Window member, display device, and method for manufacturing display device

Abstract

Window members, display devices, and methods of manufacturing display devices are provided. A display device includes a display panel and a window member positioned on the display panel, wherein the window member includes a window substrate, a buffer layer, and a filler layer, the window substrate includes a flexible portion having a first region with a first rigidity and a second region with a second rigidity smaller than the first rigidity positioned alternately, the buffer layer is positioned on the window substrate and has a refractive index smaller than a refractive index of the window substrate, and the filler layer is positioned on the buffer layer and has a refractive index smaller than a refractive index of the buffer layer.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0128863, filed on October 6, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to window components, display devices, and methods for manufacturing display devices. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of multimedia, display devices have become more important. In response to this development, various types (e.g., appropriate kinds) of displays are being used, such as liquid crystal display (LCD) devices, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display devices, and the like.

[0005] Recently, foldable display devices utilizing flexible display panels have been developed to provide a large screen and improve portability during use. Each component of the flexible display panel is made of a flexible material so that it can be bent.

[0006] The window member used in the flexible display panel can also be flexible, thereby allowing the window member to be folded or unfolded together with the flexible display panel on which it is applied. For this purpose, a pattern for enhancing the flexibility of the window member can be formed in at least a portion of the window member. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Various aspects of embodiments of this disclosure relate to window members that reduce the visibility of patterns formed in window members, display devices including window members, and methods of manufacturing display devices.

[0008] However, it should be noted that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the aspects described above, and other aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, the display device including a display panel and a window member located on the display panel, wherein the window member includes a window substrate, a buffer layer and a filling layer, the window substrate including a flexible portion having a first region having a first rigidity and a second region having a second rigidity less than the first rigidity alternately positioned (e.g., the rigidity of the first region is less than the rigidity of the second region), the buffer layer being located on the window substrate and having a refractive index less than the refractive index of the window substrate, and the filling layer being located on the buffer layer and having a refractive index less than the refractive index of the buffer layer.

[0010] According to other embodiments of the present disclosure, a window component is provided, the window component including a window substrate, a buffer layer and a filler layer, the window substrate including a flexible portion having a first region having a first rigidity and a second region having a second rigidity less than the first rigidity alternately positioned, the buffer layer being located on the window substrate and having a refractive index less than the refractive index of the window substrate, and the filler layer being located on the buffer layer and having a refractive index less than the refractive index of the buffer layer.

[0011] According to other embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing a display device is provided, the method comprising: forming a pattern in a window substrate including a first region having a first rigidity and a second region having a second rigidity less than the first rigidity; forming a buffer layer on the pattern having a refractive index less than that of the window substrate; and forming a filling layer on the buffer layer having a refractive index less than that of the buffer layer. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The above and other aspects and features of the invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of various aspects of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the inwardly folded state of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the outward folded state of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display module of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the display panel of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a window component of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 7 It is based on some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken by line A-A';

[0020] Figure 8 This illustrates some embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional view of part P;

[0021] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a window component according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing a window component according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0024] Figures 12 to 15 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of a method for manufacturing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some embodiments thereof. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same parts. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0026] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "attached to," or "adjacent to" another element or layer, the element or layer can be directly on, directly connected to, directly attached to, or directly adjacent to the other element or layer, or there may be one or more intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly" on, directly connected to, directly attached to, or "immediately adjacent to" another element or layer, there are no intermediate elements or layers.

[0027] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a display device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the inwardly folded state of the display device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the outward folded state of the display device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the display module DM of a display device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the display panel 100 of a display device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] In the following text, the first direction X (e.g., the X-axis direction), the second direction Y (e.g., the Y-axis direction), and the third direction Z (e.g., the Z-axis direction) intersect each other in different directions. For example, the first direction X may be a length direction, the second direction Y may be a width direction, and the third direction Z may be a thickness direction. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z may each include two or more directions. For example, the third direction Z may include an upward direction toward the upper side of the drawing and a downward direction toward the lower side of the drawing. In this case, the surface on which the member is positioned in the upward direction may be referred to as the upper surface, and the surface on which the member is positioned in the downward direction may be referred to as the lower surface. However, the above directions should be understood as relative directions, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0030] The display device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure may include various suitable means for displaying screens or images. Non-limiting examples of the display device 1 may include smartphones, mobile phones, personal computers (PCs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), televisions, game consoles, watch-type electronic devices, head-mounted displays, PC displays, laptops, vehicle navigation devices, vehicle dashboards, digital cameras, camcorders, outdoor advertising boards, electronic billboards, various medical devices, various examination devices, various household appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines, each including a display area (DPA), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and / or the like, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0031] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 When viewed in a plan view, the display device 1 may have a rectangular shape. In some embodiments, when viewed in a plan view, the display device 1 may have two long sides (e.g., relatively long sides) in a first direction X and two short sides (e.g., relatively short sides) in a second direction Y intersecting the first direction X. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the display device 1 may have various shapes.

[0032] The display device 1 may include an upper surface and a lower surface. The display device 1 may also include at least one side surface located between the upper surface and the lower surface.

[0033] Display device 1 includes at least one display surface DS. In some embodiments, the display surface DS may be the upper surface of display device 1. The display surface DS may be located at the folded region FA and a plurality of non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 (e.g., across their extensions or overlapping them), as will be described below. In some embodiments, both the upper surface and the lower surface of display device 1 may be the display surface DS. In some embodiments, display device 1 may include a plurality of display surfaces DS. For example, the plurality of display surfaces DS may include two or more of the upper surface, lower surface, and side surface of display device 1.

[0034] The display surface DS may include the display area DA and the non-display area NDA.

[0035] The display area DA can display video or images. Multiple pixels can be located within the display area DA.

[0036] The non-display area NDA may not display video or images. The non-display area NDA may be located at the periphery of the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. In some embodiments, the display area DA may have a rectangular shape, and the non-display area NDA may be located at the periphery of the four sides of the display area DA, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. A black matrix may be located in the non-display area NDA to prevent or reduce the leakage of light emitted from adjacent pixels.

[0037] The display device 1 may be a foldable device. At least a portion of the display device 1 may be bent (e.g., adjusted) or configured to be bent to fold or unfold. For example, a portion of the display device 1 may overlap with another portion, or may be bent to be tilted relative to the other portion, or the entire display device 1 may unfold to be substantially flat. In some embodiments, this portion of the display device 1 may be tilted relative to the other portion at an angle greater than about 0°. ° to less than approximately 180 ° Fold (e.g., adjust) or unfold at an angle to form approximately 180 degrees. ° The degree of inclination.

[0038] The display device 1 can be folded inwards and / or outwards. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the inward folding allows a portion of the display surface DS of the display device 1 to be folded to face the other portion of the display surface DS (e.g., facing inward). In some embodiments, for example, as... Figure 3As shown, outward folding can cause a portion of the display surface DS of the display device 1 to be folded so that it does not face another portion of the display surface DS (e.g., facing outward). Outward folding can also cause a portion of the surface of the display device 1 opposite to the display surface DS to be folded so that it faces another portion of the surface opposite to the display surface DS. In some embodiments, the display device 1 may be a bidirectional (e.g., bidirectional) foldable device that can be folded inward and outward.

