Display device and control method of display device

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention discloses a display device and a control method of a display device, the display device including a display panel including a first edge position extending in a first direction and a second edge position extending in a second direction crossing the first direction, and including a display area displaying an image, and a controller obtaining information for bending the display panel, and controlling the display panel to bend and display the image in consideration of the obtained information, in the display panel bent, the first edge position and the second edge position respectively having a curvature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a display device and a method for controlling the display device. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices can provide images to users using a display panel. In the case of a curved TV, the display can provide images to the user through a display panel that is concave and curved to maintain a constant distance from the user's eyes to the center and sides of the screen. In this case, the three-dimensionality of the image can be increased. Therefore, the user's immersion in the image can be enhanced, and eye strain can be reduced.

[0003] However, curved TVs may take up a lot of space, and users may experience image distortion depending on their viewing position. Furthermore, when multiple users are watching a curved TV, those at the center of the curvature may perceive image distortion. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a display device and a control method for bending the display panel in various ways, taking into account the user's viewing position or the type of image.

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention discloses a display device, the display device comprising: a display panel including a first edge position extending in a first direction and a second edge position extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and including a display area for displaying an image; and a controller that obtains information to bend the display panel, and controls the display panel to bend the display panel and display the image in consideration of the obtained information, wherein the first edge position and the second edge position in the bent display panel respectively have curvature.

[0006] In one embodiment, the display area may include a central display area and a corner display area disposed between the central display area and the corner where the first edge position and the second edge position meet. In the curved display panel, the corner display area is curved from the first direction toward a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction, and is curved from the second direction toward the third direction.

[0007] In one embodiment, the corner display area may include a first corner display area and a second corner display area. In the bent display panel, the first corner display area has a first curvature in a first direction on the cross section in the first direction and a first curvature in a second direction on the cross section in the second direction. The second corner display area has a second curvature in a first direction on the cross section in the first direction and a second curvature in a second direction on the cross section in the second direction. The first curvature in the first direction and the second curvature in the first direction are different.

[0008] In one embodiment, the information obtained to bend the display panel may be at least one of the following: information corresponding to the operation of a remote control connected to the display device, information corresponding to the voice signal of a user viewing the image, and information related to the type of content included in the image.

[0009] In one embodiment, the information obtained to bend the display panel may be the location information of at least one user viewing the image.

[0010] In one embodiment, the display device may further include: a housing assembly disposed behind the display panel and controlled by the controller to bend the display panel, the housing assembly including: a first housing extending in the first direction and bending the display panel from the first direction toward a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction; and a second housing extending in the second direction and bending the display panel from the second direction toward the third direction.

[0011] In one embodiment, the housing assembly may further include: a plurality of supports supporting the display panel and extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other in the second direction, the first housing causing the plurality of supports to bend from the first direction toward the third direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the housing assembly may further include: a plurality of supports supporting the display panel and extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other in the second direction, the second housing allowing at least one of the plurality of supports to move upward in the third direction.

[0013] In one embodiment, the housing assembly may further include: a plurality of supports supporting the display panel and extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other in the second direction, and a padding layer between the display panel and the plurality of supports.

[0014] In one embodiment, the display panel may have a through portion extending through the display panel.

[0015] Other embodiments of the present invention disclose a control method for a display device, comprising: displaying an image in a display area of ​​a display panel including a first edge position extending along a first direction and a second edge position extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction; obtaining information to bend the display panel; and considering the obtained information to bend the display panel such that the first edge position and the second edge position respectively have curvature.

[0016] In one embodiment, the display area may include: a central display area; and a corner display area disposed between the central display area and the corner where the first edge position and the second edge position meet. The step of bending the display panel includes: bending the corner display area from the first direction toward a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction; and bending the corner display area from the second direction toward the third direction.

[0017] In one embodiment, the corner display area may include a first corner display area and a second corner display area. The first corner display area has a first curvature in a first direction on a cross section in the first direction and a first curvature in a second direction on a cross section in the second direction. The second corner display area has a second curvature in a first direction on a cross section in the first direction and a second curvature in a second direction on a cross section in the second direction. The first curvature in the first direction and the second curvature in the first direction are different.

[0018] In one embodiment, the information obtained to bend the display panel may be at least one of the following: information corresponding to the operation of a remote control connected to the display device, information corresponding to the voice signal of a user viewing the image, and information related to the type of content included in the image.

[0019] In one embodiment, the information obtained to bend the display panel may be the location information of at least one user viewing the image.

