Window and electronic device comprising a window

Abstract

Windows and electronic devices including the same are provided. A window includes a folding portion and first and second non-folding portions spaced apart from each other with the folding portion arranged between the first and second non-folding portions, wherein the folding portion includes a base, a plurality of main protrusions arranged on the base, each of the plurality of main protrusions having a first thickness and spaced apart from each other, and at least one sub-protrusion having a second thickness less than the first thickness of each of the plurality of main protrusions and arranged on the base between the plurality of main protrusions.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0018482, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on February 9, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to windows and electronic devices including windows, and to foldable windows and electronic devices including foldable windows. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic devices of various shapes are used to provide image information, and recently, display devices including foldable or bendable flexible display panels have been developed. Unlike rigid display devices, flexible display devices can be changed in shape in various ways, such as being folded or rolled up, and therefore can be carried regardless of the size of the display screen.

[0005] This flexible display device requires a window to protect the display panel without hindering folding or bending operations, and therefore, a window with excellent folding characteristics without compromising its mechanical properties.

[0006] It will be understood that this background section is intended in part to provide useful context for understanding the technology. However, this background section may also include ideas, concepts, or knowledge that were not part of the subject matter disclosed herein and were known or understood prior to the corresponding valid application date by a person skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure provides a window with excellent folding properties and excellent mechanical properties.

[0008] This disclosure also provides an electronic device including a window that has excellent folding characteristics and improved impact resistance against external impacts.

[0009] An embodiment provides a window that may include: a folded portion extending in a first direction; and a first non-folded portion and a second non-folded portion spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the folded portion may include: a base; a plurality of main protrusions disposed on the base, each of the plurality of main protrusions having a first thickness and being spaced apart from each other in the second direction; and at least one sub-protrusion having a second thickness less than the first thickness of each of the plurality of main protrusions and disposed on the base between the plurality of main protrusions.

[0010] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of main protrusions may include, in a cross section perpendicular to the base, a base surface adjacent to the base; a flat surface facing the base surface and parallel to the base; and a side surface disposed between the base surface and the flat surface.

[0011] In one embodiment, on a cross section perpendicular to the base, the width of each of the plurality of main protrusions in the second direction may decrease in the direction from the base surface to the flat surface.

[0012] In one embodiment, on a plane parallel to the base, the flat surface of each of the plurality of main protrusions may have an extension direction parallel to the first direction.

[0013] In an embodiment, the angle of inclination of the side surface relative to a virtual reference line passing through the edge of the flat surface can be in the range of about 0° to about 60°.

[0014] In an embodiment, at least one of the sub-protrusions may be arranged between adjacent main protrusions among a plurality of main protrusions, and the spacing between the plurality of main protrusions in the second direction may be in the range of about 20 μm to about 300 μm.

[0015] In an embodiment, at least one sub-protrusion may include an upper portion forming a vertex in a direction away from the base.

[0016] In an embodiment, the recesses between adjacent main protrusions among a plurality of main protrusions may be symmetrical about a virtual line passing through the upper part of at least one sub-protrusion.

[0017] In an embodiment, on a cross section perpendicular to the base, the maximum width of at least one sub-protrusion in the second direction can range from about 1 μm to about 100 μm.

[0018] In an embodiment, each of the first non-folded portion and the second non-folded portion may have a thickness equal to the sum of the thickness of the base and the thickness of one of the plurality of main protrusions.

[0019] In an embodiment, the base may have a thickness ranging from about 1 μm to about 50 μm.

[0020] In an embodiment, the ratio between the first thickness of each of the plurality of main protrusions and the second thickness of at least one sub-protrusion may be in the range of about 1:0.3 to about 1:0.8.

[0021] In an embodiment, at least one sub-protrusion may include a plurality of sub-protrusions that may be arranged between adjacent main protrusions among a plurality of main protrusions, and in a cross section perpendicular to the base, all of the plurality of sub-protrusions may have the same shape, or in a cross section perpendicular to the base, at least one of the plurality of sub-protrusions may have a shape that is different from the shape of each of the remaining sub-protrusions.

[0022] In an embodiment, the spacing between the plurality of sub-protrusions in the second direction can be in the range of about 1 μm to about 100 μm.

[0023] In an embodiment, the plurality of sub-protrusions may include: a first sub-protrusion disposed between a first main protrusion and a second main protrusion adjacent to each other; a second sub-protrusion disposed between the first main protrusion and the first sub-protrusion; and a third sub-protrusion disposed between the second main protrusion and the first sub-protrusion, wherein the second sub-protrusion and the third sub-protrusion may be symmetrical to each other with respect to the first sub-protrusion.

[0024] In an embodiment, in a plan view, the width of the fold in the second direction may be equal to or greater than approximately π × r, where r is the radius of curvature of the fold.

[0025] In an embodiment, the electronic device may include: a display module including a foldable display portion and a first non-foldable display portion and a second non-foldable display portion, the foldable display portion extending in a first direction, the first non-foldable display portion and the second non-foldable display portion being spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction when the foldable display portion is arranged between the first non-foldable display portion and the second non-foldable display portion; and a window disposed on the display module, the window including: a fold portion corresponding to the foldable display portion of the display module; and a first non-foldable portion and a second non-foldable portion being spaced apart from each other when the fold portion is arranged between the first non-foldable portion and the second non-foldable portion, wherein the fold portion may include: a base; a plurality of main protrusions protruding from the base toward the display module, each of the plurality of main protrusions having a first thickness and being spaced apart from each other in the second direction; and at least one sub-protrusion having a second thickness less than the first thickness of each of the plurality of main protrusions, protruding from the base toward the display module and disposed between the plurality of main protrusions.

