Display device

Abstract

A display device includes a display module including a folding area and a non-folding area, an impact absorption layer disposed below the display module and including a bending area and a non-bending area, and a support layer disposed below the impact absorption layer and including a first sub-support layer overlapping the first non-folding area and a second sub-support layer spaced apart from the first sub-support layer and overlapping the second non-folding area. The first sub-support layer includes a first opening group formed through the first sub-support layer and spaced apart from a first cross-sectional surface of the first sub-support layer adjacent to the second sub-support layer in a direction opposite to a second direction, and the second sub-support layer includes a second opening group formed through the second sub-support layer and spaced apart from a second cross-sectional surface of the second sub-support layer adjacent to the first sub-support layer in the second direction.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0075723, filed on June 22, 2020, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device including a support layer through which an opening is formed. Background Art

[0004] Display devices display various images on their screens to provide information to users. Typically, display devices display information within a designated screen area. In recent years, flexible display devices, including foldable flexible display panels, have been developed. Unlike rigid display devices, flexible display devices are foldable, rollable, or bendable. Flexible display devices, which can be transformed into various shapes, are easy to carry and improve user convenience.

[0005] A folding area of ​​a flexible display device is easily affected by external impact, and therefore, various research projects on a functional layer capable of absorbing or dispersing impact are underway. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure provides a display device capable of preventing a supporting layer from being damaged due to external impact.

[0007] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a display device including a display module including a folding area foldable with respect to a folding axis extending in a first direction, a first non-folding area disposed adjacent to one side of the folding area, and a second non-folding area disposed adjacent to the other side of the folding area, an impact absorption layer disposed below the display module, the impact absorption layer including a curved area overlapping the folding area, a first non-curved area overlapping the first non-folding area, and a second non-curved area overlapping the second non-folding area, and the impact absorption layer including a recessed portion corresponding to the curved area, and a support layer disposed below the impact absorption layer, the support layer including a first sub-support layer overlapping the first non-folding area, and a second sub-support layer spaced apart from the first sub-support layer in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and overlapping the second non-folding area. The first sub-support layer can include a first opening group formed through the first sub-support layer and spaced apart from a first cross-sectional surface of the first sub-support layer adjacent to the second sub-support layer in a direction opposite to the second direction, and the second sub-support layer can include a second opening group formed through the second sub-support layer and spaced apart from a second cross-sectional surface of the second sub-support layer adjacent to the first sub-support layer in the second direction.

[0008] The recessed portion has a first width in the second direction, and the first sub-support layer and the second sub-support layer can be spaced apart in the second direction by a second width smaller than the first width.

[0009] The first sub-support layer and the second sub-support layer can be symmetrical to each other with respect to the folding axis.

[0010] The first sub-support layer can include a first area overlapping the first non-folding area, a second area overlapping the folding area, and a third area overlapping the folding area and spaced apart from the first area, the second area including the first opening group, the second area being disposed between the first area and the third area.

[0011] The second sub-support layer can include a fourth area overlapping the second non-folding area, a fifth area overlapping the folding area, and a sixth area overlapping the folding area and spaced apart from the fourth area, the fifth area including the second opening group, the fifth area being disposed between the fourth area and the sixth area.

[0012] Each of the first opening group and the second opening group can include a plurality of sub-opening groups arranged in the second direction and spaced apart from each other.

[0013] Each of the plurality of sub-opening groups can include a plurality of openings arranged in the first direction and spaced apart from each other.

[0014] Each of the plurality of openings can have a rectangular shape, a long side of the rectangular shape being substantially parallel to the first direction, in a plan view.

[0015] The first sub-support layer and the second sub-support layer can face each other in a case where the display apparatus is folded with respect to the folding axis.

[0016] The display apparatus can further include a first adhesive layer disposed between the impact absorption layer and the first sub-support layer, and a second adhesive layer disposed between the impact absorption layer and the second sub-support layer.

[0017] The first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer can be spaced apart at a first width in the second direction.

[0018] The display apparatus can further include a filter layer disposed under the support layer.

[0019] The filter layer can overlap an entire surface of the recessed portion, and overlap a portion of the first sub-support layer and a portion of the second sub-support layer.

[0020] The filter layer can include a first portion overlapping the first sub-support layer, a second portion overlapping the second sub-support layer, and a third portion connecting the first portion to the second portion.

