Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided, including a display panel including a folding area foldable about a virtual folding axis extending in a first direction, and non-folding areas spaced apart from each other with the folding area interposed therebetween, and a protection member including a hinge member positioned below the display panel and overlapping the folding area so as to be foldable about the folding axis, a base member overlapping the non-folding areas, and a support member connected to the hinge member and the base member. The hinge member includes an extension portion extending in the first direction and positioned along a second direction crossing the first direction, each extension portion having a guide groove, a coupling portion connected to opposite ends of the extension portion and rotatably connected to each other, and a guide portion including a protrusion portion protruding in the first direction to be connected to the guide groove of the extension portion.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0000697, filed on January 5, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Aspects of one or more embodiments of this disclosure relate to display devices, and more specifically, to foldable display devices. Background Technology

[0004] In recent years, with the technological advancements in display devices, various display technologies have been developed. For example, flexible display devices that can be deformed into bent, folded, or rolled shapes are under development. Flexible display devices that can be deformed into various suitable shapes are easy to carry and can improve user convenience.

[0005] The information disclosed above in this background section is intended to enhance the understanding of the technical background of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One or more embodiments of this disclosure are directed to display devices including protective members with improved outward folding properties.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a display device includes: a display panel including: a folding region foldable about a virtual folding axis extending in a first direction; and a plurality of non-folding regions spaced apart from each other, the folding region being located between the plurality of non-folding regions; and a protective member including: a hinge member located below the display panel, the hinge member overlapping the folding region and configured to fold about the virtual folding axis; a base member overlapping the non-folding regions; and a support member coupled to the hinge member and the base member. The hinge member includes: a plurality of extensions extending in the first direction and positioned along a second direction intersecting the first direction, each extension having a guide groove defined in at least a portion thereof; a plurality of connecting portions connected to opposite ends of each extension and rotatably connected to each other; and a guide including a protrusion projecting in the first direction and configured to engage with the guide groove of the extension.

[0008] In one embodiment, the protrusion may be configured to be received in the guide slot when the display panel is unfolded, and the protrusion may be configured to be spaced apart from at least one of the guide slots when the display panel is folded.

[0009] In an embodiment, each of the extensions may include an upper portion adjacent to the display panel and a lower portion opposite to the upper portion; and the guide groove of each of the extensions may be defined as an inner surface exposed by removing a portion of the respective extension in a direction from the lower portion of the respective extension toward the upper portion of the respective extension.

[0010] In an embodiment, the shape of the protrusion may include one of a polygonal shape and an elliptical shape, and the guide groove may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the protrusion.

[0011] In an embodiment, the support member may include: a fixing portion partially surrounded by the guide portion; an insertion portion connected to the fixing portion and extending in the second direction; a main body portion coupled to the base member and having an insertion groove configured to receive the insertion portion; and a recovery portion surrounding an exposed portion of the insertion portion exposed from the main body portion, the recovery portion being elastic. The recovery portion may be configured to be in a relaxed state when the display panel is unfolded, and the recovery portion may be configured to be in a retracted state when the display panel is folded.

[0012] In an embodiment, the length of the portion of the insertion part inserted into the main body when the display panel is unfolded may be less than the length of the portion of the insertion part inserted into the main body when the display panel is folded.

[0013] In an embodiment, the support member may further include a key located inside the main body, and the insertion portion of the insertion portion located inside the main body may have a keyway defined therein, and the key is configured to be suspended on the keyway.

[0014] In one embodiment, the keyway may include a plurality of keyways positioned along the second direction.

[0015] In an embodiment, when the display panel is unfolded, the guide portion can be configured to sequentially overlap the plurality of extensions from the extension at the outermost position of the plurality of extensions to the extension at the center position of the plurality of extensions.

[0016] In an embodiment, when the display panel is folded, the guide portion can be configured such that the extension portion from the center position of the plurality of extension portions to the extension portion at the outermost position of the plurality of extension portions do not overlap with the plurality of extension portions sequentially.

[0017] In an embodiment, the display device may further include: a lower cover member that overlaps with the folded area and is connected to the base member; and an upper cover member that is connected to the lower cover member to cover the support member.

[0018] In one embodiment, the support member may be attached to the lower cover member.

[0019] In one embodiment, the base member may have a plurality of slots defined therein, the plurality of slots being configured to accommodate the support member and the hinge member.

[0020] In one embodiment, the base component may include a plurality of base components, each of which overlaps with a different non-folded region of the plurality of non-folded regions, and the rear surfaces of the plurality of base components may face each other when the display panel is folded.

