Display device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a display apparatus. The display apparatus includes a display module and a support plate disposed on the display module and including a plurality of first fibers and a plurality of second fibers disposed on the first fibers and extending in a plan view to intersect the first fibers. An opening is defined in the support plate and includes first sides parallel to an extension direction of the first fibers and facing each other and second sides parallel to an extension direction of the second fibers and facing each other.

Description

[0001] Intersection of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0007786, filed on January 20, 2021, and all benefits arising from the said Korean Patent Application, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments of the present invention described herein relate to display devices. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic devices that provide images to users (such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptops, navigation systems, and smart TVs) include display devices for displaying images. Display devices generate images and provide them to users through a screen.

[0005] With recent advancements in display technology, various types of display devices are being developed. For example, flexible display devices that can be transformed into curved, folded, or rolled shapes are being developed. These flexible display devices, capable of being converted into various shapes, are easy to carry and improve user convenience.

[0006] In flexible display devices, foldable display devices include display modules that fold along a folding axis extending in one direction. The display module folds or unfolds around this folding axis. The display module includes a folding region that bends during folding. Technologies that enable the folding region to be folded more easily are desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention provide a display device having a folding area that can be folded more easily.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention provide a display device including a display module and a support plate. The support plate is disposed on the display module and includes a plurality of first fibers and a plurality of second fibers. The plurality of second fibers are disposed on the plurality of first fibers and intersect with the plurality of first fibers in a plan view. An opening is defined in the support plate and includes a first side parallel to the plurality of first fibers and facing each other, and a second side parallel to the plurality of second fibers and facing each other.

[0009] In embodiments of the present invention, the display device may include a display module and a support plate. The display module includes a first non-foldable region, a second non-foldable region, and a foldable region disposed between the first and second non-foldable regions. The support plate is disposed on the display module and includes a plurality of first fibers and a plurality of second fibers. The plurality of first fibers extend in a first diagonal direction and are arranged in a second diagonal direction intersecting the first diagonal direction. The plurality of second fibers are disposed at positions different from the positions of the plurality of first fibers in the thickness direction, extend in the second diagonal direction, and are arranged in the first diagonal direction. An opening overlapping the foldable region is defined in the support plate and includes a first side and a second side. The first side extends in the first diagonal direction and faces each other in the second diagonal direction, and the second side extends in the second diagonal direction and faces each other in the first diagonal direction.

[0010] In embodiments of the present invention, the display device may include a display module and a support plate. The display module extends in a first direction and is foldable about a folding axis parallel to a second direction intersecting the first direction. The support plate is disposed on the display module and includes a plurality of first fibers and a plurality of second fibers. The plurality of first fibers extend in a first diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions. The plurality of second fibers are disposed at positions different from the positions of the plurality of first fibers in the thickness direction and extend in a second diagonal direction intersecting the first diagonal direction. An opening overlapping the folding region is defined in the support plate and arranged in the first and second diagonal directions. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device according to the present invention;

[0013] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The image shows the folded state of the display device.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device according to the present invention;

[0015] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The image shows the folded state of the display device.

[0016] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line I-I' is shown in the figure;

[0017] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 The cross-section of the display panel shown is for example;

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The plan view of the display panel is shown in the image;

[0019] Figure 8 It shows Figure 5 The image shows the folded state of the display device.

[0020] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 The plan view of the support plate shown in the figure;

[0021] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the first region AA1 shown in the image;

[0022] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 The cross-sectional view taken by line II-II' shown in the figure;

[0023] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the second region AA2 shown in the image;

[0024] Figure 13 It is along Figure 12 The cross-sectional view taken by line III-III' is shown in the figure;

[0025] Figure 14 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the third region AA3 shown in the image;

[0026] Figure 15 A planar configuration of the support plate according to a comparative embodiment is shown;

[0027] Figures 16 to 18 It shows according to Figure 9 The configuration of the openings in various extension directions of the first and second fibers shown in the figure; and

[0028] Figure 19 and Figure 20 It shows Figure 9 Various shapes of openings are shown in the figure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] It should be understood that in this specification, when an element or layer is referred to as "on" another element or layer, "connected to", or "attached to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or attached to the other element or layer, or there may be an intervening element or layer. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected to", or "directly attached to" another element or layer, there is no intervening element or layer.

[0030] The same reference numerals always denote the same elements. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the thickness, scale, and dimensions of the elements are exaggerated for the sake of effective description of the technical content. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations that the relevant configuration may define.

[0031] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the invention, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0032] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well.

