A display device and a method for manufacturing the same

Abstract

The present invention discloses a display device and a preparation method thereof. By combining a flexible display panel and a touch control substrate through a first adhesive layer and making an effective touch control area cover a display area, the display device can realize a touch control function. In addition, by filling a support layer in the gap between the touch control substrate and the flexible display panel, and the orthographic projection of the support layer on the flexible substrate at least covers the area directly opposite to the binding area and the step area, not only can the gap between the touch control substrate and the flexible display panel be filled, but also the strength of the binding area can be improved, thereby reducing the risk of bending and breaking.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application with the application date of June 29, 2019, application number 201910579404.3, and the name of the invention being “A display device and a method for preparing the same”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display device and a manufacturing method thereof. Background Art

[0003] Generally, a flexible printed circuit (FPC) is assembled in a display device to transmit signals through the flexible printed circuit. During the preparation process of the flexible printed circuit, stress will occur, which will cause the risk of wire breakage at the binding point of the flexible printed circuit, resulting in reduced reliability of the display device. Summary of the invention

[0004] An embodiment of the present invention provides a display device and a manufacturing method thereof, so as to improve the reliability of the display device.

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention provides a display device, including:

[0006] A flexible display panel comprises: a flexible substrate, wherein the flexible substrate comprises a display area, a step area and a bending area arranged in sequence;

[0007] A touch substrate, located at the light-emitting side of the flexible display panel; the touch substrate comprises an effective touch area and a binding area; the effective touch area covers the display area;

[0008] A first adhesive layer, located between the flexible display panel and the touch control substrate;

[0009] A support layer is filled in the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel, and the orthographic projection of the support layer on the flexible substrate at least covers the area directly facing the binding area and the step area.

[0010] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the orthographic projection of the support layer on the flexible substrate covers the edge of the display area and the step area.

[0011] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the support layer is also filled in the gaps between the edge of the display area covered by the orthographic projection and the area directly facing the touch substrate respectively.

[0012] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the orthographic projection of the support layer on the touch substrate also covers a binding area of ​​the touch substrate, and except for an area directly facing the binding area and the step area, there is a gap between the support layer and the flexible display panel.

[0013] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the display device further comprises: a touch-control flexible circuit board located on a side of the touch-control substrate away from the flexible display panel;

[0014] The touch-control flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the binding area.

[0015] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the flexible display panel further comprises: a protective layer located on a side of the flexible substrate facing the supporting layer;

[0016] The orthographic projection of the protection layer on the flexible substrate covers the area directly facing the binding area and the step area.

[0017] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the orthographic projection of the protection layer on the flexible substrate also covers the bending area.

[0018] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the display device further comprises: a protective cover plate located on a side of the touch substrate away from the flexible substrate, and a second adhesive layer located between the protective cover plate and the touch substrate;

[0019] The second adhesive layer covers the touch substrate.

[0020] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the display device further comprises: a first bearing layer located on a side of the flexible substrate away from the touch substrate;

[0021] The orthographic projection of the first bearing layer on the flexible substrate covers the display area and the step area.

[0022] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the display device further comprises: a protective cover plate located on a side of the touch substrate away from the flexible substrate, a third adhesive layer located between the protective cover plate and the touch substrate, and a second bearing layer located on a side of the flexible substrate away from the touch substrate;

[0023] The orthographic projection of the third adhesive layer on the touch substrate does not overlap with the binding area of ​​the touch substrate, and the orthographic projection of the second bearing layer on the flexible substrate covers the display area and the step area.

[0024] Accordingly, an embodiment of the present invention further provides a method for preparing the above display device, comprising:

[0025] forming the flexible display panel and the touch control substrate respectively;

[0026] forming the support layer on the light incident side of the touch substrate or the light emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel;

[0027] A first adhesive layer is formed between the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel and the touch substrate, the flexible display panel and the touch substrate are bonded together, and the support layer is filled in the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel.

[0028] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate is not less than the elastic modulus of the base of the flexible substrate; and the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate is not less than the elastic modulus of the base of the touch substrate.

[0029] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, forming the support layer on the light incident side of the touch substrate includes:

[0030] The support layer is formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate by using at least one of polyimide and ultraviolet curing adhesive.

[0031] Optionally, in the embodiment of the present invention, before forming the first adhesive layer between the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel and the touch substrate, the method further includes:

[0032] The protective layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel; wherein the protective layer covers the area directly facing the binding area and the step area in the orthographic projection of the flexible substrate.

[0033] Optionally, in the embodiment of the present invention, after forming the flexible display panel and before forming the supporting layer on the light emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel, the method further includes:

[0034] A protective layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate; wherein the protective layer covers the area directly facing the binding area and the step area in an orthographic projection on the flexible substrate.