[0039] The display device 1 may have a folded state or an unfolded state. The folded state may include a state where the display device 1 is bent. For example, the folded state may be a state where a portion of the display device 1 is bent to be tilted relative to another portion, and the unfolded state may be a state where a portion of the display device 1 is coplanar with another portion. In some embodiments, the folded state may be a state where the angle between one portion and the other portion of the display device 1 is approximately 0°. ° or larger to smaller than approximately 180 ° and / or greater than about 180 ° to less than approximately 360 ° The unfolded state can be such that the angle between one part and another part of the display device 1 is approximately 180 degrees. ° The state of the angle. Here, this part and the other part can each be referred to as multiple non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2, which will be described below.

[0040] Folded states may include, for example Figure 2 The inward folding state of a portion of the display surface DS of the display device 1 facing another portion of the display surface DS, and as shown... Figure 3 The display device 1 shown is in at least one of the following states: a portion of the surface opposite to the display surface DS faces another portion of the surface opposite to the display surface DS in an outward folded state.

[0041] The display device 1 may be divided into a folding region FA and multiple non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2. The folding region FA may be an area that folds or bends as the display device 1 is folded. The multiple non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 may be areas that are not folded or bent. The multiple non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 may include a first non-folding region NFA1 and a second non-folding region NFA2. In some embodiments, the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 may be arranged in a first direction X, and the folding region FA may be located between the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2. In some embodiments, the display device 1 may define one folding region FA and two non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0042] In some embodiments, the display device 1 may define a plurality of folded regions FA and a plurality of sets of non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2. Although the first non-folded region NFA1, the second non-folded region NFA2 and the folded region FA have been described based on the overall display device 1, the components constituting the display device 1 may also be divided into the first non-folded region NFA1, the second non-folded region NFA2 and / or the folded region FA.

[0043] The display device 1 can be folded or unfolded based on (e.g., relative to or around) a folding axis FX. The folding axis FX can be in the thickness direction (e.g., Figure 1 The third direction (Z) overlaps with the folding region FA. In some embodiments, the display device 1 may be folded or unfolded based on (e.g., relative to or around) a folding axis FX in the second direction Y (e.g., the folding axis FX may extend along the Y-axis direction, and the display device 1 may be around...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 (The Y-axis is folded in the diagram), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the folding axis FX may include at least one rotation axis.

[0044] The display device 1 may include a display module DM and a support member SM supporting the display module DM. In some embodiments, the display module DM may form the upper surface of the display device 1, and the support member SM may be positioned on the lower surface of the display module DM to support the display module DM.

[0045] At least some (e.g., a portion) of the display module DM and the support member SM may have appropriate flexibility. The display module DM and the support member SM may be positioned at the first non-folding region NFA1, the folding region FA, and the second non-folding region NFA2 (e.g., across their extensions or overlapping with them), and folded based on the folding axis FX.

[0046] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The display module DM may include a display panel 100, an upper stacking structure 200 located on the upper surface of the display panel 100, and a lower stacking structure 300 located on the lower surface of the display panel 100. The upper surface of the display panel 100 may be a surface for displaying images. In some embodiments, the display panel 100, the upper stacking structure 200, and the lower stacking structure 300 may be positioned at a first non-folded region NFA1, a folded region FA, and a second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., across or overlapping their extensions). In some embodiments, at least one of the components constituting the upper stacking structure 200 and the lower stacking structure 300 may be separated based on the folded region FA (e.g., as discussed below, to facilitate folding).

[0047] Display panel 100 may be a panel for displaying images. Non-limiting examples of display panel 100 may include not only self-emissive display panels such as organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panels, inorganic light-emitting display (ILED) panels, quantum dot light-emitting display (QLED) panels, micro LED display panels, nano LED display panels, plasma display panels (PDP), field emission display (FED) panels, and / or cathode ray tube (CRT) panels, as well as light-receiving display panels such as liquid crystal display (LCD) panels and / or electrophoretic display (EPD) panels. Hereinafter, OLED display panels will be described as examples of display panels, and unless a specific classification is appropriate, OLED display panels applied to embodiments will be simply referred to as display panel 100. However, embodiments are not limited to OLED display panels, and other suitable display panels listed above or in the prior art may be applied.

[0048] The display panel 100 may also include a touch component. The touch component may be configured as a panel or film separate from and bonded to the display panel 100, and in some embodiments, it may be disposed within the display panel 100 as a touch layer. The following embodiments will describe cases where the touch component is disposed within and included in the display panel 100, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0049] Reference Figure 5 The display panel 100 may include a substrate SUB, a circuit driving layer DRL on the substrate SUB, a light emitting layer EML on the circuit driving layer DRL, an encapsulation layer ENL on the light emitting layer EML, and a touch layer TSL on the encapsulation layer EML.

[0050] The substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate comprising a flexible polymer material such as polyimide. Therefore, the display panel 100 can (e.g., is capable of) bending, folding, or rolling. In some embodiments, the substrate SUB may comprise a plurality of sub-substrates overlapping in the thickness direction with a barrier layer interposed therebetween. In this case, each of the plurality of sub-substrates may be a flexible substrate.

[0051] The circuit driving layer DRL may be located on the substrate SUB. The circuit driving layer DRL may include circuitry for driving the light-emitting layer EML of a pixel. The circuit driving layer DRL may include multiple thin-film transistors.

[0052] The light-emitting layer (EML) may be located on the circuit driving layer (DRL). The EML may include an organic light-emitting layer. The EML may emit light with variable brightness according to the driving signal delivered from the circuit driving layer (DRL).

[0053] The encapsulation layer ENL may be located on the light-emitting layer EML. The encapsulation layer ENL may include an inorganic film or a stack of inorganic and organic films.

[0054] The touch layer (TSL) may be located on the encapsulation layer (ENL). The touch layer (TSL) may be a layer that detects touch input and performs the functions of the touch component. The touch layer (TSL) may include multiple sensing areas and multiple sensing electrodes.

[0055] Refer again Figure 4 The upper stack structure 200 may be located on the display panel 100. The upper stack structure 200 may include polarizing members 225, window members W and window member protective layers 210 stacked upward from the display panel 100 (e.g., stacked sequentially).

[0056] The polarizing member 225 polarizes light passing through it. The polarizing member 225 can be used to reduce reflection of external light. In some embodiments, the polarizing member 225 may be a polarizing film. The polarizing film may include a polarizing layer and a protective substrate, the protective substrate clamping the polarizing layer at the top and bottom of the polarizing layer. The polarizing layer may include a polyvinyl alcohol film. The polarizing layer may be stretched in one direction. The stretching direction of the polarizing layer may be the absorption axis, and the direction perpendicular to its stretching direction may be the transmission axis. The protective substrate may be located on one side and the other side of the polarizing layer (e.g., a side opposite to one side). The protective substrate may be made of a cellulose resin such as triacetyl cellulose, polyester resin, or the like, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0057] The window member W may be located on the polarizing member 225. The window member W is used to protect the display panel 100. The window member W may be made of a transparent material. For example, the window member W may be made of glass or plastic. See below for further details. Figures 6 to 8 The detailed configuration of window component W is described.