[0033] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper” are used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings to other elements(s) or features(s). It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein shall be interpreted accordingly.

[0034] It should be understood that, when used in this specification, the terms "comprising," "including," and / or "having" specify the presence of the stated feature, integral, step, operation, element, component, and / or group thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0035] As used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the value as well as the average of the value within an acceptable range of deviations from the particular value, as determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the value.

[0036] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It should also be understood that terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0037] The invention will be explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The image shows the folded state of the display device.

[0039] refer to Figure 1 The display device DD in embodiments of the present invention may have a quadrilateral (e.g., rectangular) shape, having a long side extending in a first direction DR1 and a short side extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, it is not limited thereto, and the display device DD may have various shapes such as circles and polygons. The display device DD may be a flexible display device.

[0040] In the following text, the direction substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as the third direction DR3. Furthermore, in this specification, the phrase "in a plan view" can be defined as the state observed from the third direction DR3.

[0041] The display device DD may include a folded region FA and multiple non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2. The non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 may include a first non-folded region NFA1 and a second non-folded region NFA2. The folded region FA may be disposed between the first non-folded region NFA1 and the second non-folded region NFA2. The first non-folded region NFA1, the folded region FA, and the second non-folded region NFA2 may be arranged on a first direction DR1.

[0042] Although one folded region FA and two non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 are shown, the number of folded regions FA and non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 is not limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the display device DD may include more than two non-folded regions and multiple folded regions disposed between the non-folded regions.

[0043] The upper surface of the display device DD can be defined as a display surface DS, and has a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The image IM generated in the display device DD can be provided to the user through the display surface DS.

[0044] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image, while the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and define the boundary of the display device DD printed in predetermined colors.

[0045] refer to Figure 2 The display device DD can be a foldable display device DD that can be folded or unfolded. For example, in one embodiment, the folding region FA can be bent along a folding axis FX parallel to the second direction DR2, causing the display device DD to fold. The folding axis FX can be defined as a short axis parallel to the short side of the display device DD.

[0046] When the display device DD is folded, the first non-folded area NFA1 and the second non-folded area NFA2 can face each other, and the display device DD can be folded inward so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention. Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The image shows the folded state of the display device.

[0048] In addition to folding operations Figure 3 The display device DD_1 shown in the figure can have the same as Figure 1 The display device DD shown below has a largely the same configuration. Therefore, the folding operation of display device DD_1 will be described primarily below.

[0049] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4The display device DD_1 may include a folded region FA' and multiple non-folded regions NFA1' and NFA2'. The non-folded regions NFA1' and NFA2' may include a first non-folded region NFA1' and a second non-folded region NFA2'. The folded region FA' may be positioned between the first non-folded region NFA1' and the second non-folded region NFA2'. The first non-folded region NFA1', the folded region FA', and the second non-folded region NFA2' may be arranged on a second direction DR2.

[0050] The folding region FA' can be bent along a folding axis FX' parallel to the first direction DR1, causing the display device DD_1 to fold. The folding axis FX' can be defined as a major axis parallel to the long side of the display device DD_1. Figure 1 The display device DD shown can be folded along its short axis, while Figure 3 The display device DD_1 shown can be folded along its long axis. The display device DD_1 can be folded inward so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside.

[0051] Although an inwardly folding display device is shown, the invention is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, display devices DD and DD_1 can be folded outward along folding axes FX and FX', respectively, so that the display surface DS is exposed to the outside.

[0052] The following description will use a display device DD that folds inward along a folding axis FX parallel to the short axis as an example.

[0053] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken by line I-I' is shown in the figure.

[0054] refer to Figure 5 The display device DD may include a display module DM and a support plate SPT disposed below the display module DM. The display module DM may include a first non-folding region NFA1, a second non-folding region NFA2, and a folding region FA disposed between the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2. The folding region FA may be folded around the folding axis FX described above.

[0055] A support plate SPT can support the display module DM below it. In the plan view, multiple openings OP can be defined within the support plate SPT and overlap with the folding area FA of the display module DM. The portion of the support plate SPT that overlaps with the folding area FA can be defined as the folding portion FP. The openings OP can be defined within the folding portion FP.

[0056] The support plate SPT may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). In one embodiment, the support plate SPT may include plastic and a plurality of carbon fibers disposed within the plastic. CFRP can be lighter than metal. Because a support plate SPT comprising CFRP is used to support the display module DM, the display device DD can be made lighter.

[0057] The display module DM may include a display panel DP, an input sensing unit ISP, an anti-reflective layer RPL, a window WIN, a window protection layer WP, a panel protection layer PPL, a buffer layer CUL, and first adhesive layers AL1 to sixth adhesive layers AL6.