[0035] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic modulus of the supporting layer formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel is smaller than the elastic modulus of the base of the flexible substrate; and the elastic modulus of the supporting layer formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel is smaller than the elastic modulus of the base of the touch substrate.

[0036] Optionally, in the embodiment of the present invention, forming the support layer on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel includes:

[0037] The support layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate by using at least one of silicone glue, acrylic glue and acrylic acid glue.

[0038] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0039] The display device and the manufacturing method thereof provided by the embodiment of the present invention can realize the touch function of the display device by combining the flexible display panel and the touch substrate through the first adhesive layer and making the effective touch area cover the display area. In addition, by filling the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel with a support layer, and the orthographic projection of the support layer on the flexible substrate at least covers the area directly opposite to the binding area and the step area, not only can the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel be filled, but also the strength of the binding area can be improved, thereby reducing the risk of bending and breaking. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display device in the related art;

[0041] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a specific structure of a display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the specific structure of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a specific structure of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a specific structure of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 7 A flow chart of a method for manufacturing a display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 8 A flow chart of another method for manufacturing a display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the embodiment of the present invention clearer, the technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings of the embodiment of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiment is a part of the embodiment of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. And in the absence of conflict, the embodiments of the present invention and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other. Based on the described embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in the field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the present invention shall have the usual meanings understood by persons with ordinary skills in the field to which the present invention belongs. The words "first", "second" and similar words used in the present invention do not indicate any order, quantity or importance, but are only used to distinguish different components. Words such as "include" or "comprise" and the like mean that the elements or objects appearing before the word include the elements or objects listed after the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Words such as "connect" or "connected" and the like are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but may include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect.

[0050] It should be noted that the sizes and shapes of the figures in the accompanying drawings do not reflect the actual proportions, but are only intended to illustrate the content of the present invention. The same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements with the same or similar functions.

[0051] Generally, a touch substrate that can realize a touch function is usually provided with a touch electrode, so that the touch substrate can have a touch input function, allowing the user to directly input information by using a finger or a stylus, thereby replacing a mouse or keyboard. In order to enable a display device to realize a touch function, a touch substrate is generally combined with a display panel in the display device.

[0052] With the development of display technology, full screen has attracted widespread attention because of its large screen-to-body ratio and ultra-narrow border, which can greatly improve the visual effect of viewers compared with ordinary display screens. Generally, in order to increase the screen-to-body ratio of a display device (such as a mobile phone), the area of ​​the lower border can be reduced. In the scheme for increasing the screen-to-body ratio for the lower border area, the display panel is usually set as a flexible display panel to bend the part of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel located at the lower border position to bend to the backlight side of the display area to reduce the width of the lower border. And, the part bent to the backlight side of the display panel is bound to the driver chip.

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown, the display device may include: a flexible display panel 1, a touch substrate 2 located on the light-emitting side of the flexible display panel 1, a first adhesive layer 3 located between the flexible display panel 1 and the touch substrate 2, a protective cover plate 4 located on the side of the touch substrate 2 away from the flexible display panel 1, and a second adhesive layer 5 and a touch flexible circuit board 6 located between the touch substrate 2 and the protective cover plate 4. Among them, the touch substrate 2 has a binding area T1, and the touch flexible circuit board 6 is electrically connected to the binding area T1. In the preparation process of the display device, generally after the flexible display panel 1 and the touch substrate 2 are formed, the touch substrate 2 and the flexible display panel 1 are bonded through the first adhesive layer 3. Then, the touch substrate 2 and the protective cover plate 4 are bonded through the second adhesive layer 5.

[0054] During the preparation of the display device, it is also necessary to bind the binding area T1 of the touch substrate 2 to the touch flexible circuit board 6 so that they are electrically connected to each other. Since the film thickness of the touch substrate 2 is small (less than 0.05 mm), the binding width is small and the strength is weak. In practical applications, the touch flexible circuit board 6 needs to be bent to the backlight side of the display panel for fixation. However, when the touch flexible circuit board 6 is bent, the tensile stress of the touch flexible circuit board 6 is concentrated, which may cause the circuit on the touch substrate 2 to break easily. In addition, due to the presence of the first adhesive layer 3, there is a gap d1 between the flexible display panel 1 and the touch substrate 2. When the second adhesive layer 5 is bonded to the touch flexible circuit board 6 in the binding area T1, the binding area T1 is easily bent by force, which may cause the risk of disconnection in the binding area T1.

[0055] In view of this, an embodiment of the present invention provides a display device, which is used to reduce the risk of the binding area being bent and broken, and improve the reliability of the display device.