[0020] In one embodiment, the control method of the display device may further include: bending a first housing disposed behind the display panel and extending in the first direction from the first direction toward a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction; and bending a second housing disposed behind the display panel and extending in the second direction from the second direction toward the third direction.

[0021] In one embodiment, the control method of the display device may further include the step of bending a plurality of support members that support the display panel and extend in the first direction and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction from the first direction toward the third direction.

[0022] In one embodiment, the control method of the display device may further include the step of moving at least one of a plurality of supports that support the display panel and extend in the first direction and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction upward on the third party.

[0023] In one embodiment, the control method of the display device may further include the step of rotating the display panel about the second direction as an axis.

[0024] In one embodiment, the control method of the display device may further include the step of deforming the shape of the through portion penetrating the display panel.

[0025] (Invention Effects)

[0026] As described above, embodiments of the present invention utilize the obtained information to bend the display panel such that the first edge position and the second edge position each possess curvature. Therefore, various viewing experiences can be provided to users viewing images. Furthermore, image distortion perceived by users as an image displayed on the display device can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2a This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2b and Figure 2c This is a perspective view schematically illustrating various embodiments of the display device involved in the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 It is a schematic representation along Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of the AA′ line.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic plan view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 This is an illustrative equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel circuit that can be applied to a display panel as an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 This relates to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 The display panel is shown in a cross-sectional view along the BB' line.

[0034] Figure 7 This is an enlarged version of one embodiment. Figure 4 An enlarged view of section C of the display panel.

[0035] Figure 8 This is an enlarged version of one embodiment. Figure 4 An enlarged view of section D of the display panel.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel having a through portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 10 It is a three-dimensional diagram schematically representing the shape of the display device before it is bent.

[0038] Figure 11a and Figure 11b It is a three-dimensional diagram that schematically represents the shape of a display device that displays images after it has been bent.

[0039] Figure 12a It is Figure 11a The curved display panel is shown in cross-sectional view along line EE′.

[0040] Figure 12b It is Figure 11a The curved display panel is shown in cross-sectional view along the FF' line.

[0041] Figure 12c It is Figure 11a The curved display panel is shown in cross-sectional view along line GG′.

[0042] Figure 13 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the display area of ​​a bent display panel according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 14a and Figure 14b This diagram illustrates an embodiment of the present invention where the display panel is bent by considering information corresponding to the operation of a remote control.

[0044] Figure 15a and Figure 15b This diagram illustrates an embodiment of the present invention involving bending a display panel by taking into account information corresponding to the user's voice signal.

[0045] Figure 16a and Figure 16bThis diagram illustrates an embodiment of the present invention involving bending a display panel based on the types of content included in an image.

[0046] Figure 17 , Figure 18 as well as Figures 19a to 19c This diagram illustrates an embodiment of the present invention where the display panel is bent taking into account the user's position.

[0047] Figure 20 , Figure 21a and Figure 21b This diagram illustrates a case where the display panel is bent taking into account the user's position, according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0048] Figures 22a to 22c This diagram illustrates a case where the display panel is bent taking into account the user's position, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 23a It is Figure 22c The display panel is shown in a cross-sectional view along line HH′.

[0050] Figure 23b It is Figure 22c The display panel is shown in a cross-sectional view along line II′.

[0051] Figure 23c It is Figure 22c The display panel is shown in a cross-sectional view along line JJ′.

[0052] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Symbol explanation:

[0054] 1: Display device; 10: Display panel; 1410: Remote control; 1700: Controller; 20: Housing assembly; 21: First housing; 23: Second housing; 25: Support member; AX: Axis; C11: First curvature in the first direction; C12: First curvature in the second direction; C21: Second curvature in the first direction; C2: Second curvature in the second direction; CN: Corner; CDA: Corner display area; CDA1: First corner display area; CDA2: Second corner display area; CSL: Cushion; CTDA: Center display area; DA: Display area; EG1: First edge position; EG2: Second edge position. Detailed Implementation

[0055] This invention can have various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in detail herein. References and Appendix Figure 1The effects, features, and methods of achieving these effects and features of the present invention will become clear from the detailed embodiments described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various forms.

[0056] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding constituent elements will be given the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0057] In the following embodiments, terms such as "first" and "second" are not limiting terms, but are used to distinguish one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0058] In the following embodiments, singular expressions include multiple expressions unless the opposite meaning is explicitly stated in the text.