[0026] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include an adhesive layer that fills the space between the display module and the window.

[0027] In one embodiment, when the display module and the window are folded, the distance between the top surfaces of the windows facing each other may be less than the distance between the top surfaces of the display modules facing each other.

[0028] In an embodiment, when the display module and window are folded, the first non-folded portion and the second non-folded portion can face each other when the folded portion is arranged between the first non-folded portion and the second non-folded portion, and the folded portion can have a radius of curvature of about 1 mm or greater.

[0029] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of main protrusions may include, in a cross section perpendicular to the base, a base surface adjacent to the base; a flat surface facing the base surface and parallel to the base; and a side surface disposed between the base surface and the flat surface, wherein the flat surface may be adjacent to the display module.

[0030] In an embodiment, each of the first non-folded portion and the second non-folded portion may have a thickness equal to the sum of the thickness of the base and the thickness of one of the plurality of main protrusions.

[0031] In an embodiment, the fold may include a recessed portion that is recessed in a direction away from the window and adjacent to the surface of the display module and is formed by a plurality of main protrusions and at least one sub-protrusion. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0033] In the picture:

[0034] Figure 1A This is a schematic perspective view showing the unfolded state of the electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0035] Figure 1B It is shown Figure 1A A schematic perspective view of the inward folding process of an electronic device in a diagram;

[0036] Figure 1C This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a folded electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0037] Figure 2A This is a schematic perspective view showing the unfolded state of the electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0038] Figure 2B It is shown Figure 2A A schematic perspective view of the inward folding process of an electronic device in a diagram;

[0039] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view of a window according to an embodiment;

[0042] Figure 6A This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a window according to an embodiment;

[0043] Figure 6B This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a window according to an embodiment;

[0044] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a window according to an embodiment; and

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a window according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Because this disclosure can have various modified embodiments, the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and described in a detailed description. However, this does not limit this disclosure to the described embodiments, and it should be understood that this disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the scope of this disclosure.

[0047] In this specification, it will also be understood that when a component (or area, layer, part) is referred to as being "on", "connected to", or "attached to" another component, it may be directly arranged on the other component, directly connected to / attached to the other component, or there may be an intervening third component.

[0048] It will be understood that the terms “connected to” or “linked to” can include physical or electrical connections or linkages.

[0049] In this application, it will be understood that when a layer, membrane, zone, or plate is referred to as being "directly arranged" on another layer, membrane, zone, or plate, that other layer, membrane, zone, or plate may not exist between them. For example, the feature of "direct arrangement" may indicate the arrangement of two layers or two components without the use of additional components such as adhesive components between them.

[0050] Similar reference numerals always indicate similar elements. Moreover, in the drawings, the thickness, scale, and dimensions of parts are exaggerated to effectively describe technical features.

[0051] The term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. In the specification and claims, for the purposes of its meaning and interpretation, the term “and / or” is intended to include any combination of the terms “and” and “or”. For example, “A and / or B” may be understood to mean “A, B, or A and B”. The terms “and” and “or” may be used in a combined or separate sense and may be understood as equivalent to “and / or”.

[0052] In the specification and claims, for purposes of meaning and interpretation, the phrase “at least one of…” is intended to include the meaning of “at least one selected from the cluster of…”. For example, “at least one of A and B” can be understood to mean “A, B, or A and B”.

[0053] It will be understood that although terms such as “first” and “second” are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from others. For example, an element referred to as a first element in one embodiment may be referred to as a second element in another embodiment without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise stated, singular terms may include plural forms.

[0054] Furthermore, terms such as "below," "below," "above," "on top," and similar words are used to explain the relationship between the components shown in the accompanying drawings. The terms may be relative concepts and described based on the directions indicated in the drawings, but are not limited thereto. In this specification, the characteristic "arranged on..." can indicate not only when one component is arranged on top of another component, but also when one component is arranged below another component.

[0055] The term “overlapping” or “overlapping” means that the first object may be above or below the second object or to the side of the second object, and vice versa. Additionally, the term “overlapping” may include layering, stacking, facing or oriented, extending over, covering or partially covering, or any other suitable term that will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0056] When an element is described as “not overlapping” or “will not overlap” with another element, this may include the elements being spaced apart from each other, offset from each other, or separated from each other, or any other suitable terminology that will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0057] The terms "facing" and "oriented" mean that the first element can be directly or indirectly opposite the second element. In the case where the third element is between the first and second elements, although they are still facing each other, the first and second elements can be understood as being indirectly opposite each other.

[0058] Given the measurements discussed and the errors associated with a particular number of measurements (i.e., limitations of the measurement system), the terms “about” or “approximately” as used herein include stated values ​​and mean within an acceptable range of deviation for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value.

[0059] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, terms defined in common dictionaries should be interpreted as having the same meaning as in the associated technical context, and unless otherwise defined in the description, these terms are not to be ideally or excessively interpreted as having a stereotypical meaning.

[0060] The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including,” “has,” “have,” and / or “having,” and variations thereof, when used in this specification, indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or clusters thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or clusters thereof.

[0061] The phrase "in a plan view" means viewing an object from above, and the phrase "in a schematic sectional view" means viewing an object from the side as a section cut vertically.

[0062] In the following description, windows and electronic devices according to embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0063] Figure 1A This is a schematic perspective view showing the unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figure 1B It is shown Figure 1A A schematic perspective view of the inward folding process of an electronic device. The electronic device ED according to an embodiment can be activated by an electrical signal. Although the electronic device ED can be, for example, a mobile phone, tablet computer, navigation unit for a vehicle, game console, or wearable device, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Figure 1A In this specification, a mobile phone is shown as an example of an electronic device ED.