[0021] In one embodiment, the hinge member may include a connecting portion extending from the connecting portion in the second direction, the connecting portion being connected to the base member. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description of exemplary, non-limiting example embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a display device in an outwardly folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the combination of protective components according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 4B This is an exploded perspective view of a protective component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 5A This is a perspective view showing a protective member in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 5B This is a perspective view showing a protective member in an outwardly folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 5CThis is a perspective view showing some configurations of the protective member in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 5D This is a cross-sectional view showing some configurations of a protective member in an outwardly folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 6A This is a perspective view showing the connection relationship between the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 6B This is a perspective view showing the connection relationship between the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6C This is a cross-sectional view showing the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 10A This is a plan view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0039] Figure 10B This is a plan view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0040] In the following description, embodiments will be illustrated in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout. However, this disclosure may be implemented in a variety of different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments shown herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey to those skilled in the art the aspects and features of this disclosure. Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques that are not essential for a person of ordinary skill in the art to fully understand the aspects and features of this disclosure may not be described. Unless otherwise indicated, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements throughout the drawings and written description, and therefore their description need not be repeated.

[0041] When a particular embodiment can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence can be performed in a different order than that described. For example, two consecutively described processes can be performed simultaneously or substantially simultaneously, or they can be performed in the reverse order of being described.

[0042] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity, the relative sizes, thicknesses, dimensions, and proportions of elements, layers, and areas may be exaggerated and / or simplified. For ease of illustration, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “below,” “above,” and “above” may be used herein to describe the relationship of an element or feature as shown in the drawings to other elements or features. These spatial relative terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions indicated in the drawings. It will be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to those depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element or feature described as “below” or “below” or “below” other elements or features would then be positioned “above” other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “below” may encompass both orientations of “above” and “below.” The device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0043] In the accompanying drawings, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 can be perpendicular to each other or substantially perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0044] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe different elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, and / or part from another element, component, area, layer, and / or part. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the “first” element, “first” component, “first” area, “first” layer, and / or “first” part described below may be designated as a “second” element, “second” component, “second” area, “second” layer, and / or “second” part.

[0045] It will be understood that when an element, region, or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "bonded to" another element, region, or layer, that element, region, or layer may be directly "on," directly "connected to," or directly "bonded to" the other element, region, or layer, or there may be one or more intermediate elements, regions, or layers. Similarly, when a layer, region, or element is referred to as being "electrically connected" to another layer, region, or element, it may be directly "electrically connected" to the other layer, region, or element, and / or indirectly "electrically connected" with one or more intermediate layers, regions, or elements existing between them. Furthermore, it will be understood that when an element, region, or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements, regions, or layers, it may be the only element, region, or layer "between" these two elements, regions, or layers, or there may be one or more intermediate elements, regions, or layers.

[0046] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that when the terms “comprising,” “including,” “including,” “containing,” “with,” and “having” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the listed features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, the expression “A and / or B” indicates A, B, or A and B. When a statement such as “at least one of…” follows a series of elements, it modifies the entire series of elements, rather than individual elements within the series. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b and c" indicates only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all a, b and c, or variations thereof.

[0047] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “approximately,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than terms of degree and are intended to account for inherent biases in measured or calculated values ​​that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, the use of “may” when describing embodiments of this disclosure means “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.” As used herein, the terms “with,” “using,” and “applying” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize.”

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in a common dictionary) shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of the relevant field and / or in this specification, and shall not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a display device in an outwardly folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The display device 1000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be activated based on electrical signals. In this embodiment, as an example, the display device 1000 is shown as a foldable smartphone. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the display device 1000 may include various suitable embodiments. For example, the display device 1000 may include (e.g.) a tablet computer, a laptop computer, other types of computers, and / or a smart TV, etc.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the display device 1000 can display an image IM facing a third direction DR3 at a display surface DS that is parallel or substantially parallel to each of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 (e.g., center or top). The display surface DS that displays the image IM at (e.g., center or top) can correspond to the front surface of the display device 1000. The image IM can include still images and / or moving images. Figure 1 In the example of an image-based IM, an application (e.g., an application icon) is shown.

[0052] The display surface DS includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA adjacent to the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image IM, and the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA (e.g., around the perimeter of the display area DA) and may surround the display area DA with a suitable color (e.g., a predetermined color).

[0053] In this embodiment, the front surface (e.g., upper surface, top surface, or top) and rear surface (e.g., lower surface, bottom surface, or bottom) of each configuration, element, component, or layer are defined based on the orientation of the displayed image IM (e.g., third-party DR3). The front and rear surfaces may be opposite each other on the third-party DR3, and the normal direction of each of the front and rear surfaces may be parallel or substantially parallel to the third-party DR3.

