Display device

Abstract

A display device is disclosed. The display device includes a first body and a second body, a hinge portion disposed between and connected to the first body and the second body, a support plate connected to the first body and the second body, and a display panel attached to the support plate. The second body includes a first portion and a second portion slidably engaged, and the second portion of the second body is slidable out from the first portion of the second body.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0146272, filed on November 4, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a display device, and more specifically, to a display device having a flexible structure capable of folding, bending, stretching, sliding, etc. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, multimedia players, and televisions include display devices for displaying images. Each display device includes a display panel that enables the display of images. Flexible display devices that can be deformed (e.g., bent, folded, rolled, and stretched) by using a flexible substrate for their display panels have been developed.

[0005] In flexible display devices, the display can be folded and unfolded like a book. These devices offer the advantages of being foldable and compactly portable, and when in use, they can be unfolded to enjoy a wide screen.

[0006] The information disclosed in this background section is partly intended to provide useful background for understanding the art. However, the background in this art section may also include ideas, concepts, or knowledge that were not known or understood by one of skill in the art prior to the relevant valid application date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The implementation has been dedicated to providing a display device that can expose a portion of the screen in a folded state.

[0008] In one embodiment, the display device may include: a first body and a second body; a hinge portion disposed between and connected to the first and second bodies; a support plate connected to the first and second bodies; and a display panel connected to the support plate. The second body may include a first portion and a second portion that are slidably engaged, and the second portion of the second body may slide out from the first portion of the second body.

[0009] The display panel may include a screen, at least a portion of which may be exposed when the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body.

[0010] The first body may include a first housing plate, and the second body may include a second housing plate. The second housing plate may include a first portion and a second portion corresponding to a first portion of the second body and a second portion of the second body, respectively. A support plate may be connected to the first housing plate and the second portion of the second housing plate, and the support plate may not be connected to the first portion of the second housing plate.

[0011] The support plate may include: a first flat portion; a second flat portion; and a flexible portion disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion. The first flat portion may be connected to a first housing plate, the second flat portion may be connected to a second portion of a second housing plate, and the flexible portion may not be connected to either the first housing plate or the second housing plate.

[0012] In a folded state where the first and second bodies face each other, the bendable portion can bend relative to the bending axis. When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the bending axis can move in the sliding direction.

[0013] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the bending area of ​​the bendable part can move toward the first flat part.

[0014] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the movement distance of the bending axis can be half the distance that the second part of the second body slides out.

[0015] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the area of ​​the display panel connected to the second flat part can be exposed.

[0016] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the distance between the first part of the second housing plate and the second part of the second housing plate can be increased.

[0017] The hinged portion may include a spindle and a hinge element. The hinge element may include: a first hinge element connected to the spindle and a first housing plate; and a second hinge element connected to a first portion of the spindle and the second housing plate.

[0018] In one embodiment, the display device may include: a first body; a second body including a first portion and a second portion slidably joined; a display panel disposed on the first body and the second body; and a support plate having a first surface facing the display panel and a second surface facing in the opposite direction to the first surface. The first surface of the support plate may be connected to the display panel, and the second surface of the support plate may be connected to the first body and the second portion of the second body, and the second surface of the support plate may not be connected to the first portion of the second body.

[0019] The first body may include a first housing plate, and the second body may include a second housing plate. The second housing plate may include a first portion and a second portion corresponding to a first portion of the second body and a second portion of the second body, respectively. A support plate may be connected to the first housing plate and the second portion of the second housing plate, and the support plate may not be connected to the first portion of the second housing plate.

[0020] The support plate may include: a first flat portion; a second flat portion; and a flexible portion disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion. The first flat portion may be connected to a first housing plate, the second flat portion may be connected to a second portion of a second housing plate, and the flexible portion may be neither connected to the first housing plate nor to the second housing plate.

[0021] In a folded state where the first and second bodies face each other, the bendable portion can bend relative to the bending axis. When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the bending axis can move in the sliding direction.

[0022] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the bending area of ​​the bendable part can move toward the first flat part.

[0023] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the movement distance of the bending axis can be half the distance that the second part of the second body slides out.

[0024] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the area of ​​the display panel connected to the second flat part can be exposed.

[0025] When the second part of the second body slides out from the first part of the second body, the distance between the first part of the second housing plate and the second part of the second housing plate can be increased.

[0026] The display device may further include a hinge portion connected to the first body and the second body, and the hinge portion may include a spindle and a hinge member. The hinge member may include: a first hinge member connected to the spindle and the first housing plate; and a second hinge member connected to the first portion of the spindle and the second housing plate.