[0064] Although the first direction axis DR1 to the fourth direction axis DR4 are shown in Figure 1A In the following figures, however, the directions indicated by the first direction axis DR1, the second direction axis DR2, the third direction axis DR3, and the fourth direction axis DR4 are relative concepts and can be converted relative to each other. Moreover, the directions indicated by the first direction axis DR1, the second direction axis DR2, the third direction axis DR3, and the fourth direction axis DR4 can be described as first directions to fourth directions and are specified by the same reference numerals.

[0065] Reference Figure 1A and Figure 1BAn electronic device ED according to an embodiment may include a display surface FS defined by a first direction axis DR1 and a second direction axis DR2 intersecting or intersecting the first direction axis DR1. The electronic device ED can provide an image IM to a user via the display surface FS. The electronic device ED according to an embodiment can display the image IM in the direction of a third direction axis DR3 onto the display surface FS, which is parallel to each of the first and second direction axes DR1 and DR2. In this specification, the front (or top) surface and rear (or bottom) surface of each component are defined based on the direction of the displayed image IM. In this specification, the direction of the displayed image IM may be defined as the direction of the third direction axis DR3, and the direction of the fourth direction axis DR4 may be defined as the direction opposite to the direction of the third direction axis DR3.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the electronic device ED can sense external input applied from the outside. External input can include various types of input provided from outside the electronic device ED. For example, external input can include contact generated by a part of the user's body (such as a hand) and external input applied by being arranged adjacent to or at a distance from the electronic device ED (e.g., hovering). Moreover, external input can be of various types, such as force, pressure, temperature, and light.

[0067] The display surface FS of the electronic device ED may include an active area F-AA and a peripheral area F-NAA. The active area F-AA may be activated by an electrical signal. According to an embodiment, the electronic device ED may display an image IM via the active area F-AA. Furthermore, the active area F-AA may sense various types of external input. The peripheral area F-NAA is arranged adjacent to the active area F-AA. The peripheral area F-NAA may have a color. The peripheral area F-NAA may surround the active area F-AA or may be adjacent to the active area F-AA. Therefore, the active area F-AA may have a shape substantially defined by the peripheral area F-NAA. However, this is merely an example. For example, the peripheral area F-NAA may be arranged only adjacent to one side of the active area F-AA, or may be omitted. The electronic device ED according to an embodiment may include active areas having various shapes. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0068] The electronic device ED may include a folded region FA1 and non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2. According to an embodiment, the electronic device ED may include a first non-folded region NFA1 and a second non-folded region NFA2, with the folded region FA1 located between the first non-folded region NFA1 and the second non-folded region NFA2. Although in Figure 1A and Figure 1B An embodiment of an electronic device ED including a folded region FA1 is shown, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, multiple folded regions may be defined on the electronic device ED.

[0069] Reference Figure 1B According to the embodiment, the electronic device ED can be folded relative to the first folding axis FX1. The first folding axis FX1, which is a virtual axis extending in the direction of the first direction axis DR1, can be parallel to the short side direction of the electronic device ED. The first folding axis FX1 can extend along the first direction axis DR1 on the display surface FS.

[0070] In an embodiment, non-foldable regions NFA1 and NFA2 may be arranged adjacent to foldable region FA1, with foldable region FA1 located between non-foldable regions NFA1 and NFA2. For example, a first non-foldable region NFA1 may be arranged on one side of foldable region FA1 in the second direction DR2, and a second non-foldable region NFA2 may be arranged on the other side of foldable region FA1 in the second direction DR2.

[0071] The electronic device ED can be folded relative to the first folding axis FX1 and deformed into an inward folded state in which one region overlapping the first non-folded region NFA1 faces another region overlapping the second non-folded region NFA2.

[0072] However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device ED according to the embodiments can be folded relative to a plurality of folding axes such that a plurality of portions of the display surface FS face each other, and there is no particular limitation on the number of folding axes and the number of non-folded areas.

[0073] The effective area F-AA may include an electronic module area EMA. Various electronic modules may be arranged in the electronic module area EMA. For example, an electronic module may include at least one of a camera, a speaker, an optical detection sensor, and a thermal detection sensor. The electronic module area EMA can sense external objects received through the display surface FS or provide sound signals, such as speech, to the outside through the display surface FS. The electronic module may include components. However, embodiments are not limited to components of the electronic module.

[0074] The Electronic Module Area (EMA) may be surrounded by an effective area F-AA and a peripheral area F-NAA. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the EMA may be arranged within the effective area F-AA, and is not limited to any particular embodiment.

[0075] Furthermore, the electronic device ED according to the embodiment may also include an electronic module region EMA-B disposed on its rear surface RS. A camera, speaker, optical detection sensor, or the like may be disposed in the electronic module region EMA-B disposed on the rear surface RS.

[0076] Figure 1CThis is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the folded state of the electronic device ED according to an embodiment. In the folded state of the electronic device ED according to an embodiment, the distance D between the facing top surfaces of the windows WM is shown. WM It can be less than the distance D between the top surfaces of the display modules DM that face each other. DM In the electronic device ED according to the embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the folding region FA1 based on the first folding axis FX1 can be about 1 mm or greater.