[0021] The first portion of the filter layer and the second portion of the filter layer can face each other, and the third portion can extend to connect the first portion to the second portion, in a case where the display apparatus is folded with respect to the folding axis.

[0022] The display apparatus can further include an auxiliary support layer disposed on the support layer, the auxiliary support layer can overlap an entire surface of the recessed portion, and the auxiliary support layer can include a third opening group in a region in which the auxiliary support layer overlaps the recessed portion.

[0023] The third opening group can include a plurality of third sub-opening groups spaced apart from each other in the second direction.

[0024] Each of the third sub-opening groups can include a plurality of third openings spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0025] The display apparatus can further include an adhesive layer disposed between the support layer and the auxiliary support layer.

[0026] The adhesive layer can include a third adhesive layer overlapping the first sub-support layer and a fourth adhesive layer overlapping the second sub-support layer.

[0027] The third adhesive layer and the fourth adhesive layer can be spaced apart at a second width in the second direction.

[0028] The display apparatus according to embodiments can include a support layer, the group of openings is defined through the support layer in a portion of an area of the support layer, and thus, sagging of a display module and an impact absorbing layer disposed above the support layer and deformation of the support layer due to an external impact can be prevented. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0029] The above and other advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the following drawings, in which:

[0030] FIG. 1A FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 1B FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 2 FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 3 FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 4A FIG. 5 is a schematic enlarged plan view illustrating a portion of a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 4B FIG. 6 is a schematic enlarged plan view illustrating a portion of a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 5A FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 5B FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 5C FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus according to a comparative example;

[0039] FIG. 6 FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 7 FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 8A FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus according to a comparative example;

[0043] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0044] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The disclosure can be variously modified and implemented in many different forms, and thus some embodiments will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and will be described in detail below. However, the disclosure should not be limited to the specifically disclosed forms, and should be construed to include all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0046] In the disclosure, it will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on", "connected to", or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on the other element or layer, directly connected to or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers can be present.

[0047] The same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like elements. In the drawings, the thickness, ratio, and size of components can be exaggerated for effective description of the technical content.

[0048] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0049] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these terms are not intended to denote a particular order or sequence. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0050] Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper" and the like, can be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0052] It will be further understood that the terms "includes" and / or "including", when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0053] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a display device DD according to an embodiment. FIG. 1B is a schematic perspective view illustrating an operation of a display device DD according to an embodiment.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B , the display device DD can be activated in response to an electrical signal applied thereto. The display device DD can be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a car navigation system, a game console, or a wearable device, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrates a mobile phone as an exemplary display device DD.

[0056] The display device DD can be a foldable display device folded about a folding axis FX extending in a first direction DR1. The display device DD can include a first non-folded area DDNF1, a folding area DDFA, and a second non-folded area DDNF2, which are defined in the display device DD and arranged sequentially in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. For example, the display device DD can include a folding area DDFA folded about a folding axis FX extending in a first direction DR1, a first non-folded area DDNF1 disposed adjacent to one side of the folding area DDFA, and a second non-folded area DDNF2 disposed adjacent to the other side of the folding area DDFA. FIG. 1A and FIG. 1BThe folding region DDFA and the first and second non-folding regions DDNF1 and DDNF2 are shown, but the number of folding regions DDFA and the number of non-folding regions are not limited to or by this. For example, the display device DD can include three or more non-folding regions and folding regions disposed between the non-folding regions.

[0057] The display device DD can include a display surface DS including an active region DA and a non-active region NDA. The display device DD can display an image IM through the active region DA. In a case where the display device DD is in a non-folded state, the active region DA can include a layer substantially parallel to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. A thickness direction of the display device DD can be substantially parallel to a third direction DR3 intersecting the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Accordingly, a front (or upper) surface and a rear (or lower) surface of each member of the display device DD can be defined in the third direction DR3.

[0058] In a case where the display device DD is folded, the display surface DS of the first non-folding region DDNF1 and the display surface DS of the second non-folding region DDNF2 can face each other. Accordingly, in a case where the display device DD is completely folded, the active region DA can not be exposed to the outside. This state can be referred to as an inner folding state, however, this is merely an example. The present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0059] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view illustrating a display device DD according to an embodiment.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 2 , the display device DD can include a display module DM, an impact absorbing layer CL, a support layer SL, and a housing module CM.

[0061] The display module DM can display an image IM (referring to FIG. 1A ) and sense an external input. The external input can be an input of a user. The display module DM can sense an external input applied to a side surface or a rear surface of the display device DD according to a structure of the display device DD.