[0058] In embodiments of the present invention, the display panel DP can be a light-emitting display panel. For example, in embodiments, the display panel DP can be an organic light-emitting display panel or a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of an organic light-emitting display panel may include organic light-emitting materials. The light-emitting layer of a quantum dot light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots, quantum rods, etc. Hereinafter, the display panel DP is described as an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0059] The display panel DP can be a flexible display panel. Similar to the display module DM, the display panel DP may include a first non-folding region NFA1, a folding region FA, and a second non-folding region NFA2. The display panel DP may include multiple pixels for displaying images. Pixels may include organic light-emitting elements.

[0060] The input sensing unit (ISP) can be disposed on the display panel (DP). The ISP may include multiple sensors (not shown) for sensing external input. The sensors may detect the external input using a capacitive method. When manufacturing the display device (DD), the ISP may be directly fabricated on the display panel (DP). However, it is not limited to this; the ISP may be fabricated as a panel independent of the display panel (DP) and then attached to the display panel (DP) via an adhesive layer.

[0061] An anti-reflective layer (RPL) can be applied to the display panel (DP). The RPL can be defined as an external light reflection prevention film. The RPL reduces the reflectivity of external light incident from above the display device (DD) toward the display panel (DP).

[0062] When external light traveling toward the display panel DP is reflected from the display panel DP (similar to a mirror) and then presented to an external user, the user can visually perceive the external light. To prevent this phenomenon, as an example, the anti-reflective layer RPL may include multiple color filters that display the same colors as the pixels.

[0063] Color filters can filter out external light to display the same color as the pixel. In this case, the external light may be invisible to the user. However, it is not limited to this; the anti-reflective layer RPL may include a retarder and / or a polarizer to reduce the reflectivity of external light.

[0064] The window (WIN) can be disposed on the anti-reflective layer (RPL). The window (WIN) can protect the display panel (DP), input sensing unit (ISP), and anti-reflective layer (RPL) from external scratches. The window (WIN) can be optically transparent. In some embodiments, the window (WIN) can include glass. The window (WIN) can be limited to ultra-thin glass (UTG). However, it is not limited to this; the window (WIN) can include a synthetic resin film.

[0065] A window protective layer WP can be disposed on the window WIN. The window protective layer WP can protect the window WIN. In an embodiment, the window protective layer WP may include a flexible plastic material, such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Although not shown, a hard coating layer may also be disposed on the window protective layer WP. In addition, an anti-fingerprint layer or an anti-scattering layer, defined as a functional layer, may also be disposed on the window protective layer WP.

[0066] A panel protective layer (PPL) can be disposed beneath the display panel (DP). The PPL protects the lower portion of the display panel (DP) from external scratches. The PPL can comprise a flexible plastic material. For example, in one embodiment, the PPL can comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0067] A cushioning layer (CUL) can be disposed beneath the panel protective layer (PPL). The CUL protects the display module (DM) by absorbing external impacts applied to the lower portion of the DM. The CUL may comprise a foam board with predetermined elasticity. The CUL may comprise foam, sponge, polyurethane, or thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0068] The first adhesive layer AL1 can be disposed between the window protective layer WP and the window WIN. The window protective layer WP and the window WIN can be bonded to each other through the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0069] The second adhesive layer AL2 can be disposed between the window WIN and the anti-reflective layer RPL. The window WIN and the anti-reflective layer RPL can be bonded to each other through the second adhesive layer AL2.

[0070] The third adhesive layer AL3 can be disposed between the anti-reflective layer RPL and the input sensing unit ISP. The anti-reflective layer RPL and the input sensing unit ISP can be bonded to each other through the third adhesive layer AL3.

[0071] The fourth adhesive layer AL4 can be disposed between the display panel DP and the panel protective layer PPL. The display panel DP and the panel protective layer PPL can be bonded to each other through the fourth adhesive layer AL4.

[0072] The fifth adhesive layer AL5 can be disposed between the panel protective layer PPL and the cushioning layer CUL. The panel protective layer PPL and the cushioning layer CUL can be bonded to each other through the fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0073] The sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be disposed between the cushioning layer CUL and the support plate SPT. The cushioning layer CUL and the support plate SPT can be bonded to each other through the sixth adhesive layer AL6.

[0074] In an embodiment, the first adhesive layer AL1 to the sixth adhesive layer AL6 may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or a transparent adhesive such as an optically transparent adhesive (OCA).

[0075] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 The cross-section of the display panel shown is for example.