[0077] Figure 2A This is a schematic perspective view showing the unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figure 2B It is shown Figure 2A A schematic perspective view of the inward folding process of an electronic device.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the electronic device ED-a can be folded relative to a second folding axis FX2 extending in a direction parallel to the first direction axis DR1. Figure 2B In this embodiment, the extension direction of the second folding axis FX2 is parallel to the extension direction of the long side of the electronic device ED-a. However, the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0079] The electronic device ED-a according to an embodiment may include at least one folded region FA2 and non-folded regions NFA3 and NFA4 arranged adjacent to the folded region FA2. The non-folded regions NFA3 and NFA4 may be spaced apart from each other, and the folded region FA2 is located between the non-folded regions NFA3 and NFA4.

[0080] The folded region FA2 has a curvature and a radius of curvature. In an embodiment, the first non-folded region NFA3 and the second non-folded region NFA4 may face each other, and the electronic device ED-a may be folded inward so that the display surface FS is not exposed to the outside.

[0081] In this embodiment, with the electronic device ED-a in its unfolded state, the user can see the display surface FS. (See reference...) Figure 1A and Figure 1B The electronic device ED described in the embodiments described herein, wherein the display surface FS of the electronic device ED-a according to the embodiments may include an active area F-AA and a peripheral area F-NAA. Furthermore, the display surface FS of the electronic device ED-a may include an electronic module area EMA.

[0082] Furthermore, in the inward-folded state of the electronic device ED-a according to the embodiment, the user can see the rear surface RS. For example, the rear surface RS can serve as a second display surface for displaying pictures or images. Moreover, an electronic module area, in which electronic modules including various components are arranged, can be arranged on the rear surface RS.

[0083] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment, and Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figure 3 It is based on Figure 1A An exploded perspective view of an electronic device in an embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0084] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The electronic device ED according to an embodiment may include a display module DM and a window WM disposed on the display module DM. Furthermore, the electronic device ED according to an embodiment may also include an adhesive layer AP1 disposed between the display module DM and the window WM. The electronic device ED according to an embodiment may include a lower module SM disposed below the display module DM and a protective layer PF.

[0085] The window WM may cover or overlap the entire outer side of the display module DM. The window WM may have a shape corresponding to or substantially corresponding to the shape of the display module DM. Moreover, within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the electronic device ED may include a housing HAU for accommodating the display module DM, the lower module SM, and the like. The housing HAU may be connected or coupled to the window WM. Although not shown, the housing HAU may also include a hinge structure for easy folding or bending.

[0086] In the electronic device ED according to an embodiment, the window WM may include an optically transparent insulating material. The window WM may be a glass substrate or a polymer substrate. For example, the window WM may be a tempered glass substrate that has undergone a strengthening treatment.

[0087] In the electronic device ED according to an embodiment, an adhesive layer AP1 disposed between a window WM and a display module DM can fill the space between the window WM and the display module DM. The adhesive layer AP1 can fill the space between patterns disposed or arranged on one surface of the window WM.

[0088] The adhesive layer AP1 may be an optically transparent adhesive film (OCA) or an optically transparent adhesive resin layer (OCR). As an example, in this embodiment, the adhesive layer AP1 may be omitted.

[0089] The display module DM can display images and transmit and receive information about external inputs via electrical signals. The display module DM may include a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA. The display area DP-DA can be defined as the area that transmits images provided from the display module DM.

[0090] The non-display area DP-NDA is arranged adjacent to the display area DP-DA. For example, the non-display area DP-NDA may surround the display area DP-DA or may be adjacent to the display area DP-DA. However, this is only an example. The non-display area DP-NDA may have various shapes. However, the embodiments do not limit the shape of the non-display area DP-NDA. According to an embodiment, the display area DP-DA of the display module DM may correspond to the effective area F-AA (see reference). Figure 1A At least a portion thereof. Although not shown, the display module DM may include a display panel (not shown) and an input sensor (not shown) disposed on the display panel (not shown).

[0091] The display module DM may include a foldable display unit FA-D and non-foldable display units NFA1-D and NFA2-D. The foldable display unit FA-D may correspond to the folding area FA1 (see reference). Figure 1A Furthermore, the non-folding display units NFA1-D and NFA2-D can correspond to the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 (see reference). Figure 1A ).

[0092] The folding display unit FA-D can be folded or bent relative to a first folding axis FX1 extending in the direction of the first direction axis DR1. The display module DM may include a first non-folding display unit NFA1-D and a second non-folding display unit NFA2-D, and the first non-folding display unit NFA1-D and the second non-folding display unit NFA2-D may be spaced apart from each other, with the folding display unit FA-D located between the first non-folding display unit NFA1-D and the second non-folding display unit NFA2-D. The first non-folding display unit NFA1-D and the second non-folding display unit NFA2-D may be spaced apart from each other in the direction of the second direction axis DR2, with the folding display unit FA-D located between the first non-folding display unit NFA1-D and the second non-folding display unit NFA2-D.

[0093] In the electronic device ED according to an embodiment, the lower module SM may include a support member SPM and a filler portion SAP. The support member SPM may largely overlap with the display module DM. The filler portion SAP may be arranged outside the support member SPM and overlap with the exterior of the display module DM.

[0094] The support component SPM may include at least one of a support plate, a buffer layer, a shielding layer, and an interlayer adhesive layer made of metallic or polymeric materials. The support component SPM can support the display module DM or prevent the display module DM from deforming due to external impacts or forces.

[0095] The buffer layer may include an elastomer, such as sponge, foam, or polyurethane resin. Furthermore, the buffer layer may include at least one of acrylic polymers, silicone polymers, and imide polymers. The shielding layer may be an electromagnetic wave shielding layer or a heat dissipation layer. Moreover, the shielding layer also functions as an adhesive layer. The interlayer adhesive layer may be provided in the form of an adhesive resin layer or adhesive tape. The interlayer adhesive layer may be attached to components included in the support member SPM.