[0027] The first part of the second body may include wings and guides perpendicular to each other, and the second part of the second body may also include wings and guides perpendicular to each other. The inner surface of the wings of the second part may contact the outer surface of the wings of the first part, and the outer surface of the guides of the second part may contact the inner surface of the guides of the first part.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the display device can expose a portion of the screen in a folded state. Other advantageous effects will become apparent throughout the specification. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description of embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 A schematic perspective view and a schematic bottom view of the display device according to the embodiment are shown respectively.

[0031] Figure 4 A schematic exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0032] Figure 5 A schematic exploded perspective view of the body and hinge portion according to an embodiment is shown.

[0033] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Each shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device in a folded state according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Each shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device in a partially sliding state according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 Each shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device in a fully sliding state according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 15 A schematic cross-sectional view is shown, illustrating the stacked structure of the display panels according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments. 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 present disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0038] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions, thickness, scale, and size of the components may be exaggerated for ease of description and clarity. The same components are depicted throughout the same accompanying drawings.

[0039] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0040] It will be understood that when an element (such as a layer, film, region, or substrate) is referred to as being “on” another element, it may be directly on the other element, or an intervening element may be present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” another element, no intervening element is present. For ease of description, the spatial relative terms “below,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “up,” etc., may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or component and another element or component as shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the accompanying drawings, the spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, in the case where the device shown in the figures is flipped, a device positioned “below” or “below” another device may be placed “above” another device. Thus, the illustrative term “below” may include both a lower position and an upper position. The device may also be oriented in other directions, and therefore the spatial relative terms may be interpreted differently depending on the orientation.

[0041] In this specification, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the words “comprise” and variations thereof (such as “comprises” or “comprising”) shall be understood to imply inclusion of the stated elements, but not exclusion of any other elements.

[0042] In this specification, “connection” means not only a direct connection between two or more components, but also a connection between two or more components that can be indirectly connected, physically connected, or electrically connected through other components, or can be referred to by different names depending on location or function, but may include each connection of components that are substantially integrated with each other.

[0043] In the accompanying drawings, the symbols “x”, “y”, and “z” are used to indicate directions, where x indicates a first direction, y indicates a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and z indicates a third direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions. The first direction x, the second direction y, and the third direction z can correspond to the horizontal, vertical, and thickness directions of the display device, respectively.

[0044] Unless otherwise described in the specification, “overlap” refers to overlap in a plan view and to overlap in a third direction z. The terms “overlap” or “overlapping” mean that the first object may be above or below the second object, or on one side of the second object, and that the second object may be above or below the first object, or on one side of the first object. Additionally, the term “overlap” may include layering, stacking, facing or oriented, extending throughout, covering or partially covering, or any other suitable term as will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0045] The terms "facing" and "oriented" mean that the first element can be directly or indirectly opposite the second element. When a third element is inserted between the first and second elements, the first and second elements can be understood as being indirectly opposite each other, but still facing each other.

[0046] As used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the value and the average of the specific value within an acceptable range of deviations determined by a person skilled in the art, considering the measurements discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of the specific quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the value.

[0047] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will also be understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and shall not be interpreted as having an idealized or overly formal meaning unless expressly so defined herein.

[0048] Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 A schematic perspective view and a bottom view of the display device 1 according to the embodiment are shown respectively. Figure 1 The unfolded state of display device 1 is shown. Figure 2 The folded state of display device 1 is shown, and Figure 3 The display device 1 is shown in a folded and slidable state.

[0049] Display device 1 can be an electronic device that includes the primary function of displaying images. Display device 1 can be implemented as, for example, an electronic device (such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet computer, multimedia player, or game console), or can be applied to such an electronic device.

[0050] like Figure 1As shown, the display device 1 can be unfolded substantially flat. The display device 1 may include a first flat region 11, a second flat region 12, and a flexible region 13 between the first flat region 11 and the second flat region 12. The flexible region 13 is the region that bends when the display device 1 is folded, and the first flat region 11 and the second flat region 12 are the regions that do not bend when the display device 1 is folded. The flexible region 13 can be bent about an axis parallel to a second direction y.

[0051] Although a single flexible region 13 is shown, the display device 1 may include multiple flexible regions 13 spaced apart from each other, which may be bent with different radii of curvature or about different bending axes. Although the flexible region 13 is shown as being approximately located at the center of the display device 1, in embodiments, the position and width of the flexible region 13 of the display device 1 may be varied.

[0052] Display device 1 includes a body 100. The body 100 may be referred to as a housing, housing frame, or outer casing. The body 100 forms the overall appearance of display device 1 and can house various components constituting display device 1 (such as a processor, memory, drive unit, printed circuit board, battery, communication module, speaker, and various sensors). The body 100 may include a first body 110 corresponding to a first flat region 11 and a second body 120 corresponding to a second flat region 12. The first body 110 and the second body 120 may form a pair with each other. The second body 120 may include a first portion 121 and a second portion 122 that are slidably engaged with each other.