[0076] refer to Figure 6 The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the substrate SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0077] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include a flexible plastic material. For example, in one embodiment, the substrate SUB may include PI.

[0078] The display element layer DP-OLED can be disposed in the display area DA. A thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL to cover the display element layer DP-OLED. Multiple pixels can be disposed in both the circuit element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED. For example, in one embodiment, each pixel may include a transistor disposed in the circuit element layer DP-CL and a light-emitting element disposed in the display element layer DP-OLED and connected to the transistor.

[0079] When manufacturing the display panel (DP), the input sensing unit (ISP) can be directly fabricated on the thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE). However, it is not limited to this; the input sensing unit (ISP) can be fabricated as a panel independent of the display panel (DP) and then attached to the thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) via an adhesive layer.

[0080] Figure 7 yes Figure 5The diagram shows a floor plan of the display panel.

[0081] refer to Figure 7 The display device DD may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, an optical emission driver EDV, and multiple pads PD.

[0082] The display panel DP may have a quadrilateral (e.g., rectangular) shape, having a long side extending in a first direction DR1 and a short side extending in a second direction DR2, but the shape of the display panel DP is not limited to this. The display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA.

[0083] The display panel DP may include multiple pixels PX, multiple scan lines SL1 to SLm, multiple data lines DL1 to DLn, multiple light emission lines EL1 to Elm, a first control line CSL1 and a second control line CSL2, a first power line PL1 and a second power line PL2, and a connecting line CNL. Here, "m" and "n" are positive integers.

[0084] Pixel PX can be located in the display area DA. The scan driver SDV and light emission driver EDV, adjacent to the long side of the display panel DP, can be located in the non-display area NDA. The data driver DDV, adjacent to one of the short sides of the display panel DP, can be located in the non-display area NDA. In a plan view, the data driver DDV can be adjacent to the bottom edge of the display panel DP.

[0085] Scan lines SL1 to SLm can extend in the second direction DR2 to connect to the scan driver SDV. Data lines DL1 to DLn can extend in the first direction DR1 to connect to the pixel PX and the data driver DDV. Light emission lines EL1 to ELm can extend in the second direction DR2 to connect to the pixel PX and the light emission driver EDV.

[0086] The first power line PL1 can extend along the first direction DR1 to be located in the non-display area NDA. The first power line PL1 can be located between the display area DA and the optical emission driver EDV. However, it is not limited thereto; the first power line PL1 can also be located between the display area DA and the scan driver SDV.

[0087] The connecting line CNL can extend along the second direction DR2 and is arranged along the first direction DR1. The connecting line CNL can be connected to the first power line PL1 and the pixel PX. A first voltage can be applied to the pixel PX through the first power line PL1 and the connecting line CNL connected to each other.

[0088] The second power line PL2 can be located in the non-display area NDA. The second power line PL2 can extend along the long side of the display panel DP and the other short side of the display panel DP where the data driver DDV is not located. The second power line PL2 can be located outside the scan driver SDV and the optical emission driver EDV.

[0089] Although not shown, a second power line PL2 may extend toward the display area DA to connect to pixel PX. A second voltage having a lower level than the first voltage may be applied to pixel PX through the second power line PL2.

[0090] The first control line CSL1 can be connected to the scan driver SDV and extends towards the lower end of the display panel DP in the plan view. The second control line CSL2 can be connected to the light emission driver EDV and extends towards the lower end of the display panel DP in the plan view. The data driver DDV can be positioned between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0091] The pad PD can be located on the display panel DP. The pad PD can be located closer to the bottom of the display panel DP than the data driver DDV. The data driver DDV, the first power line PL1, the second power line PL2, the first control line CSL1, and the second control line CSL2 can be connected to the pad PD. Data lines DL1 to DLn can be connected to the data driver DDV, and the data driver DDV can be connected to the pad PD corresponding to the data lines DL1 to DLn.

[0092] Although not shown, the display device DD may also include a timing controller for controlling the operation of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the optical emitter driver EDV, as well as a voltage generator for generating a first voltage and a second voltage. The timing controller and the voltage generator can be connected to corresponding pads PD via a printed circuit board.

[0093] The scan driver SDV can generate multiple scan signals, and these scan signals can be applied to pixel PX through scan lines SL1 to SLm. The data driver DDV can generate multiple data voltages, and these data voltages can be applied to pixel PX through data lines DL1 to DLn. The light emission driver EDV can generate multiple light emission signals, and these light emission signals can be applied to pixel PX through light emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0094] A pixel (PX) can receive a data voltage in response to a scan signal. A pixel (PX) can display an image by emitting light with a brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to a light emission signal. The light emission time of a pixel (PX) can be controlled by the light emission signal.