[0056] An embodiment of the present invention provides a display device, such as Figure 2 As shown, it may include: a flexible display panel 100, a touch substrate 200 located on the light-emitting side of the flexible display panel 100, a first adhesive layer 300 located between the flexible display panel 100 and the touch substrate 200, and a support layer 400 filled in the gap d1 between the touch substrate 200 and the flexible display panel 100. The flexible display panel 100 includes: a flexible substrate 110, and the flexible substrate 110 includes a display area A1, a step area A2, and a bending area A3 arranged in sequence. The touch substrate 200 includes an effective touch area T2 and a binding area T1, and the effective touch area T2 covers the display area A1. The orthographic projection of the support layer 400 on the flexible substrate 110 at least covers the area Z directly facing the binding area T1 and the step area A2.

[0057] The display device provided by the embodiment of the present invention can realize the touch function by combining the flexible display panel and the touch substrate through the first adhesive layer and making the effective touch area cover the display area. In addition, by filling the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel with a support layer, and the orthographic projection of the support layer on the flexible substrate at least covers the area directly opposite to the binding area and the step area, not only can the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel be filled, but also the strength of the binding area can be improved, thereby reducing the risk of bending and breaking.

[0058] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, the display area of ​​the flexible substrate may include a plurality of pixel units, each pixel unit including a plurality of sub-pixels. Exemplarily, the pixel unit may include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel and a blue sub-pixel, so that a color display may be achieved by mixing red, green and blue. Alternatively, the pixel unit may also include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, a blue sub-pixel and a white sub-pixel, so that a color display may be achieved by mixing red, green, blue and white. Of course, in actual applications, the luminous color of the sub-pixels in the pixel unit may be designed and determined according to the actual application environment, and is not limited here.

[0059] Electroluminescent diodes such as organic light emitting diodes (OLED) and quantum dot light emitting diodes (QLED) have the advantages of self-luminescence and low energy consumption. In a specific implementation, the flexible display panel may be a flexible electroluminescent display panel. In an embodiment of the present invention, the sub-pixel may include an electroluminescent diode located on a base of a flexible substrate and a driving circuit for driving the electroluminescent diode to emit light. Among them, the electroluminescent diode includes a stacked anode, a light-emitting layer, and a cathode. Further, the electroluminescent diode may include: at least one of OLED and QLED. In addition, the general driving circuit may include a plurality of transistors such as a driving transistor, a switching transistor, and a storage capacitor. Its specific structure and working principle may be the same as those in the prior art, and will not be repeated here.

[0060] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 2 As shown, the film layer 120 on the display substrate 110 may include an electroluminescent diode, a driving circuit for driving the electroluminescent diode to emit light, and a packaging film, etc. Of course, these film layers may be substantially the same as those in the related art, and will not be described in detail here.

[0061] It should be noted that, in the specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, there are some dummy areas around the display area A1, and the dummy areas can be used as buffer areas for the alignment of some film layers (such as the first adhesive layer 300). Of course, in practical applications, the dummy areas can also be basically the same as those in the related art, and will not be described in detail here.

[0062] In specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, the effective touch area of ​​the touch substrate may include a plurality of touch electrodes. Exemplarily, the touch electrodes may be mutual capacitance electrodes, so that the mutual capacitance technology can be combined with the display technology, so that the display device uses the mutual capacitance technology to realize the touch function. The touch electrodes may also be self-capacitance electrodes, so that the self-capacitance technology can be combined with the display technology, so that the display device uses the self-capacitance technology to realize the touch function.

[0063] In the specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, combined with Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the display device may further include: a touch flexible circuit board 210 located on the side of the touch substrate 200 away from the flexible display panel 100; and the touch flexible circuit board 210 is electrically connected to the binding area T1. Exemplarily, the binding area of ​​the touch substrate includes a plurality of touch binding terminals (PAD) to be electrically connected to the touch flexible circuit board 210 through these touch binding terminals. Thus, the signal output by the touch flexible circuit board 210 can be input and output to the touch electrode through these touch binding terminals, and the sensing signal of the touch electrode can be transmitted to the touch flexible circuit board 210 through the touch binding terminals (PAD).

[0064] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 3 As shown, the display device may further include: a protective cover plate 500 located on the side of the touch substrate 200 away from the flexible substrate 110, and a second adhesive layer 600 located between the protective cover plate 500 and the touch substrate 200; wherein the second adhesive layer 600 covers the touch substrate 200. In this way, by making the second adhesive layer 600 cover the touch substrate 200, not only can the second adhesive layer 600 be bonded to the effective touch area T2 of the touch substrate 200, but also the second adhesive layer 600 is extended to above the binding area T1 of the touch substrate 200, so that the second adhesive layer 600 also covers the binding area T1 of the touch substrate 200, so that the second adhesive layer 600 can be used to adhere to the touch flexible circuit board 210 in the binding area T1, and the amplitude of the bending upward deformation of the touch flexible circuit board 210 and the amplitude of the bending downward deformation of the touch flexible circuit board 210 can be reduced, and the risk of wire breaking in the binding area T1 when the touch flexible circuit board 210 is bent can be further reduced.