[0062] Although not shown in the drawings, the display module DM can include a display panel generating an image and an input sensing layer (not shown) obtaining coordinate information of an external input. The display panel can be a light emitting type display panel, however, it is not particularly limited. For example, the display panel can be an organic light emitting display panel or a quantum dot light emitting display panel. A light emitting layer of the organic light emitting display panel can include an organic light emitting material. A light emitting layer of the quantum dot light emitting display panel can include quantum dots or quantum rods.

[0063] The input sensing layer may be directly disposed on the display panel. For example, the input sensing layer may be formed directly on the display panel through a continuous process. The input sensing layer may include an insulating layer and a conductive layer. The conductive layer may form sensing electrodes for sensing external inputs, sensing lines connected to the sensing electrodes, and sensing pads connected to the sensing lines. The input sensing layer may sense external inputs using a mutual capacitance method and / or a self-capacitance method, however, the method of sensing external inputs is not limited thereto or thereby.

[0064] The display module DM may include a first non-folding area NFA1, a folding area FA, and a second non-folding area NFA2, which are defined in the display module DM and arranged sequentially in the second direction DR2. For example, the display module DM may include a folding area FA that is folded about a folding axis FX extending in the first direction DR1, the first non-folding area NFA1 disposed on one side of the folding area FA, and the second non-folding area NFA2 disposed on the other side of the folding area FA, and the folding area FA may be disposed between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0065] The shock absorbing layer CL may be provided under the display module DM. The shock absorbing layer CL may support the rear surface of the display module DM and may protect the display module DM from the impact applied to the display module DM from the outside. The shock absorbing layer CL may include sponge, foam, or polyurethane resin. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B The impact absorbing layer CL is described in detail.

[0066] The support layer SL may be provided below the impact absorbing layer CL. The support layer SL may support and maintain the rear surface of the impact absorbing layer CL. The support layer SL may include at least one of stainless steel (SUS), copper alloy, and graphite, however, this is merely an example and the present disclosure is not limited thereto or thereby. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B The support layer SL is described in more detail.

[0067] The case module CM can be disposed at an outermost position of the display device DD and can accommodate components therein. The case module CM can include a bottom surface and a sidewall extending from the bottom surface. The display module DM, the impact absorbing layer CL, the support layer SL, and other electronic modules (not shown) can be accommodated in an internal space defined by the bottom surface and the sidewall. The electronic modules can include a camera, a flash unit, a fingerprint sensor, a battery, and a function sensor, and the function sensor can be a proximity sensor, a color density detection sensor, an illuminance sensor, a motion sensor, or a heart rate sensor, however, these are merely examples, and the function sensor is not limited thereto or by it. Some of the camera, the flash unit, the fingerprint sensor, the battery, and the function sensor can be omitted, and other electronic modules can also be used.

[0068] The case module CM can include a material having relatively greater rigidity than that of the display module DM. For example, the case module CM can include a glass, a plastic, or a metal material, or can include a frame and / or a plate formed of a combination of a glass, a plastic, and / or a metal material. The case module CM can stably protect the components of the display device DD accommodated in the internal space from external impacts.

[0069] The case module CM can include a first case portion CA1, a second case portion CA2, and a folding case portion FCA. The folding case portion FCA can be disposed between the first case portion CA1 and the second case portion CA2. The folding case portion FCA can have a hinge structure, or can include a flexible material.

[0070] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along a line I-I' of FIG. 1 to illustrate the display device DD. FIG. 2 is a schematic enlarged plan view illustrating a portion EN (see FIG. 4A ) of the first sub-support layer S-SL1 shown in FIG. 3 FIG. 2 ) of the first sub-support layer S-SL1 shown in FIG. 4B FIG. 3 ) of the first sub-support layer S-SL1 shown in FIG. 2 FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B will be described below with reference to

[0071] Referring to FIG. 3 ​​​The impact absorption layer CL can include a first non-bending area NBA1, a bending area BA, and a second non-bending area NBA2, which are defined in the impact absorption layer CL and are sequentially arranged in the second direction DR2. For example, the bending area BA can be disposed between the first non-bending area NBA1 and the second non-bending area NBA2. The first non-bending area NBA1 can overlap the first non-fold area NFA1, the bending area BA can overlap the folding area FA, and the second non-bending area NBA2 can overlap the second non-fold area NFA2. In the case where the display device DD is folded about the folding axis FX, the bending area BA can be bent about the same folding axis FX as the folding area FA.

