Foldable display devices

Abstract

A foldable display device includes a display panel including a folding region and a planar region adjacent to the folding region; a window on the display panel; and a window protection layer on the window. The window protection layer includes a recovery layer including a soft pattern corresponding to the folding region; a plastic film on the recovery layer; and a hard coating layer on the plastic film.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to foldable display devices. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to foldable display devices including a window protection layer. Background Art

[0002] Foldable display devices are foldable. Therefore, the windows included in foldable display devices are made of flexible materials. However, when the windows are made of flexible materials, the display panel included in the foldable display device may not be properly protected. For example, the shape of the window may be deformed by external forces such as stamping, or the window may be worn due to repeated contact. Therefore, in order to properly protect the display panel, it is desirable to improve the protective function of the window. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Embodiments provide a foldable display device.

[0004] A foldable display device includes: a display panel including a folding region and a planar region adjacent to the folding region; a window on the display panel; and a window protective layer on the window. The window protective layer may include, in order from the window, a recovery layer (e.g., a shape recovery layer), a plastic film, and a hard coating layer, wherein the recovery layer includes a soft pattern overlapping with (e.g., corresponding to) the folding region.

[0005] Depending on the embodiment, the soft pattern may also overlap with the planar area.

[0006] According to an embodiment, the recovery layer may further include a hard pattern overlapping the planar area.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the soft pattern can be set in plurality, including multiple first soft sheets (e.g., first soft sub-patterns), and the recovery layer can also include multiple first hard sheets (e.g., first hard sub-patterns) between the first soft sheets and overlapping the folding area.

[0008] According to an embodiment, the recovery layer may further include a hard pattern overlapping the planar area.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the hard pattern may be provided in plurality, including a plurality of second hard pieces (e.g., second hard sub-patterns), and the recovery layer may further include a plurality of second soft pieces (e.g., second soft sub-patterns) between the second hard pieces and overlapping the planar area.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the soft pattern may include a polymer resin.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the hard coating layer may include silicone resin and metal oxide.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the plastic film may include a polymer resin.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the window may include colorless polyimide.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the foldable display device may further include a protective film under the display panel, a buffer member under the protective film, and a support member under the buffer member.

[0015] A foldable display device includes: a display panel including a folding region and a planar region adjacent to the folding region; a window on the display panel; and a window protective layer on the window. The window protective layer may include, in order from the window, a plastic film, a recovery layer (e.g., a shape recovery layer), and a hard coating layer, the recovery layer including a soft pattern overlapping the folding region.

[0016] Depending on the embodiment, the soft pattern may also overlap with the planar area.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the recovery layer may further include a hard pattern overlapping the planar area.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the soft pattern may be provided in plurality, including a plurality of first soft sheets (e.g., first soft sub-patterns), and the recovery layer may further include a plurality of first hard sheets (e.g., first hard sub-patterns) between the first soft sheets and overlapping the folding area.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the recovery layer may further include a hard pattern overlapping the planar area.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the hard pattern may be provided in plurality, including a plurality of second hard pieces (e.g., second hard sub-patterns), and the recovery layer may further include a plurality of second soft pieces (e.g., second soft sub-patterns) between the second hard pieces and overlapping the planar area.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the soft pattern may include a polymer resin.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the hard coating layer may include silicone resin and metal oxide.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the plastic film may include a polymer resin.

[0024] Therefore, one or more embodiments of a foldable display device may include a window protection layer that protects the window. The window protection layer may include a plastic film, a recovery layer, and a hard coating layer. The plastic film protects the window. Furthermore, the recovery layer improves the resilience of the plastic film to overcome external forces such as impact. Furthermore, the hard coating improves the wear resistance of the window protection layer.

[0025] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present invention and together with the description serve to explain the present invention. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.

[0027] Figure 1 is a plan view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0028] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0029] Figure 3 It is shown that the Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a display panel in a foldable display device.

[0030] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0031] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0032] Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0033] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0034] Figure 8 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0035] Figure 9 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device.

[0036] Figure 10 It shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a foldable display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] The present invention will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments are shown. However, the present invention may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals represent like elements throughout.

[0038] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being associated with another element, such as being on another element, it can be directly on the other element or there can be intervening elements between them. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being associated with another element, such as being directly on the other element, there are no intervening elements.

[0039] 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 sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this document, the "first element," "first component," "first region," "first layer," or "first section" discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second section.

[0040] The terms used herein are only used to describe the purpose of specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, "one", "a", "the" and "at least one" do not represent a limit to quantity and are intended to include both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, "an element" has the same meaning as "at least one element". "At least one" should not be interpreted as limiting "one" or "a kind of". "Or" means "and / or". As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "comprising" and / or "including" or "including" and / or "including" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, regions, entireties, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, entireties, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups.

[0041] In addition, relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in one of the accompanying drawings is turned over, the elements described as being on the "lower" side of the other elements will be oriented on the "upper" side of the other elements. Thus, the term "lower" can encompass both the "lower" and "upper" orientations, depending on the particular orientation of the drawing. Similarly, if the device in one of the accompanying drawings is turned over, the elements described as being below or under the other elements will be oriented as being above the other elements. Thus, the terms "below" or "beneath" can include both the below and above orientations.

[0042] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" includes the stated value and the mean within an acceptable deviation range for the particular value determined by one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the measurements in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations of the stated value, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, or ±5% of the stated value.

[0043] 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 consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly so defined herein.