[0096] The filler SAP can be arranged on the outside of the support member SPM. The filler SAP can be arranged between the display module DM and the housing HAU. The filler SAP can fill the space between the protective layer PF and the housing HAU and fix the protective layer PF.

[0097] Furthermore, the electronic device ED according to the embodiment may also include at least one adhesive layer AP2. The adhesive layer AP2 may be disposed between the protective layer PF and the lower module SM. The adhesive layer AP2 may be an optically transparent adhesive film (OCA) or an optically transparent adhesive resin layer (OCR). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, at least one adhesive layer AP2 may have a transmittance of about 80% or less.

[0098] The window WM may include a folding portion FP and non-folding portions NFP1 and NFP2. The folding portion FP may correspond to the folding area FA1 of the electronic device ED. The folding portion FP of the window WM may correspond to the folding display portion FA-D of the display module DM.

[0099] The folding portion FP of window WM can be relative to the first folding axis FX1, which is a virtual folding axis extending in one direction (see reference). Figure 3 The first non-folding portion NFP1 and the second non-folding portion NFP2 may be spaced apart from each other, while the folding portion FP is between the first non-folding portion NFP1 and the second non-folding portion NFP2. The folding portion FP may be relative to a first folding axis FX1 extending in the first direction DR1 (see reference). Figure 3 The first non-folded portion NFP1 and the second non-folded portion NFP2 can be spaced apart from each other by the folded portion FP in the second direction DR2 perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0100] Window WM may include a top surface WM-FS and a bottom surface WM-BS facing each other, and a recess HP recessed in the window WM in a direction from the bottom surface WM-BS adjacent to the display module DM to the top surface WM-FS may be defined in the window WM. The recess HP may be defined in a portion of the bottom surface WM-BS of the window WM corresponding to the folding portion FP to provide a recessed pattern. According to an embodiment, the window WM may include a recess HP recessed from one of its surfaces, and the recessed pattern of the recess HP may have a "W" shape or an "M" shape on a plane defined by a second directional axis DR2 and a third directional axis DR3. For example, in an embodiment, a recessed pattern having grooves defined by protrusions of different heights may be defined in the folding portion FP of the window WM.

[0101] Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view of a window according to an embodiment. Figure 6A and Figure 6B Each is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a window according to an embodiment. Figure 6B This is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion "AA" of the window according to an embodiment.

[0102] The folding portion FP of window WM may include a base W-BP, a main protrusion MP disposed on the base W-BP, and a sub-protrusion SP disposed on the base W-BP. The main protrusion MP may have a second thickness t greater than that of the sub-protrusion SP. SP First thickness t MP .

[0103] At least one sub-protrusion SP may be arranged between adjacent main protrusions MP in the window WM according to the embodiment. A sub-protrusion SP may be arranged between two adjacent main protrusions MP. Moreover, in the embodiment, two or more sub-protrusions SP may be arranged between two adjacent main protrusions MP.

[0104] The folded portion FP, on which the main protrusion MP and the sub-protrusion SP are arranged, may have a width W of approximately π×r or greater in the direction of the second directional axis DR2. FP Where r is the radius of curvature of the fold FP. In an embodiment, the fold FP may have a radius of curvature of about 1 mm or greater. Moreover, in an embodiment, the radius of curvature of the fold FP may correspond to the radius of curvature R of the electronic device ED according to the embodiment (refer to...). Figure 1C ).

[0105] The base W-BP can be a portion having a uniform thickness throughout the fold FP. The base W-BP can have a thickness t ranging from about 1 μm to about 50 μm. BPAn embodiment may include a base W-BP having a thickness in the folded portion FP to provide an integral window WM connected to the non-folded portions NFP1 and NFP2, thereby exhibiting improved strength in the folded portion FP.

[0106] Each of the non-folded portions NFP1 and NFP2 may have a thickness t equal to or less than about 1 mm. NP For example, each of the non-folded portions NFP1 and NFP2 may have a thickness t equal to or less than about 0.5 mm. NP .

[0107] In the embodiment, the thickness t of the base W-BP in the folded portion FP is... BP The first thickness t of the main protrusion MP MP The sum t FP It can be equal to or less than approximately 1 mm. The thickness t of the base W-BP BP The first thickness t of the main protrusion MP MP The sum t FP The thickness t can correspond to the thickness of each of the non-folded portions NFP1 and NFP2. NP For example, in an embodiment, the thickness t of the base W-BP in the folded portion FP... BP The first thickness t of the main protrusion MP MP The sum t FP It can be equal to the thickness t of each of the non-folded parts NFP1 and NFP2. NP Therefore, the window WM according to the embodiment may include a portion of the folded portion FP having a thickness corresponding to the thickness of each of the non-folded portions NFP1 and NFP2, and the folded portion FP may exhibit improved strength against external impacts.

[0108] Each of the main protrusions MP may include a base surface DS adjacent to the base W-BP, a flat surface US as a flat surface facing the base surface DS and parallel to the base W-BP, and side surfaces SS1 and SS2 arranged between the base surface DS and the flat surface US.

[0109] The flat surface US of the main protrusion MP may have an extension direction parallel to the first direction DR1. Furthermore, the main protrusions MP may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. For example, in an embodiment, the flat surface US of the main protrusion MP may be arranged or positioned in a generally striped shape extending in a direction parallel to the first direction axis DR1 on a plane defined by the first direction axis DR1 and the second direction axis DR2.