[0053] The display device 1 includes a hinge portion 200. The hinge portion 200 can be connected (or attached) to the body 100. The hinge portion 200 is connected (or attached) to a first body 110 and a second body 120 to allow the display device 1 to fold and unfold. When the display device 1 is folded, the first body 110 and the second body 120 can face each other, while when the display device 1 is unfolded, the first body 110 and the second body 120 can be arranged parallel to each other. The hinge portion 200 can serve as a rotation axis for the bendable region 13 and can allow the bendable region 13 to bend. Therefore, the display device 1 can substantially deform between folding and unfolding.

[0054] Display device 1 includes a display panel 300, which includes a screen SR on which an image is displayed. The screen SR may correspond to a display area in the display panel 300 in which pixels are arranged. A flexible region 13 may be positioned to extend across the screen SR in a second direction y.

[0055] like Figure 2As shown, the display device 1 can be folded so that multiple portions of the screen SR face each other, specifically, the screen portions of the first flat region 11 and the second flat region 12 face each other. In the folded state, the screen area of ​​the flexible region 13 can be covered. When the first flat region 11 and the second flat region 12 are substantially the same, in the folded state, the entire screen SR can be covered by the body 100 of the display device 1.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, the second flat region 12 (or the second body 120) can expand in a folded state to expose a portion of the screen SR. The exposed portion of the screen SR can be a part of the screen portion of the second flat region 12. The second body 120 may include a first portion 121 and a second portion 122 slidably engaged with each other to expand the second flat region 12. For example, the second flat region 12 can expand in a first direction x when the second portion 122 slides out from the first portion 121 (hereinafter referred to as the "slid-out state"). When the second portion 122 is fully slid out, the width of the second flat region 12 can increase by about 1.3 times to about 1.7 times, for example, about 1.5 times, compared to before the slide. As the second portion 122 slides out, the area of ​​the exposed portion of the screen SR can gradually increase. When the second portion 122 slides out completely within its design range, approximately 30% to approximately 70% (e.g., approximately 50%) of the screen portion of the second flat area 12 can be exposed, and approximately 15% to approximately 35% (e.g., approximately 25%) of the entire screen SR can be exposed. As the second flat area 12 expands, the first flat area 11 can retain its original area. The mechanism for exposing the screen SR when the second portion 122 slides out will be described later.

[0057] Display device 1 may include a camera CM. The camera CM may be positioned on body 100 (e.g., first body 110) and may be a rear-facing camera with its lens exposed on the opposite side of screen SR.

[0058] In display device 1, such as Figure 1 When the display panel 300 is unfolded as shown, it is activated to display an image on the screen SR. In the display device 1, as shown... Figure 2 When the display panel 300 is folded as shown, it may not be activated. In the display device 1, as... Figure 3 When the camera is slid out as shown, the display panel 300 is activated to display the image on the exposed screen SR. Therefore, in the slid-out state, the user can use the rear camera as a selfie camera (like a normal front camera) by pointing the lens of the camera CM and the exposed screen SR at themselves, and can check the image taken by the camera CM through the exposed screen SR.

[0059] As described above, by providing the screen SR in a sliding manner while folding the display device 1, at least the following advantages are available. The front-facing camera can be positioned on the same side (i.e., the front side) as the screen SR by sacrificing a portion of the front area where the screen SR is located, or even when no additional screen is provided on the opposite side of the screen SR (e.g., in the rear area of ​​the first body 110), selfies or video calls can be made using the rear-facing camera CM and the front screen SR. Since the camera CM does not need to be placed in front of the display device 1, costs can be reduced, and the front surface of the display device 1 can be designed to be substantially filled with the screen SR. For example, even in the folded state where the display device 1 is not unfolded, images can be displayed by exposing the screen SR, and messages, time, etc., displayed through the images can be checked.

[0060] Figure 4 A schematic exploded perspective view of the display device 1 according to an embodiment is shown, and Figure 5 A schematic exploded perspective view of the body 100 and the hinge portion 200 according to an embodiment is shown.

[0061] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The display device 1 may include a body 100, a hinge portion 200, a display panel 300, and a support plate 400.

[0062] The body 100 may include a first body 110 and a second body 120. The first body 110 may include a first housing plate 130, and the second body 120 may include a second housing plate 140. Each of the first housing plate 130 and the second housing plate 140 may provide a flat upper surface of the body 100. The second housing plate 140 may include a first portion 141 and a second portion 142 that are separated from each other. Even in the folded state where the display device 1 is not unfolded, the edges of the first portion 141 and the second portion 142 of the second housing plate 140 may contact each other. In the folded and slid-out state of the display device 1, the opposite edges of the first portion 141 and the second portion 142 may separate from each other. When the second flat area 12 is expanded after the display device 1 is folded, the distance between the first portion 141 and the second portion 142 may gradually increase.