[0044] Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views that are schematic representations of idealized embodiments. As such, variations from the illustrated shapes are to be expected as a result of, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of the regions shown herein, but rather should include deviations in shape that result, for example, from manufacturing. For example, a region shown or described as flat may typically have rough and / or nonlinear features. Furthermore, sharp angles shown may be rounded. Therefore, the regions shown in the drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of the regions and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0045] Illustrative, non-limiting embodiments will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 is a plan view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 10 . Figure 2is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 11. Figure 3 It is shown that the Figure 2 sectional view of an embodiment of a display panel 400 in a foldable display device 11. Figure 2 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0047] Reference Figure 1 The foldable display device 10 includes a display panel 400, a window WIN, and a window protection layer PL. The window WIN may be provided on the display panel 400, and the window protection layer PL may be provided on the window WIN. That is, the display panel 400, the window WIN, and the window protection layer PL may be provided in sequence along the thickness direction of the foldable display device 10. The flat or unfolded foldable display device 10 is provided in a direction formed by a first direction and a second direction intersecting each other (such as Figure 1 The thickness direction may be defined along a third direction intersecting each of the first direction and the second direction, such as Figure 2 The vertical direction in .

[0048] The display panel 400 can generate and / or display an image, and the window WIN can protect the display panel 400. The window WIN transmits the image to the outside of the foldable display device 10. The window protection layer PL can be provided on top of the foldable display device 10 and can protect the window WIN. The window protection layer PL transmits the image to the outside of the foldable display device 10. The window protection layer PL can form the front surface of the foldable display device 10, but is not limited thereto. The foldable display device 10 includes the window WIN facing the display panel 400 and the window protection layer PL facing the display panel 400, with the window WIN between the display panel 400 and the window protection layer PL.

[0049] In an embodiment, the display panel 400 may include a folding area FA and a planar area PA adjacent to the folding area FA. The display panel 400 may include a plurality of planar areas PA disposed at opposite sides of the folding area FA along the first direction, but is not limited thereto. Figure 1 As shown, the display panel 400 may include a folding area FA that overlaps or corresponds to a central portion of the display panel 400 along a first direction, and a planar area PA that is adjacent to the left and right sides of the folding area FA along the first direction. The display panel 400 may be foldable in the folding area FA. The planar area PA may be an area where the display panel 400 is not foldable, or may be an area that remains flat even when the display panel 400 is folded at the folding area FA (e.g., a non-folding area).

[0050] Other components of the foldable display device 10 may include a folding area FA and a flat area PA corresponding to the folding area FA and the flat area PA described above for the display panel 400. Therefore, the window WIN and the window protection layer PL may be foldable at the folding area FA. In other words, the display panel 400, the window WIN, and the window protection layer PL may be foldable together.

[0051] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The foldable display device 11 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, a first window protective layer PL1, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a support member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840.

[0052] like Figure 3 As shown, the display panel 400 may include a substrate 410, a buffer layer 420, an active pattern 430, a first insulating layer ILD1, a gate electrode 440, a second insulating layer ILD2, a source electrode 451, a drain electrode 452, a through-hole insulating layer V1A, a first electrode 461, an emission layer 462, a second electrode 463, a pixel defining layer PDL, a first inorganic layer 471, an organic layer 472 and a second inorganic layer 473.

[0053] The substrate 410 may include glass, quartz, plastic, etc. In an embodiment, for example, the substrate 410 may be a plastic substrate and may include polyimide ("PI"). In an embodiment, the substrate 410 may have a structure in which at least one polyimide layer and at least one barrier layer are alternately stacked.

[0054] The buffer layer 420 may be disposed on the substrate 410 . The buffer layer 420 may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, etc. The buffer layer 420 may reduce or effectively prevent impurities from diffusing into the active pattern 430 .

[0055] The active pattern 430 may be disposed on the buffer layer 420. In an embodiment, for example, the active pattern 430 may include a silicon semiconductor, an oxide semiconductor, or the like. The silicon semiconductor may include amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon. The active pattern 430 may allow or block current according to a gate signal supplied to the gate electrode 440.

[0056] The first insulating layer ILD1 may include an insulating material and may cover the active pattern 430. In an embodiment, for example, the first insulating layer ILD1 may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, etc. The first insulating layer ILD1 may electrically insulate the active pattern 430 and the gate electrode 440 from each other.

[0057] The gate electrode 440 may include a metal, an alloy, a conductive metal oxide, or the like, and may be disposed on the first insulating layer ILD1. In embodiments, for example, the gate electrode 440 may include silver ("Ag"), an alloy containing silver, molybdenum ("Mo"), an alloy containing molybdenum, aluminum ("Al"), an alloy containing aluminum, aluminum nitride ("AlN"), tungsten ("W"), tungsten nitride ("WN"), copper ("Cu"), nickel ("Ni"), chromium ("Cr"), chromium nitride ("CrN"), titanium ("Ti"), tantalum ("Ta"), platinum ("Pt"), scandium (Sc), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), indium zinc oxide ("IZO"), or the like.

[0058] The second insulating layer ILD2 may include an insulating material and may cover the gate electrode 440. In an embodiment, for example, the second insulating layer ILD2 may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, etc. The second insulating layer ILD2 may electrically insulate the gate electrode 440 from the source electrode 451 and from the drain electrode 452.

[0059] The source electrode 451 and the drain electrode 452 may include a metal, an alloy, a conductive metal oxide, or the like, and may be disposed on the second insulating layer ILD2. In embodiments, for example, the source electrode 451 and the drain electrode 452 may include silver ("Ag"), an alloy containing silver, molybdenum ("Mo"), an alloy containing molybdenum, aluminum ("Al"), an alloy containing aluminum, aluminum nitride ("AlN"), tungsten ("W"), tungsten nitride ("WN"), copper ("Cu"), nickel ("Ni"), chromium ("Cr"), chromium nitride ("CrN"), titanium ("Ti"), tantalum ("Ta"), platinum ("Pt"), scandium ("Sc"), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), indium zinc oxide ("IZO"), or the like.

[0060] The via insulating layer VIA may cover the source electrode 451 and the drain electrode 452, may include an organic insulating material, and may have a substantially flat top surface. In an embodiment, for example, the via insulating layer VIA may include photoresist, polyacrylic resin, polyimide resin, acrylic resin, etc.