[0059] In the following embodiments, terms such as "comprising" or "having" should be understood as referring to the presence of the features or constituent elements described in the specification, and not as excluding the possibility of additional features or constituent elements.

[0060] In the following embodiments, when a membrane, region, constituent element, or other part is located on or above other parts, this includes not only the case where it is directly located on other parts, but also the case where other membranes, regions, constituent elements, etc. exist between them.

[0061] In the accompanying drawings, the sizes of the constituent elements may be enlarged or reduced for ease of illustration. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of the constituent elements shown are for illustrative purposes only, and the invention is not necessarily limited to the illustrated figures.

[0062] In cases where a particular embodiment can be implemented in different ways, a specific sequence of operations may also be performed differently than the sequence described. For example, two operations described consecutively may be performed substantially simultaneously, or they may be performed in the reverse order of the described sequence.

[0063] In the following embodiments, when it is described that membranes, regions, constituent elements, etc. are connected, it includes not only the case where the membranes, regions, and constituent elements are directly connected, but also the case where they are indirectly connected by interleaving other membranes, regions, and constituent elements between them. For example, in this specification, when it is described that membranes, regions, constituent elements, etc. are electrically connected, it includes not only the case where the membranes, regions, and constituent elements are directly electrically connected, but also the case where they are indirectly electrically connected by interleaving other membranes, regions, and constituent elements between them.

[0064] A display device is a device that displays dynamic or static images. Besides mobile electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, mobile communication terminals, electronic manuals, e-books, PMPs (portable multimedia players), navigators, and UMPCs (Ultra Mobile PCs), it can also be used as the display screen for various products such as televisions, laptops, displays, billboards, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Furthermore, the display device described in one embodiment can be used in wearable devices such as smartwatches, watch phones, glasses-type displays, and head-mounted displays (HMDs). Additionally, the display device described in one embodiment can be used as a car dashboard and center fascia, or as a CID (Center Information Display) located on the dashboard, as an interior mirror display replacing the rearview mirror, or as a display located on the back of the front seats for rear-seat entertainment.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display device 1 may include a display unit 1100, an image processor 1200, an image capture unit 1300, a user input unit 1400, a storage unit 1500, a communicator 1600, and a controller 1700.

[0066] Display unit 1100 can display images. In one embodiment, display unit 1100 can display images based on image signals processed by image processor 1200. In one embodiment, display unit 1100 can display digital images. Display unit 1100 may include display panel 10 and frame assembly 20. Display panel 10 can display images. Frame assembly 20 can bend display panel 10. Therefore, display panel 10 can be bent into various shapes.

[0067] In one embodiment, the display unit 1100 can display communication interface information provided by the communicator 1600. The controller 1700 can control the display unit 1100 so that the display panel 10 displays the communication interface information stored in the storage unit 1500.

[0068] The image processor 1200 can process image signals received from an external source. The image processor 1200 can perform various preset image processing procedures on the image signals. The image processor 1200 can output the image signal that has undergone these procedures to the display unit 1100, thereby displaying an image on the display panel 10.

[0069] The image processor 1200 may include an image receiver (not shown) that receives image signals from an external source. The image receiver may be implemented in various ways, corresponding to the specifications of the received image signal and the implementation of the display device 1. For example, the image processor 1200 may wirelessly receive RF (Radio Frequency) signals transmitted from a broadcast station (not shown), or wiredly receive composite video, component video, super video, SCART-based, HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), and other image signals. In the case where the image signal is a broadcast signal, the image processor 1200 may include a tuner that adjusts the broadcast signal by channel.

[0070] In other embodiments, the image signal can be input from an external device. For example, the image signal can be input from an external device such as a PC, AV equipment, smartphone, or smart tablet. In yet another embodiment, the image signal can be a signal written from data received via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the display device 1 can perform network communication via the communicator 1600. In yet another embodiment, the image signal can be a signal written from data stored in a non-volatile storage unit 1500 such as flash memory or a hard disk. The storage unit 1500 can be disposed inside or outside the display device 1; when disposed externally, it may also include a connection portion (not shown) connected to the storage unit 1500.

[0071] There is no limitation on the types of image processing procedures performed by the image processor 1200. For example, it may include at least one of decoding, de-interlacing, frame refresh rate transformation, scaling, noise reduction for improving image quality, detail enhancement, and line scanning, corresponding to various image formats. The image processor 1200 may be implemented as a combination of individual components capable of performing these procedures independently, or as a System-on-Chip (SoC) integrating various functions.