[0095] Figure 8It shows Figure 5 The image shows the folded state of the display device.

[0096] In the implementation, Figure 8 The display module DM in the image is shown as a single layer.

[0097] refer to Figure 8 The display device DD can be folded around the folding axis FX. The folding region FA bends around the folding axis FX, allowing the display device DD to be folded. The folding portion FP bends around the folding axis FX, allowing the support plate SPT to be folded. Since the opening OP is confined within the folding portion FP, the support plate SPT can be easily folded. Therefore, the display device DD can be folded more easily.

[0098] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 The plan view of the support plate is shown in the figure.

[0099] refer to Figure 9 The support plate SPT may have a quadrilateral (e.g., rectangular) shape, which has a long side extending in a first direction DR1 and a short side extending in a second direction DR2, but the shape of the support plate SPT is not limited to this.

[0100] The support plate SPT may include a first non-foldable portion NFP1, a second non-foldable portion NFP2, and a foldable portion FP disposed between the first non-foldable portion NFP1 and the second non-foldable portion NFP2. The first non-foldable portion NFP1 may overlap with a first non-foldable region NFA1, the foldable portion FP may overlap with a foldable region FA, and the second non-foldable portion NFP2 may overlap with a second non-foldable region NFA2.

[0101] The support plate SPT may include a plurality of first fibers FIB1 and a plurality of second fibers FIB2. The first fibers FIB1 and the second fibers FIB2 may include carbon fibers.

[0102] In a plan view, the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 may extend to intersect each other. For example, in one embodiment, the first fiber FIB1 may extend in a first diagonal direction DDR1, and the second fiber FIB2 may extend in a second diagonal direction DDR2. In a plan view defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, the first diagonal direction DDR1 may be defined as a direction extending at an angle greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to the second direction DR2.

[0103] In the plan view defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, the second diagonal direction DDR2 can be defined as the direction intersecting the first diagonal direction DDR1. The second diagonal direction DDR2 can be defined as the direction extending relative to the second direction DR2 at an angle greater than or equal to 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0104] The opening OP defined in the folded portion FP can have a rhombus shape, the rhombus shape having sides extending in a first diagonal direction DDR1 and a second diagonal direction DDR2. The opening OP can be arranged in the first diagonal direction DDR1 and the second diagonal direction DDR2 based on the positions of the sides of the rhombus shape. Furthermore, the opening OP can be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 based on the positions of the vertices of the rhombus shape.

[0105] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the first region AA1 shown in the image. Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 The cross-sectional view taken by line II-II' is shown in the figure.

[0106] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The support plate SPT may include a resin layer RSN and a first fiber FIB1 and a second fiber FIB2 disposed within the resin layer RSN. The resin layer RSN may include a plastic material. The first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 may be disposed at different locations relative to each other in a third direction DR3 (also known as the thickness direction). For example, in one embodiment, the second fiber FIB2 may be disposed below the first fiber FIB1. However, it is not limited thereto; the second fiber FIB2 may be disposed above the first fiber FIB1.

[0107] The first fiber FIB1 can extend along the first diagonal direction DDR1 and be arranged along the second diagonal direction DDR2. That is, the first fiber FIB1 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a first angle θ1 greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0108] The second fiber FIB2 can extend along the second diagonal direction DDR2 and be arranged along the first diagonal direction DDR1. That is, the second fiber FIB2 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a second angle θ2 greater than or equal to 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0109] When the first fiber FIB1 extends at 0 degrees relative to the second direction DR2 and the second fiber FIB2 extends at 90 degrees relative to the second direction DR2, the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 can intersect each other perpendicularly. In this case, the first diagonal direction DDR1 can be parallel to the second direction DR2, and the second diagonal direction DDR2 can be parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0110] Although the first fiber FIB1 extends at 0 degrees relative to the second direction DR2, the second fiber FIB2 extends at an angle of less than 180 degrees relative to the second direction DR2, and therefore, the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 can extend in a way that is not parallel to each other.

[0111] Although the second fiber FIB2 extends at a 90-degree angle relative to the second direction DR2, the first fiber FIB1 extends at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the second direction DR2, and therefore, the second fiber FIB2 and the first fiber FIB1 can extend in a way that is not parallel to each other.