[0058] A window member protective layer 210 may be located on the window member W. The window member protective layer 210 may perform at least one function selected from preventing breakage of the window member W (e.g., reducing the risk that the window member W may break or crack), absorbing impact, preventing or reducing dents, preventing or reducing fingerprints, and preventing or reducing glare. The window member protective layer 210 may be made of a transparent polymer film. The transparent polymer film may include at least one selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether sulfone (PES), polyimide (PI), polyarylate (PAR), polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and cycloolefin copolymer (COC).

[0059] The upper stacking structure 200 may include a first connecting member 251, a second connecting member 252, and a third connecting member 253 connecting adjacent stacking members. For example, the first connecting member 251 may be located between the window member W and the window member protective layer 210 for their connection, the second connecting member 252 may be located between the window member W and the polarizing member 225 for their connection, and the third connecting member 253 may be located between the polarizing member 225 and the display panel 100 for their connection. For example, the first connecting member 251, the second connecting member 252, and the third connecting member 253 may be members that bond layers located on a surface (e.g., the upper surface) of the display panel 100. The first connecting member 251 may be a protective layer connecting member for bonding the window member protective layer 210, the second connecting member 252 may be a window connecting member for bonding the window member W, and the third connecting member 253 may be a polarizing member connecting member for bonding the polarizing member 225. All the first connecting members 251, the second connecting member 252, and the third connecting member 253 may be optically transparent.

[0060] The lower stack structure 300 may be located below the display panel 100. The lower stack structure 300 may include a polymer film layer 310 and a heat dissipation member 320 stacked downward from the display panel 100 (e.g., stacked sequentially).

[0061] The polymer film layer 310 may include a polymer film. For example, the polymer film layer 310 may include PI, PET, PC, PE, PP, PSF, PMMA, TAC, COP, and / or the like. The polymer film layer 310 may include a functional layer located on at least one surface thereon. For example, the functional layer may include a light-absorbing layer. The light-absorbing layer may include a light-absorbing material such as a black pigment or dye. The light-absorbing layer may be formed on the polymer film using black ink by coating or printing methods.

[0062] The heat dissipation component 320 may be located below the polymer film layer 310. The heat dissipation component 320 can be used to dissipate heat generated from the display panel 100 or other components of the display device 1. The heat dissipation component 320 may be a heat sink comprising graphite or carbon nanotubes. In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, multiple heat dissipation components 320 can be separated based on the folding region FA to facilitate the folding of the display device 1. In some embodiments, multiple heat dissipation components 320 can be connected as a single component.

[0063] The lower stack structure 300 may include a fourth connecting member 351 and a fifth connecting member 352 for connecting adjacent stack members. For example, the fourth connecting member 351 may be located between the display panel 100 and the polymer film layer 310 for their connection, and the fifth connecting member 352 may be located between the polymer film layer 310 and the heat dissipation member 320 for their connection.

[0064] In some embodiments, the lower stack structure 300 may also include a buffer member. For example, the buffer member may be located between the polymer film layer 310 and the heat dissipation member 320.

[0065] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the window component W of a display device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7 It is based on some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6 The cross-sectional view taken by line A-A'. Figure 8 This illustrates some embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional view of part P.

[0066] As mentioned above, refer to Figures 4 to 6 The window member W may be located above the display panel 100 to protect the display panel 100. In some embodiments, the window member W may be positioned between the window member protective layer 210 and the polarizing member 225. The window member W may be connected to the window member protective layer 210 via a first connecting member 251 and to the polarizing member 225 via a second connecting member 252, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0067] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The window component W may include a window substrate 400, a buffer layer 500, and a filling layer 600.

[0068] Window substrate 400 may be positioned at a first non-folded region NFA1, a folded region FA, and a second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., across or overlapping their extensions). When viewed in a plan view, window substrate 400 may have a substantially rectangular shape. In some embodiments, window substrate 400 may include two long (e.g., relatively long) sides in a first direction X and two short (e.g., relatively short) sides in a second direction Y, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0069] The window substrate 400 may be made of a transparent material. The window substrate 400 may also be formed of a rigid material such as glass, PC, PMMA, silicone, transparent metal, or the like.

[0070] For example, the glass may include soda-lime glass, alkali metal aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, or lithium aluminosilicate glass.

[0071] The glass can be ultra-thin glass (UTG) or thin-film glass. When glass is made from UTG or thin-film glass, it can have flexible properties, such as bendability, foldability, foldability, and rollability. For example, the thickness of the glass can be from about 10 μm to about 500 μm, or glass with a thickness of about 200 μm to about 300 μm can be used.

[0072] In some embodiments, the window substrate 400 may comprise chemically or thermally strengthened glass. Chemical strengthening can be achieved through an ion exchange process with an alkali metal salt. The ion exchange process may be performed two or more times.

[0073] In some embodiments, the window substrate 400 may be made of a transparent plastic material. For example, the window substrate 400 may be made of at least one selected from PI, polyacrylate, PMMA, PC, PEN, polyvinylidene chloride, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polystyrene, ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, PES, polyetherimide (PEI), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyarylate, TAC, and cellulose acetate propionate (CAP).

[0074] The window substrate 400 may include a first rigid part 410, a second rigid part 420, and a flexible part 430.

[0075] The first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 may be flat in the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2, respectively. Each of the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 may have greater rigidity than other portions (e.g., flexible portion 430). For example, the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 may be more rigid than the flexible portion 430 (e.g., stiff or not easily bent). When the display device 1 is folded or unfolded, the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 may be portions that hardly deform. When the display device 1 is folded or unfolded, the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 may be portions that do not fold or bend. For example, even when the display device 1 is folded, the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 may be portions that maintain flatness (e.g., remain substantially flat). In some embodiments, the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 may each be formed in a flat plate shape and may be positioned symmetrically based on (e.g., relative to) the flexible portion 430, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0076] The flexible portion 430 may be located within the folded region FA. The flexible portion 430 may be positioned between the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420. One side of the flexible portion 430 may be connected (e.g., linked) to the first rigid portion 410, and the other side may be connected (e.g., linked) to the second rigid portion 420. The flexible portion 430 may have a lower rigidity than each of the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 (e.g., the rigidity of the flexible portion 430 may be less than the rigidity of the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420). For example, the flexible portion 430 may have greater flexibility (more flexible) than each of the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420. When the display device 1 is folded or unfolded, the flexible portion 430 may be a portion that undergoes more deformation than other portions. When the display device 1 is folded or unfolded, the flexible portion 430 may be a bent or folded portion. In some embodiments, the flexible portion 430 may have a smaller area than each of the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420, and the first rigid portion 410, the flexible portion 430 and the second rigid portion 420 may be arranged in the first direction X (e.g., sequentially), but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0077] Reference Figure 7 The flexible portion 430 can be divided into a first region A1 having a first rigidity and a second region A2 having a second rigidity that is less than the first rigidity of the first region A1. For example, the first region A1 may be more rigid than the second region A2.