[0054] The spacing between the front and rear surfaces in the third direction DR3 can correspond to the thickness or height of the display device 1000 (or its associated configuration, element, component, or layer) in the third direction DR3. However, the directions indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are provided as examples and are therefore relative concepts that can be transformed into other suitable directions.

[0055] The display device 1000 can sense external input applied from the outside. The external input can include various suitable types of input applied from outside the display device 1000.

[0056] For example, external input may include, for instance, contact by a part of the user's body, such as the user's hand (e.g., the user's fingers), and various suitable forms of external input (e.g., hovering) applied at a location close to (e.g., near) the display device 1000 or at a suitable adjacent distance (e.g., a predetermined adjacent distance) from the display device 1000. Additionally, external input may include, for example, various suitable forms of input, such as force, pressure, temperature, and / or light.

[0057] The display device 1000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be a foldable display device. Therefore, the display device 1000 may be divided into multiple regions based on the foldable regions. For example, the display device 1000 may include a first non-foldable region NFA1, a foldable region FA, and a second non-foldable region NFA2 arranged sequentially along a second direction DR2. The foldable region FA may be arranged around... Figure 2 The virtual folding axis FX shown extends in the first direction DR1 and is foldable (e.g., foldable).

[0058] The folded state of the display device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include (for example,) an outward folded state in which the portion of the rear surface of the protective member 200 that overlaps with the first non-folded region NFA1 and the portion of the rear surface of the protective member 200 that overlaps with the second non-folded region NFA2 face each other.

[0059] However, the folded state of the display device 1000 is not limited to this, and may include (for example, may be transformed into) an inward folded state in which the display surfaces DS of the display modules (e.g., display layers) 100 face each other, an outward folded state, or a combination of an inward folded state and an outward folded state, but is not limited to any particular embodiment.

[0060] The display module 100 may include a flexible display panel 110 and a touch sensing unit (e.g., a touch sensing layer or touch sensing panel) 120. The touch sensing unit 120 may be formed on the display panel 110 by a continuous process and may be directly disposed on the display panel 110.

[0061] Display panel 110 can generate images to be provided to a user. Display panel 110 may include (for example) any of a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light-emitting display panel, an inorganic light-emitting display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, or any suitable type of display panel capable of displaying images.

[0062] The touch sensing unit 120 can sense external input (a user's hand or stylus), convert the external input into an input signal (e.g., a predetermined input signal), and provide the input signal to the display panel 110. The touch sensing unit 120 may include a plurality of touch sensors configured to sense external input. The touch sensors can sense external input using, for example, capacitive methods. The display panel 110 can receive the input signal from the touch sensing unit 120 and can generate an image corresponding to the input signal.

[0063] The protective member 200 can support the display module 100 and can rotate with the display module 100 when folded about the folding axis FX. Because the protective member 200 is folded, the flexible display module 100 can be held or substantially maintained in its folded shape by the protective member 200. When the display device 1000 is folded, the protective member 200 allows the display device 1000 to fold outward, thereby exposing the display surface DS of the display module 100 to the outside.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Reference Figure 3 The display panel 110 includes a substrate layer BSL, a pixel layer PXL disposed on the substrate layer BSL, and a protective layer PTL covering the pixel layer PXL.

[0066] The substrate layer BSL can define the rear surface of the display module 100 and can be flexible. The pixel layer PXL can include multiple pixels and can be driven by receiving electrical signals to generate an image IM (e.g., see...). Figure 1 The protective layer PTL can protect the pixel layer PXL, and the touch sensing unit 120 can be disposed on the protective layer PTL. The protective layer PTL can be formed of multiple layers and can include organic insulating films and / or inorganic insulating films.

[0067] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 4A to 5D The protective component 200 is described in more detail. Figure 4A This is a combined perspective view of the protective components according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4A The cover member CV-U is shown separately from the configuration included in the protective member 200. Figure 4B This is an exploded perspective view of a protective component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5A This is a perspective view showing a protective member in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5B This is a perspective view showing a protective member in an outwardly folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5C This is a perspective view showing some configurations of the protective member in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5D This is a cross-sectional view showing some configurations of a protective member in an outwardly folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the protective member 200 may include a base member 210, a hinge member 220, a support member 230, an upper cover member CV-U, and a lower cover member CV-B.

[0069] The base component 210 may be disposed in the display module 100 (for example, see...). Figure 1 Below (e.g., below) to support the display module 100. Between the display module 100 and the base member 210, various suitable functional layers may be provided, such as stress relief layers configured to alleviate stress applied during folding, shock absorption layers configured to absorb external impacts, and heat dissipation layers configured to absorb heat generated from the display module 100, but this disclosure is not limited to any particular embodiment.