[0063] The first portion 121 of the second body 120 may include a first wing 1211 and a first guide 1212, and the second portion 122 may include a second wing 1221 and a second guide 1222, such that the first portion 121 and the second portion 122 of the second body 120 are slidably engaged. The first wing 1211 and the first guide 1212 may be substantially perpendicular to each other, and the second wing 1221 and the second guide 1222 may be substantially perpendicular to each other. The inner surface of the second wing 1221 of the second portion 122 may contact the outer surface of the first wing 1211 of the first portion 121, and the outer surface of the second guide 1222 of the second portion 122 may contact the inner surface of the first guide 1212 of the first portion 121. When sliding out or sliding back, the second portion 122 can slide precisely in one direction due to the contact between the components of the first portion 121 and the components of the second portion 122.

[0064] In another example, the outer surface of the second wing 1221 of the second portion 122 may be configured to closely contact the inner surface of the first wing 1211 of the first portion 121, and the inner surface of the second guide 1222 of the second portion 122 may be configured to closely contact the outer surface of the first guide 1212 of the first portion 121. Embodiments may include other slidably connected structures between the first portion 121 and the second portion 122.

[0065] The hinge portion 200 may include a spindle 210 and hinge members 220. The spindle 210 may be positioned to extend along a second direction y. Each of the hinge members 220 may have a first side connected (or coupled or attached) to the corresponding spindle 210 and a second side connected (or coupled or attached) to a first body 110 or a second body 120. Hinges 221 connected (or coupled or attached) to the first body 110 and hinges 222 connected (or coupled or attached) to the second body 120 may be alternately positioned along the second direction y. Hinges 221 may be connected (or coupled or attached) to a first housing plate 130 in the first body 110. Hinges 222 may be connected (or coupled or attached) to a first portion 141 in the second body 120.

[0066] The hinge portion 200 may have a dual-axis hinge structure. For example, the axis of rotation of the hinge 221 connected (or attached or attached) to the first body 110 and the axis of rotation of the hinge 222 connected (or attached or attached) to the second body 120 may be different. In other examples, the hinge portion 200 may have a single-axis hinge structure.

[0067] Display panel 300 may be a panel in which pixels capable of displaying images are formed on a substrate. Display panel 300 may include light-emitting elements corresponding to the pixels. The light-emitting elements may be light-emitting diodes (LEDs), such as organic light-emitting diodes or micro light-emitting diodes. Display panel 300 may be a flexible panel capable of bending at least in a portion. Display panel 300 may be disposed in a first flat region 11, a flexible region 13, and a second flat region 12. Display panel 300 may be disposed on a first body 110 and a second body 120. For example, in display panel 300, at least the region corresponding to the flexible region 13 of display device 1 may be flexible and bendable. In other examples, the entire display panel may be flexible.

[0068] A support plate 400 may be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 300 to support the display panel 300. The support plate 400 may include a first flat portion 410 and a second flat portion 420, and a flexible portion 430 between the first flat portion 410 and the second flat portion 420. The first flat portion 410 and the second flat portion 420 may support the flat area of ​​the display panel 300, and the first flat portion 410 and the second flat portion 420 may be metal plates. The flexible portion 430 may be connected between the first flat portion 410 and the second flat portion 420 to allow the display device 1 to unfold, fold, and slide, and may support a portion of the display panel 300 in the flexible region 13. The flexible portion 430 may have a multi-connection structure, which includes multiple segments rotatably connected to each other. The flexible portion 430 may be bent about an axis parallel to a second direction y. The area of ​​the display panel 300 corresponding to the flexible portion 430 (i.e., the area attached to or in contact with the flexible portion 430) can be flexible and bendable.

[0069] When the display device 1 is unfolded or folded, the entire first flat portion 410 and a portion of the flexible portion 430 may correspond to the first flat region 11, the entire second flat portion 420 may correspond to the second flat region 12, and a portion of the flexible portion 430 may correspond to the flexible region 13. The flexible portion 430 may extend throughout the first flat region 11 and the flexible region 13. When the display device 1 partially slides out after being folded, the flexible portion 430 may extend throughout the first flat region 11, the flexible region 13, and the second flat region 12. When the display device 1 fully slides out after being folded, the flexible portion 430 may extend throughout the flexible region 13 and the second flat region 12.