[0078] The first region A1 may have a rigidity substantially the same as or similar to that of each of the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420. The first region A1 of the flexible portion 430 may be made of the same material (e.g., glass) as the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420. The first region A1 may be integrally coupled (e.g., connected) to the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 (e.g., the first region A1 may be integrally formed with the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420). The first region A1 may refer to a region surrounding a plurality of second regions A2, or it may refer to a plurality of regions each having a greater rigidity than the second region A2. For example, each corresponding first region A1 may be more rigid than each corresponding second region A2.

[0079] The second region A2 may be one of multiple second regions within the flexible portion 430. These multiple second regions may be areas in the flexible portion 430 where all or part of the window substrate 400 has been removed. Because the window substrate 400 has been removed, the second region A2 may have less rigidity than the first rigid portion 410, the second rigid portion 420, and / or the first region A1, allowing the flexible portion 430 to be folded by external force (e.g., configured or implemented). As described below, the window substrate 400 in the multiple second regions A2 may be removed to allow the formation of multiple holes H. For example, in some embodiments, the second region A2 may be a partial region (e.g., a portion) of the flexible portion 430 where the multiple holes H are formed, and the first region A1 may be the remaining region of the flexible portion 430 where the multiple holes H are not formed. The second region A2 may provide blank spaces that can be filled with other materials. The second region A2 may be filled with a buffer layer 500 and / or a filler layer 600, which will be described below. In some embodiments, the first region A1 and the second region A2 may be located only in the flexible portion 430, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the first region A1 and the second region A2 may even be located in the first rigid portion 410 and / or the second rigid portion 420.

[0080] Each of the multiple second regions A2 may include multiple holes H.

[0081] Multiple holes H can be in the thickness direction (e.g., Figure 6 and Figure 7The plurality of holes H pass through the flexible portion 430 in the Z-axis direction. The plurality of holes H can be formed to form a pattern in the flexible portion 430. In some embodiments, when viewed in a plan view, the plurality of holes H may each have a slit shape that is long in the second direction Y, but the shape of the holes H is not limited to this and can have various suitable shapes such as rectangular, elliptical, circular, and / or similar shapes. In some embodiments, for example, the inner surface of the holes H may extend vertically and may be flat, but this disclosure is not limited to this. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the holes H may include at least one inclined or curved surface. In some embodiments, the holes H may be tapered so that the width of the holes H may vary in the thickness direction. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes H may be positioned at regular intervals, but this disclosure is not limited to this. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes H may be positioned at variable intervals to have a set or predetermined trend (e.g., pattern), or may be positioned at irregular intervals (e.g., random or no pattern). In some embodiments, the plurality of holes H are formed only in the flexible portion 430, but this disclosure is not limited to this. In some embodiments, multiple holes H may be formed even in the first rigid portion 410 and / or the second rigid portion 420.

[0082] A buffer layer 500 may be located on the window substrate 400. The buffer layer 500 may be in direct contact with the window substrate 400. The buffer layer 500 may be positioned at the first non-folded region NFA1, the folded region FA, and the second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., across their extensions or overlapping them). The buffer layer 500 may be positioned at the first rigid portion 410, the flexible portion 430, and the second rigid portion 420 (e.g., across their extensions or overlapping them). In some embodiments, the buffer layer 500 may be positioned only in the flexible portion 430 and / or the folded region FA.

[0083] The buffer layer 500 may be located on a pattern formed by the plurality of holes H in the flexible portion 430. For example... Figure 7As shown, the buffer layer 500 may be located on the lower surface of the window substrate 400, and may also be located on the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes H. In this case, the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes H may be in direct contact with the buffer layer 500. A portion of the buffer layer 500 located on the lower surface of the window substrate 400 and other portions of the buffer layer 500 located in the plurality of holes H may be integrally connected (e.g., joined) (e.g., integrally formed). In some embodiments, the buffer layer 500 may have a thickness (e.g., a set or predetermined thickness) on the lower surfaces of the first rigid portion 410, the second rigid portion 420, and the flexible portion 430 of the window substrate 400, and the buffer layer 500 located in the flexible portion 430 may have a shape (e.g., an irregular shape) corresponding to the shape (e.g., an irregular shape) formed by the plurality of holes H of the flexible portion 430. In this configuration, when viewed in cross-section, the buffer layer 500 extends horizontally flat on the lower surface of the first rigid portion 410, the lower surface of the second rigid portion 420, and / or the lower surface of the first region A1 of the flexible portion 430. The buffer layer 500 may be bent in an "L" shape at the corner formed by the hole H in the second region A2 and the lower surface of the first region A1, extending upward to cover the inner surface of the hole H. Therefore, when viewed in cross-section, the buffer layer 500 may have a "U"-shaped profile on the lower surface of the first region A1 and may be positioned on the inner surfaces of the two holes H, with the first region A1 positioned between the two holes H.

[0084] like Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the buffer layer 500 may be positioned such that the plurality of holes H are not blocked (e.g., not completely filled by portions of the buffer layer 500). In some embodiments, in the buffer layer 500 in the holes H, when viewed in cross-section, at the upper end in the horizontal direction, a portion of the buffer layer 500 located on or at one side of its inner surface may be coupled (e.g., connected) to another portion of the buffer layer 500 located on or at another side of its inner surface, such that the holes H may be blocked (e.g., by) the buffer layer 500, wherein the inner surface of the other side is opposite to the inner surface of the first side. For example, portions of the buffer layer 500 located on opposite inner surfaces (e.g., surfaces facing each other) of the holes H may be formed such that the buffer layer 500 blocks (e.g., partially blocks) the holes H.

[0085] A buffer layer 500 may be positioned between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600 to reduce or prevent the external visibility of the pattern formed on the flexible portion 430 of the window substrate 400. The buffer layer 500 may be an anti-reflective layer that reduces the reflection of incident light incident on the pattern on the flexible portion 430. The incident light may be external light or light emitted from the display panel 100.

[0086] The refractive index of the buffer layer 500 may be less than that of the window substrate 400 and greater than that of the filler layer 600. In this case, the refractive index of the window substrate 400 may be greater than that of the filler layer 600, and the difference in refractive index between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600 may be greater than or equal to about 0.003. For example, the refractive index of the window substrate 400 may be from about 1.4 to about 1.6, the refractive index of the filler layer 600 may be from about 1.3 to about 1.6, and the difference in refractive index between them may be greater than or equal to about 0.003. As another example, the difference in refractive index between the window substrate 400 and the buffer layer 500 and the difference in refractive index between the filler layer 600 and the buffer layer 500 may be less than or equal to about 0.003. As yet another example, the refractive index of the buffer layer 500 may be from about 1.3 to about 1.6.

[0087] The buffer layer 500 may have a thickness corresponding to the wavelength of the incident light incident on the buffer layer 500. For example, the buffer layer 500 may have a thickness of 1 / 4 or 1 / 2 of the wavelength of the incident light.