[0072] The image capture device 1300 can capture images of the external environment to obtain external images. The image capture device 1300 can be an image capture unit. In one embodiment, the image capture device 1300 can be implemented as a camera for capturing images of the external environment. In this case, the camera can be positioned at a predetermined location on the display device 1. For example, the camera can be positioned on the upper part of the display device 1 or inside the display unit 1100. The camera's position is not limited, and it can also be separated from the main body of the display device 1 and positioned externally, depending on the situation.

[0073] Image capture device 1300 may include a lens (not shown) through which an image is transmitted and an image sensor 1310 that senses the image transmitted through the lens. Image sensor 1310 may be implemented as a CCD image sensor or a CMOS image sensor. The image input through image capture device 1300 may be processed in image processor 1200.

[0074] The user input unit 1400 can receive user input. Through user operation and input, the user input unit 1400 can transmit various preset control commands or unrestricted information to the controller 1700.

[0075] In one embodiment, the user input unit 1400 can be disposed within the main body of the display device 1, or it can be separated from the display device 1 to receive input signals from an input device. For example, the user input unit 1400 can receive input signals via a keypad (or input panel) (not shown) including numeric keys, menu keys, and other buttons disposed within the main body of the display device 1. Alternatively, the user input unit 1400 can receive input signals by generating pre-set commands / data / information / signals in a manner capable of remotely controlling the display device 1 and transmitting them to a separate input device such as a remote controller, keyboard, or mouse. In this case, the separate input device can be an external device connected to the main body of the display device 1 and capable of wireless communication, including infrared communication, RF communication, wireless LAN communication, etc. The input device can be operated by the user to transmit pre-set commands to the display device 1. Alternatively, the user input unit 1400 can receive the user's voice signal.

[0076] Storage unit 1500 can store various types of data. Storage unit 1500 can store unlimited data according to the control of controller 1700. Storage unit 1500 may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. Volatile memory may include DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static RAM), etc., and non-volatile memory may include ROM (Read Only Memory), PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Electrically Programmable ROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable ROM), flash memory, PRAM (Phase-change RAM), MRAM (Magnetic RAM), RRAM (Resistive RAM), FRAM (Ferroelectric RAM), hard disk drive (HDD), and solid-state drive (SSD), etc.

[0077] The storage unit 1500 can be accessed by the controller 1700, and data reading, recording, correction, deletion, and updating can be performed. The data stored in the storage unit 1500 may include operating system data for driving the display device 1, various applications that can be executed on the operating system, image data, and additional data.

[0078] The storage unit 1500 can store input / output signals or data corresponding to the operation of each component, as controlled by the controller 1700. The storage unit 1500 can store control programs used for controlling the display device 1, GUIs (graphical user interfaces) related to applications provided by the manufacturer or downloaded from external sources, images used to provide the GUI, user information, documents, databases, or associated data.

[0079] The communicator 1600 can perform wired and / or wireless communication with external devices. In one embodiment, the communicator 1600 can provide at least one of the following communication interfaces: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RF (Radio Frequency), Zigbee, Wireless LAN, Infrared communication, UWB (Ultra Wideband), and NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0080] The communicator 1600 can be built into the main body of the display device 1. In other embodiments, it can be implemented as a dongle or module and can be detached from the connector (not shown) of the display device 1.

[0081] The controller 1700 can control the display device 1. The controller 1700 can control the overall operation of the display device 1 and the signal flow between its internal components. The controller 1700 can perform data processing functions. The controller 1700 can control the power supply from the power supply unit (not shown) to the internal components. In one embodiment, when there is user input or when preset and stored conditions are met, the controller 1700 can execute the OS (Operation System) and various application programs stored in the storage unit 1500.

[0082] The controller 1700 may obtain information to bend the display panel 10 and, taking into account the obtained information, control the display panel 10 to bend and display an image. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 may control the housing assembly 20 to bend the display panel 10.

[0083] Figure 2a This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2b and Figure 2c This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device 1 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 2a This is a perspective view showing the front surface of the display unit 1100. Figure 2b and Figure 2c This is a perspective view of the back of the display unit 1100.

[0085] Reference Figure 2a The display device 1 may include a display unit 1100 and a controller 1700. The display unit 1100 may include a display panel 10.

[0086] The display panel 10 may include edge positions. The display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 and a second edge position EG2. The first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 may be the ends of the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 may meet each other. In this case, the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 may intersect each other. Alternatively, the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 may meet each other in a curved shape.