[0072] The impact absorption layer CL can be provided with (or include) a concave portion CU defined therein and concave toward the display module DM in the bending area BA. The concave portion CU can have a first width D1 in the second direction DR2. The portion of the impact absorption layer CL in which the concave portion CU is defined can contact the display module DM disposed on the impact absorption layer CL without contacting the support layer SL disposed below the impact absorption layer CL.

[0073] The support layer SL can include a first sub-support layer S-SL1 overlapping a portion of the folding area FA and the first non-fold area NFA1, and a second sub-support layer S-SL2 spaced apart from the first sub-support layer S-SL1 and overlapping a portion of the folding area FA and the second non-fold area NFA2. The second sub-support layer S-SL2 can be spaced apart from the first sub-support layer S-SL1 in the second direction DR2 by a second width D2 that is less than the first width D1. The first sub-support layer S-SL1 and the second sub-support layer S-SL2 can be symmetrical to each other with respect to the folding axis FX.

[0074] First and second opening groups OPG1 and OPG2 can be defined through the first and second sub-support layers S-SL1 and S-SL2, respectively. The first opening group OPG1 of the first sub-support layer S-SL1 can be spaced apart from a first cross-sectional surface CS1 of the first sub-support layer S-SL1 adjacent to the second sub-support layer S-SL2 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2, and the second opening group OPG2 of the second sub-support layer S-SL2 can be spaced apart from a second cross-sectional surface CS2 of the second sub-support layer S-SL2 adjacent to the first sub-support layer S-SL1 in the second direction DR2. In FIG. 3 In the middle, the first and second opening groups OPG1 and OPG2 can be formed in a region corresponding to the folding area FA, however, this is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto or thereby. For example, the first opening group OPG1 can overlap the first non-fold area NFA1, or the second opening group OPG2 can overlap the second non-fold area NFA2.

[0075] Since the first and second opening groups OPG1 and OPG2 are formed to pass through the first and second sub-support layers S-SL1 and S-SL2 to be spaced apart from the first and second cross-sectional surfaces CS1 and CS2, respectively, the third and sixth areas 3AA and 6AA can be defined.

[0076] The first sub-support layer S-SL1 can include a first area 1AA overlapping the first non-fold area NFA1, a second area 2AA overlapping the fold area FA and provided with the first opening group OPG1 defined therein, and a third area 3AA overlapping the fold area FA and spaced apart from the first area 1AA, with the second area 2AA interposed between the first and third areas 1AA and 3AA. The second sub-support layer S-SL2 can include a fourth area 4AA overlapping the second non-fold area NFA2, a fifth area 5AA overlapping the fold area FA and provided with the second opening group OPG2 defined therein, and a sixth area 6AA overlapping the fold area FA and spaced apart from the fourth area 4AA, with the fifth area 5AA interposed between the fourth and sixth areas 4AA and 6AA.

[0077] Since the support layer SL includes the third and sixth areas 3AA and 6AA in which no openings are defined, the support layer SL can stably support the impact absorption layer CL and the display module DM provided thereon. For example, a sagging phenomenon of the impact absorption layer CL and the display module DM in the fold area FA can be reduced when compared to a case in which openings are defined in the third and sixth areas 3AA and 6AA. Accordingly, deformation of the impact absorption layer CL and the display module DM can be prevented. As a result, reliability regarding durability of the impact absorption layer CL and the display module DM can be improved. Since the display module DM does not sag, a user's touch feeling can be improved, and frictional noise generated when the support layer SL collides with other components provided thereon or thereunder can be reduced.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 4A Each of the first and second opening groups OPG1 and OPG2 can include sub-opening groups S-OPG1, S-OPG2, and S-OPG3 defined in the second direction DR2 and spaced apart from each other by a third width D3 smaller than the second width D2. The sub-opening groups S-OPG1, S-OPG2, and S-OPG3 can be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals in the second direction DR2, however, this is merely an example. The sub-opening groups S-OPG1, S-OPG2, and S-OPG3 can be spaced apart from each other at different intervals in the second direction DR2.

[0079] Each of the sub-opening groups S-OPG1, S-OPG2, and S-OPG3 can include openings OP1, OP2, …, OPn arranged in the first direction DR1. The openings OP1, OP2, …, OPn can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals in the first direction DR1, however, this is merely an example. The openings OP1, OP2, …, OPn can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other at different intervals.