[0070] The base member 210 can provide space therein for the configuration, components, or elements used when the protective member 200 is folded. For example, the base member 210 may have slots H1, H2, and H3 defined therein. The slots H1, H2, and H3 can be formed by removing portions of the base member 210 on the third-party DR3.

[0071] The base member 210 can be provided in multiple forms. The base member 210 may include a first base member BS1 and a second base member BS2 arranged along the second direction DR2, and the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a suitable gap space or distance (e.g., a predetermined gap space or distance). The gap space may be a space configured to avoid interference with the extension EX of the hinge member 220 (e.g., a distance suitable for avoiding interference with the extension EX of the hinge member 220). In an embodiment, the first base member BS1 may be associated with a first non-folding region NFA1 (e.g., see...). Figure 1 The second base member BS2 may overlap with the second non-folded region NFA2 (e.g., see...). Figure 1 )overlapping.

[0072] The first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other at the portion overlapping with the folded area FA (e.g., in the middle or above), so that when the display device 1000 (e.g., see...) Figure 1 Avoid interference when folded.

[0073] The hinge member 220 can be disposed in the first groove H1 of the base member 210. The lower cover member CV-B can be disposed in the second groove H2 of the base member 210. The support member 230 can be disposed in the third groove H3 of the base member 210.

[0074] The hinge member 220 and the base member 210 can be connected to each other (e.g., joined or attached) by means of bolts passing through the joint CN formed in the hinge member 220 and the first hole P1 in each of the base members 210 (e.g., by means of bolts or rods extending through the first hole P1).

[0075] The support member 230 and the base member 210 can pass through the main body portion BN formed in the support member 230 (see, for example, see...). Figure 9 The components are connected to each other (e.g., joined or attached) by bolted connection (e.g., by bolts or rods extending through the second hole P2) in each of the base components 210 and the second hole P2.

[0076] The support member 230 and the lower cover member CV-B can pass through the fixing portion SN formed in the support member 230 (see, for example, see...). Figure 9 The third hole P3 in each of the lower cover members CV-B is connected to each other (e.g., joined or attached) by means of a bolt or rod extending through the third hole P3.

[0077] Additionally, the guide portion GM of the hinge member 220 and the lower cover member CV-B can pass through a fourth hole P4 formed in each of the guide portion GM and the lower cover member CV-B of the hinge member 220 (see, for example, see...). Figure 5B The components are connected to each other (e.g., by means of a bolted connection, such as a bolt or rod extending through the fourth hole P4) by bolts (e.g., by joining or attaching). Therefore, the configurations, elements, and components used when the protective member 200 is folded can be fixedly disposed in the base member 210. However, the structure or method of combining the configurations, elements, or components with each other is not limited thereto, and fastening devices can be provided to any of the constructions, elements, or components, and mating grooves can be provided to the respective constructions, elements, or components, or the constructions, elements, and components can be combined with each other by adhesives, adhesive tapes, or welding; and therefore, this disclosure is not limited to any particular structure or method.

[0078] Hinge member 220 can be connected to folding area FA (e.g., see...) Figure 2 The hinge components overlap and can rotate about the folding axis FX. The hinge component 220 includes an extension EX, a connecting part JP, a joint part CN, and a guide part GM.

[0079] The extension EX and the connecting portion JP of the hinge member 220 can be disposed in the space between the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2. Therefore, the shape of the extension EX and the connecting portion JP of the hinge member 220 (which is a variable or substantially variable configuration) can be changed during folding without interfering with the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2.

[0080] The joint CN of the hinge member 220 can be connected (e.g., connected to or attached to) each of the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2, so that other configurations, elements or components of the hinge member 220 can be stably connected (e.g., connected to or attached to) each other with the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2.

[0081] Multiple extensions EX can extend along a first direction DR1 and can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a second direction DR2. The extensions EX are configured to correspond to the folded region FA (e.g., see...). Figure 2 It can also support the portion of the display module 100 located at the folded region FA (e.g., in the middle or at the top). The number of extensions EX arranged along the second direction DR2 can be modified according to the curvature of the folded region FA, and is not limited to any particular embodiment.

[0082] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the position, shape, and arrangement of the extension EX can be maintained or substantially maintained even when the display device 1000 is repeatedly folded. When the position, shape, and arrangement of the extension EX change, it may change in the folding area FA (e.g., see...). Figure 2 A defect occurs in the display module 100 at a location (e.g., in the middle or at the top).

[0083] Reference Figures 5A to 5D The connecting part JP is connected one-to-one to one end of the corresponding plurality of extensions EX. The connecting part JP can be configured to rotate or substantially rotate about the hinge member 220. The connecting parts JP can be arranged along the second direction DR2 and can be connected to each other by a coupling pin CP (e.g., coupling or attachment), so that the connecting parts JP can rotate.