[0088] The buffer layer 500 may be made of an inorganic material. The buffer layer 500 may be made of a material used to prevent or reduce reflection. In some embodiments, the buffer layer 500 may include at least one selected from Na3AlF6, MgF2, AlF3, LiF, CaF2, SiO2, Al2O3, SnO2, Y2O3, MgO, and combinations thereof. The refractive index of the buffer layer 500 may be suitably (or appropriately) adjusted by (e.g., based on) the combination of the above materials.

[0089] The filler layer 600 may be located on the buffer layer 500. The filler layer 600 may be positioned at the first non-folded region NFA1, the folded region FA, and the second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., across or overlapping their extensions). The filler layer 600 may be positioned at the first rigid portion 410, the flexible portion 430, and the second rigid portion 420 (e.g., across or overlapping their extensions). In some embodiments, the filler layer 600 may be positioned only in the folded region FA and / or the flexible portion 430.

[0090] The filling layer 600 can fill the empty space in the second region A2. In some embodiments, the filling layer 600 can fill the interior of a plurality of holes H. For example, the buffer layer 500 and the filling layer 600 can be stacked downwards from the lower surfaces of the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 (e.g., stacked sequentially), and the buffer layer 500 and the filling layer 600 can be in a horizontal direction toward the center of the plurality of holes H (e.g., Figure 7The filler layer 600 is stacked (e.g., sequentially stacked) on the inner surface of multiple holes H in the X-axis direction. The filler layer 600 may penetrate into the multiple holes H (e.g., positioned therein) such that a portion of the upper surface of the filler layer 600 located in the flexible portion 430 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the multiple holes H (e.g., an irregular shape). Therefore, the average thickness of the filler layer 600 in the first rigid portion 410 and the second rigid portion 420 (e.g., at) may be less than the average thickness of the filler layer 600 in the flexible portion 430.

[0091] The filler layer 600 may be made of an optically transparent material that has less rigidity than the window substrate 400 and / or the buffer layer 500 (e.g., the filler layer 600 may be more flexible than each of the window substrate 400 and the buffer layer 500). The filler layer 600 may be compressed or stretched when the display device 1 is folded or unfolded. For example, the filler layer 600 may comprise an acrylic, silicone, epoxy, phenolic, polyamide, or urethane resin. As another example, the filler layer 600 may comprise a thermosetting resin or an ultraviolet (UV) curable resin. As yet another example, the filler layer 600 may comprise an optically adhesive resin or an optically adhesive material.

[0092] Reference Figure 8 The buffer layer 500 may include multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 with different refractive indices. Figure 8 In the diagram, the four layers are shown as multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4, but the number of multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 is not limited thereto. For ease of description, the four layers stacked (e.g., sequentially stacked) from the filler layer 600 toward the window substrate 400 will be referred to as the first layer BF1, the second layer BF2, the third layer BF3, and the fourth layer BF4. In some embodiments, the buffer layer 500 may be implemented as a single layer, two layers, three layers, or five or more layers.

[0093] The refractive index of each of the multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may be less than the refractive index of the window substrate 400 and greater than the refractive index of the filler layer 600. For example, each of the multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may have a refractive index of about 1.3 to 1.6.

[0094] In some embodiments, the refractive indices of multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may be configured to gradually increase (e.g., may increase) in the direction from the filler layer 600 toward the window substrate 400 (e.g., 430). For example, the refractive indices of multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may be configured to gradually decrease (may decrease) in the direction from the window substrate 400 toward the filler layer 600. For example, the refractive index of the first layer BF1 may be greater than the refractive index of the filler layer 600 and less than the refractive index of the second layer BF2; the refractive index of the second layer BF2 may be greater than the refractive index of the first layer BF1 and less than the refractive index of the third layer BF3; the refractive index of the third layer BF3 may be greater than the refractive index of the second layer BF2 and less than the refractive index of the fourth layer BF4; and the refractive index of the fourth layer BF4 may be greater than the refractive index of the third layer BF3 and less than the refractive index of the window substrate 400. In this case, the difference in refractive index between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600 may be greater than or equal to about 0.003. In some embodiments, each of the differences in refractive index between the filler layer 600 and the first BF1 layer, between the first BF1 layer and the second BF2 layer, between the second BF2 layer and the third BF3 layer, between the third BF3 layer and the fourth BF4 layer, and between the fourth BF4 layer and the window substrate 400 may be less than or equal to about 0.003. In some embodiments, the sum of the differences in refractive index between the filler layer 600 and the first BF1 layer, between the first BF1 layer and the second BF2 layer, between the second BF2 layer and the third BF3 layer, between the third BF3 layer and the fourth BF4 layer, and between the fourth BF4 layer and the window substrate 400 may be greater than or equal to about 0.003.

[0095] In some embodiments, the refractive indices of the plurality of layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may be configured to gradually increase and then decrease in the direction from the filler layer 600 toward the window substrate 400. For example, the refractive index of the first layer BF1 may be greater than the refractive index of the filler layer 600, the refractive index of the fourth layer BF4 may be less than the refractive index of the window substrate 400, and the refractive index of each of the second layer BF2 and the third layer BF3 may be greater than the refractive index of each of the first layer BF1 and the fourth layer BF4. In some embodiments, the refractive index of each of the second layer BF2 and the third layer BF3 may be greater than the refractive index of both the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600. In some embodiments, the refractive index of the second layer BF2 may be greater than or less than the refractive index of the third layer BF3. In some embodiments, the refractive index of the second layer BF2 may be substantially equal to the refractive index of the third layer BF3.

[0096] The thickness of each of the multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 can be determined by the wavelength of the incident light L. This thickness can be the optical path length of the incident light L passing through each layer. Due to (e.g., based on) the optical path length, a phase difference can occur between multiple reflected beams RL reflected from the interface of each layer, and destructive interference can occur between the multiple reflected beams RL. For example, each of the first layer BF1, the second layer BF2, the third layer BF3, and the fourth layer BF4 can have a thickness of approximately 1 / 4 or 1 / 2 of the wavelength of the incident light L (e.g., each layer can be between approximately 1 / 4 and approximately 1 / 2 of the wavelength of the incident light L incident on the buffer layer 500). As another example, each of the first layer BF1, the second layer BF2, the third layer BF3, and the fourth layer BF4 can have a thickness of approximately 1 / 4 of the wavelength of the incident light L. As yet another example, each of the first layer BF1, the second layer BF2, the third layer BF3, and the fourth layer BF4 may have a thickness of approximately half the wavelength of the incident light L. As yet another example, some (e.g., less than all) of the first layer BF1, the second layer BF2, the third layer BF3, and the fourth layer BF4 may have a thickness of approximately one-quarter the wavelength of the incident light L, and the remaining layers may have a thickness of approximately half the wavelength of the incident light L. In some embodiments, the buffer layer 500 may be formed as a single layer or a double layer, and the thickness of the single layer or each of the double layers may be approximately one-quarter the wavelength of the incident light L. In some embodiments, the thickness of the layer in contact with the filler layer 600 (e.g., the first layer BF1) and the thickness of the layer in contact with the window substrate 400 (e.g., the fourth layer BF4) may each be about 1 / 4 of the wavelength of the incident light L, and the thickness of the second layer BF2 and / or the third layer BF3 between the first layer BF1 and the fourth layer BF4 may be about 1 / 2 of the wavelength of the incident light L. In this case, either (e.g., any) of the second layer BF2 and the third layer BF3 may be omitted.