[0080] Each of the openings OP1, OP2, …, OPn can have a rectangular shape in which a side in the first direction DR1 is a long side, however, this is merely an example. Referring to FIG. 4B Each of the openings OP1-a, OP2-a, …, OPn-a included in the sub-opening groups S-OPG1a, S-OPG2a, and S-OPG3a of the first opening group OPG1a, respectively, can have a shape including a curved portion. For example, each of the openings OP1-a, OP2-a, …, OPn-a can have an elliptical shape in which a side in the first direction DR1 can be straight and a side in the second direction DR2 can be curved. However, the shape of the openings OP1-a, OP2-a, …, OPn-a is not particularly limited as long as external impact is reduced.

[0081] FIG. 5A FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus DD according to an embodiment. FIG. 5B FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the folded display apparatus DD according to the embodiment after the display apparatus DD falls. FIG. 5C FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus DD-a according to a comparative example after the display apparatus DD-a falls.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 5A The display apparatus DD can be bent about a folding axis FX. In the case where the display apparatus DD is bent, the first sub-support layer S-SL1 and the second sub-support layer S-SL2 can face each other. The first sub-support layer S-SL1 and the second sub-support layer S-SL2 can include the first opening group OPG1 and the second opening group OPG2, respectively, and thus damage and deformation of the support layer SL occurring when the display apparatus DD falls while being bent can be reduced.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 5BSince the first and second sub-support layers S-SL1 and S-SL2 include the opening groups OPG1 and OPG2 that absorb external impact, even if the display device DD falls while being in the folded state, the support layer SL can be prevented from being deformed due to external impact. In the case where external impact is applied, the opening groups OPG1 and OPG2 of the first and second sub-support layers S-SL1 and S-SL2 can absorb the external impact, and the first and second sub-support layers S-SL1 and S-SL2 can respectively form inclined surfaces so that the first and second cross-sectional surfaces CS1 and CS2 respectively formed in the first and second sub-support layers S-SL1 and S-SL2 face the folding axis FX, thereby preventing the support layer SL from being deformed.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 5C In the case where the display device DD-a according to the comparative example falls while being in the folded state, since the openings that absorb external impact are not defined in the sub-support layers S-SL1a and S-SL2a, the external impact is directly applied to the sub-support layers S-SL1a and S-SL2a, and as a result, the sub-support layers S-SL1a and S-SL2a are twisted.

[0085] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 According to an embodiment, a display device DD-1 can further include a first adhesive layer ADL1 and a second adhesive layer ADL2 disposed between the impact-absorbing layer CL and the support layer SL. The first and second adhesive layers ADL1 and ADL2 can include a ductile adhesive. The first and second adhesive layers ADL1 and ADL2 can attach the impact-absorbing layer CL to the support layer SL. FIG. 6 The display device DD-1 will be described in detail below. In the following description of the display device DD-1, descriptions of features identical to those of the display device DD described with reference to FIG. 6 will be omitted, and features different from those of the display device DD described with reference to FIGS. 1A-5C will be mainly described. FIGS. 1A-5C

[0086] Referring to FIG. 6 According to an embodiment, a display device DD-1 can further include a first adhesive layer ADL1 and a second adhesive layer ADL2 disposed between the impact-absorbing layer CL and the support layer SL. The first and second adhesive layers ADL1 and ADL2 can include a ductile adhesive. The first and second adhesive layers ADL1 and ADL2 can attach the impact-absorbing layer CL to the support layer SL.

[0087] The first adhesive layer ADL1 can overlap the first sub-support layer S-SL1, and the second adhesive layer ADL2 can overlap the second sub-support layer S-SL2. The first and second adhesive layers ADL1 and ADL2 can be spaced apart from each other by a first width D1 in the second direction DR2, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto or restricted thereto. The first and second adhesive layers ADL1 and ADL2 can be a continuous integral adhesive layer, or can be filled in the recessed portions CU formed in the impact-absorbing layer CL. ​

[0088] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 2B, illustrating a display apparatus DD-2 according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 2B, illustrating a display apparatus DD-2 according to an embodiment. FIG. 8A is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus DD-2 after the folded display apparatus DD-2 falls according to an embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a folded display apparatus DD-b according to a comparative example. Hereinafter, reference will be made to FIGS. 7-8B The display apparatus DD-2 according to an embodiment and the display apparatus DD-b according to a comparative example will be described in detail. Descriptions identical to those of the display apparatus DD of FIGS. 1A to 1C will be omitted, and features different from those of the display apparatus DD described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 1C will be mainly described. FIGS. 1A-5C FIGS. 1A-5C Referring to FIG. 2A,

