portion 321 can be bent from the first cover portion 310. The second body portion 321 can be bent from the first cover portion 310 and can be positioned away from the display unit DD in the third direction DR3. That is, the second cover portion 320 can be positioned further away from the display unit DD than the first cover portion 310.

[0108] The second main body portion 321 may cover a portion of the second non-folded region NFA2. The arm portion 322 may extend from the second main body portion 321 in the first direction DR1. The arm portion 322 may extend in the first direction DR1 and in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1. The arm portion 322 may cover the curved region BA (see...). Figure 3C The sidewall portion 323 may extend from the arm portion 322. The sidewall portion 323 may be located between the arm portion 322 and the third retaining portion 330c. The sidewall portion 323 may extend from the arm portion 322 to the third retaining portion 330c along the third direction DR3.

[0109] Retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c may extend from the first cover portion 310 and the second cover portion 320 and may protrude beyond the display module DM. When viewed in a plane, the exterior of the display module DM may correspond to an area that does not overlap with the display module DM.

[0110] The retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c may include a first retaining portion 330a, a second retaining portion 330b, and a third retaining portion 330c. The first retaining portion 330a may be connected to a first portion 312 of the first cover portion 310. The second retaining portion 330b may be connected to a second portion 313 of the first cover portion 310. Multiple second retaining portions 330b may be provided. The third retaining portion 330c may be connected to an arm portion 322 or a sidewall portion 323 of the second cover portion 320.

[0111] The retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c can be bent from the first cover portion 310 and the second cover portion 320. That is, compared to the first cover portion 310 and the second cover portion 320, the retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c can be positioned closer to the window WM on the third-direction DR3 (see [reference]). Figure 2For example, unlike the first cover portion 310 and the second cover portion 320, when viewed in cross-section, the retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c can be positioned substantially parallel to the display unit DD. That is, the retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c can be bent from the first cover portion 310 and the second cover portion 320 in a direction close to the window WM.

[0112] The holding portions 330a, 330b, and 330c can serve as handles for the display device 1000. That is, the holding portions 330a, 330b, and 330c can correspond to handles held by the transfer device for transferring the display device 1000 during transfer. For example, when transferring the display device 1000, a vacuum suction unit can hold the holding portions 330a, 330b, and 330c. The holding portions 330a, 330b, and 330c can provide a flat plate to the vacuum suction unit to allow the vacuum suction unit to adsorb and fix it to the holding portions 330a, 330b, and 330c.

[0113] Side wall portion 323 can cover the curved area BA of display module DM (reference). Figure 3C The arm portion 322 can cover the curved area BA of the display unit DD in the upward direction. The side wall portion 323 can cover the curved area BA in the lateral direction. That is, the side wall portion 323 can protect the display panel DP (see reference). Figure 3C The display unit DD, located in the bending region BA, protects all components from impacts applied to it in the lateral direction.

[0114] Figure 6 This is a front view showing a display device 1000 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 7 This is a rear view showing a display device 1000 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. That is, Figure 6 and Figure 7 This illustrates the third direction DR3 (reference) which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Figure 5 The front and rear views of the display device 1000 when viewed on the screen.

[0115] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7The display unit DD can be located between the first release film 100 and the second release film 200. That is, the first release film 100 and the second release film 200 can respectively cover the upper and lower surfaces of the display unit DD. In this case, the upper surface of the display unit DD can be the surface in contact with the first release film 100, and the lower surface of the display unit DD can be the surface in contact with the second release film 200. The first release film 100 and the second release film 200 can be attached to each other by an adhesive member. When viewed in a plane, the adhesive member can be located outside the display unit DD.

[0116] According to some embodiments, the first adhesive members 42a and 42b may be located in regions respectively adjacent to the corresponding sides of the first holding portion 330a. Each of the first release film 100 and the second release film 200 may have an area larger than the area of ​​the display unit DD. In the first release film 100 and the second release film 200, the portion overlapping with the display unit DD may protect the display unit DD. In the first release film 100 and the second release film 200, the portion that does not overlap with the display unit DD and protrudes further outward in the plane than the display unit DD may be attached to each other by adhesive members. The portions of the first release film 100 and the second release film 200 that protrude beyond the display unit DD may be attached to each other by the first adhesive members 42a and 42b in regions respectively adjacent to the sides of the first holding portion 330a.

[0117] According to some embodiments, the second adhesive members 44a and 44b may be located between the portions of the first release film 100 and the second release film 200 that protrude to the outside of the display unit DD between the second holding portion 330b and the third holding portion 330c.

[0118] The first release film 100 may include a first handle portion 101. The first handle portion 101 may correspond to the outermost portion protruding from the first release film 100. A user can hold the first handle portion 101 and then separate the first release film 100 from the display unit DD.

[0119] The second release film 200 may include a second handle portion 201. The second handle portion 201 may correspond to the outermost portion protruding from the second release film 200. A user can hold the second handle portion 201 and then separate the second release film 200 from the display unit DD.