[0065] It should be noted that, during the preparation process, since the support layer 400 is provided in the present invention, when the second adhesive layer 600 is bonded to the touch flexible circuit board 210 of the binding area T1, due to the effect of the support layer 400, the bending of the binding area T1 under force can be reduced, thereby reducing the risk of disconnection in the binding area T1. In addition, due to the effect of the support layer 400, when the second adhesive layer 600 is bonded to the touch flexible circuit board 210 of the binding area T1, the binding area T1 can also be pressed with appropriate force, so that the second adhesive layer 600 and the touch flexible circuit board 210 of the binding area T1 can be completely bonded, so that the bonding is firm. In this way, when the touch flexible circuit board 210 is bent to the backlight side of the flexible display panel, the risk of peeling at the edge of the second adhesive layer 600 bonded to the touch flexible circuit board 210 can be reduced, thereby further preventing the problem of bending and disconnection in the binding area T1. In specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, the material of the first adhesive layer may include OCA (Optically Clear Adhesive) optical glue. Of course, in practical applications, the material of the first adhesive layer may also be other materials, which are not limited here.

[0066] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the material of the second adhesive layer may include OCA optical glue. Of course, in practical applications, the material of the second adhesive layer may also be other materials, which are not limited here.

[0067] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the material of the base of the flexible substrate may include polyimide (PI). Of course, in practical applications, the material of the base of the flexible substrate may also be other materials, which are not limited here.

[0068] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the material of the base of the touch control substrate may also include polyimide (PI). Of course, in practical applications, the material of the base of the touch control substrate may also be other materials, which are not limited here.

[0069] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the material of the support layer may include: at least one of polyimide (PI), UV curing glue, silicone glue, acrylic glue, and acrylic glue. In addition, it should be noted that when the base of the flexible substrate, the base of the touch substrate, and the support layer are made of polyimide, in order to make the elastic modulus of the support layer not less than the elastic modulus of the base of the flexible substrate and the base of the touch substrate, the amount and type of additives added to the polyimide solution can be adjusted at this time, which needs to be designed and determined according to the actual application environment and is not limited here.

[0070] It should be noted that in actual processes, due to limitations of process conditions, there may be some deviations, so the same in the embodiments of the present invention as long as the above conditions are roughly met, all belong to the protection scope of the present invention. For example, the same in the embodiments of the present invention may refer to the same within the allowable error range.

[0071] In practical applications, the touch flexible circuit board 210 generally needs to be bent to the backlight side of the flexible display panel 100, and the bending area A3 of the flexible substrate 110 also needs to be bent to the backlight side of the flexible display panel 100. In order to reserve bending space for the bending area A3, the width of the binding area T1 needs to be set larger than the width of the step area A2 in the direction from the step area A2 to the display area A1. Of course, the width of the binding area T1 and the width of the step area A2 can be designed and determined according to the actual application environment, and are not limited here.

[0072] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 3 As shown, the orthographic projection of the support layer 400 on the flexible substrate 110 covers the edge of the display area A1 and the step area A2. In this way, the support layer 400 can be extended in the direction from the step area A2 to the display area A1, so as to extend to the edge of the effective touch area T2 of the touch substrate 200, thereby improving the strength from the edge of the effective touch area T2 to the binding area T1, and further reducing the risk of disconnection.

[0073] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 3 As shown, the orthographic projection of the support layer 400 on the touch substrate 200 also covers the binding area T1 of the touch substrate 200. This can improve the strength of the binding area T1 of the touch substrate 200 and further reduce the risk of wire breakage.

[0074] Generally, at least one of the components of a flexible printed circuit (FPC), a driver chip, and a printed circuit board (PCB) is used to output a signal to the display area A1 of the flexible substrate to control the display area A1 to light up. Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the flexible substrate may also include a display binding area A4 located on the side of the bending area A3 away from the step area A2. Furthermore, the flexible substrate may also include a plurality of signal lines extending from the binding area A4 to the display area A1. Exemplarily, the display binding area A4 may also include display binding terminals (PAD) electrically connected to the signal lines, so as to be bound to at least one of the flexible circuit board, the driver chip and the printed circuit board through these display binding terminals. In this way, the signal output by at least one of the flexible circuit board, the driver chip and the printed circuit board can be transmitted to the display area A1 through the display binding terminals and the signal lines to drive the display area A1 to light up.