[0061] The first electrode 461 may be provided on the through-hole insulating layer VIA. The first electrode 461 may include a metal, an alloy, or a conductive metal oxide. In an embodiment, for example, the first electrode 461 may include silver ("Ag"), an alloy containing silver, molybdenum ("Mo"), an alloy containing molybdenum, aluminum ("Al"), an alloy containing aluminum, aluminum nitride ("AlN"), tungsten ("W"), tungsten nitride ("WN"), copper ("Cu"), nickel ("Ni"), chromium ("Cr"), chromium nitride ("CrN"), titanium ("Ti"), tantalum ("Ta"), platinum ("Pt"), scandium ("Sc"), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), indium zinc oxide ("IZO"), etc. The first electrode 461 may receive a first voltage from the drain electrode 452.

[0062] The pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed on the through hole insulating layer VIA, and an opening exposing the upper surface of the first electrode 461 may be defined or formed in the pixel defining layer PDL. In an embodiment, for example, the pixel defining layer PDL may include an organic material such as a polyimide resin (e.g., a photosensitive polyimide resin ("PSPI")), a photoresist, a polyacrylic resin, or an acrylic resin, or an inorganic material such as silicon oxide and silicon nitride.

[0063] The emission layer 462 may be provided on the first electrode 461. The emission layer 462 may have a multi-layer structure including an organic emission layer, a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and / or an electron injection layer.

[0064] The second electrode 463 may be provided on the emission layer 462 and may receive a second voltage. The second electrode 463 may include a metal, an alloy, a conductive metal oxide, or the like. In an embodiment, for example, the second electrode 463 may include silver ("Ag"), an alloy containing silver, molybdenum ("Mo"), an alloy containing molybdenum, aluminum ("Al"), an alloy containing aluminum, aluminum nitride ("AlN"), tungsten ("W"), tungsten nitride ("WN"), copper ("Cu"), nickel ("Ni"), chromium ("Cr"), chromium nitride ("CrN"), titanium ("Ti"), tantalum ("Ta"), platinum ("Pt"), scandium ("Sc"), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), indium zinc oxide ("IZO"), or the like.

[0065] Due to the voltage difference between the first voltage and the second voltage, the emission layer 462 may generate and emit light. Therefore, the first electrode 461, the emission layer 462, and the second electrode 463 may define a display element such as an organic light emitting diode.

[0066] A thin film encapsulation layer may be provided on the second electrode 463. The thin film encapsulation layer may reduce or effectively prevent moisture and oxygen from penetrating from the outside of the display panel 400. In an embodiment, for example, the thin film encapsulation layer may have a structure in which inorganic material layers and organic material layers are alternately stacked, such as a first inorganic layer 471, an organic layer 472, and a second inorganic layer 473 in sequence.

[0067] Refer again Figure 2 , the second adhesive layer 820 may be disposed on the display panel 400. In an embodiment, for example, the second adhesive layer 820 may be an optically clear adhesive ("OCA"), an optically clear adhesive resin ("OCR"), a pressure sensitive adhesive ("PSA"), or the like.

[0068] The window WIN may be provided on the second adhesive layer 820. The window WIN may protect the display panel 400. In an embodiment, for example, the window WIN may include colorless polyimide, ultra-thin tempered glass ("UTG"), polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0069] The first adhesive layer 810 may be disposed on the window WIN. In an embodiment, for example, the first adhesive layer 810 may be an optically clear adhesive (OCA), an optically clear adhesive resin (OCR), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or the like.

[0070] The first window protective layer PL1 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In embodiments, the first window protective layer PL1 may include a recovery layer 110, a plastic film 210, and a hard coating layer 310, extending from the window WIN. Of the recovery layer 110, the plastic film 210, and the hard coating layer 310, the hard coating layer 310 is the farthest from the window WIN. The first window protective layer PL1 includes the plastic film 210 facing the folding area FA and the planar area PA of the display panel 400, and the hard coating layer 310 facing the folding area FA and the planar area PA of the display panel 400 and having rigidity.

[0071] The recovery layer 110 may be provided on the first adhesive layer 810 and may have a self-repairing function. As a self-repairing function, the recovery layer 110 may retain its shape or return to its original shape after deformation (e.g., a shape recovery layer). The shape recovery layer (e.g., the recovery layer 110) includes a soft material pattern corresponding to the folding area FA and having rigidity. In an embodiment, the recovery layer 110 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the recovery layer 110 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc. The recovery layer 110 may include only soft material patterns in both the folding area FA and the planar area PA, but is not limited thereto.

[0072] The plastic film 210 may be disposed on the recovery layer 110 and may protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the plastic film 210 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 210 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0073] The hard coating layer 310 may be disposed on the plastic film 210 and may have relatively high rigidity. Due to its rigidity, the hard coating layer 310 may resist damage, such as as an impact-resistant layer and / or a water-resistant layer. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 310 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0074] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 310 may include silicone and a metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be a silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 310 may be used as an anti-fingerprint layer to resist fingerprints.

[0075] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 310 may be greater than about 0.5 weight percent (wt%) and less than about 5 wt% relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 310. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 310 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 310 may also increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 310 and the haze of the hard coating layer 310.

[0076] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 110 may be about 40 micrometers (μm), the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 210 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 310 may be about 5 μm.

[0077] Since the first window protection layer PL1 includes the plastic film 210, it can protect the window WIN. In addition, since the first window protection layer PL1 includes the recovery layer 110, the recovery force of the plastic film 210 can be improved to overcome external forces such as punching. In addition, since the first window protection layer PL1 includes the hard coating layer 310, the wear resistance of the first window protection layer PL1 can be improved.

[0078] The third adhesive layer 830 may be disposed under the display panel 400. In an embodiment, for example, the third adhesive layer 830 may be an optically clear adhesive (OCA), an optically clear adhesive resin (OCR), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or the like.

[0079] The protective film 500 may be disposed under the third adhesive layer 830. The protective film 500 may prevent moisture and oxygen from penetrating from the outside of the protective film 500 and absorb external impact.