[0120] like Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, the second release film 200 may include a first portion 210, a second portion 220, and a third portion 230. The first portion 210 may overlap with a first non-folded region NFA1 of the display unit DD. The second portion 220 may overlap with a portion of a second non-folded region NFA2 of the display unit DD. A first portion 312 of the first cover portion 310 of the protective cover 300 may be located on the first portion 210. A portion of the first main body portion 311 of the first cover portion 310 and a portion of the second main body portion 321 of the second cover portion 320 of the protective cover 300 may be located on the second portion 220. Furthermore, a portion of the arm portion 322 may be located on the second portion 220. The arm portion 322 may be spaced apart from the second portion 220 in the thickness direction of the display unit DD.

[0121] The third portion 230 of the second release film 200 may overlap with the folded area FA. The second portion 313 of the first cover portion 310 may be located on the third portion 230. The second portion 313 of the first cover portion 310 may include an adhesive member. The adhesive member may be attached to the third portion 230 of the second release film 200. (See reference...) Figure 8D This will be described in detail.

[0122] The third portion 230 of the second release film 200 can be removed from the second release film 200 together with the protective cap 300. A cutting line CL can be defined between the first portion 210 and the third portion 230 of the second release film 200, and between the second portion 220 and the third portion 230. Due to the cutting line CL, the third portion 230 can be removed from the second release film 200.

[0123] A portion of the display unit DD can be exposed through the second portion 220 of the second release film 200. The second release film 200 can expose the curved region BA connected to the display unit DD (reference). Figure 3C The flexible circuit board 700. Insulating tape 600 and protective tape 720 may be located on the flexible circuit board 700. A portion of the protective tape 720 may overlap with the second release film 200. Insulating tape 600 may be located between the flexible circuit board 700 and the protective cover 300. The protective cover 300 may protect the bending area BA and the portion of the flexible circuit board 700 connected to the bending area BA from external impacts.

[0124] Figures 8A to 8D This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device 1000 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0125] Figure 8A It is along Figure 6 A sectional view taken by line A-A'. Figure 8B It is along Figure 6 The sectional view taken by line B-B'. Figure 8CIt is along Figure 7 A sectional view taken by line C-C'. Figure 8D It is along Figure 7 A sectional view taken by line D-D'.

[0126] refer to Figure 8A The second release film 200 may be located on the protective cover 300. When viewed in a cross-section taken along line A-A', the second release film 200 may not be in contact with the protective cover 300 in the first direction DR1. The protective cover 300 may cover the first release film 100, the second release film 200, and the side surface of the display unit DD in the first direction DR1.

[0127] refer to Figure 8B The second adhesive member 44a can connect the first release film 100 to the second release film 200. The second adhesive member 44a can have a thickness substantially the same as the thickness of the display unit DD. The thickness can correspond to the length on the third-direction DR3.

[0128] refer to Figure 8C The protective cover 300 may be spaced apart from the display unit DD in the curved region BA and in the first region AA1 adjacent to the curved region BA. The first release film 100 and the second release film 200 may not be located in the curved region BA. When the second release film 200 is not located between the protective cover 300 and the display unit DD, the protective cover 300 may be spaced apart from the display unit DD by a predetermined width WD. That is, the protective cover 300 may not contact the display unit DD. According to some embodiments, the protective layer BPL may be located on the curved region BA of the display panel DP. The flexible circuit board 700 may be located on the protective layer BPL. The flexible circuit board 700 may include an insulating layer 80 and a conductive layer 90. An insulating strip 600 may be located on the conductive layer 90. The protective cover 300 may be positioned spaced apart from the insulating strip 600 along a third direction DR3.

[0129] The protective cover 300 protects the bending area BA of the display unit DD from external impacts in the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR3. Figures 8A to 8D In the middle, the details of the display unit DD are shown. Figure 3C The details of the display unit DD shown in the image are the same.

[0130] refer to Figure 8D The adhesive member ADH can be located between the protective cover 300 and the second release film 200. The adhesive member ADH can be positioned to overlap with the folded area FA.

[0131] Figure 9A This is a perspective view showing a protective cover according to other embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 9BThis is a plan view showing a display device 1000-1 according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0132] refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9B According to some embodiments, the protective cover 300 may include a connecting portion 400 that connects a plurality of retaining portions 330a, 330b and 330c to each other. The shape of the connecting portion 400 is not limited thereto or thereby, and may have various shapes that connect the retaining portions 330a, 330b and 330c to each other.

[0133] According to some embodiments, the connecting portion 400 may be connected to the retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c, or it may be connected to a portion of the cover portion. For example, the second retaining portion 330b and the third retaining portion 330c may not be directly connected to each other. In this case, the second retaining portion 330b may be connected to the arm portion 322 of the second cover portion that is connected to the third retaining portion 330c. Similar to the retaining portions 330a, 330b, and 330c, the connecting portion 400 may not overlap with the folded and non-folded areas in the plane and may be located outside the display unit DD.

[0134] Figure 10 This is a view showing a transfer tray TR according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0135] refer to Figure 10 In electronic devices ED (reference) Figure 2 In the manufacturing process of the display device 1000, a transfer tray TR can hold and transfer the display device 1000 including the display unit. The transfer tray TR according to this disclosure may include a first release film 100 and a second release film 200 protecting the display unit, and a guide portion GDP corresponding to the shape of the protective cover 300. The guide portion GDP can define the space in which the display device 1000 is housed within the transfer tray TR.