[0097] For example, each of the plurality of layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may include at least one selected from Na3AlF6, MgF2, AlF3, LiF, CaF2, SiO2, Al2O3, SnO2, Y2O3, MgO, and combinations thereof. The refractive index of each of the plurality of layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may be adjusted (e.g., configured) according to the proportion of the above materials combined.

[0098] Multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 may be positioned between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600 to reduce or prevent the pattern of the flexible portion 430 from being exposed to the outside (e.g., visible from the outside). For example, the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600 may have different refractive indices. However, since precise refractive index matching may not be performed between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600, reflection of external light may occur at the interface between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600. Therefore, the pattern of the flexible portion 430 of the window substrate 400 may be exposed (e.g., visible from the outside). To reduce the visibility of the pattern, refractive index matching between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600 may be considered. However, since there may be conflicting relationships between appropriate (or suitable) bending characteristics (e.g., stretch ratio, recovery rate, or adhesion rate) for folding or unfolding and refractive index for reducing pattern visibility, it may be difficult to design the filler layer 600 to simultaneously (e.g., synchronously) satisfy appropriate (or suitable) bending characteristics and refractive index. In a display device 1 according to one embodiment, a buffer layer 500 having a refractive index between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600 is positioned between the window substrate 400 (e.g., the pattern of the flexible portion 430) and the filler layer 600, and therefore, the destructive interference between multiple reflected beams RL reflected at the interfaces between the multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3, and BF4 of the window substrate 400, the filler layer 600, and the buffer layer 500 can be reduced, so that the pattern visibility of the flexible portion 430 can be reduced (more easily).

[0099] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a window component Wa according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0100] Figure 9 Non-limiting implementation methods and Figures 6 to 8 The difference in the non-limiting implementation is that the window member Wa may include a recess G formed in the second region A2 of the flexible portion 430a, instead of a hole H.

[0101] Reference Figure 9 As described above, the flexible portion 430a can be divided into a first region A1 having a first rigidity and a second region A2 having a second rigidity that is less than the first rigidity of the first region A1. For example, the first region A1 may be more rigid than the second region A2. Figure 9 As shown, when viewed in cross-section, multiple first regions A1 and multiple second regions A2 can be located in the flexible section 430a.

[0102] and Figures 6 to 8In different implementations (e.g., oppositely), the plurality of second regions A2 may include a plurality of recesses G recessed upward from the lower surface of the window substrate 400a. The recesses G may include grooves. Therefore, an irregularity (e.g., shape) corresponding to the shape of the plurality of recesses G may be formed in the lower surface of the flexible portion 430a of the window substrate 400a. Each recess G may be formed by removing a portion of the window substrate 400a from the second region A2 of the flexible portion 430a. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the recesses G may be rectangular, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the recesses G may have a variety of suitable cross-sectional shapes, such as semi-elliptical, semi-circular, serrated, trapezoidal, and similar shapes. In some embodiments, the plurality of recesses G are positioned at regular intervals, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the plurality of recesses G may be positioned at variable intervals to have a pattern (e.g., a set or predetermined pattern or trend), or may be positioned at irregular intervals (e.g., randomly or without a predetermined pattern). In some embodiments, the plurality of recesses G may be formed only in the flexible portion 430a, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the plurality of recesses G may be formed in the first rigid portion 410 and / or the second rigid portion 420 of the window substrate 400a.

[0103] A buffer layer 500a may be located on one surface of the window substrate 400a. The buffer layer 500a may be directly located on (e.g., in contact with) one surface of the window substrate 400a. One surface of the window substrate 400a may be its lower surface. In some embodiments, one surface of the window substrate 400a may be its upper surface. The buffer layer 500a may be positioned over (e.g., extending across or overlapping with) the first non-folded region NFA1, the folded region FA, and the second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., the first rigid portion 410, the flexible portion 430a, and the second rigid portion 420 of the window substrate 400a). In some embodiments, the buffer layer 500a may be positioned only in the folded region FA (e.g., the flexible portion 430a). The buffer layer 500a may be a single layer or may be formed as follows: Figure 8 The multiple layers shown are BF1, BF2, BF3 and BF4.

[0104] A buffer layer 500a may cover (e.g., overlap with) the lower surface of the flexible portion 430a. The buffer layer 500a may be positioned at a plurality of first regions A1 and a plurality of second regions A2. A portion of the buffer layer 500a may be positioned at the lower surface of the flexible portion 430a in the first region A1, and another portion of the buffer layer 500a may be positioned at a plurality of recesses G in the second region A2. This portion and the other portion of the buffer layer 500a may be integrally connected (e.g., joined) (e.g., integrally formed). The buffer layer 500a may cover (e.g., overlap with) the lower surface of the flexible portion 430a and the plurality of recesses G formed therein. The buffer layer 500a may have a thickness (e.g., a set thickness or a predetermined thickness). In the folded region FA (e.g., the flexible portion 430a), the buffer layer 500a may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the plurality of recesses G (e.g., an uneven shape). In this case, multiple upwardly recessed spaces or gaps can be formed in the lower surface of the buffer layer 500a, corresponding to the shapes of the multiple recesses G.

[0105] The filling layer 600 can be positioned on the buffer layer 500a. The filling layer 600 can fill the space of the plurality of recesses G and / or the space formed on the lower surface of the buffer layer 500a according to the shape of the plurality of recesses G. Therefore, in the folded region FA (e.g., the flexible portion 430a), the upper surface of the filling layer 600 can have a shape (e.g., an uneven shape) corresponding to the shape of the plurality of recesses G and / or the buffer layer 500a.

[0106] Figure 9 Non-limiting implementations may be related to Figures 6 to 8 Non-limiting embodiments are substantially the same or similar, except that a recess G is formed in the second region A2 of the flexible portion 430a instead of a hole H, and therefore their repeated description is not required.

[0107] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing a window component Wb according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0108] Figure 10 Implementation methods and Figures 6 to 8 The difference in the implementation is that the window component Wb further includes at least one of a first thin film glass layer 810 and a second thin film glass layer 820.

[0109] Reference Figure 10 The window component Wb may also include at least one selected from the first thin film glass layer 810 and the second thin film glass layer 820.

[0110] A first thin-film glass layer 810 may be positioned on the upper surface of the window substrate 400. The first thin-film glass layer 810 may be positioned at the first non-folded region NFA1, the folded region FA, and the second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., extending across or overlapping them). The first thin-film glass layer 810 may be positioned on the upper surfaces of the first rigid portion 410, the flexible portion 430, and the second rigid portion 420 of the window substrate 400 (e.g., extending across or overlapping them). The first thin-film glass layer 810 may be located on (e.g., above) the first region A1 and the second region A2 of the flexible portion 430. The first thin-film glass layer 810 may cover a plurality of holes H in the flexible portion 430.