[0080] The fourth adhesive layer 840 may be disposed under the protective film 500. In an embodiment, for example, the fourth adhesive layer 840 may be an optically clear adhesive ("OCA"), an optically clear adhesive resin ("OCR"), a pressure sensitive adhesive ("PSA"), or the like.

[0081] The buffer member 600 may be disposed below the fourth adhesive layer 840. The buffer member 600 may protect the display panel 400 by buffering external impact. In an embodiment, for example, the buffer member 600 may include a material capable of buffering against collisions by accommodating air, such as a pad or sponge. In addition, the buffer member 600 may include acrylic resin, polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, latex, polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam, etc.

[0082] The support member 700 may be disposed below the buffer member 600. The support member 700 may support the display panel 400. In an embodiment, for example, the support member 700 may include invar, which is an alloy of nickel ("Ni"), iron ("Fe"), stainless steel ("SUS"), titanium ("Ti"), copper ("Cu"), etc. In addition, the hole H may be provided as a plurality of holes, including a hole H that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA. The hole H may be defined or formed in the support member 700.

[0083] The foldable display device 11 may include a first window protection layer PL1 for protecting the window WIN. The first window protection layer PL1 may include a recovery layer 110, a plastic film 210 disposed on the recovery layer 110, and a hard coating layer 310 disposed on the plastic film 210. The first window protection layer PL1 includes the plastic film 210, thereby protecting the window WIN. Furthermore, the inclusion of the recovery layer 110 enhances the resilience of the plastic film 210 to overcome external forces such as impact. Furthermore, the inclusion of the hard coating layer 310 enhances the wear resistance of the first window protection layer PL1.

[0084] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 12 . Figure 4 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0085] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 4 , the foldable display device 12 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, a second window protective layer PL2, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a support member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840. However, except for the second window protective layer PL2, the foldable display device 12 may be substantially the same as the reference 1. Figure 2 The foldable display device 11 described is the same.

[0086] The second window protection layer PL2 may be on the first adhesive layer 810. In an embodiment, the second window protection layer PL2 may include a recovery layer 120, a plastic film 220, and a hard coating layer 320. The recovery layer 120 may include a soft pattern 121 and a hard pattern 122. The soft pattern 121 and the hard pattern 122 may be in the same layer of the foldable display device 12. The soft pattern 121 and the hard pattern 122 may be coplanar with each other.

[0087] The recovery layer 120 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In embodiments, the recovery layer 120 may include a soft pattern 121 that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA and a hard pattern 122 that overlaps or corresponds to the planar area PA. The hard pattern 122 may have greater rigidity than the soft pattern 121. The soft pattern 121 and the hard pattern 122 may each be a solid pattern of a corresponding material. In other words, the shape-recovery layer further includes the hard pattern 122 that corresponds to the planar area PA and has rigidity.

[0088] The soft pattern 121 may be flexible and have a self-healing function. In an embodiment, the soft pattern 121 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the soft pattern 121 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc. The hard pattern 122 may include a material with greater rigidity than the soft pattern 121. In an embodiment, for example, the hard pattern 122 may include the same material as the hard coating layer 320.

[0089] Because the recovery layer 120 includes the soft pattern 121 overlapping or corresponding to the folding area FA, the foldable display device 12 can be smoothly folded. In addition, since the recovery layer 120 includes the hard pattern 122 overlapping or corresponding to the flat area PA, the wear resistance of the second window protection layer PL2 can be improved.

[0090] The plastic film 220 may be disposed on the recovery layer 120 and may protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the plastic film 220 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 220 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0091] The hard coating layer 320 may be provided on the plastic film 220 and may have relatively high rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 320 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0092] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 320 may include silicone and metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 310 may be an anti-fingerprint layer.

[0093] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 320 may be greater than about 0.5 wt % and less than about 5 wt % relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 320. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 320 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 320 may also increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 320 and the haze of the hard coating layer 320.

[0094] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 120 may be about 40 μm, the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 220 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 320 may be about 5 μm.

[0095] The foldable display device 12 may include a second window protection layer PL2 for protecting the window WIN. The second window protection layer PL2 may include a recovery layer 120, a plastic film 220 disposed on the recovery layer 120, and a hard coating layer 320 disposed on the plastic film 220. Since the second window protection layer PL2 includes the plastic film 220, it can protect the window WIN. Furthermore, since the second window protection layer PL2 includes the recovery layer 120, the restoring force of the plastic film 220 can be enhanced to overcome external forces such as impact. Furthermore, since the second window protection layer PL2 includes the hard coating layer 320, the wear resistance of the second window protection layer PL2 can be improved. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 120 includes a soft pattern 121 that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA, the foldable display device 12 can be smoothly folded. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 120 includes a hard pattern 122 that overlaps or corresponds to the flat area PA, the wear resistance of the second window protection layer PL2 can be improved.

[0096] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the foldable display device 13 . Figure 5 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0097] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 5, the foldable display device 13 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, a third window protective layer PL3, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a support member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840. However, except for the third window protective layer PL3, the foldable display device 13 may be the same as the reference Figure 2 The foldable display device 11 described is essentially the same.

[0098] The third window protection layer PL3 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In embodiments, the third window protection layer PL3 may include a recovery layer 130, a plastic film 230, and a hard coating layer 330. The recovery layer 130 may include a soft sub-pattern 131, a hard sub-pattern 132, and a hard pattern 133. The soft sub-pattern 131 may be provided in a plurality, including a plurality of soft sub-patterns 131 (e.g., a soft sheet), and the hard sub-pattern 132 may be provided in a plurality, including a plurality of hard sub-patterns 132 (e.g., a hard sheet). Each of the soft sub-pattern 131, the hard sub-pattern 132, and the hard pattern 133 may be a solid pattern of a corresponding material. In embodiments, the shape recovery layer includes a plurality of hard sub-patterns 132, which are arranged along the folding area FA to alternate with the soft sub-pattern 131 and have rigidity.