[0070] The support plate 400 can be attached to the display panel 300 using an adhesive such as pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or optically clear adhesive (OCA). All areas of the first surface of the support plate 400 facing the display panel 300 can be attached to the display panel 300. When the display device 1 is unfolded, the first flat portion 410, the second flat portion 420, and the flexible portion 430 can unfold substantially flat. When the display device 1 is unfolded, the display panel 300 can also unfold substantially flat. The display panel 300 can operate together with the support plate 400 in the same manner as the support plate 400.

[0071] The second surface of the support plate 400 (which faces the direction opposite to the first surface) can be attached to the first housing plate 130 and the second housing plate 140 by an adhesive such as pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or optically clear adhesive (OCA). A first flat portion 410 can be attached to the first housing plate 130, and a second flat portion 420 can be attached to a second portion 142 of the second housing plate 140. However, any portion of the support plate 400 may not be attached to the first portion 141 of the second housing plate 140. The second flat portion 420 may be attached only to the second portion 142 and may not be attached to the first portion 141. The flexible portion 430 of the support plate 400 may not be attached to either the first housing plate 130 or the second housing plate 140.

[0072] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Each shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device 1 in a folded state according to an embodiment.

[0073] Figure 6 A perspective view showing a schematic cross-sectional view of the approximate lower end of the display device 1 cut along the first direction x is shown. Figure 7 The diagram shows a further magnification with Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the area adjacent to the hinge portion 200 in the diagram, and Figure 8 It shows the representation Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the support plate 400 and its adjacent components, further enlarged. Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Each showed in Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the assembled components, and also shows the movement restriction portion 500. The cross-section of the approximately upper end of the display device 1 is substantially the same as the cross-section shown. Except for the protrusion 520, the cross-section of the approximately middle portion of the display device 1 is substantially the same as the cross-section shown.

[0074] When the display device 1 is folded, the display panel 300 and the support plate 400 are bent in the bendable region 13. The area of ​​the bendable portion 430 of the support plate 400 adjacent to the second flat portion 420 is bent. The bendable portion 430 and the display panel 300 can be bent about a bending axis X parallel to the second direction y. B The flexible portion 430, excluding the bending region, can be in a flat state. Such a flat region in the flexible portion 430 can be wider than the bending region. The first flat portion 410 and the flexible portion 430 of the support plate 400 can be partially positioned in the first flat region 11, and the second flat portion 420 of the support plate 400 can be positioned in the second flat region 12.

[0075] The first portion 141 and the second portion 142 of the second housing plate 140 can contact each other such that the surface of the second flat portion 420 of the first portion 141 facing the support plate 400 and the surface of the second flat portion 420 of the second portion 142 facing the support plate 400 can form a continuous smooth plane. The first portion 121 and the second portion 122 of the second body 120 can be joined over substantially the entire area of ​​the second flat region 12.

[0076] The display device 1 may include a movement limiting portion 500. The movement limiting portion 500 may include a gear portion 510 and a protrusion 520, wherein the gear portion 510 has a groove formed thereon. The gear portion 510 may include an extension 511 parallel to the first housing plate 130. The extension 511 may be connected (or attached or attached) to the first housing plate 130 and may form part of the first housing plate 130. The extension 511 may be positioned between the first housing plate 130 and the support plate 400. The extension 511 may face a flexible portion 430 of the support plate 400. The surface of the extension 511 may form a plane with a surface of the first housing plate 130 that does not overlap with the extension 511 and faces the first flat portion 410. The protrusion 520 may protrude from the hinge portion 200, or may be connected (or attached or attached) to the hinge portion 200.

[0077] When the display device 1 is folded, the protrusion 520 can engage with the groove closest to the hinge portion 200 in, for example, the groove of the gear portion 510. When the display device 1 is unfolded, the protrusion 520 can engage with the groove gradually moving away from the hinge portion 200 in the groove of the gear portion 510. In this way, when the protrusion 520 engages with the groove of the gear portion 510 to unfold or fold the display device 1, it restricts the relative movement of the first flat area 11 and the second flat area 12 to some extent, thereby allowing the display device 1 to remain in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an unfolded state at a certain angle.

[0078] In another example, a movement restriction portion 500 may be provided such that the extension 511 is connected (or coupled or attached) to the first portion 141 of the second housing plate 140.

[0079] Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Schematic cross-sectional views are shown, representing the display device in a partially slid-out state according to an embodiment. Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Corresponding to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0080] Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The diagram shows the second flat area 12 partially expanded when the display device 1 is folded. When the user pulls the second portion 122 of the second body 120, for example, in the first direction x, the second portion 122 slides out. The second portion 142 of the second housing plate 140, which is connected (or attached to) the second portion 122, moves in the first direction x, and the second flat portion 420 of the support plate 400, which is attached to the second portion 142, also moves in the first direction x.