[0084] Figure 5C This illustrates when display device 1000 (for example, see...) Figure 1 When unfolded, the connection relationship between the connecting part JP, the extension part EX, and the connecting pin CP is as follows. Figure 5C In the figure, the lower cover member CV-B is omitted from the rear surface of the base member 210, thus showing the connection relationship between the connecting part JP, the extension EX and the connecting pin CP. Figure 5D The connection relationship between the connecting part JP and the connecting pin CP is shown when the display device is folded. The connecting part JP can have a suitable shape that allows the protective member 200 to be easily folded outward. For example, the connecting part JP can have a fan shape, wherein the width of the fan shape in the second direction DR2 becomes smaller as the connecting part JP gets closer to the base member 210 along the third direction DR3. Therefore, although the connecting parts JP are connected to each other and folded, the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2 can be folded outward without any effect between adjacent connecting parts JP.

[0085] The joint CN can extend from each of the connecting parts JP located at opposite ends in the second direction DR2. The extension EX and the connecting parts JP can be connected to (e.g., joined to or attached to) the base member 210 via the joint CN.

[0086] The guide section GM can be connected to the folded area FA (for example, see...). Figure 2 The guide portion GM may overlap with the extension portion EX. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the guide portion GM may serve as a guide to help maintain or substantially maintain the position, shape, and arrangement of the extension portion EX when the display device 1000 is folded.

[0087] In this embodiment, the guide portion GM may have a fixing groove GH defined therein. The fixing groove GH may accommodate the fixing portion SN of the support member 230 (see, for example, see...). Figure 9 ).

[0088] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A plurality of guides GM are shown, wherein three guides GM are located along a first direction DR1 at the left base member (e.g., the first base member BS1) (e.g., in the middle or above) and face three guides GM located along the first direction DR1 at the right base member (e.g., the second base member BS2) (e.g., in the middle or above), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, in other embodiments, the guides GM may be disposed on only one base member, or may be disposed in a zigzag pattern, and their arrangement and / or number are not limited to any particular embodiment.

[0089] The following will refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6B The relationship between the guide section GM and the extension section EX is described in more detail.

[0090] The support member 230 may be configured to maintain or substantially maintain the folded shape, or to vary the angle between the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2 when the display device 1000 is folded. Multiple support members may be provided and may be disposed in the third slot H3 of the base member 210. Because one configuration of the support member 230 includes elasticity, the support member 230 may contract / relax when folded or unfolded.

[0091] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The illustration shows that a plurality of support members 230 are provided, wherein three support members 230 are located on a left base member (e.g., a first base member BS1) and three support members 230 are located on a right base member (e.g., a second base member BS2). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and only one support member may be provided on each of the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2, or only on one of the base members of the first base member BS1 and the second base member BS2. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular embodiment.

[0092] Support member 230 will be referred to below. Figures 9 to 10B To describe in more detail.

[0093] The lower cover member CV-B and the upper cover member CV-U can be connected to each other (e.g., joined or attached) to cover a portion of the hinge member 220. The lower cover member CV-B and the upper cover member CV-U can prevent or substantially prevent the extension EX and the connecting part JP from being visually identified by the user when folded, and can also prevent or substantially prevent foreign matter from entering the extension EX and the connecting part JP.

[0094] The lower cover component CV-B may include a first cover portion C1, a second cover portion C2, and a hinge portion JN. An extension EX, a connecting portion JP, a part of a joining portion CN, and a guide portion GM, which are located on the left side based on the center of the folding area FA, may be provided on the first cover portion C1.

[0095] The extension EX, the connecting part JP, the joint part CN, and the guide part GM, which are located at the center of the folded area FA on the right side, can be located on the second cover part C2.

[0096] The hinge portion JN can connect (e.g., attach or join) the first cover portion C1 to the second cover portion C2, and can rotate to correspond to the connecting portion JP when the connecting portion JP rotates. Therefore, the extension portion EX and the connecting portion JP provided on the first cover portion C1 and the second cover portion C2 can rotate easily.

[0097] Two covers can be provided such that the upper cover member CV-U can also correspond to the lower cover member CV-B.

[0098] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a perspective view showing the connection relationship between the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6C This is a cross-sectional view showing the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Figure 6A This illustrates when display device 1000 (for example, see...) Figure 1 When unfolded, the extension EX and the guide GM are connected to each other (e.g., joined or attached), and for ease of illustration and related description, Figure 6B The guide section GM and Figure 6A The view showing the extension EX is separate.

[0100] An extension EX according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure has a guide groove EH defined therein, and a guide GM can be inserted into and connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the guide groove EH.