[0075] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 3 As shown, the flexible display panel may further include: a protective layer 120 located on the side of the flexible substrate 110 facing the support layer 400; wherein the protective layer 120 covers the area directly opposite to the binding area T1 and the step area A2 in the orthographic projection of the flexible substrate 110. In this way, the wiring on the step area A2 of the flexible substrate 110 can be protected by the protective layer 120, thereby reducing the influence of the support layer 400 on the wiring. In addition, generally, the step area is not provided with a pixel unit for display, so the step area is usually not provided with an electroluminescent diode and a driving circuit, but some wiring is provided. In this way, the step area is generally not provided with a packaging film, and the embodiment of the present invention can protect the wiring in the step area A2 by providing a protective layer.

[0076] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 3 As shown, the orthographic projection of the protective layer 120 on the flexible substrate 110 also covers the bending area A3. Generally, the bending area is not provided with pixel units for display, so the bending area is usually not provided with electroluminescent diodes and driving circuits, but some wiring is provided. In this way, the bending area is generally not provided with a packaging film. By providing a protective layer in the embodiment of the present invention, the wiring on the bending area A3 of the flexible substrate 110 can be further protected by the protective layer 120, so that when the bending area A3 is bent, the risk of wiring breakage in the bending area A3 can be reduced.

[0077] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the material of the protective layer may include ultraviolet curing glue. Of course, the present invention includes but is not limited to this.

[0078] During the preparation process, the support layer can be first prepared on the touch substrate 200, and then the touch substrate 200 and the flexible display panel 100 are bonded together through the first adhesive layer 300. However, the first adhesive layer 300 has a certain thickness, and the film layer on the flexible display panel 100 also has a certain thickness. In order to consider the tolerance of the film layer on the flexible display panel 100 and the attachment tolerance of the first adhesive layer 300, some space needs to be reserved to meet the tolerance requirements. In the specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, combined with Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a gap may be provided between the support layer 400 and the flexible display panel 100 except for the area Z directly facing the binding area T1 and the step area A2. In practical applications, since the above tolerances required for display devices with different functions are different, the value of the gap between the support layer 400 and the flexible display panel 100 may be designed and determined according to the actual application environment, and is not limited here.

[0079] In specific implementation, Figure 3 As shown, the display device may further include: a first bearing layer 130 located on the side of the flexible substrate 110 away from the touch substrate 200; and the first bearing layer 130 covers the display area A1 and the step area A2 in the orthographic projection of the flexible substrate 110. Since the base of the flexible substrate 110 is relatively soft, the display area A1 and the step area A2 of the flexible substrate 110 are supported by providing the first bearing layer 130, so that the display area A1 and the step area A2 are flat, thereby preventing the flexible substrate 110 from curling. In addition, since the first bearing layer 130 covers the display area A1 and the step area A2 in the orthographic projection of the flexible substrate 110, the first bearing layer 130 may also cover at least part of the support layer 400, so that the stress of the support layer 400 when it is bent can be borne by the first bearing layer 130, thereby preventing the support layer 400 from peeling off (peeling) from the touch substrate 200. Furthermore, since the second adhesive layer 600 also covers at least a portion of the binding area T1, when the touch flexible circuit board 210 is bent, the second adhesive layer 600 can withstand the bending stress, and the first bearing layer 130 assists the supporting layer 400 in bearing the bending stress. In this way, the stress is dispersed while the total bending stress remains unchanged, so that the stress borne by each part is greatly reduced, and the problems of bending breakage and falling off can be further avoided.

[0080] In specific implementation, Figure 3 As shown, the display device may further include: a polarizer 140 located between the touch substrate 200 and the second adhesive layer 600. The orthographic projection of the polarizer 140 on the flexible substrate 110 covers the display area A1. Exemplarily, the orthographic projection of the polarizer 140 on the flexible substrate 110 overlaps the display area A1.

[0081] In practical applications, the flexible circuit board, the driver chip, and the printed circuit board are generally located on the backlight side of the flexible substrate 110. The bending area A3 and the display binding area A4 of the flexible substrate 110 can be bent to the backlight side of the flexible display panel 100 through a bending process, so that the display binding area A4 can be bound to at least one of the flexible circuit board, the driver chip, and the printed circuit board.

[0082] In practical applications, the touch flexible circuit board 210 also needs to be bent to the backlight side of the flexible display panel 100 through a bending process, so that the touch flexible circuit board 210 is bound to at least one of the driving chip and the printed circuit board.

[0083] In specific implementation, Figure 3 As shown, the display device may further include: a space filling layer 150 located on the side of the first carrier layer 130 away from the flexible substrate 110, and an interlayer adhesive layer 160 located between the space filling layer 150 and the first carrier layer 130. In this way, the space filling layer 150 and the first carrier layer 130 can be bonded by the interlayer adhesive layer 160, and the bending space of the bending area A3 of the flexible substrate 110 and the bending space of the touch flexible circuit board 210 can be defined by the space filling layer 150.

[0084] In a specific implementation, the material of the space filling layer 150 may include foam. Of course, the embodiments of the present invention include but are not limited to this.