[0081] Since the second flat portion 420 and the flexible portion 430 of the support plate 400 are not attached to the first housing plate 130 or the first portion 141 of the second housing plate 140, as the second flat portion 420 moves in the first direction x and pulls the flexible portion 430 in the first direction x, the bending area of ​​the flexible portion 430 can gradually move toward the first flat portion 410. The flexible portion 430 and the bending axis X... B It can move in the first direction x. The bending axis X of the bendable portion 430 and the display panel 300. B The distance moved in the first direction x can be approximately half the distance that the second part 122 slides out. Since the display panel 300 is attached to the support plate 400, the display panel 300 also moves with the support plate 400, and the screen SR provided by the display panel 300 can be partially exposed.

[0082] When the second part 122 slides out, the first flat portion 410 attached to and fixed to the first housing plate 130 does not move or slide, and the portion of the display panel 300 attached to the first flat portion 410 does not move or slide.

[0083] Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14Each shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device in the fully slid-out state according to an embodiment. Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 Corresponding to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0084] Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 This shows the second flat area 12 fully extended within the design range where the display device 1 is folded. Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the display device 1 shown, with Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Compared to the diagram shown, the second portion 122 slides out further. When the user pulls the second portion 122 of the second body 120 further in the first direction x, for example, the second portion 122 can slide out completely within its design range. The second portion 142 of the second housing plate 140, which is connected (or coupled or attached) to the second portion 122, moves in the first direction x, and the second flat portion 420 of the support plate 400, which is attached to the second portion 142, also moves in the first direction x.

[0085] Since the second flat portion 420 and the flexible portion 430 of the support plate 400 are not attached to the first housing plate 130 or the first portion 141 of the second housing plate 140, as the bending area of ​​the flexible portion 430 gradually moves toward the first flat portion 410, the flexible portion 430 and the bending axis X... B It can move in the first direction x. In the fully extended state, the area of ​​the flexible portion 430 adjacent to the first flat portion 410 can be bent. The area of ​​the flexible portion 430 other than the bent area can be positioned in the second flat area 12 and can be adjacent to the first portion 141 of the second housing plate 140. The bending axis X of the flexible portion 430 and the display panel 300. B It can be positioned between the first housing plate 130 and the first portion 141 of the second housing plate 140. Bending shaft X B The distance moved in the first direction x can be approximately half the distance that the second part 122 (of the second body 120) slides out. The distance between the first part 141 and the second part 142 (of the second housing plate 140) can be substantially the same as the distance that the second part 122 (of the second body 120) slides out. Since the display panel 300 is attached to the support plate 400, the display panel 300 also moves with the support plate 400, and the screen SR provided by the display panel 300 can be partially exposed.

[0086] Since a region of the support plate 400 is not attached to the first housing plate 130 and the second housing plate 140, this allows for the bending axis X of the support plate 400 and the flexible portion 430 of the support plate 400. B The second flat region 12 can be expanded by moving in the sliding direction, and the second portion 122 of the second body 120 can slide out. Therefore, in a state where the display device 1 is at least partially folded, the second flat region 12 can be expanded and the second portion 122 of the second body 120 can slide out. The display device 1 can be operated from a state where the second flat region 12 is expanded to a state where the second flat region 12 is not expanded (e.g., from...). Figure 12 The state shown slides to Figure 9 The states shown and Figure 6 (as shown in the diagram), and the second flat region 12 can be repeatedly expanded and restored to its original state.

[0087] Figure 15 A schematic cross-sectional view showing the stacked structure of the display panel 300 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 15 The cross-section shown can approximate a single pixel region.

[0088] The display panel 300 generally includes a substrate SB, a transistor TR formed on the substrate SB, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) connected to the transistor TR. The LEDs may correspond to pixels.

[0089] The substrate SB can be a multilayer comprising a first base layer BL1, an inorganic layer IL, and a second base layer BL2. Each of the first base layer BL1 and the second base layer BL2 may comprise a polymer resin, such as polyimide, polyamide, or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0090] A barrier layer (BRL) can be provided to prevent moisture and oxygen from penetrating into the substrate (SB). The barrier layer (BRL) may include an inorganic insulating material, such as silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon oxide (SiO) x ) and silicon nitride oxide (SiO) x N y It can be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0091] A buffer layer (BFL) can be disposed on the barrier layer (BRL). The buffer layer (BFL) can improve the properties of the semiconductor layer by blocking impurities from the substrate (SB) during semiconductor layer formation, and can also planarize the surface of the substrate (SB) to reduce stress on the semiconductor layer. The buffer layer (BFL) can include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and silicon oxide nitride, and can be a single layer or multiple layers. The buffer layer (BFL) can also include amorphous silicon (Si).