[0087] The first edge position EG1 can extend in a first direction. The second edge position EG2 can extend in a second direction. In this case, the first and second directions can intersect each other. For example, the first and second directions can form an acute angle, a right angle, or an obtuse angle with each other. Hereinafter, a detailed explanation will focus on the case where the first direction is the x-direction or -x-direction and the second direction is the y-direction or -y-direction.

[0088] The display panel 10 can be bent. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction. The third direction can be an acute angle, a right angle, or an obtuse angle with the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction), respectively. In one embodiment, the third direction can be the z-direction or the -z-direction. Bending the display panel 10 from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward the third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction) means that the cross-section of the display panel 10 intersecting a plane (e.g., the xz plane) extending in the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and the third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction) is bent concavely or convexly.

[0089] In other embodiments, the display panel 10 may be bent from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). Bending the display panel 10 from the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) means that the cross-section of the display panel 10 intersecting a plane (e.g., the yz plane) extending in both the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) and the third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) is bent concavely or convexly.

[0090] In another embodiment, the display panel 10 can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) and from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). In this case, the display panel 10 can be stretched and / or contracted in the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) and / or the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction). If the display panel 10 cannot be stretched and / or contracted in the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) and / or the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction), relatively large stresses may be generated at the corners of the display panel 10, potentially damaging it.

[0091] The display panel 10 in embodiments of the present invention can be a stretchable display panel capable of being stretched and / or contracted in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). Therefore, even if the display panel 10 is bent in various directions, the stress acting on the display panel 10 can be relatively small, which can prevent or reduce damage to the display panel 10.

[0092] Display panel 10 may include a display area DA. Display area DA may display an image. In one embodiment, display panel 10 may be controlled by controller 1700 to display an image in display area DA.

[0093] Pixels can be configured in the display area DA. In one embodiment, multiple pixels can be configured in the display area DA. The display panel 10 can provide an image using light emitted from the pixels. In one embodiment, the pixels may include display elements.

[0094] In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a component area CPA. The component area CPA may be an area configured with components capable of imparting various functions to the display device 1. In one embodiment, the components may include an image capture device (IMAGE ACQUIRER), such as a light sensor or a camera. The component area CPA may include a transmission area that allows light from the sensor or light traveling toward the camera to pass through.

[0095] The component region CPA can be at least partially surrounded by the display region DA. For example, the component region CPA can be entirely surrounded by the display region DA. As another example, the component region CPA can be only partially surrounded by the display region DA.

[0096] In one embodiment, multiple component regions CPAs may be provided. In one embodiment, the multiple component regions CPAs may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction).

[0097] The component area CPA can be configured to be offset from the center of the display panel 10 in a first direction (e.g., x direction or -x direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., y direction or -y direction).

[0098] In one embodiment, the component region CPA may be circular or elliptical in a plane (e.g., the xy plane). In other embodiments, the component region CPA may be various shapes such as quadrilaterals in a plane. In yet another embodiment, the component region CPA may include a curved shape.

[0099] The component (not shown) may overlap with the component area CPA. In this case, the component may be disposed inside the display unit 1100. The component may be an electronic element that utilizes light or sound. For example, the electronic element may include a sensor that receives and utilizes light, such as an infrared sensor; a camera that receives light to capture an image; a sensor that outputs light or sound and senses it to measure distance or identify fingerprints; a small lamp that outputs light; or a speaker that outputs sound. In the case of an electronic element that utilizes light, light of various wavelengths, such as visible light, infrared light, and ultraviolet light, may be used.

[0100] In one embodiment, the entire component region CPA can be a transparent region. In this case, the component region CPA may not display an image. In other embodiments, the component region CPA can display an image. In this case, at least a portion of the component region CPA can be configured with pixels, and at least a portion of the component region CPA without configured pixels can be a transparent region.

[0101] In some embodiments, the component region CPA may be omitted. In this case, the component may be configured on the outside of the display portion 1100. For example, the component may be attached to a first edge position EG1 and / or a second edge position EG2.

[0102] Reference Figure 2b and Figure 2c The display unit 1100 may include a display panel 10 and a housing assembly 20. The housing assembly 20 can bend the display panel 10. The housing assembly 20 may be configured behind the display panel 10. The housing assembly 20 may be configured on the opposite side of the display area DA.

[0103] The housing assembly 20 allows the display panel 10 to bend from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) intersecting the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) and the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction). The first edge position EG1 of the bent display panel 10 may have curvature. The first edge position EG1 of the bent display panel 10 can bend from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction).