[0085] In a specific implementation, the interlayer adhesive layer 160 may include a composite tape. Of course, the embodiments of the present invention include but are not limited to this.

[0086] In specific implementation, Figure 3 As shown, the display device may further include: a third bearing layer 170 located on the side of the space filling layer 150 away from the flexible substrate 110. Since the base of the flexible substrate 110 is relatively soft, the first bearing layer 130 is provided to support a portion of the bending area A3 bent to the backlight side of the flexible substrate 110, so as to make the area flat, thereby preventing the portion from curling.

[0087] In specific implementation, the display device provided by the embodiment of the present invention can be any product or component with a display function, such as a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a television, a display, a laptop computer, a digital photo frame, a navigator, etc. Other essential components of the display device should be understood by ordinary technicians in the field, and will not be described in detail here, nor should they be used as limitations of the present invention.

[0088] like Figure 4As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a schematic diagram of the structure of another display device. It is a modification of some of the implementation methods in the above embodiment. The following only describes the differences between this embodiment and the above embodiment, and the similarities are not repeated here.

[0089] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, as Figure 4 As shown, the display device may further include: a protective cover plate 500 located on the side of the touch substrate 200 away from the flexible substrate 110, a third adhesive layer 700 located between the protective cover plate 500 and the touch substrate 200, and a second bearing layer 180 located on the side of the flexible substrate 110 away from the touch substrate 200; wherein, the orthographic projection of the third adhesive layer 700 on the touch substrate 200 does not overlap with the binding area T1 of the touch substrate 200, and the orthographic projection of the second bearing layer 180 on the flexible substrate 110 covers the display area A1 and the step area A2. In this way, by providing the second bearing layer 180 and supporting the display area A1 and the step area A2 of the flexible substrate 110, the display area A1 and the step area A2 can be flattened, thereby preventing the flexible substrate 110 from curling. In addition, the protective cover plate 500 is bonded to the touch substrate 200 through the third adhesive layer 700. In addition, the polarizer 140 is located between the touch substrate 200 and the third adhesive layer 700. Furthermore, since the orthographic projection of the second bearing layer 180 on the flexible substrate 110 covers the display area A1 and the step area A2, the second bearing layer 180 can also cover at least part of the support layer 400, so that the stress of the support layer 400 when bending can be borne by the second bearing layer 180, and the support layer 400 can be prevented from peeling off from the touch substrate 200. In addition, when the touch flexible circuit board 210 is bent, the second bearing layer 180 assists the support layer 400 in bearing the bending stress. In this way, the stress is dispersed while the total bending stress remains unchanged, so that the stress borne by each part is greatly reduced, and the problems of bending breakage and falling off can be further avoided.

[0090] Due to the provision of the second carrier layer 180 , the orthographic projection of the third adhesive layer 700 on the touch substrate 200 does not overlap with the binding area T1 of the touch substrate 200 , thereby directly avoiding the influence of the pressing force on the binding area T1 when the third adhesive layer 700 is attached, thereby making the design of the third adhesive layer 700 simpler.

[0091] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the material of the third adhesive layer may include OCA optical glue. Of course, in practical applications, the material of the third adhesive layer may also be other materials, which are not limited here.

[0092] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the embodiment of the present invention provides a structural schematic diagram of another display device. It is a modification of some implementation methods in the above embodiment. The following only describes the differences between this embodiment and the above embodiment, and the similarities are not repeated here.

[0093] During the preparation process, the support layer may be first prepared on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate 110, and then the touch substrate 200 and the flexible display panel 100 are bonded together through the first adhesive layer 300. In the specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the support layer 400 is also filled in the gaps between the edge of the display area A1 covered by the orthographic projection and the area directly facing the touch substrate 200 of the step area A2. This can further improve the strength of the step area A2 and reduce the risk of line breakage in the step area A2 when the bending area A3 is bent. Since the support layer is prepared on the flexible substrate, the thickness of the support layer can be designed according to the thickness of the first adhesive layer so that the support layer fills the gap and further improves the strength of the bonding area T1.

[0094] Based on the same inventive concept, an embodiment of the present invention further provides a method for preparing a display device, such as Figure 7 As shown, the following steps may be included:

[0095] S701, forming a flexible display panel and a touch substrate respectively;

[0096] S702 , forming a support layer on the light incident side of the touch substrate; wherein, the specific implementation of the support layer can refer to the above embodiment, which is not described in detail here.

[0097] S703 , forming a first adhesive layer between the flexible substrate and the touch substrate of the flexible display panel, laminating the flexible display panel and the touch substrate, and filling the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel with the support layer.

[0098] The method for preparing a display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention can prepare a support layer on a touch substrate first, which can enhance the strength of the binding area of ​​the touch substrate. In this way, the binding area of ​​the touch substrate can be further prevented from bending and breaking during the preparation process. Then, the touch substrate with the support layer is bonded to the flexible display panel through the first adhesive layer.