[0089] Referring to FIG. 2A, FIG. 7 The display apparatus DD-2 can further include a filter layer FL under the support layer SL. The filter layer FL can prevent foreign substances from entering the folding area FA. The filter layer FL disposed under the support layer SL can completely overlap the concave portion CU, and can overlap a portion of the support layer SL. The filter layer FL can include a first portion PA1 overlapping the first sub-support layer S-SL1, a second portion PA2 overlapping the second sub-support layer S-SL2, and a third portion PA3 connecting the first portion PA1 and the second portion PA2 to each other.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 2A, FIG. 8A When the display apparatus DD-2 is bent, the first portion PA1 and the second portion PA2 can face each other, and the third portion PA3 can extend to connect the first portion PA1 to the second portion PA2. The display apparatus DD-2 in the folded state can include a space surrounded by the third portion PA3, the first sub-support layer S-SL1, the second sub-support layer S-SL2, and the impact absorption layer CL.

[0091] In a case where the display apparatus DD-2 falls while being bent, a portion of the first portion PA1 and a portion of the second portion PA2, and a portion of the third portion PA3 can form an inclined surface toward the folding axis FX. When the inclined surface is formed, an extension of the filter layer FL can be less than that of the display apparatus DD-b (see FIG. 2B) of the comparative example. For example, when the opening groups OPG1 and OPG2 are defined in the first sub-support layer S-SL1 and the second sub-support layer S-SL2, a repulsive force caused by the extension of the filter layer FL can be reduced, and thus, a bending deformation of the filter layer FL and a reliability risk of the filter layer FL can be reduced. FIG. 8B

[0092] Referring to FIG. 2A, FIG. 8B ​​In the sub-support layers S-SL1a and S-SL2a of the display apparatus DD-b according to the comparative example, the openings are not defined. Accordingly, the sub-support layers S-SL1a and S-SL2a can not form the inclined surface toward the concave portion CU, and as a result, the deformation of the filter layer FL and the reliability risk of the filter layer FL can increase due to the repulsive force caused by the excessive extension of the filter layer FL.

[0093] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 . Hereinafter, the display apparatus DD-3 according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 9 The display apparatus DD-3 will be described in detail. In FIG. 9 , descriptions identical to those of the display apparatus DD described with reference to FIGS. 1A-5C will be omitted, and features different from those of the display apparatus DD described with reference to FIGS. 1A-5C will be mainly described.

[0094] The display apparatus DD-3 according to an embodiment can further include an auxiliary support layer SL2 disposed on the support layer SL1. The auxiliary support layer SL2 can completely overlap the concave portion CU. A third opening group OPG3 can be defined through the auxiliary support layer SL2 in a region in which the auxiliary support layer SL2 overlaps the concave portion CU.

[0095] The third opening group OPG3 can include third sub-opening groups (not shown) spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. The third sub-opening groups can be spaced apart from each other at regular or different intervals in the second direction DR2. Each of the third sub-opening groups can include third openings (not shown) spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each third opening can have a rectangular shape in which a long side is parallel to the first direction DR1, however, this is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto or thereby. Although not shown in the drawing, each third opening can have a shape with a curved portion. In detail, each third opening can have an elliptical shape in which a side in the first direction DR1 is straight and a side in the second direction DR2 is curved. However, the shape of the third opening should not be particularly limited as long as the external impact is reduced.

[0096] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 . Hereinafter, the display apparatus DD-4 according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 10 The display apparatus DD-4 will be described in detail. In FIG. 10 , descriptions identical to those of the display apparatus DD described with reference to FIGS. 1A-5C will be omitted, and features different from those of the display apparatus DD described with reference to FIGS. 1A-5C will be mainly described.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 10 The display apparatus DD-4 can further include adhesive layers ADL3 and ADL4 disposed between the support layer SL1 and the auxiliary support layer SL2. The adhesive layers ADL3 and ADL4 can include a malleable adhesive. The adhesive layers ADL3 and ADL4 can attach the support layer SL1 to the auxiliary support layer SL2.