[0099] The recovery layer 130 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In an embodiment, the recovery layer 130 may include a soft sub-pattern 131 that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA, a hard sub-pattern 132 that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA, and a hard pattern 133 that overlaps or corresponds to the planar area PA. Within the folding area FA, the soft sub-patterns 131 and the hard sub-patterns 132 alternate. Along the direction of the window WIN, patterns including hard materials alternate with patterns including soft materials having lower rigidity than the hard materials. The rigidity of the hard sub-patterns 132 and 133 may be greater than that of the soft sub-pattern 131. Furthermore, the rigidity of the hard sub-pattern 132 may be substantially the same as that of the hard pattern 133.

[0100] The soft sub-pattern 131 may have a self-recovery function. In an embodiment, the soft sub-pattern 131 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the soft sub-pattern 131 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc. The hard sub-pattern 132 and the hard pattern 133 may include a material having a greater rigidity than the soft sub-pattern 131. In an embodiment, for example, the hard sub-pattern 132 and the hard pattern 133 may include the same material as the hard coating layer 330.

[0101] Because the recovery layer 130 includes the soft sub-pattern 131 that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA, the foldable display device 13 can be smoothly folded. In addition, because the recovery layer 130 includes the hard sub-pattern 132 and the hard pattern 133 that overlap or correspond to the folding area FA and the flat area PA, respectively, the wear resistance of the third window protection layer PL3 can be improved.

[0102] The plastic film 230 may be disposed on the recovery layer 130 and may protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the plastic film 230 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 230 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0103] The hard coating layer 330 may be provided on the plastic film 230 and may have relatively high rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 330 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0104] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 330 may include silicone and metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 320 may be an anti-fingerprint layer.

[0105] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 330 may be greater than about 0.5 wt% and less than about 5 wt% relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 330. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 330 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 330 may also increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 330 and the haze of the hard coating layer 330.

[0106] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 130 may be about 40 μm, the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 230 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 330 may be about 5 μm.

[0107] The foldable display device 13 may include a third window protection layer PL3 for protecting the window WIN. The third window protection layer PL3 may include a recovery layer 130, a plastic film 230 disposed on the recovery layer 130, and a hard coating layer 330 disposed on the plastic film 230. The inclusion of the plastic film 230 in the third window protection layer PL3 protects the window WIN. Furthermore, the inclusion of the recovery layer 130 enhances the resilience of the plastic film 230 to withstand external forces such as impact. Furthermore, the inclusion of the hard coating layer 330 enhances the wear resistance of the third window protection layer PL3. Furthermore, the inclusion of the soft sub-pattern 131 in the recovery layer 130, which overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA, allows the foldable display device 13 to be smoothly folded. Furthermore, the inclusion of the hard sub-pattern 132 and hard pattern 133 in the recovery layer 130, which overlap or correspond to the folding area FA and the flat area PA, respectively, enhances the wear resistance of the third window protection layer PL3.

[0108] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 14 . Figure 6 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0109] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 6 , the foldable display device 14 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, a fourth window protective layer PL4, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a support member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840. However, except for the fourth window protective layer PL4, the foldable display device 14 may be the same as the reference Figure 2 The foldable display device 11 described is essentially the same.

[0110] The fourth window protection layer PL4 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In an embodiment, the fourth window protection layer PL4 may include a recovery layer 140, a plastic film 240, and a hard coating layer 340. The recovery layer 140 may include a plurality of first soft sub-patterns 141, a plurality of first hard sub-patterns 142, a plurality of second soft sub-patterns 143, and a plurality of second hard sub-patterns 144.

[0111] The recovery layer 140 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In embodiments, the recovery layer 140 may include a first soft sub-pattern 141 overlapping or corresponding to the folding area FA, a first hard sub-pattern 142 overlapping or corresponding to the folding area FA, a second soft sub-pattern 143 overlapping or corresponding to the planar area PA, and a second hard sub-pattern 144 overlapping or corresponding to the planar area PA. The rigidity of the first hard sub-pattern 142 and the second hard sub-pattern 144 may be greater than that of the first soft sub-pattern 141 and the second soft sub-pattern 143. Furthermore, the rigidity of the first hard sub-pattern 142 may be substantially the same as that of the second hard sub-pattern 144. Within the folding area FA, the first soft sub-pattern 141 alternates with the first hard sub-pattern 142. Within the planar area PA, the second soft sub-pattern 143 alternates with the second hard sub-pattern 144.

[0112] The first soft sub-pattern 141 and the second soft sub-pattern 143 may have a self-recovery function. In an embodiment, the first soft sub-pattern 141 and the second soft sub-pattern 143 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the first soft sub-pattern 141 and the second soft sub-pattern 143 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc. The first hard sub-pattern 142 and the second hard sub-pattern 144 may include a material having a greater rigidity than the first soft sub-pattern 141 and the second soft sub-pattern 143. In an embodiment, for example, the first hard sub-pattern 142 and the second hard sub-pattern 144 may include the same material as the hard coating layer 340.

[0113] Since the recovery layer 140 includes the first soft sub-pattern 141 and the second soft sub-pattern 143, the foldable display device 14 can be smoothly folded. In addition, since the recovery layer 140 includes the first hard sub-pattern 142 and the second hard sub-pattern 144, the wear resistance of the fourth window protection layer PL4 can be improved.

[0114] The plastic film 240 may be disposed on the recovery layer 140 and may protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the plastic film 240 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 240 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0115] The hard coating layer 340 may be provided on the plastic film 240 and may have relatively high rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 340 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0116] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 340 may include silicone and metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 340 may be an anti-fingerprint layer.

[0117] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 340 may be greater than about 0.5 wt % and less than about 5 wt % relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 340. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 340 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 340 may also increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 340 and the haze of the hard coating layer 340.

[0118] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 140 may be about 40 μm, the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 240 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 340 may be about 5 μm.