[0110] The spacing AD between adjacent main protrusions MP can range from about 20 μm to about 300 μm. Because an appropriate number of main protrusions MP are arranged or positioned within the folded portion FP such that the spacing AD between the main protrusions MP is in the range of about 20 μm to about 300 μm, the thickness of the folded portion FP is maintained at a level that includes a portion of the thickness of each of the non-folded portions NFP1 and NFP2. Therefore, the folded portion FP can have improved impact resistance.

[0111] In an embodiment, the width of each of the main protrusions MP in the second direction DR2 may gradually decrease in a direction from the base surface DS to the flat surface US on a cross section perpendicular to the base W-BP. For example, in an embodiment, the width W at the base surface DS on a cross section defined by the second direction axis DR2 and the fourth direction axis DR4 is... a It can be greater than the width W at the flat surface US. b .

[0112] Furthermore, in the embodiment, the inclination angle θ of the side surfaces SS1 and SS2 of the main protrusion MP is... S1 and θ S2 Each of these can range from approximately 0° to approximately 60°. In this specification, the tilt angle θ... S1 and θ S2 This represents the angle between side surfaces SS1 and SS2 and virtual reference lines IL-1 and IL-2 that pass through the edges EG1 and EG2 of the flat surface US. In the embodiment, the inclination angle θ is provided by both side surfaces SS1 and SS2. S1 and θ S2 They can be equal to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the main protrusion MP may have a shape that is symmetrical or substantially symmetrical with respect to virtual center lines CTL1 and CTL2 passing through the center of the flat surface US.

[0113] However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the inclination angle θ of both side surfaces SS1 and SS2. S1 and θ S2 They may not be equal to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the main protrusion MP may have an asymmetrical or substantially asymmetrical shape relative to the virtual center lines CTL1 and CTL2 that pass through the center of the flat surface US.

[0114] In an embodiment, the pitch PT serves as the arrangement gap between the main protrusions MP. A It can be in the range of approximately 20 μm to approximately 300 μm. In this specification, the pitch PT... A This can be defined as the distance between virtual centerlines CTL1 and CTL2 that pass through the center of the flat surface US of the adjacent main protrusion MP. The pitch PT of the adjacent main protrusion MP. AIt can be greater than the spacing distance AD ​​between adjacent main protrusions MP.

[0115] In the window WM according to an embodiment, the folding portion FP may include a sub-protrusion SP having a height different from that of the main protrusion MP. The sub-protrusion SP may be disposed on the base W-BP and between the main protrusions MP. In an embodiment, the second thickness t of the sub-protrusion SP SP The first thickness t can be less than that of the main protrusion MP. MP .

[0116] In an embodiment, the first thickness t of the main protrusion MP MP The second thickness t of the protrusion SP SP The ratio between them can range from about 1:0.3 to about 1:0.8. For example, the window WM according to the embodiment can reduce stress in the folding condition by increasing the number of protrusions in the folding portion FP such that at least one sub-protrusion SP with a relatively small thickness is contained between main protrusions MP, each having a thickness similar to that of each of the non-folding portions NFP1 and NFP2. Therefore, the window WM according to the embodiment can exhibit the characteristic of being easily folded in the folding portion FP.

[0117] The sub-protrusion SP may include a sharp upper portion SP-US in a direction away from the base W-BP. In other words, the sub-protrusion SP may include an upper portion SP-US, in which the two sides of the sub-protrusion SP form the tips or apexes of triangles in a direction away from the base W-BP. The width of the sub-protrusion SP in the second direction DR2 may gradually decrease in the direction away from the base W-BP. The maximum width PT of the sub-protrusion SP in the second direction DR2... B It can be found in the range of approximately 1 μm to approximately 100 μm.

[0118] In an embodiment, the sub-protrusion SP may have a shape that is symmetrical or substantially symmetrical with respect to the virtual line CTL passing through the upper SP-US. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the sub-protrusion SP may have a shape that is asymmetrical or substantially asymmetrical with respect to the virtual line CTL passing through the upper SP-US.

[0119] In the window WM according to an embodiment, a recess HP may be defined in a folding portion FP. Each of the recesses HP may be recessed from a surface of the window WM and defined between adjacent main protrusions MP. The recess HP may be defined by an adjacent main protrusion MP and at least one sub-protrusion SP arranged between the main protrusions MP.

[0120] exist Figure 6A and Figure 6BIn the embodiment shown, the recess HP defined between two adjacent main protrusions MP may have a shape that is symmetrical or substantially symmetrical with respect to the virtual line CTL passing through the upper part SP-US of the sub-protrusion SP.

[0121] The recessed portion HP defined in the window WM according to the embodiment can be formed by laser processing or wet etching. For example, the main protrusion MP and the sub-protrusion SP of the fold portion FP of the window WM can be formed by laser processing or wet etching.

[0122] The folding portion may include multiple protrusions of different heights, and a portion of the multiple protrusions maintains the thickness of the window WM. According to the embodiment, the window WM can reduce stress in the folding state and exhibit excellent mechanical properties.

[0123] Compared to the case that only includes a main protrusion, the window WM according to the embodiment improves its folding characteristics by further including sub-protrusions and adding grooves (i.e., recesses) in the folding portion. Moreover, compared to the case that only includes sub-protrusions, each with a small thickness, without including a main protrusion having the same or substantially the same thickness as the non-folding portion, the window WM according to the embodiment improves its impact resistance against external impacts.

[0124] For example, the window WM according to the embodiment can exhibit satisfactory folding characteristics and excellent impact resistance by including all the folding portions FP containing main protrusions MP and sub-protrusions SP with different heights.

[0125] Figure 7 and Figure 8 Each is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a window according to an embodiment. (Referring to...) Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the case of describing a window according to an embodiment, with reference to... Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figures 1C to 6B Features that are consistent with those described will no longer be described, and only the differences will be described. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Each example shows a cross-sectional shape of the window in the folding section. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Can represent corresponding to Figure 6A Part of “AA”.