[0101] Reference Figures 6A to 6CAt least a portion of the extension EX according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure may have a guide groove EH defined therein. As an example, when display device 1000 (e.g., see...) Figure 1 When the extension EX is unfolded, each region of the extension EX that overlaps with the guide GM can have a guide groove EH defined therein.

[0102] As an example, Figure 6C A guide portion GM disposed on a lower cover member CV-B and a guide groove EH defined in an extension EX are shown. The extension EX may include a lower portion EB adjacent to the lower cover member CV-B and an upper portion EU adjacent to the display module 100. In one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the guide groove EH may be defined as a space formed by removing a portion of the extension EX.

[0103] When the guide portion GM is connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the guide groove EH, the guide portion GM can contact the inner surface ES of the extension EX. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, when the guide portion GM is connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the guide groove EH, the inner surface ES of the extension EX and the guide portion GM can be spaced apart from each other, and there is a suitable space (e.g., a predetermined space) between the inner surface ES of the extension EX and the guide portion GM.

[0104] In this embodiment, the upper part of the guide portion GM may have a protrusion GC extending in the first direction DR1. Additionally, the guide groove EH may have a shape corresponding to the protrusion GC of the guide portion GM. Therefore, when the guide portion GM is inserted into and connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the guide groove EH, the protrusion GC prevents or substantially prevents the guide portion GM from separating from the guide groove EH in the third direction DR3. For example, the protrusion GC may have a quadrilateral shape.

[0105] like Figure 6A As shown, when display device 1000 (for example, see...) Figure 1 When the display device 1000 is unfolded, a portion of the guide portion GM can be disposed within (e.g., inside) the extension EX. In other words, when the display device 1000 is unfolded, the guide portion GM can pass through and connect to the guide groove EH of each extension EX. In this case, because the guide groove EH has a shape corresponding to the protrusion GC, the protrusion GC can be stably connected to (e.g., combined with or attached to) the guide groove EH of each extension EX.

[0106] Refer again Figure 5A When display device 1000 (for example, see Figure 1 When unfolded, a portion of the guide section GM is disposed within the guide groove EH of each extension section EX, and refers to Figure 5B When the display device 1000 is folded, this part of the guide GM can be exposed and / or can be spaced apart from the extension EX.

[0107] Therefore, when display device 1000 (for example, see...) Figure 1 When the display device 1000 is unfolded, the guide GM can sequentially overlap with the multiple extensions EX from the outermost extension EX to the central extension EX. When the display device 1000 is folded, the guide GM can sequentially not overlap with the multiple extensions EX from the central extension EX to the outermost extension EX.

[0108] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, even when the display device 1000 (for example, see...) Figure 1 When repeatedly folded, the display device 1000 can also have improved folding properties because it may include a guide portion GM configured to prevent or substantially prevent the extension EX from separating. Furthermore, because the guide portion GM is spaced apart from the extension EX during folding, interference that may be caused by the guide portion GM can be prevented or substantially prevented during folding.

[0109] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing the guide portion and the extension portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this context, the same (or similar) reference numerals are used to refer to items in the same location as those in the attached figures. Figures 6A to 6C The accompanying drawings show the same (or similar) or substantially the same (or similar) configurations, elements and components, and therefore, their redundant descriptions need not be repeated.

[0110] Figure 7 The guide portion GM provided on the lower cover member CV-B and the guide groove E-H1 defined in an extension EX are shown.

[0111] In this embodiment, the extension EX may have a guide groove E-H1 defined therein. The guide groove E-H1 may be defined as a space formed by removing a portion of the extension EX.

[0112] In this embodiment, the upper part of the guide portion GM may include a protrusion G-C1 projecting in the first direction DR1. Additionally, the guide groove E-H1 may have a shape corresponding to the protrusion G-C1 of the guide portion GM. Because the protrusion G-C1 slopes from the lower cover member CV-B, it may have a triangular shape in cross-sectional view. Therefore, when the guide portion GM is inserted into and connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the guide groove E-H1, the protrusion G-C1 prevents or substantially prevents the guide portion GM from separating from the guide groove E-H1 in the third direction DR3.

[0113] As an example, Figure 8 The guide portion GM provided on the lower cover member CV-B and the guide groove E-H2 defined in an extension EX are shown.

[0114] In this embodiment, the extension EX may have a guide groove E-H2 defined therein. The guide groove E-H2 may be defined as a space formed by removing a portion of the extension EX.

[0115] In this embodiment, the upper part of the guide portion GM may include a protrusion G-C2 projecting in the first direction DR1. Additionally, the guide groove E-H2 may have a shape corresponding to the protrusion G-C2 of the guide portion GM. The protrusion G-C2 may protrude from the lower cover member CV-B in an elliptical shape. Therefore, when the guide portion GM is inserted into and connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the guide groove E-H2, the protrusion G-C2 prevents or substantially prevents the guide portion GM from separating from the guide groove E-H2 in the third direction DR3.