[0092] The semiconductor layer AL of the transistor TR can be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor layer AL may include a first region and a second region, and a channel region between the first and second regions. The semiconductor layer AL may include any of amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon, and oxide semiconductors. For example, the semiconductor layer AL may include low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) and may include an oxide semiconductor material, including at least one of zinc (Zn), indium (In), gallium (Ga), and tin (Sn). For example, the semiconductor layer AL may include indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO).

[0093] The first gate insulating layer GI1 can be disposed on the semiconductor layer AL. The first gate insulating layer GI1 can include inorganic insulating materials, such as silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and silicon oxide nitride, and can be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0094] The first gate conductive layer may include the gate electrode GE of the transistor TR, the gate line GL, and the first electrode C1 of the capacitor CS, and may be disposed on the first gate insulating layer GI1. The first gate conductive layer may include molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0095] The second gate insulating layer GI2 can be disposed on the first gate conductive layer. The second gate insulating layer GI2 may include inorganic insulating materials, such as silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and silicon oxide nitride, and may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0096] The second gate conductive layer may include the second electrode C2 of the capacitor CS, and may be disposed on the second gate insulating layer GI2. The second gate conductive layer may include molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0097] The interlayer insulating layer (ILD) can be disposed on the second gate insulating layer (GI2) and the second gate conductive layer. The interlayer insulating layer (ILD) can include inorganic insulating materials, such as silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and silicon oxide nitride, and can be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0098] The first data conductive layer may include a first electrode SE and a second electrode DE of a transistor TR, a data line DL, etc., and may be disposed on an interlayer insulating layer ILD. The first electrode SE and the second electrode DE may be electrically connected to a first region and a second region of a semiconductor layer AL, respectively, through contact holes passing through insulating layers GI1 and GI2 and the ILD. One of the first electrode SE and the second electrode DE may be used as a source electrode, and the other may be used as a drain electrode. The first data conductive layer may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), copper (Cu), etc., and may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0099] The first planarization layer VIA1 may be disposed on the first data conductive layer. The first planarization layer VIA1 may be an organic insulating layer. For example, the first planarization layer VIA1 may include poly(methyl methacrylate), general polymers (such as polystyrene), polymer derivatives having phenol groups, acrylic polymers, imide polymers, polyimides, and organic insulating materials (such as siloxane polymers).

[0100] The second data conductive layer, which may include voltage lines VL, connection lines CL, etc., may be disposed on the first planarization layer VIA1. The voltage lines VL may transmit voltages such as drive voltage, common voltage, initialization voltage, and reference voltage. The connection lines CL may be connected to the second electrode DE of the transistor TR through contact holes passing through the first planarization layer VIA1. The second data conductive layer may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), copper (Cu), etc., and may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0101] The second planarization layer VIA2 may be disposed on the second data conductive layer. The second planarization layer VIA2 may be an organic insulating layer. For example, the second planarization layer VIA2 may include poly(methyl methacrylate), general polymers (such as polystyrene), polymer derivatives having phenol groups, acrylic polymers, imide polymers, polyimides, and organic insulating materials (such as siloxane polymers).

[0102] A first electrode E1 of a light-emitting diode (LED) is disposed on a second planarization layer VIA2. The first electrode E1 may be referred to as a pixel electrode. The first electrode E1 can be electrically connected to a connection line CL through a contact hole formed in the second planarization layer VIA2. Therefore, the first electrode E1 can be electrically connected to the second electrode DE of a transistor TR to receive a data signal for controlling the brightness of the LED. The transistor TR electrically connected to the first electrode E1 can be a driving transistor or a transistor electrically connected to a driving transistor. The first electrode E1 can be formed of a reflective conductive material or a semi-transparent conductive material, or it can be formed of a transparent conductive material. The first electrode E1 may include a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). The first electrode E1 may include a metal (such as lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), or gold (Au)) or a metal alloy.

[0103] The pixel defining layer PDL, which may be an organic insulating layer, may be disposed on the second planarization layer VIA2. The pixel defining layer PDL may be referred to as a separator wall and may have an opening that overlaps with the first electrode E1.

[0104] The emitter layer EL of a light-emitting diode (LED) can be disposed on the first electrode E1. In addition to the emitter layer EL, at least one of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer can be disposed on the first electrode E1.

[0105] The second electrode E2 of a light-emitting diode (LED) is disposed on the emitting layer EL. The second electrode E2 can be referred to as the common electrode. The second electrode E2 can be made of a low work function metal (such as calcium (Ca), barium (Ba), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), or a metal alloy) as a thin layer to have light transmittance. The second electrode E2 can include a transparent conductive oxide, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0106] The first electrode E1, the emitter layer EL, and the second electrode E2 of each pixel can constitute a light-emitting diode (LED), such as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). The first electrode E1 can be the anode of the LED, and the second electrode E2 can be the cathode of the LED.