[0119] The foldable display device 14 may include a fourth window protection layer PL4 to protect the window WIN. The fourth window protection layer PL4 may include a recovery layer 140, a plastic film 240 disposed on the recovery layer 140, and a hard coating layer 340 disposed on the plastic film 240. Since the fourth window protection layer PL4 includes the plastic film 240, it can protect the window WIN. Furthermore, since the fourth window protection layer PL4 includes the recovery layer 140, the restoring force of the plastic film 240 can be enhanced to overcome external forces such as impact. Furthermore, since the fourth window protection layer PL4 includes the hard coating layer 340, the wear resistance of the fourth window protection layer PL4 can be improved. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 140 includes the first soft sub-pattern 141 and the second soft sub-pattern 143, the foldable display device 14 can be smoothly folded. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 140 includes the first hard sub-pattern 142 and the second hard sub-pattern 144, the wear resistance of the fourth window protection layer PL4 can be improved.

[0120] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 15 . Figure 7 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0121] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 7, the foldable display device 15 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, a fifth window protective layer PL5, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a support member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840. However, except for the fifth window protective layer PL5, the foldable display device 15 may be substantially the same as the reference 400. Figure 2 The foldable display device 11 described is the same.

[0122] The fifth window protection layer PL5 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In embodiments, the fifth window protection layer PL5 may include a plastic film 250, a recovery layer 150, and a hard coating layer 350. The plastic film 250, the recovery layer 150, and the hard coating layer 350 are arranged in this order from the window WIN. Of the plastic film 250, the recovery layer 150, and the hard coating layer 350, the hard coating layer 350 is the farthest from the window WIN.

[0123] The plastic film 250 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810 and may protect the window WIN.

[0124] In an embodiment, the plastic film 250 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 250 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0125] The recovery layer 150 may be provided on the plastic film 250 and may have a self-repairing function.

[0126] In an embodiment, the recovery layer 150 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the recovery layer 150 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc.

[0127] The hard coating layer 350 may be provided on the recovery layer 150 and may have relatively high rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 350 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0128] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 350 may include silicone and metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 350 may be an anti-fingerprint layer.

[0129] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 350 may be greater than about 0.5 wt % and less than about 5 wt % relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 350. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 350 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 350 may also increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 350 and the haze of the hard coating layer 350.

[0130] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 150 may be about 40 μm, the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 250 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 350 may be about 5 μm.

[0131] Since the fifth window protection layer PL5 includes the plastic film 250, it can protect the window WIN. In addition, since the fifth window protection layer PL5 includes the recovery layer 150, the recovery force of the plastic film 250 can be improved to overcome external forces such as punching. In addition, since the fifth window protection layer PL5 includes the hard coating layer 350, the wear resistance of the fifth window protection layer PL5 can be improved.

[0132] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 16 . Figure 8 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0133] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 8 , the foldable display device 16 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, a sixth window protective layer PL6, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a support member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840. However, except for the sixth window protective layer PL6, the foldable display device 16 may be the same as the reference Figure 2 The foldable display device 11 described is essentially the same.

[0134] The sixth window protective layer PL6 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In an embodiment, the sixth window protective layer PL6 may include a plastic film 260, a recovery layer 160, and a hard coating layer 360. The recovery layer 160 may include a soft pattern 161 and a hard pattern 162.

[0135] The plastic film 260 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810 and may protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the plastic film 260 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 260 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0136] The recovery layer 160 may be disposed on the plastic film 260. In an embodiment, the recovery layer 160 may include a soft pattern 161 overlapping or corresponding to the folding area FA and a hard pattern 162 overlapping or corresponding to the plane area PA. The hard pattern 162 may have greater rigidity than the soft pattern 161.

[0137] The soft pattern 161 may have a self-recovery function. In an embodiment, the soft pattern 161 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the soft pattern 161 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc. The hard pattern 162 may include a material with greater rigidity than the soft pattern 161. In an embodiment, for example, the hard pattern 162 may include the same material as the hard coating layer 360.

[0138] Because the recovery layer 160 includes the soft pattern 161 overlapping or corresponding to the folding area FA, the foldable display device 16 can be smoothly folded. In addition, since the recovery layer 160 includes the hard pattern 162 overlapping or corresponding to the flat area PA, the wear resistance of the sixth window protection layer PL6 can be improved.

[0139] The hard coating layer 360 may be provided on the recovery layer 160 and may have relatively high rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 360 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0140] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 360 may include silicone and metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 360 may be an anti-fingerprint layer.

[0141] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 360 may be greater than about 0.5 wt % and less than about 5 wt % relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 360. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 360 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 360 may increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 360 and the haze of the hard coating layer 360.

[0142] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 160 may be about 40 μm, the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 260 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 360 may be about 5 μm.

[0143] The foldable display device 16 may include a sixth window protection layer PL6 for protecting the window WIN. The sixth window protection layer PL6 may include a plastic film 260, a recovery layer 160 disposed on the plastic film 260, and a hard coating layer 360 disposed on the recovery layer 160. Since the sixth window protection layer PL6 includes the plastic film 260, it can protect the window WIN. Furthermore, since the sixth window protection layer PL6 includes the recovery layer 160, the restoring force of the plastic film 260 can be enhanced to overcome external forces such as impact. Furthermore, since the sixth window protection layer PL6 includes the hard coating layer 360, the wear resistance of the sixth window protection layer PL6 can be improved. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 160 includes a soft pattern 161 that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA, the foldable display device 16 can be smoothly folded. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 160 includes a hard pattern 162 that overlaps or corresponds to the planar area PA, the wear resistance of the sixth window protection layer PL6 can be improved.

[0144] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 17 . Figure 9 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0145] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 9The foldable display device 17 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, a seventh window protective layer PL7, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a support member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840. However, except for the seventh window protective layer PL7, the foldable display device 17 may be substantially the same as the reference 1. Figure 2 The foldable display device 11 described is the same.