[0099] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate can be not less than the elastic modulus of the base of the flexible substrate; and the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate can be not less than the elastic modulus of the base of the touch substrate. In this way, the support performance can be improved.

[0100] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, forming a support layer on the light incident side of the touch substrate may include:

[0101] At least one of polyimide and ultraviolet curing adhesive is used to form a support layer on the light incident side of the touch substrate.

[0102] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, before forming a first adhesive layer between the flexible substrate and the touch substrate of the flexible display panel, the following steps may also be included:

[0103] A protective layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel, wherein the protective layer covers the area directly opposite to the binding area and the step area in the orthographic projection of the flexible substrate. The specific implementation of the protective layer can refer to the above embodiment and will not be described here.

[0104] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the specific process of forming the flexible display panel and the touch substrate may be substantially the same as that in the related art, and will not be described in detail herein.

[0105] In specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, after forming the touch substrate, the method may further include: forming a polarizer on the light-emitting side of the touch substrate, so that the touch substrate and the polarizer are combined into one.

[0106] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, a first adhesive layer is formed between the flexible substrate and the touch substrate of the flexible display panel, and after the flexible display panel and the touch substrate are bonded together, it may also include: forming a second adhesive layer and a protective cover plate in sequence on the side of the polarizer away from the touch substrate, or forming a third adhesive layer and a protective cover plate in sequence on the side of the polarizer away from the touch substrate.

[0107] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, a first adhesive layer is formed between the flexible substrate and the touch substrate of the flexible display panel. After the flexible display panel and the touch substrate are bonded together, it may also include: forming a first bearing layer, an interlayer adhesive layer, a space filling layer and a third bearing layer on the side of the flexible substrate away from the array substrate, or forming a second bearing layer, an interlayer adhesive layer, a space filling layer and a third bearing layer on the side of the flexible substrate away from the array substrate.

[0108] Based on the same inventive concept, an embodiment of the present invention further provides a method for preparing a display device, such as Figure 8 As shown, the following steps may be included:

[0109] S801, forming a flexible display panel and a touch substrate respectively;

[0110] S802, forming a support layer on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel; wherein, the specific implementation of the support layer can refer to the above embodiment, which is not described in detail here.

[0111] S803 , forming a first adhesive layer between the flexible substrate and the touch substrate of the flexible display panel, laminating the flexible display panel and the touch substrate, and filling the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel with the support layer.

[0112] The method for preparing a display device provided by an embodiment of the present invention can prepare a support layer on a flexible substrate of a flexible display panel first, and when forming the support layer, the problem of the material forming the support layer flowing and falling off can be prevented. Then, the flexible display panel with the support layer is bonded to the touch substrate through the first adhesive layer.

[0113] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, after forming the flexible display panel and before forming the supporting layer on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel, the method may further include:

[0114] A protective layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate, wherein the protective layer covers the area directly opposite to the binding area and the step area in the orthographic projection of the flexible substrate. The specific implementation of the protective layer can refer to the above embodiment and will not be described here.

[0115] Generally, the base of the flexible substrate is relatively soft, and a support layer is provided between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel. In order to prevent the support layer from scratching the base of the flexible substrate, in the specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel can be made smaller than the elastic modulus of the base of the flexible substrate. Thus, the support layer can be made softer than the base of the flexible substrate, thereby further preventing the support layer from scratching the base of the flexible substrate.

[0116] Generally, the base of the touch substrate is relatively soft, and a support layer is provided between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel. In order to prevent the support layer from scratching the base of the touch substrate, in the specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel can be made smaller than the elastic modulus of the base of the touch substrate. Thus, the support layer can be made softer than the base of the touch substrate, thereby further preventing the support layer from scratching the base of the touch substrate.

[0117] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, forming a support layer on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel may include: using at least one of silicone glue, acrylic glue and acrylic glue to form the support layer on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate. In this way, using a softer material can further fill the above-mentioned gap and improve the performance of the support layer. In addition, the support layer is first prepared on the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel, so that when the support layer is formed, the problem of the material forming the support layer flowing and falling off can be prevented.

[0118] In specific implementation, in the embodiment of the present invention, the specific process of forming the flexible display panel and the touch substrate may be substantially the same as that in the related art, and will not be described in detail herein.

[0119] In specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, after forming the touch substrate, the method may further include: forming a polarizer on the light-emitting side of the touch substrate, so that the touch substrate and the polarizer are combined into one.

[0120] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, a first adhesive layer is formed between the flexible substrate and the touch substrate of the flexible display panel, and after the flexible display panel and the touch substrate are bonded together, it may also include: forming a second adhesive layer and a protective cover plate in sequence on the side of the polarizer away from the touch substrate, or forming a third adhesive layer and a protective cover plate in sequence on the side of the polarizer away from the touch substrate.