[0107] The capping layer CPL can be disposed on the second electrode E2. The capping layer CPL can improve optical efficiency by adjusting the refractive index. The capping layer CPL can be configured to completely cover the second electrode E2. The capping layer CPL may include organic insulating materials or may include inorganic insulating materials.

[0108] The encapsulation layer EN can be disposed on the capping layer CPL. The encapsulation layer EN can encapsulate the light-emitting diode (LED) to prevent moisture or oxygen from penetrating from the outside. The encapsulation layer EN can be a thin-film encapsulation layer including one or more inorganic layers EIL1 and EIL2 and one or more organic layers EOL.

[0109] A touch sensor layer (TSL) including touch electrodes can be disposed on the encapsulation layer (EN). The touch electrodes can have a grid shape with openings overlapping with light-emitting diodes (LEDs). An anti-reflective layer (AR) for reducing external light reflection can be disposed on the touch sensor layer (TSL).

[0110] A cover window CW for comprehensively protecting the entire surface of the display panel 300 can be positioned on the anti-reflective layer AR. The cover window CW can be optically transparent and can be a flexible window in which at least a portion can be bent. For example, in the cover window CW, at least the area of ​​the cover window CW corresponding to the bendable region 13 of the display device 1 can be flexible and bendable, and can be completely flexible.

[0111] The cover window CW can be a polymer film made of polymers such as polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyurethane (PU) to have flexible properties. The cover window CW can be a thin glass film formed on the area of ​​the cover window CW corresponding to at least the flexible region 13 of the display device 1, or it can be a completely thin glass film (e.g., having a thickness of about 150 μm to about 300 μm). The cover window CW can be attached to the antireflective layer AR using an adhesive such as optically clear adhesive (OCA) or pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0112] A passivation film PF can be disposed beneath the substrate SB to protect the display panel 300. A functional sheet (not shown) may include at least one of the following: a pad, a heat sink, a light-blocking sheet, a waterproof strip, and an electromagnetic insulator layer positioned beneath the passivation film PF.

[0113] Embodiments have been disclosed herein, and although various terms are used, they are used in a general and descriptive sense only and will be interpreted in a general and descriptive sense only, and not for purposes of limitation. In some instances, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, unless otherwise expressly indicated, features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with an embodiment may be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device comprising: a first body and a second body; a hinge portion disposed between and connected to the first body and the second body; a support plate connected to the first body and the second body; and a display panel connected to the support plate, wherein the second body includes a first portion and a second portion that are slidably engaged, and the second portion of the second body is slidable out of the first portion of the second body, wherein the first body includes a first chassis plate, the second body includes a second chassis plate, the second chassis plate includes a first portion and a second portion corresponding to the first portion of the second body and the second portion of the second body, respectively, the support plate is connected to the first chassis plate and the second portion of the second chassis plate, and the support plate is not connected to the first portion of the second chassis plate. the display panel includes a screen, at least a portion of which is exposed in a case where the second portion of the second body is slid out of the first portion of the second body.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein 3.The display device of claim 1, wherein the support plate includes: a first flat portion; a second flat portion; and a bendable portion disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion, the first flat portion is connected to the first chassis plate, the second flat portion is connected to the second portion of the second chassis plate, and the bendable portion is not connected to the first chassis plate and is not connected to the second chassis plate. 4.The display device of claim 3, wherein in a folded state in which the first body and the second body face each other, the bendable portion is bent with respect to a bending axis, and in a case where the second portion of the second body is slid out of the first portion of the second body, the bending axis moves in a sliding direction. 5.The display device of claim 4, wherein in a case where the second portion of the second body is slid out of the first portion of the second body, a bending region of the bendable portion moves toward the first flat portion. 6.The display device of claim 4, wherein in a case where the second portion of the second body is slid out of the first portion of the second body, a movement distance of the bending axis is half a distance by which the second portion of the second body is slid out. 7.The display device of claim 3, wherein in a case where the second portion of the second body is slid out of the first portion of the second body, a region of the display panel connected to the second flat portion is exposed. 8.The display device of claim 1, wherein in a case where the second portion of the second body is slid out of the first portion of the second body, a distance between the first portion of the second chassis plate and the second portion of the second chassis plate increases. 9.The display device of claim 1, wherein ​ The hinged portion includes a spindle and a hinge element, and The hinge includes: A first hinge member connects to the spindle and the first housing plate; and The second hinge is connected to the first portion of the spindle and the second housing plate.

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