[0146] The seventh window protection layer PL7 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In an embodiment, the seventh window protection layer PL7 may include a plastic film 270, a recovery layer 170, and a hard coating layer 370. The recovery layer 170 may include a plurality of soft sub-patterns 171, a plurality of hard sub-patterns 172, and a hard pattern 173.

[0147] The plastic film 270 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810 and may protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the plastic film 270 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 270 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0148] The recovery layer 170 may be disposed on the plastic film 270. In an embodiment, the recovery layer 170 may include a soft sub-pattern 171 that overlaps with or corresponds to the folding area FA, a hard sub-pattern 172 that overlaps with or corresponds to the folding area FA, and a hard pattern 173 that overlaps with or corresponds to the planar area PA. The rigidity of the hard sub-pattern 172 and the hard pattern 173 may be greater than that of the soft sub-pattern 171. In addition, the rigidity of the hard sub-pattern 172 may be substantially the same as that of the hard pattern 173.

[0149] The soft sub-pattern 171 may have a self-recovery function. In an embodiment, the soft sub-pattern 171 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the soft sub-pattern 171 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc. The hard sub-pattern 172 and the hard pattern 173 may include a material having a greater rigidity than the soft sub-pattern 171. In an embodiment, for example, the hard sub-pattern 172 and the hard pattern 173 may include the same material as the hard coating layer 370.

[0150] Since the recovery layer 170 includes the soft sub-pattern 171 that overlaps or corresponds to the folding area FA, the foldable display device 17 can be smoothly folded. In addition, since the recovery layer 170 includes the hard sub-pattern 172 and the hard pattern 173 that overlap or correspond to the flat area PA, the wear resistance of the seventh window protection layer PL7 is improved.

[0151] The hard coating layer 370 may be provided on the recovery layer 170 and may have relatively high rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 370 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0152] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 370 may include silicone and metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 370 may be an anti-fingerprint layer.

[0153] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 370 may be greater than about 0.5 wt % and less than about 5 wt % relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 370. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 370 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 370 may also increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 370 and the haze of the hard coating layer 370.

[0154] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 170 may be about 40 μm, the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 270 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 370 may be about 5 μm.

[0155] The foldable display device 17 may include a seventh window protection layer PL7 for protecting the window WIN. The seventh window protection layer PL7 may include a plastic film 270, a recovery layer 170 disposed on the plastic film 270, and a hard coating layer 370 disposed on the recovery layer 170. The seventh window protection layer PL7 includes the plastic film 270, thereby protecting the window WIN. Furthermore, the inclusion of the recovery layer 170 enhances the resilience of the plastic film 270 to overcome external forces such as impact. Furthermore, the inclusion of the hard coating layer 370 enhances the wear resistance of the seventh window protection layer PL7. Furthermore, the inclusion of the soft sub-pattern 171 in the recovery layer 170, which overlaps with or corresponds to the folding area FA, allows the foldable display device 17 to be smoothly folded. Furthermore, the inclusion of the hard sub-pattern 172 in the recovery layer 170, which overlaps with or corresponds to the folding area FA, and the hard sub-pattern 173 in the recovery layer 170, enhances the wear resistance of the seventh window protection layer PL7.

[0156] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a foldable display device 18 . Figure 10 It can be along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0157] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 10 , the foldable display device 18 may include a display panel 400, a window WIN, an eighth window protective layer PL8, a protective film 500, a buffer member 600, a supporting member 700, a first adhesive layer 810, a second adhesive layer 820, a third adhesive layer 830, and a fourth adhesive layer 840. However, except for the eighth window protective layer PL8, the foldable display device 18 may be the same as the reference Figure 2 The foldable display device 11 described is essentially the same.

[0158] The eighth window protection layer PL8 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810. In an embodiment, the eighth window protection layer PL8 may include a plastic film 280, a recovery layer 180, and a hard coating layer 380. The recovery layer 180 may include a plurality of first soft sub-patterns 181, a plurality of first hard sub-patterns 182, a plurality of second soft sub-patterns 183, and a plurality of second hard sub-patterns 184.

[0159] The plastic film 280 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer 810 and may protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the plastic film 280 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the plastic film 280 may include colorless polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polyethersulfone ("PS"), polyacrylate ("PAR"), polyetherimide ("PEI"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), polyphenylene sulfide ("PPS"), polycarbonate ("PC"), etc.

[0160] The recovery layer 180 may be disposed on the plastic film 280. In embodiments, the recovery layer 180 may include a first soft sub-pattern 181 overlapping or corresponding to the folding area FA, a first hard sub-pattern 182 overlapping or corresponding to the folding area FA, a second soft sub-pattern 183 overlapping or corresponding to the planar area PA, and a second hard sub-pattern 184 overlapping or corresponding to the planar area PA. The rigidity of the first and second hard sub-patterns 182 and 184 may be greater than that of the first and second soft sub-patterns 181 and 183. Furthermore, the rigidity of the first hard sub-pattern 182 may be substantially the same as that of the second hard sub-pattern 184.

[0161] The first soft sub-pattern 181 and the second soft sub-pattern 183 may have a self-recovery function. In an embodiment, the first soft sub-pattern 181 and the second soft sub-pattern 183 may include a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the first soft sub-pattern 181 and the second soft sub-pattern 183 may include polyurethane ("PU"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), silicon (Si), polydimethylacrylamide ("PDMA"), etc. The first hard sub-pattern 182 and the second hard sub-pattern 184 may include a material having a greater rigidity than the first soft sub-pattern 181 and the second soft sub-pattern 183. In an embodiment, for example, the first hard sub-pattern 182 and the second hard sub-pattern 184 may include the same material as the hard coating layer 380.

[0162] Since the recovery layer 180 includes the first soft sub-pattern 181 and the second soft sub-pattern 183, the foldable display device 18 can be smoothly folded. In addition, since the recovery layer 180 includes the first hard sub-pattern 182 and the second hard sub-pattern 184, the wear resistance of the eighth window protection layer PL8 can be improved.