[0112] The first fiber FIB1 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees, and the second fiber FIB2 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. In this case, the first diagonal direction DDR1 can intersect with the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Furthermore, the second diagonal direction DDR2 can intersect with the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0113] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the second region AA2 shown in the image. Figure 13 It is along Figure 12 The cross-sectional view taken by line III-III' is shown in the figure.

[0114] refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 The opening OP can be defined by removing a predetermined portion of the support plate SPT. The opening OP can also be defined by removing a portion of the resin layer RSN and a portion of some of the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2.

[0115] The opening OP may include a first side S1 extending parallel to the first fiber FIB1 and facing each other, and a second side S2 extending parallel to the second fiber FIB2 and facing each other. The two first sides S1 may extend along a first diagonal direction DDR1 and face each other along a second diagonal direction DDR2. The two second sides S2 may extend along the second diagonal direction DDR2 and face each other along the first diagonal direction DDR1. The second sides S2 may be connected to the ends of the first sides S1.

[0116] The opening OP can have a rhomboid shape defined by a first side S1 and a second side S2 that are connected to each other. In an embodiment, Figure 12 The first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 can intersect each other perpendicularly. That is, the first diagonal direction DDR1 and the second diagonal direction DDR2 can intersect each other perpendicularly.

[0117] The interior angle of the rhombus shape of the opening OP can be 90 degrees. In this case, the distance between the first vertices VT1 that are opposite each other in the first direction DR1 can be the same as the distance between the second vertices VT2 that are opposite each other in the second direction DR2.

[0118] Figure 14 yes Figure 9 The enlarged view of the third region AA3 shown in the image.

[0119] refer to Figure 14 In the folded portion FP, the opening OP may be defined in some of the first fibers FIB1 and the second fibers FIB2, and may not be defined in the other first fibers FIB1 and the second fibers FIB2. The opening OP may be partially defined in some of the first fibers FIB1 and the second fibers FIB2.

[0120] In the first fiber FIB1, which defines an opening OP, the opening OP can be arranged along the extension direction of the first fiber FIB1. In the second fiber FIB2, which defines an opening OP, the opening OP can be arranged along the extension direction of the second fiber FIB2.

[0121] Although two open-end OPs are shown arranged on the first diagonal direction DDR1 and two open-end OPs are arranged on the second diagonal direction DDR2, the number of open-end OPs is not limited to this.

[0122] In the folded portion FP, some of the first fibers NFIB1 of the first fibers FIB1 can pass between the openings OP and extend in the first diagonal direction DDR1. In the folded portion FP, some of the second fibers NFIB2 of the second fibers FIB2 can pass between the openings OP and extend in the second diagonal direction DDR2.

[0123] The first fiber NFIB1 can be defined as a first fiber FIB1 in which the opening OP is not defined. The second fiber NFIB2 can be defined as a second fiber FIB2 in which the opening OP is not defined.

[0124] Specifically, in the folded portion FP, the first fiber NFIB1 can pass between the openings OP arranged along the first direction DR1 and extends in the first diagonal direction DDR1. Furthermore, in the folded portion FP, the first fiber NFIB1 can pass between the openings OP arranged along the second direction DR2 and extends in the first diagonal direction DDR1.

[0125] Specifically, in the folded portion FP, the second fiber NFIB2 can pass between the openings OP arranged along the first direction DR1 and extends in the second diagonal direction DDR2. Furthermore, in the folded portion FP, the second fiber NFIB2 can pass between the openings OP arranged along the second direction DR2 and extends in the second diagonal direction DDR2.

[0126] According to the above structure, the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 with the opening OP defined, as well as the first fiber NFIB1 and the second fiber NFIB2 without the opening OP defined, can be provided in the folded portion FP.

[0127] Figure 15 A planar configuration of the support plate according to a comparative embodiment is shown.

[0128] refer to Figure 15 The support plate SPT' may include a plurality of first fibers FIB1' extending in a first direction DR1 and a plurality of second fibers FIB2' extending in a second direction DR2. The first fibers FIB1' and the second fibers FIB2' may be disposed in different layers.

[0129] Multiple openings OP' can be defined in the folded portion FP of the support plate SPT' that overlaps with the folded area FA. The openings OP' can extend in the second direction DR2. The openings OP' can be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0130] The first direction DR1 can correspond to the column direction, and the second direction DR2 can correspond to the row direction. An opening OP' arranged in row h can be alternated with an opening OP' arranged in row h+1. Here, h is a natural number. When viewed from the first direction DR1, the opening OP' in row h and the opening OP' in row h+1 can partially overlap each other.