[0111] A buffer layer 500b may be positioned between the window substrate 400 and the filler layer 600. The buffer layer 500b may also be positioned between the first thin-film glass layer 810 and the filler layer 600. For example, the buffer layer 500b may have a thickness (e.g., a set thickness or a predetermined thickness) on the lower surface of the first rigid portion 410, the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes H, and the lower surface of the first thin-film glass layer 810 in the second region A2. In this case, the buffer layer 500b at the flexible portion 430 may have a shape (e.g., an uneven shape) according to (e.g., corresponding to) the shape of the plurality of holes H.

[0112] The second thin-film glass layer 820 may be located on the lower surface of the filler layer 600. The second thin-film glass layer 820 may be positioned at the first non-folded region NFA1, the folded region FA, and the second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., across or overlapping them).

[0113] Each of the first thin-film glass layer 810 and the second thin-film glass layer 820 may have a thickness smaller than that of the window substrate 400. Each of the first thin-film glass layer 810 and the second thin-film glass layer 820 may be made of thin-film glass or extremely thin and flexible glass (e.g., UTG). The thickness of each of the first thin-film glass layer 810 and the second thin-film glass layer 820 may be, for example, from about 10 μm to about 500 μm, or glass with a thickness of about 200 μm to about 300 μm may be used. The first thin-film glass layer 810 and the second thin-film glass layer 820 may each comprise chemically or thermally strengthened glass.

[0114] The first thin-film glass layer 810 and / or the second thin-film glass layer 820 may enhance (e.g., be configured to enhance) the rigidity of the flexible portion 430 and prevent or reduce deformation or separation of other components due to folding or unfolding of the window substrate 400.

[0115] Figure 10 Non-limiting implementations may be related to Figures 6 to 8Non-limiting embodiments are substantially the same or similar, except that the window member Wb also includes at least one selected from the first thin film glass layer 810 and the second thin film glass layer 820, and therefore its repeated description is not provided.

[0116] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 12 to 15 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of a method for manufacturing a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0117] A display device manufactured by the method described below may include Figure 1 The display device 1. A method of manufacturing the display device may include manufacturing a window component W' (see...). Figure 15 The method of ) . Window component W' may include Figures 6 to 10 The window components W, Wa, and Wb (for example, one of them may be).

[0118] Reference Figure 11 The method of manufacturing a display device may include: forming a pattern in a window substrate 400' comprising a first region A1 having a first rigidity and a second region A2 having a second rigidity less than the first rigidity (S101); forming a buffer layer 500' having a refractive index less than the refractive index of the window substrate 400' on the pattern (S102); and forming a filling layer 600' having a refractive index less than the refractive index of the buffer layer 500' on the buffer layer 500' (S103).

[0119] The formation of the pattern (S101) may include forming a hole H in the second region A2.

[0120] The formation of the buffer layer 500' (S102) may include forming the buffer layer 500' on or at the inner surface of the hole H.

[0121] The formation of the pattern (S101) may include forming a recess G in the second region A2.

[0122] The formation of the buffer layer 500' (S102) may include forming the buffer layer 500' on or at the inner surface of the recess G.

[0123] The formation of the buffer layer 500' (S102) may include forming multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3 and BF4 with different refractive indices.

[0124] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 12 to 15 The method for manufacturing the display device will be described in more detail below. Figures 12 to 15 The window substrate 400', buffer layer 500', and filler layer 600' can be respectively Figures 6 to 8The window substrate 400, buffer layer 500, and filler layer 600 are included, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0125] Reference Figure 12 A window substrate 400' can be prepared. The window substrate 400' can be made of a transparent material (e.g., glass). Figure 12 The window substrate 400' may have multiple holes H formed therein (e.g., through it) before being connected with Figures 6 to 8 The window substrate is basically the same as that of 400.

[0126] The window substrate 400' can be divided into a first processing region NFA1', a second processing region NFA2', and a third processing region FA' located between the first processing region NFA1' and the second processing region NFA2'. The third processing region FA' may have an area smaller than that of each of the first processing region NFA1' and the second processing region NFA2', but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The first processing region NFA1', the second processing region NFA2', and the third processing region FA' may respectively correspond to Figures 6 to 8 The first rigid portion 410 (e.g., located in the first non-folded region NFA1), the second rigid portion 420 (e.g., located in the second non-folded region NFA2), and the flexible portion 430 (e.g., located in the folded region FA).

[0127] Reference Figure 13 A pattern can be formed in the third processing area FA'. This pattern may include a first area A1 having a first rigidity and a second area A2 having a second rigidity less than that of the first area A1. The first area A1 may be an unprocessed area, and the second area A2 may be an area in which at least a portion of the window substrate 400' is removed (e.g., by etching). In some embodiments, a plurality of holes H can be formed in the second area A2 by an etching process. For example, the etching process can be performed by wet etching, dry etching, or laser etching processes. For example, by the above etching process, a slit pattern (such as...) can be formed in the third processing area FA'. Figure 6 (As shown in the diagram). In some embodiments, multiple grooves (e.g., recesses) may be formed in the second region A2 (as shown in the diagram). Figure 9 (As shown in the diagram). In some embodiments, a plurality of holes H may also be formed in the first processing region NFA1' and / or the second processing region NFA2'.

[0128] Reference Figure 14After processing the window substrate 400', a buffer layer 500' can be formed on one surface of the window substrate 400'. One surface of the window substrate 400' may be its lower surface. In some embodiments, one surface of the window substrate 400' may be its upper surface. The refractive index of the buffer layer 500' may be less than the refractive index of the window substrate 400'. The buffer layer 500 may include at least one selected from Na3AlF6, MgF2, AlF3, LiF, CaF2, SiO2, Al2O3, SnO2, Y2O3, MgO, and combinations thereof.

[0129] A buffer layer 500' may be formed at the first processing region NFA1', the second processing region NFA2', and the third processing region FA' (e.g., across or overlapping them). The buffer layer 500' may be formed to cover (e.g., overlap with) a pattern formed by a plurality of holes H. In some embodiments, the buffer layer 500' may be formed only in the third processing region FA'.

[0130] The buffer layer 500' can be formed to cover one surface of the window substrate 400' and the inner surface of each of the plurality of holes H. Therefore, as... Figure 14 As shown, the buffer layer 500' may have an "L" or "U" shaped cross-section in which at least one end of the buffer layer 500' is bent upwards (e.g., at an angle). In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, when multiple grooves (e.g., recesses G) are formed in the third processing region FA', a buffer layer 500' can be deposited on the lower surface of the third processing region FA' to have a shape (e.g., an uneven shape).

[0131] A buffer layer 500' can be deposited on the window substrate 400' (e.g., by a deposition process). For example, the deposition process can be performed by physical vapor deposition or chemical vapor deposition.