[0121] In a specific implementation, in an embodiment of the present invention, a first adhesive layer is formed between the flexible substrate and the touch substrate of the flexible display panel. After the flexible display panel and the touch substrate are bonded together, it may also include: forming a first bearing layer, an interlayer adhesive layer, a space filling layer and a third bearing layer on the side of the flexible substrate away from the array substrate, or forming a second bearing layer, an interlayer adhesive layer, a space filling layer and a third bearing layer on the side of the flexible substrate away from the array substrate.

[0122] The display device and the manufacturing method thereof provided by the embodiment of the present invention can realize the touch function of the display device by combining the flexible display panel and the touch substrate through the first adhesive layer and making the effective touch area cover the display area. In addition, by filling the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel with a support layer, and the orthographic projection of the support layer on the flexible substrate at least covers the area directly opposite to the binding area and the step area, not only can the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel be filled, but also the strength of the binding area can be improved, thereby reducing the risk of bending and breaking.

[0123] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, if these modifications and variations of the present invention fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention and their equivalents, the present invention is also intended to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that: include: A flexible display panel comprises: a flexible substrate, wherein the flexible substrate comprises a display area, a step area and a bending area arranged in sequence; A touch substrate is located on the light-emitting side of the flexible display panel; the touch substrate comprises an effective touch area and a binding area; the effective touch area covers the display area; and an edge of the touch substrate is larger than an edge of the first bearing layer, and the first bearing layer is located on a side of the flexible substrate away from the touch substrate; A touch-control flexible circuit board, located on a side of the touch-control substrate away from the flexible display panel; A first adhesive layer, located between the flexible display panel and the touch control substrate; A support layer, filling a gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel, wherein the orthographic projection of the support layer on the flexible substrate at least covers an area directly facing the binding area and the step area; A second adhesive layer is also provided in the binding area on a side of the touch flexible circuit board away from the touch substrate; Wherein, in a direction from the step area to the display area, there is a gap between the support layer and the first adhesive layer.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The orthographic projection of the supporting layer on the flexible substrate covers the edge of the display area and the step area.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The support layer is also filled in the gaps between the edge of the display area covered by the orthographic projection and the area directly facing the touch substrate respectively.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The orthographic projection of the support layer on the touch substrate also covers the binding area of ​​the touch substrate, and except for the area directly facing the binding area and the step area, there is a gap between the support layer and the flexible display panel.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The touch-control flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the binding area.

6. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The flexible display panel further comprises: a protective layer located on a side of the flexible substrate facing the supporting layer; The orthographic projection of the protection layer on the flexible substrate covers the area directly facing the binding area and the step area.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The orthographic projection of the protection layer on the flexible substrate also covers the bending area.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The orthographic projection of the first bearing layer on the flexible substrate covers the display area and the step area.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: In a direction from the step area to the display area, a width of the binding area is greater than a width of the step area.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A virtual area is also arranged around the display area.

11. A method for preparing a display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: include: forming the flexible display panel and the touch control substrate respectively; forming the support layer on the light incident side of the touch substrate or the light emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel; forming a first adhesive layer between the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel and the touch substrate, laminating the flexible display panel and the touch substrate, and filling the gap between the touch substrate and the flexible display panel with the support layer; Wherein, in a direction from the step area to the display area, there is a gap between the support layer and the first adhesive layer.

12. The preparation method according to claim 11, characterized in that: The elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate is not less than the elastic modulus of the base of the flexible substrate; and the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate is not less than the elastic modulus of the base of the touch substrate.

13. The preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that: The step of forming the support layer on the light incident side of the touch control substrate comprises: The support layer is formed on the light incident side of the touch substrate by using at least one of polyimide and ultraviolet curing adhesive.

14. The preparation method according to claim 13, characterized in that: Before forming a first adhesive layer between the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel and the touch substrate, the method further includes: A protective layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel; wherein the protective layer covers the area directly facing the binding area and the step area in the orthographic projection of the flexible substrate.

15. The preparation method according to claim 11, characterized in that: After forming the flexible display panel and before forming the supporting layer on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel, the method further includes: A protective layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate; wherein the protective layer covers the area directly facing the binding area and the step area in an orthographic projection on the flexible substrate.

16. The preparation method according to claim 11, characterized in that: The elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel is smaller than the elastic modulus of the base of the flexible substrate; and the elastic modulus of the support layer formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel is smaller than the elastic modulus of the base of the touch substrate.

17. The preparation method according to claim 16, characterized in that: The step of forming the support layer on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate of the flexible display panel comprises: The support layer is formed on the light-emitting side of the flexible substrate by using at least one of silicone glue, acrylic glue and acrylic acid glue.

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