[0131] According to the structure of the opening OP', all of the first fibers FIB1' can be cut in the folded portion FP of the support plate SPT'. Therefore, when the folded portion FP is stretched, the restoring force of the folded portion FP to be restored may be reduced. Furthermore, since all of the first fibers FIB1' are cut in the folded portion FP, the lifespan of the support plate SPT' may be reduced.

[0132] Although the state in which all of the first fiber FIB1' is cut in the folded portion FP is shown, when the first fiber FIB1' extends in the second direction DR2 and the second fiber FIB2' extends in the first direction DR1, all of the second fiber FIB2' can be cut in the folded portion FP through the opening OP.

[0133] Refer again Figure 9 and Figure 14 In embodiments of the present invention, according to the arrangement of the opening OP, in the folded portion FP, the opening OP may be limited to some of the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2, or the opening OP may not be limited to some of the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2. Therefore, the cutting of the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 in the folded portion FP can be minimized. Therefore, the restoring force of the folded portion FP may not be reduced, and the lifespan of the support plate SPT may not be decreased.

[0134] Figures 16 to 18 It shows according to Figure 9 The configuration of openings in various extension directions of the first and second fibers is shown in the figure.

[0135] In the implementation, Figures 16 to 18 Shown as with Figure 12 The corresponding enlarged image, and will be mainly described below, along with... Figure 12 The configurations shown are different.

[0136] refer to Figure 16 The opening OP_1 defined in the folded region FA can have a rhomboid shape that extends longer in the second direction DR2 than in the first direction DR1. The distance between first vertices VT1 that are opposite each other in the first direction DR1 can be different from the distance between second vertices VT2 that are opposite each other in the second direction DR2. For example, in an embodiment, the distance between the first vertices VT1 can be shorter than the distance between the second vertices VT2.

[0137] To form the structure with opening OP_1 as described above, the first diagonal direction DDR1 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a first angle θ1_1 greater than 0 degrees and less than 45 degrees. Furthermore, the second diagonal direction DDR2 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a second angle θ2_1 greater than 135 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0138] The first fiber FIB1 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a first angle θ1_1 in the first diagonal direction DDR1 and is arranged in the second diagonal direction DDR2. The second fiber FIB2 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a second angle θ2_1 in the second diagonal direction DDR2 and is arranged in the first diagonal direction DDR1.

[0139] The opening OP_1 may include a first side S1_1 extending in the first diagonal direction DDR1 and facing each other in the second diagonal direction DDR2, and a second side S2_1 extending in the second diagonal direction DDR2 and facing each other in the first diagonal direction DDR1.

[0140] refer to Figure 17 The opening OP_2 defined in the folded region FA can have a rhomboid shape that extends longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2. The distance between first vertices VT1 that are opposite each other in the first direction DR1 can be different from the distance between second vertices VT2 that are opposite each other in the second direction DR2. For example, in one embodiment, the distance between the first vertices VT1 can be longer than the distance between the second vertices VT2.

[0141] To form the structure of the opening OP_2 as described above, the first diagonal direction DDR1 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a first angle θ1_2 greater than 45 degrees and less than 90 degrees. Furthermore, the second diagonal direction DDR2 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a second angle θ2_2 greater than 90 degrees and less than 135 degrees.

[0142] The first fiber FIB1 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a first angle θ1_2 in the first diagonal direction DDR1 and is arranged in the second diagonal direction DDR2. The second fiber FIB2 can extend relative to the second direction DR2 at a second angle θ2_2 in the second diagonal direction DDR2 and is arranged in the first diagonal direction DDR1.

[0143] The opening OP_2 may include a first side S1_2 extending in the first diagonal direction DDR1 and facing each other in the second diagonal direction DDR2, and a second side S2_2 extending in the second diagonal direction DDR2 and facing each other in the first diagonal direction DDR1.

[0144] refer to Figure 18 The opening OP_3, defined within the folded region FA, can have a quadrilateral shape. To form the structure of the opening OP_3 as described above, the first diagonal direction DDR1 can extend along the first direction DR1, and the second diagonal direction DDR2 can extend along the second direction DR2.

[0145] The first fiber FIB1 can extend in the first direction DR1 and be arranged in the second direction DR2. The second fiber FIB2 can extend in the second direction DR2 and be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0146] The opening OP_3 may include a first side S1_3 extending in the first direction DR1 and facing each other in the second direction DR2, and a second side S2_3 extending in the second direction DR2 and facing each other in the first direction DR1.

[0147] Figure 19 and Figure 20 It shows Figure 9 Various shapes of openings are shown in the figure.

[0148] In the implementation, Figure 19 and Figure 20 Shown as with Figure 12 The corresponding enlarged image, and will be mainly described below, along with... Figure 12 The configurations shown are different.