[0132] exist Figure 14 For ease of description, a layer is shown during the deposition of the buffer layer 500', but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Figure 8 As shown, multiple layers BF1, BF2, BF3 and BF4 with different refractive indices can be deposited (e.g., sequentially) on the window substrate 400' to form a buffer layer 500'.

[0133] Reference Figure 15 The buffer layer 500' may have a refractive index less than that of the window substrate 400' and greater than that of the filler layer 600', as will be described below. The refractive index relationship between the window substrate 400', the filler layer 600', and the buffer layer 500' is... Figure 8The refractive index relationships among the window substrate 400, the filling layer 600, and the buffer layer 500 are substantially the same or similar, and therefore their repeated description is not provided herein.

[0134] After the buffer layer 500' is formed, a filler layer 600' can be formed on the buffer layer 500'. The filler layer 600' can be applied to the buffer layer 500' (e.g., by a coating process). For example, the coating process can be performed using a coating machine or a dispenser. In this case, the interior of the plurality of holes H can be filled with the filler layer 600'. The filler layer 600' may comprise an acrylic-based, silicone-based, epoxy-based, phenolic, polyamide-based, or urethane-based resin. Through the above process, the window component W' can be manufactured.

[0135] Refer again Figure 10 After applying the filler layer 600', the method of manufacturing the display device may further include at least one of forming a first thin film glass layer 810 on the upper surface of the window substrate 400' and forming a second thin film glass layer 820 on the lower surface of the filler layer 600'.

[0136] Refer again Figure 4 The method of manufacturing the display device may also include attaching a window member W' to the display panel 100. For example, the window member W' may be attached to a polarizing member 225 on the display panel 100.

[0137] The methods for manufacturing display devices are not limited to the examples above, and can be referenced from... Figures 1 to 10 You may omit at least one of the operations selected above, or you may add at least one other operation.

[0138] According to this disclosure, the window component, the display device, and the method of manufacturing the display device can reduce the visibility of patterns formed in the window component.

[0139] In this document, when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, the use of the term “may” means “one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.” As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are also intended to include the plural forms. As used herein, expressions such as “at least one of,” “one of,” and “selected from” modify the entire list of elements, rather than individual elements within that list, when preceding or following an element. It will also be understood that the terms “comprise” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, indicate 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 clusters thereof.

[0140] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree and are intended to take into account the inherent biases of measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. Taking into account the errors associated with the measurement and with a particular number of measurements (i.e., limitations of the measurement system), “about” or “approximately” as used herein includes stated values ​​and means within an acceptable range of deviation for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value.

[0141] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or portion from another. Therefore, the first element, component, area, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, area, layer, or portion without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0142] As used herein, phrases such as “plan view” may refer to a view from the top or from a direction perpendicular to the display area of ​​the display device.

[0143] As used in this article, the terms “use,” “using,” and “used” can be considered synonymous with the terms “utilize,” “utilizing,” and “utilized,” respectively.

[0144] Spatial relative terms such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” “bottom,” and “top” may be used herein for descriptive convenience to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another, as shown in the figures. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures, spatial relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “below” of other elements or features will subsequently be oriented as “above” or “over” of other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0145] Any numerical ranges listed herein are intended to include all subranges of the same numerical precision falling within the listed ranges. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the listed minimum value of 1.0 and the listed maximum value of 10.0 (and includes both the listed minimum value of 1.0 and the listed maximum value of 10.0), that is, all subranges having a minimum value greater than or equal to 1.0 and a maximum value less than or equal to 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit listed herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits falling within it, and any minimum numerical limit listed in this specification is intended to include all larger numerical limits falling within it. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to expressly list any subranges falling within the ranges expressly listed herein.

[0146] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will also be understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms, such as those defined in common dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and in the context of this disclosure, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0147] In concluding this detailed description, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many suitable changes, modifications, additions, and substitutions can be made to various embodiments of the present disclosure without substantially departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments of the present disclosure are used in a general and descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display panel; as well as A window component, the window component being located on the display panel. The window component includes: A window substrate, the window substrate comprising a flexible portion wherein a first region having a first rigidity and a second region having a second rigidity less than the first rigidity are alternately positioned; A buffer layer, the buffer layer being located on the window substrate and having a refractive index lower than that of the window substrate; and A filling layer, situated on the buffer layer, having a refractive index smaller than that of the buffer layer. The buffer layer is located between the window substrate and the filler layer; The second region includes a plurality of recesses or a plurality of holes through the window substrate; At least a portion of the buffer layer is located on the inner surface of each of the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes; The filling layer includes portions located within the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes; and A portion of the filling layer located within the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes is in direct contact with a portion of the buffer layer located within the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes.

2. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The window substrate includes: A first rigid portion, located on one side of the flexible portion; and The second rigid part is located on the other side of the flexible part. The first region is made of the same material as the first rigid part and the second rigid part.

3. The display device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The filling layer overlaps with the first rigid portion, the second rigid portion, and the flexible portion.

4. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The difference between the refractive index of the filling layer and the refractive index of the buffer layer is less than or equal to 0.

003.

5. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The refractive index of the buffer layer is between 1.3 and 1.

6.

6. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The buffer layer comprises multiple layers with different refractive indices.

7. The display device as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The different refractive indices of the plurality of layers increase in the direction from the filling layer toward the window substrate.

8. The display device as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The thickness of each of the plurality of layers is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2 of the wavelength of the incident light incident on the buffer layer.

9. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The buffer layer includes at least one of Na3AlF6, MgF2, AlF3, LiF, CaF2, SiO2, Al2O3, SnO2, Y2O3, and MgO.

10. A window component, comprising: A window substrate, the window substrate comprising a flexible portion wherein a first region having a first rigidity and a second region having a second rigidity less than the first rigidity are alternately positioned; A buffer layer, the buffer layer being located on the window substrate and having a refractive index lower than that of the window substrate; as well as A filling layer, situated on the buffer layer, having a refractive index smaller than that of the buffer layer. The buffer layer is located between the window substrate and the filler layer; The second region includes a plurality of recesses or a plurality of holes through the window substrate; At least a portion of the buffer layer is located on the inner surface of each of the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes; The filling layer includes portions located within the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes; as well as A portion of the filling layer located within the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes is in direct contact with a portion of the buffer layer located within the plurality of recesses or the plurality of holes.

11. The window component as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The buffer layer comprises multiple layers with different refractive indices.

12. A method of manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: A pattern is formed in the window substrate comprising a first region having a first rigidity and a second region having a second rigidity less than the first rigidity; A buffer layer with a refractive index lower than that of the window substrate is formed on the pattern; as well as A filling layer is formed on the buffer layer, the filling layer having a refractive index smaller than that of the buffer layer. The buffer layer is located between the window substrate and the filler layer; Forming the pattern includes: forming a hole or recess in the second region; Forming the buffer layer includes: forming the buffer layer at the inner surface of the hole or the recess; The filling layer includes a portion located within the hole or the recess; and A portion of the filling layer located within the hole or the recess is in direct contact with a portion of the buffer layer located within the hole or the recess.

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