[0116] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10A It is a plan view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., a plan view or view taken from a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the associated configuration, element, member or layer). Figure 10B It is a plan view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., a plan view or view taken from a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the associated configuration, element, member or layer).

[0117] Reference Figure 9 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the support member 230 may include a fixing part SN, an insertion part ZN, a main body part BN, a restoring part TN, and a key XN.

[0118] The fixing part SN can be accommodated in the guide part GM (e.g., see...). Figure 6A The fixed slot GH (for example, see) Figure 6AIn the middle, the fixing part SN can be connected (e.g., can be joined or attached) to the support member 230 by means of a bolt connection through the third hole P3 (e.g., by means of a bolt or rod extending through the third hole P3).

[0119] The insertion portion ZN may have a cylindrical shape extending in the second direction DR2. A portion of the insertion portion ZN may be inserted into the body portion BN, and the remainder of the insertion portion ZN may be exposed from the body portion BN. The portion exposed from the body portion BN may be surrounded by the recovery portion TN (e.g., around the periphery of the recovery portion TN). One side (e.g., one end) of the insertion portion ZN may be connected to (e.g., fixed to) one side (e.g., one end) of the fixing portion SN.

[0120] The main body BN can be accommodated in the base member 210 (e.g., see...). Figure 4B The third slot H3 (for example, see...) Figure 4B In the main body BN, the base member 210 can be connected (e.g., it can be joined or attached) to the support member 230 by means of bolts passing through the second hole P2 (e.g., by means of bolts or rods extending through the second hole P2).

[0121] According to this embodiment, the main body portion BN may have an insertion groove BH defined therein, configured to receive the insertion portion ZN. The insertion groove BH may have a shape corresponding to the insertion portion ZN, and may extend in the second direction DR2.

[0122] The recovery portion TN may surround the insertion portion ZN exposed from the main body portion BN (e.g., around the periphery of the insertion portion ZN exposed from the main body portion BN). One end of the recovery portion TN may be connected (e.g., fixed) to one side (e.g., one end) of the fixing portion SN, and the other end of the recovery portion TN may be connected (e.g., fixed) to the side of the main body portion BN facing the side (e.g., one end) of the fixing portion SN. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the recovery portion TN is not limited to any particular embodiment, as long as the recovery portion TN is resilient.

[0123] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, because a recovery unit TN is included, even if the folded state and the unfolded state are repeated, a suitable tension (e.g., a predetermined tension) can be maintained or substantially maintained under changes in the state of the display device 1000.

[0124] The support member 230 may also include a key XN. The key XN may be disposed inside the main body portion BN and may control the movement of the insertion portion ZN within the main body portion BN. The key XN may be configured to intersect (e.g., cross) the insertion portion ZN.

[0125] The insertion portion ZN may have keyways Z-X1, Z-X2, and Z-X3 defined therein, with a key XN positioned through the keyways Z-X1, Z-X2, and Z-X3. The keyways Z-X1, Z-X2, and Z-X3 can be formed by removing a portion of the insertion portion ZN. In this embodiment, the keyways Z-X1, Z-X2, and Z-X3 may be arranged along a second direction DR2.

[0126] Users can conveniently position key XN within any of the key slots Z-X1, Z-X2, and Z-X3 by applying physical force to adjust the folding angle for the desired purpose. Although three key slots Z-X1, Z-X2, and Z-X3 are shown in the figures, the number of key slots is not limited to any particular embodiment. Furthermore, the angle adjustable by the user is not limited to any particular embodiment, as long as the angle allows the display device 1000 (e.g., see [reference]). Figure 1 Simply fold it outwards.

[0127] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, when the display device 1000 (for example, see...) Figure 1 When folded, the guide section GM (e.g., see...) Figure 6A The insertion part ZN is spaced apart from the extension part EX, and the guide part GM is located inside the extension part EX when the display device 1000 is unfolded. Therefore, the length of the insertion part ZN inside the main body part BN and the degree of contraction / relaxation of the recovery part TN can be modified differently.

[0128] Figure 10A This shows that when the display device is 1000 (for example, see...). Figure 1 The length of the insertion part ZN set inside the main body BN when it is unfolded, and Figure 10B The length of the insertion part ZN located inside the main body part BN is shown when the display device 1000 is folded.