[0163] The hard coating layer 380 may be provided on the recovery layer 180 and may have relatively high rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the water contact angle of the hard coating layer 380 may be greater than about 95 degrees.

[0164] In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 380 may include silicone and metal oxide. In detail, the metal oxide may be combined with the silicone. In an embodiment, for example, the silicone may be a silsesquioxane ("SSQ") such as hydrogen silsesquioxane ("HSQ") and methyl silsesquioxane ("MSQ"). In addition, the metal oxide may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), indium tin oxide ("ITO"), fluorine-doped tin oxide ("FTO"), antimony tin oxide ("ATO"), aluminum zinc oxide ("AZO"), etc. In addition, the hard coating layer 380 may be an anti-fingerprint layer.

[0165] In an embodiment, the content of the metal oxide in the hard coating layer 380 may be greater than about 0.5 wt % and less than about 5 wt % relative to the total content of the hard coating layer 380. As the content of the metal oxide increases, the rigidity of the hard coating layer 380 may increase. However, as the content of the metal oxide increases, the haze of the hard coating layer 380 may also increase. Therefore, the content of the metal oxide may be set in consideration of the rigidity of the hard coating layer 380 and the haze of the hard coating layer 380.

[0166] In an embodiment, the first thickness TH1 of the recovery layer 180 may be about 40 μm, the second thickness TH2 of the plastic film 280 may be about 40 μm, and the third thickness TH3 of the hard coating layer 380 may be about 5 μm.

[0167] The foldable display device 18 may include an eighth window protection layer PL8 for protecting the window WIN. The eighth window protection layer PL8 may include a plastic film 280, a recovery layer 180 disposed on the plastic film 280, and a hard coating layer 380 disposed on the recovery layer 180. Since the eighth window protection layer PL8 includes the plastic film 280, it can protect the window WIN. Furthermore, since the eighth window protection layer PL8 includes the recovery layer 180, the restoring force of the plastic film 280 can be improved to overcome external forces such as impact. Furthermore, since the eighth window protection layer PL8 includes the hard coating layer 380, the wear resistance of the eighth window protection layer PL8 can be improved. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 180 includes a first soft sub-pattern 181 and a second soft sub-pattern 183, the foldable display device 18 can be smoothly folded. Furthermore, since the recovery layer 180 includes a first hard sub-pattern 182 and a second hard sub-pattern 184, the wear resistance of the eighth window protection layer PL8 can be improved.

[0168] Although embodiments and examples have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the appended claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements that will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A foldable display device, comprising: a display panel comprising a folding area and a planar area adjacent to the folding area, wherein the display panel is foldable at the folding area; a window facing the display panel; as well as a window protection layer facing the display panel, and the window is between the window protection layer and the display panel, The window protection layer includes, in order from the window: a shape recovery layer comprising a soft pattern corresponding to the folded area and having rigidity; a plastic film facing the folding area and the flat area of ​​the display panel; and a hard coating layer facing the folding area and the flat area of ​​the display panel and having rigidity, The rigidity of the soft pattern corresponding to the folding area is smaller than the rigidity of the hard coating layer.

2. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: In the shape-restoring layer, the soft pattern extends from the folded area to correspond to the plane area.

3. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The shape-restoring layer further includes a hard pattern corresponding to the plane area and having rigidity, and In the shape-restoring layer, the rigidity of the soft pattern corresponding to the folded area is smaller than the rigidity of the hard pattern corresponding to the planar area.

4. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The soft pattern is provided in a plurality, including a first soft sub-pattern arranged along the folding area; as well as The shape recovery layer further includes a plurality of first hard sub-patterns, which are arranged along the folding region to alternate with the first soft sub-patterns and have rigidity. Wherein, in the shape-restoring layer, the rigidity of the plurality of soft patterns is smaller than the rigidity of the first hard sub-pattern arranged along the folding region.

5. The foldable display device according to claim 4, wherein: The shape-restoring layer further includes a hard pattern corresponding to the plane area and having rigidity; as well as In the shape-restoring layer, the rigidity of the soft patterns provided in plurality is smaller than the rigidity of the hard pattern corresponding to the planar region.

6. The foldable display device according to claim 5, wherein: The hard pattern is provided in plurality, including a second hard sub-pattern arranged along the plane area, and The shape-restoring layer further includes a plurality of second soft sub-patterns, which are arranged along the planar region to alternate with the second hard sub-patterns and have rigidity. In the shape-restoring layer, the rigidity of the second soft sub-pattern arranged along the planar region is smaller than the rigidity of the plurality of hard sub-patterns.

7. A foldable display device comprising: a display panel comprising a folding area and a planar area adjacent to the folding area, wherein the display panel is foldable at the folding area; a window facing the display panel; as well as a window protection layer facing the display panel, and the window is between the window protection layer and the display panel, The window protection layer includes, in order from the window: a plastic film facing the folding area and the flat area of ​​the display panel; a shape recovery layer including a soft pattern corresponding to the folded area and having rigidity; and A hard coating layer faces the folding area and the planar area of ​​the display panel, wherein the rigidity of the soft pattern corresponding to the folding area is less than that of the hard coating layer.

8. The foldable display device according to claim 7, wherein: In the shape-restoring layer, the soft pattern extends from the folded area to correspond to the plane area.

9. The foldable display device according to claim 7, wherein: The shape-restoring layer further includes a hard pattern corresponding to the plane area and having rigidity, and In the shape-restoring layer, the rigidity of the soft pattern corresponding to the folded area is smaller than the rigidity of the hard pattern corresponding to the planar area.

10. The foldable display device according to claim 7, wherein: The soft pattern is provided in a plurality, including a first soft sub-pattern arranged along the folding area, and The shape recovery layer further includes a plurality of first hard sub-patterns, which are arranged along the folding region to alternate with the first soft sub-patterns and have rigidity. Wherein, in the shape-restoring layer, the rigidity of the plurality of soft patterns is smaller than the rigidity of the first hard sub-pattern arranged along the folding region.

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