[0126] according to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The windows WM-a and WM-b in the embodiments may include a plurality of sub-protrusions arranged between two adjacent main protrusions MP.

[0127] Reference Figure 7According to an embodiment, window WM-a may include two sub-protrusions SP-a1 and SP-a2 arranged between two adjacent main protrusions MP. Furthermore, referring to... Figure 8 According to an embodiment, window WM-b may include three sub-protrusions SP-b1, SP-b2, and SP-b3 arranged between two adjacent main protrusions MP1 and MP2. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the examples shown, the embodiments of windows WM-a and WM-b are illustrated, and the number of sub-protrusions arranged between the two main protrusions may be equal to or greater than about four.

[0128] In windows WM-a and WM-b according to embodiments, which include a plurality of sub-protrusions arranged between two main protrusions, all of the plurality of sub-protrusions may have the same cross-sectional shape, or at least one of the plurality of sub-protrusions may have a cross-sectional shape different from that of each of the remaining sub-protrusions.

[0129] exist Figure 7 In this embodiment, two sub-protrusions SP-a1 and SP-a2, arranged between two main protrusions MP, have the same shape and the same height. For example, in an embodiment, the two sub-protrusions SP-a1 and SP-a2, arranged between two main protrusions MP spaced apart by a first distance AD, may have the same thickness t. SP-a Two sub-protrusions SP-a1 and SP-a2, spaced apart by a second distance AD-SP, may have the same shape in a cross-section defined by the second direction axis DR2 and the fourth direction axis DR4. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the two sub-protrusions SP-a1 and SP-a2 may have a first thickness t smaller than that of the main protrusion MP. MP They have different thicknesses and shapes within a range of thicknesses.

[0130] For example, in an embodiment, the first distance AD ​​can be in the range of about 20 μm to about 300 μm, and the second distance AD-SP can be in the range of about 1 μm to about 100 μm. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0131] When sub-protrusions SP-a1 and SP-a2 are arranged between the main protrusion MP, the sub-protrusions may have a smaller size than that shown in the image. Figure 6B In the embodiments described herein, or in similar embodiments within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, a sub-protrusion SP is arranged between main protrusions MP, where the sub-protrusion has a second thickness t. SP thickness t SP-a For example, in one embodiment, as the number of sub-protrusions arranged between the main protrusions MP increases, the thickness of the sub-protrusions can be reduced. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0132] according to Figure 8 The window WM-b in the embodiment may include three sub-protrusions SP-b1, SP-b2, and SP-b3 arranged between two adjacent main protrusions MP1 and MP2. The window WM-b according to the embodiment may include a first sub-protrusion SP-b1 arranged between the first main protrusion MP1 and the second main protrusion MP2, a second sub-protrusion SP-b2 arranged between the first main protrusion MP1 and the first sub-protrusion SP-b1, and a third sub-protrusion SP-b3 arranged between the second main protrusion MP2 and the first sub-protrusion SP-b1.

[0133] exist Figure 8 In some embodiments, the second sub-protrusion SP-b2 and the third sub-protrusion SP-b3 may be symmetrical with respect to the first sub-protrusion SP-b1. For example, the second sub-protrusion SP-b2 and the third sub-protrusion SP-b3 may have the same shape and the same thickness. Moreover, the first sub-protrusion SP-b1 may have a thickness greater than the thickness of each of the second sub-protrusion SP-b2 and the third sub-protrusion SP-b3.

[0134] However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, all three sub-protrusions SP-b1, SP-b2, and SP-b3 may have the same thickness or different thicknesses. Figure 8 Unlike what is shown, the first sub-protrusion SP-b1 and the second sub-protrusion SP-b2 may have the same thickness, and the third sub-protrusion SP-b3 may have a different thickness.

[0135] Although Figure 8 The sub-protrusions SP-b1, SP-b2, and SP-b3 arranged between the first main protrusion MP1 and the second main protrusion MP2 have the same arrangement shape as the sub-protrusions SP-b1, SP-b2, and SP-b3 arranged between the second main protrusion MP2 and the third main protrusion MP3, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the plurality of sub-protrusions arranged between the first main protrusion MP1 and the second main protrusion MP2 may have an arrangement shape different from the arrangement shape of the plurality of sub-protrusions arranged between the second main protrusion MP2 and the third main protrusion MP3.

[0136] Although an embodiment in which multiple sub-protrusions are arranged between two main protrusions is shown as Figure 7 and Figure 8 Examples are provided, but the number of sub-protrusions, the spacing between sub-protrusions, the shape of the sub-protrusions, and the thickness of the sub-protrusions can be combined in various ways depending on the required folding and strength characteristics of the window.

[0137] For example, a window according to an embodiment can exhibit satisfactory folding characteristics and excellent impact resistance by including a plurality of main protrusions and a plurality of sub-protrusions, each having a thickness less than that of each of the plurality of main protrusions.

[0138] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The described windows WM-a and WM-b can be used according to the reference Figures 1A to 4 The electronic devices ED and ED-a described in the embodiments have a window WM.

[0139] The electronic device according to the embodiment can exhibit satisfactory folding characteristics and excellent impact resistance through a window that includes a plurality of main protrusions arranged on a display module and including in the fold portion a plurality of main protrusions located on a surface adjacent to the display module and at least one sub-protrusion having a thickness less than that of each of the plurality of main protrusions.