[0149] refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 The extension directions of the first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 can be the same as those of the second fiber FIB2. Figure 12 The first fiber FIB1 and the second fiber FIB2 shown in the diagram extend in the same direction. Openings OP_4 and OP_5 can extend longer in either the direction of extension of the first fiber FIB1 or the direction of extension of the second fiber FIB2.

[0150] refer to Figure 19 The diamond-shaped opening OP_4 can extend longer along the first diagonal direction DDR1 than along the second diagonal direction DDR2. The opening OP_4 can include a first side S1_4 extending along the first diagonal direction DDR1 and facing each other along the second diagonal direction DDR2, and a second side S2_4 extending along the second diagonal direction DDR2 and facing each other along the first diagonal direction DDR1. The length of the first side S1_4 can be greater than the length of the second side S2_4.

[0151] refer to Figure 20 The diamond-shaped opening OP_5 can extend longer in the second diagonal direction DDR2 than in the first diagonal direction DDR1. The opening OP_5 can include a first side S1_5 extending in the first diagonal direction DDR1 and facing each other in the second diagonal direction DDR2, and a second side S2_5 extending in the second diagonal direction DDR2 and facing each other in the first diagonal direction DDR1. The length of the first side S1_5 can be less than the length of the second side S2_5.

[0152] Through embodiments of the present invention, the display device can be made lighter by using a support plate comprising CFRP that supports the display module.

[0153] Furthermore, since multiple openings are defined in the portion of the support plate that overlaps with the folding area, the display device can be easily folded.

[0154] Furthermore, in the folded portion of the support plate, the openings are limited to some of the first and second fibers, and are not limited to the other first and second fibers. Therefore, the cutting of the first and second fibers in the folded portion can be minimized.

[0155] Although embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed below.

Claims

1. A display device, including: Display module; as well as A support plate, disposed on the display module, and comprising: Multiple first fibers; and A plurality of second fibers are disposed on the plurality of first fibers and intersect with the plurality of first fibers in a plan view. The support plate has an opening, and the opening includes: The first side is parallel to the plurality of first fibers and faces each other; and The second side is parallel to the plurality of second fibers and faces each other. The size of the opening is larger than the size of the space defined by the first fibers that are adjacent to each other among the plurality of first fibers and the second fibers that are adjacent to each other among the plurality of second fibers.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of first fibers and the plurality of second fibers include carbon fibers.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The support plate further includes a resin layer, and the plurality of first fibers and the plurality of second fibers are disposed within the resin layer.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display module includes a first non-foldable region, a second non-foldable region, and a foldable region disposed between the first non-foldable region and the second non-foldable region, wherein: The first non-folded region, the second non-folded region, and the folded region are arranged in a first direction; and The folded region is folded around a folding axis extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The opening overlaps with the folded area in the plan view.

6. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The plurality of first fibers extend in a first diagonal direction at an angle greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to the second direction, and are arranged in a second diagonal direction at an angle greater than or equal to 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees relative to the second direction. as well as The plurality of second fibers extend in the second diagonal direction and are arranged in the first diagonal direction.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The first side extends along the first diagonal direction and faces each other along the second diagonal direction; and The second side extends in the second diagonal direction, faces each other in the first diagonal direction, and connects to the end of the first side.

8. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The opening is configured as a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings are arranged in the first diagonal direction and the second diagonal direction.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, In the folded portion of the support plate that overlaps with the folded area, some of the plurality of first fibers pass between the openings arranged in the first direction and between the openings arranged in the second direction in the plurality of openings, and extend in the first diagonal direction.

10. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, In the folded portion of the support plate that overlaps with the folded area, some of the plurality of second fibers pass between the openings arranged in the first direction and between the openings arranged in the second direction in the plurality of openings, and extend in the second diagonal direction.

11. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The opening is configured as multiple openings; as well as In the folded portion of the support plate that overlaps with the folded area, the plurality of openings are defined in some of the plurality of first fibers and some of the plurality of second fibers, and the plurality of openings are not defined in the remaining first fibers and the remaining second fibers.

12. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The opening has a rhomboid shape defined by the first side and the second side.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The interior angle of the rhombus shape is 90 degrees.

14. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The distance between the first vertices of the opening that are opposite each other in the first direction is different from the distance between the second vertices of the opening that are opposite each other in the second direction.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The opening has a quadrilateral shape.

16. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The opening extends longer in either the extension direction of the plurality of first fibers or the extension direction of the plurality of second fibers.

Images