[0136] According to some embodiments, the third retaining portion 330c of the protective cover 300 may be provided with an opening 331 defined therein. The third retaining portion 330c can secure the display device 1000 to the transfer tray TR through the opening 331.

[0137] Although some embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to be limited to these exemplary embodiments, but rather various changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as claimed herein. Therefore, the subject matter disclosed should not be limited to any of the embodiments described herein, and the scope of this disclosure should be determined in accordance with the appended claims and their functional equivalents included therein.

Claims

1. A display apparatus comprising: a display unit including a window and a display module, the display module being on a rear surface of the window and including a folding area and a non-folding area adjacent to the folding area; and a protective cover on a rear surface of the display module and including: a cover portion configured to cover the folding area and the non-folding area of the display module; and a holding portion extending from the cover portion away from the display module in a first direction or in a second direction crossing the first direction and protruding outside the display module when viewed in a plane; wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially parallel to the rear surface of the display module; wherein the holding portion is provided in a flat plate shape parallel to the first direction and the second direction. The window includes a thin film glass.

2. The display device of claim 1, wherein, The non-folding area includes a first non-folding area and a second non-folding area separated by the folding area, and 3. The display device of claim 1, wherein, wherein the cover portion includes: a first cover portion configured to support the folding area and the first non-folding area of the display module; and a second cover portion configured to support the second non-folding area. The display module further includes a non-curved area including the folding area and the non-folding area and a curved area curved from the non-curved area, and 4. The display device of claim 3, wherein, wherein the second cover portion covers the curved area. The first cover portion includes:

5. The display device of claim 3, wherein, a first body portion connected to the second cover portion; a first portion extending from the first body portion in a direction away from the second cover portion; and a second portion extending from the first body portion in another direction crossing the one direction. The first portion and the second portion have a bar shape, and the first portion and the second portion are perpendicular to each other when viewed in a plane.

6. The display device of claim 5, wherein, The second portion is configured to overlap the folding area.

7. The display device of claim 5, wherein, The second cover portion includes:

8. The display device of claim 4, wherein, a second body portion connected to the first cover portion and configured to cover the second non-folding area; and an arm portion extending in a direction crossing the second body portion and configured to cover a portion of the curved area. The second cover portion further includes a side wall portion extending from the arm portion and configured to cover a remaining portion of the curved area.

9. The display device of claim 8, wherein, The holding portion includes a first holding portion coupled to the first portion and a second holding portion coupled to the second portion.

10. The display device of claim 5, wherein, The holding portion includes a third holding portion extending from the arm portion in a direction away from the second body portion.

11. The display device of claim 8, wherein, The holding portion is curved from the cover portion and configured to cover a portion of a side surface of the display module.

12. The display device of claim 1, wherein, 13.A display apparatus comprising: a folding area; a first non-folding area adjacent to the folding area; a second non-folding area adjacent to the folding area; a window; ​ a display module on a rear surface of the window and including a non-curved area and a curved area curved from the non-curved area, the non-curved area corresponding to the folding area, the first non-folding area, and the second non-folding area; a first release film on the window; a second release film under the display module; and a protective cover under the second release film and including: a first cover portion configured to support the folding area and the first non-folding area of the display apparatus; a second cover portion extending from the first cover portion and configured to support the second non-folding area and the curved area of the display module; and a holding portion coupled to the first cover portion and the second cover portion, respectively. 14.The display apparatus of claim 13, further comprising an adhesive member between the first release film and the second release film, outside the display module, and configured to attach the first release film and the second release film.

15. The display device of claim 13, wherein, the second release film includes: a first portion overlapping the first non-folding area; a second portion overlapping the second non-folding area; and a third portion overlapping the folding area, and wherein the protective cover further includes an adhesive member attached to the third portion.

16. The display device of claim 15, wherein, a cutting line is defined between the first portion and the third portion and between the second portion and the third portion.

17. The display device of claim 15, wherein, the first cover portion includes: a first portion on a lower surface of the first portion of the second release film and extending in a first direction; and a second portion on a lower surface of the third portion of the second release film, extending in a second direction crossing the first direction, and including the adhesive member.

18. The display device of claim 15, wherein, the second portion exposes a portion of the second non-folding area and the curved area.

19. The display device of claim 18, wherein, the second cover portion covers the curved area and the exposed portion of the second non-folding area and is spaced apart from the display module in a thickness direction. 20.A display apparatus comprising: a display unit including a window and a display module on a rear surface of the window and including a folding area and a non-folding area adjacent to the folding area; and a protective cover on a rear surface of the display module and including: a cover portion covering the folding area and the non-folding area of the display module; and a holding portion extending from the cover portion away from the display module in a first direction or in a second direction crossing the first direction, protruding to an outside of the display module when viewed in a plane, and connected to each other outside the display module; wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially parallel to the rear surface of the display module; wherein the holding portion is provided in a flat plate shape parallel to the first direction and the second direction.

Images