[0140] Furthermore, the folding portion may include a recessed portion recessed from one surface of the window, and the recessed portion defined by a plurality of main protrusions and at least one sub-protrusion provides a recessed pattern having a “W” or “M” shape, so that the window according to the embodiment can exhibit satisfactory folding characteristics and excellent strength characteristics.

[0141] By incorporating two or more patterns of different sizes and shapes in the folding section, the window according to the embodiment can exhibit satisfactory folding characteristics and excellent impact resistance.

[0142] By including windows arranged on the display module and comprising two or more patterns of different sizes and shapes, the electronic device according to the embodiment can exhibit satisfactory folding characteristics and excellent mechanical performance.

[0143] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it is to be understood that the present disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments, but rather that various changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed in the appendix.

[0144] Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should be determined by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A window, comprising: The fold extends in the first direction; as well as The first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion are spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, where the folding portion is arranged between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion. The folded portion includes: Base; A plurality of main protrusions are arranged on the base, each of the plurality of main protrusions having a first thickness and being spaced apart from each other in the second direction; and At least one sub-protrusion having a second thickness less than the first thickness of each of the plurality of main protrusions and disposed on the base between the plurality of main protrusions; Each of the plurality of main protrusions includes a flat surface at its top in a cross-section perpendicular to the base, the flat surface being parallel to the base, and in the cross-section perpendicular to the base, the width of each of the plurality of main protrusions in the second direction decreases in the direction from the base to the flat surface; Wherein, the at least one sub-protrusion includes an upper portion forming a vertex in a direction away from the base; Wherein, on a plane parallel to the base, the flat surface of each of the plurality of main protrusions has an extension direction parallel to the first direction, and the at least one sub-protrusion has an extension direction parallel to the first direction. The plurality of main protrusions and the at least one sub-protrusion protrude from the base toward the display module.

2. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of main protrusions further includes, in a cross-section perpendicular to the base: The base surface, adjacent to the base portion; and A side surface is disposed between the base surface and the flat surface.

3. The window as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The angle of inclination of the side surface relative to the virtual baseline passing through the edge of the flat surface is in the range of 0° to 60°.

4. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, One of the at least one sub-protrusions is arranged between adjacent main protrusions among the plurality of main protrusions, and The spacing between the plurality of main protrusions in the second direction is in the range of 20 μm to 300 μm.

5. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The recesses between adjacent main protrusions among the plurality of main protrusions are symmetrical about a virtual line passing through the upper part of the at least one sub-protrusion.

6. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, On a cross section perpendicular to the base, the maximum width of the at least one sub-protrusion in the second direction is in the range of 1 μm to 100 μm.

7. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Each of the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion has a thickness equal to the sum of the thickness of the base and the thickness of one of the plurality of main protrusions.

8. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The base has a thickness ranging from 1 μm to 50 μm.

9. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The ratio between the first thickness of each of the plurality of main protrusions and the second thickness of the at least one sub-protrusion is in the range of 1:0.3 to 1:0.

8.

10. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The at least one sub-protrusion includes a plurality of sub-protrusions arranged between adjacent main protrusions among the plurality of main protrusions, and In a cross-section perpendicular to the base, all of the plurality of sub-protrusions have the same shape, or On a cross section perpendicular to the base, at least one of the plurality of sub-protrusions has a shape that is different from the shape of each of the remaining sub-protrusions.

11. The window as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The spacing between the plurality of sub-protrusions in the second direction is in the range of 1 μm to 100 μm.

12. The window as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The plurality of sub-protrusions include: The first sub-protrusion is arranged between the first main protrusion and the second main protrusion, which are adjacent to each other; A second sub-protrusion is disposed between the first main protrusion and the first sub-protrusion; and The third sub-protrusion is arranged between the second main protrusion and the first sub-protrusion, and The second sub-protrusion and the third sub-protrusion are symmetrical to each other relative to the first sub-protrusion.

13. The window as claimed in claim 1, wherein, In the plan view, the width of the fold in the second direction is equal to or greater than π×r, where r is the radius of curvature of the fold.

14. An electronic device comprising: The display module includes: The folding display extends in the first direction; and The first non-folding display portion and the second non-folding display portion are spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, where the folding display portion is arranged between the first non-folding display portion and the second non-folding display portion; and A window, arranged on the display module, the window comprising: A folding portion, corresponding to the folding display portion of the display module; and The first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion are spaced apart from each other when the folding portion is arranged between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion. The folded portion includes: Base; A plurality of main protrusions protrude from the base toward the display module, each of the plurality of main protrusions having a first thickness and being spaced apart from each other in the second direction; and At least one sub-protrusion, having a second thickness less than the first thickness of each of the plurality of main protrusions, protrudes from the base toward the display module and is disposed between the plurality of main protrusions.

15. The electronic device of claim 14, further comprising: An adhesive layer fills the space between the display module and the window.

16. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, When the display module and the window are folded, the distance between the top surfaces of the windows facing each other is less than the distance between the top surfaces of the display module facing each other.

17. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, When the display module and the window are folded, the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion face each other when the folded portion is arranged between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion, and The folded portion has a radius of curvature of 1 mm or greater.

18. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, Each of the plurality of main protrusions includes, in a cross-section perpendicular to the base: The base surface, adjacent to the base portion; A flat surface, facing the base surface and parallel to the base; and A side surface, disposed between the base surface and the flat surface, and The flat surface is adjacent to the display module.

19. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, Each of the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion has a thickness equal to the sum of the thickness of the base and the thickness of one of the plurality of main protrusions.

20. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, The fold includes a recessed portion that is recessed in a direction away from the window and adjacent to the surface of the display module, and is formed by the plurality of main protrusions and the at least one sub-protrusion.

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