[0098] The adhesive layers ADL3 and ADL4 can include a third adhesive layer ADL3 overlapping the first sub-support layer S-SL1 and a fourth adhesive layer ADL4 overlapping the second sub-support layer S-SL2. The third adhesive layer ADL3 and the fourth adhesive layer ADL4 can be spaced apart from each other by a second width D2 in the second direction DR2, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto or restricted thereto. The third adhesive layer ADL3 and the fourth adhesive layer ADL4 can be continuous adhesive layers and can fill a space defined by the first sub-support layer S-SL1 and the second sub-support layer S-SL2 spaced apart from the first sub-support layer S-SL1.

[0099] The display apparatus according to the embodiments can include a support layer, and the group of openings is defined through the support layer in a portion of an area of the support layer, and thus, sagging of a display module and an impact absorbing layer disposed above the support layer and deformation of the support layer caused by an external impact can be prevented.

[0100] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it is understood that the present disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments, but various changes and modifications can be made by one of ordinary skill in the art within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed in the appended claims. Accordingly, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, but rather the scope of the claimed application should be according to the appended claims.

Claims

1. Display devices, including: Display module, including: a folding region capable of folding relative to a folding axis extending in a first direction; a first unfolding region disposed adjacent to one side of the folding region; and a second unfolding region, disposed adjacent to the other side of the folding region; An impact absorbing layer is provided below the display module, and includes: a bending region overlapping the folding region; a first non-bending region overlapping the first non-folding region; and a second non-bending region overlapping the second non-folding region, and the impact absorbing layer includes a concave portion corresponding to the bending region; and A support layer is provided below the impact absorbing layer, and comprises: a first sub-support layer, overlapping the first unfolded area; and a second sub-support layer, spaced apart from the first sub-support layer in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and overlapping with the second unfolded area; in: the first sub-supporting layer includes a first opening group formed through the first sub-supporting layer and spaced apart from a first cross-sectional surface of the first sub-supporting layer adjacent to the second sub-supporting layer in a direction opposite to the second direction, and The second sub-supporting layer includes a second opening group formed through the second sub-supporting layer and spaced apart from a second cross-sectional surface of the second sub-supporting layer adjacent to the first sub-supporting layer in the second direction.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The recessed portion has a first width in the second direction, and The first sub-supporting layer and the second sub-supporting layer are spaced apart by a second width smaller than the first width in the second direction.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The first sub-support layer and the second sub-support layer are symmetrical to each other with respect to the folding axis.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first sub-support layer comprises: a first region overlapping the first unfolded region; a second region overlapping the folding region, the second region including the first opening group; and a third region overlapping the folding region and spaced apart from the first region, the second region being disposed between the first region and the third region, and The second sub-support layer includes: a fourth region, overlapping with the second unfolded region; a fifth region, overlapping the folding region, the fifth region including the second opening group; and The sixth region overlaps with the folding region and is spaced apart from the fourth region. The fifth region is disposed between the fourth region and the sixth region.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein Each of the first opening group and the second opening group includes a plurality of sub-opening groups arranged in the second direction and spaced apart from each other. The display device according to claim 5 , wherein: Each of the plurality of sub-opening groups includes a plurality of openings arranged in the first direction and spaced apart from each other.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein In a case where the display device is folded with respect to the folding axis, the first sub-supporting layer and the second sub-supporting layer face each other.

8. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first adhesive layer, disposed between the impact absorbing layer and the first sub-support layer; as well as The second adhesive layer is disposed between the impact absorbing layer and the second sub-support layer. 9 . The display device according to claim 1 , further comprising a filter layer disposed below the support layer.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein The filter layer overlaps the entire surface of the recessed portion, and overlaps a portion of the first sub-support layer and a portion of the second sub-support layer.

11. The display device according to claim 9, wherein The filter layer comprises: a first portion overlapping the first sub-support layer; a second portion overlapping the second sub-support layer; and The third part connects the first part to the second part.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein In a state where the display device is folded about the folding axis, the first portion of the filter layer and the second portion of the filter layer face each other, and The third portion extends to connect the first portion to the second portion.

13. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising an auxiliary supporting layer provided on the supporting layer, in: The auxiliary supporting layer overlaps the entire surface of the recessed portion, and The auxiliary supporting layer includes a third opening group in a region where the auxiliary supporting layer overlaps the recessed portion.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein The third opening group includes a plurality of third sub-opening groups spaced apart from each other in the second direction.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein Each of the third sub-opening groups includes a plurality of third openings spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

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