[0129] When display device 1000 (for example, see Figure 1 ) is expanded (for example, see Figure 5A When, according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the guide section GM (for example, see...) Figure 6A It is located inside the extension EX. (See reference...) Figure 10A When the display device 1000 is unfolded, the insertion part ZN (e.g., a part of the insertion part ZN) provided inside the main body part BN may have a first length L1.

[0130] When display device 1000 (for example, see Figure 1 ) is folded (see Figure 5B When, according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the guide section GM (for example, see...) Figure 6AThis can be spaced apart from the extension EX. In this case, refer to... Figure 5B As the guide part GM is pushed in the second direction DR2, the insertion part ZN is inserted into the insertion groove BH of the main body part BN. (Refer to...) Figure 10B When the display device 1000 is folded, the insertion portion ZN (e.g., a part of the insertion portion ZN) provided inside the main body portion BN may have a second length L2. The first length L1 is smaller than the second length L2. In addition, when folded, the recovery portion TN may be in a relatively more contracted state compared to when it is unfolded.

[0131] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, even if the display device is repeatedly folded or unfolded multiple times, wrinkles can be prevented or substantially prevented by minimizing or reducing plastic deformation of the display panel. Therefore, a display device with improved folding properties can be provided while maintaining a stable and high curvature.

[0132] Although some embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily understand that various modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. It will be understood that, unless otherwise described, the description of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be considered as applicable to other similar features or aspects in other embodiments. Therefore, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, unless specifically indicated otherwise, features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with a particular embodiment may be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various exemplary embodiments and is not to be construed as limiting to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and various modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other exemplary embodiments are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined in the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A display device, wherein, The display device includes: The display panel includes: The folding area is capable of folding around a virtual folding axis extending in the first direction; and Multiple non-foldable regions, spaced apart from each other, with the foldable region situated between the multiple non-foldable regions; and Protective components, including: A hinge component, located below the display panel, overlaps with the folding area and is configured to fold about the virtual folding axis; The base component overlaps with the non-folded region; and A support member, integrated with the hinge member and the base member, such that the support member is in a relaxed state when the display panel is unfolded and in a retracted state when the display panel is folded. The hinge component includes: A plurality of extensions extend in a first direction and are positioned along a second direction intersecting the first direction, each of the extensions having a guide groove defined on the inner surface of the extension and spaced apart from the opposite end of the extension; Multiple connecting parts, connected to opposite ends of each of the extensions, and rotatably coupled to each other; and The guide includes a protrusion that extends in the first direction to be inserted into the guide groove of the extension, and the protrusion is configured to slidably engage with the guide groove of the extension.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The protrusion is configured to be received in the guide slot when the display panel is unfolded, and the protrusion is configured to be spaced apart from at least one of the guide slots when the display panel is folded.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the extensions includes an upper portion adjacent to the display panel and a lower portion opposite to the upper portion; and The guide groove of each of the extensions is defined as the inner surface formed by removing a portion of the respective extension in a direction from the lower portion of the respective extension toward the upper portion of the respective extension.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The protrusion has a shape that includes either a polygonal shape or an elliptical shape, and the guide groove has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the protrusion.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The supporting component includes: The fixing part is partially surrounded by the guide part; An insertion portion is connected to the fixing portion and extends in the second direction; The main body is attached to the base member and has an insertion groove configured to receive the insertion portion; and A recovery portion, surrounding the exposed portion of the insertion portion that is exposed from the main body portion, the recovery portion being elastic. The recovery section is configured to be in the relaxed state when the display panel is unfolded, and the recovery section is configured to be in the contracted state when the display panel is folded.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, When the display panel is unfolded, the length of the portion of the insertion part inserted into the main body is less than the length of the portion of the insertion part inserted into the main body when the display panel is folded.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The support member also includes a key located inside the main body, and The insertion portion of the insertion part located inside the main body has a keyway defined therein, and the key is configured to be suspended on the keyway.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The keyway includes a plurality of keyways positioned along the second direction.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, When the display panel is unfolded, the guide portion is configured to sequentially overlap the plurality of extensions from the outermost extension to the center extension.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, When the display panel is folded, the guide portion is configured such that the extension portion from the center position of the plurality of extension portions to the outermost position of the plurality of extension portions do not overlap with the plurality of extension portions sequentially.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display device further includes: The lower cover member overlaps with the folded area and is attached to the base member; and The upper cover member is attached to the lower cover member to cover the support member.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein, The support member is attached to the lower cover member.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The base member has a plurality of slots defined therein, the plurality of slots being configured to accommodate the support member and the hinge member.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The base component includes multiple base components, each of which overlaps with a different non-folded region within the multiple non-folded regions, and When the display panel is folded, the rear surfaces of the plurality of base components face each other.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge member includes a connecting portion extending from the connecting portion in the second direction, the connecting portion being connected to the base member.

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