[0104] The housing assembly 20 can bend the display panel 10 from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). In this case, the second edge position EG2 of the bent display panel 10 can have curvature. The second edge position EG2 of the bent display panel 10 can bend from the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction).

[0105] The housing assembly 20 can bend the display panel 10 from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction), and can bend the display panel 10 from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). The first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 of the bent display panel 10 can each have curvature.

[0106] The housing assembly 20 can be controlled by the controller 1700. The housing assembly 20 can be controlled by the controller 1700 to bend from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) towards a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). The housing assembly 20 can be controlled by the controller 1700 to bend from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) towards a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). The housing assembly 20 may include a first housing 21, a second housing 23, and a plurality of support members 25.

[0107] The first housing 21 may extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). The first housing 21 may be configured behind the display panel 10. Figure 2b The illustration shows a case where a first housing 21 is disposed behind the display panel 10, but in other embodiments, multiple first housings 21 may be provided behind the display panel 10.

[0108] In one embodiment, the first housing 21 may comprise austenitic stainless steel. In other embodiments, the first housing 21 may be made of stainless steel, invar, nickel, cobalt, nickel alloys, nickel-cobalt alloys, etc. In yet another embodiment, the first housing 21 may be made of various metallic materials. In still another embodiment, the first housing 21 may comprise a polymer compound (e.g., a polymer).

[0109] The first housing 21 can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). The first housing 21 can be bent under the control of the controller 1700. Therefore, the first housing 21 can cause the display panel 10 to bend from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). Furthermore, the first housing 21 can be bent such that the first edge position EG1 of the display panel 10 has a curvature.

[0110] In one embodiment, the first housing 21 may be integrally formed in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). In other embodiments, the first housing 21 may include a plurality of separate first housing portions, with a second housing 23 sandwiched between the plurality of first housing portions.

[0111] The second housing 23 may extend in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). The second housing 23 may be disposed behind the display panel 10. In one embodiment, multiple second housings 23 may be provided behind the display panel 10. In other embodiments, a single second housing 23 may be disposed behind the display panel 10.

[0112] In one embodiment, the second housing 23 may comprise austenitic stainless steel. In other embodiments, the second housing 23 may be manufactured from stainless steel, invar, nickel, cobalt, nickel alloys, nickel-cobalt alloys, etc. In yet another embodiment, the second housing 23 may be manufactured from various metallic materials. In still another embodiment, the second housing 23 may comprise a polymer compound (e.g., a polymer).

[0113] The second housing 23 can be bent from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). The second housing 23 can be bent under the control of the controller 1700. Therefore, the second housing 23 can cause the display panel 10 to bend from the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). Furthermore, the second housing 23 can be bent such that the second edge position EG2 of the display panel 10 has a curvature.

[0114] In one embodiment, the second housing 23 may be integrally provided in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). In other embodiments, the second housing 23 may include a plurality of separable second housing portions, with the first housing 21 sandwiched between the plurality of second housing portions.

[0115] The first housing 21 and the second housing 23 can be connected to each other. (Refer to...) Figure 2b It can be composed of a first housing 21 and a second housing 23 as a single unit. (Refer to...) Figure 2c The first housing 21 and the second housing 23 can be separate housings. In one embodiment, the second housing 23 can be disposed between the first housing 21 and the display panel 10.

[0116] In one embodiment, a wire 27 may be disposed inside the first housing 21 and / or the second housing 23. The wire 27 can cause the first housing 21 and / or the second housing 23 to bend. For example, the first housing 21 and / or the second housing 23 can be bent by shrinking the wire 27 or by shortening the length of the wire 27 by means of a motor.

[0117] Multiple support members 25 can support the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the multiple support members 25 can be disposed between the display panel 10 and the first housing 21. The multiple support members 25 can be fixed to the first housing 21. In one embodiment, the multiple support members 25 can be disposed between the display panel 10 and the second housing 23. The multiple support members 25 can be fixed to the second housing 23.

[0118] Multiple support members 25 can maintain the shape of the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 can be a stretchable display panel. In this case, the shape of the display panel 10 can be changed in various ways. That is, the display panel 10 can be flexible. The multiple support members 25 support the display panel 10, thus maintaining the shape of the display panel 10.

[0119] In one embodiment, a plurality of support members 25 may extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). In this case, the plurality of support members 25 may be spaced apart from each other along a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). In other embodiments, a plurality of support members 25 may extend in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). In this case, the plurality of support members 25 may be spaced apart from each other along a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). The following detailed description focuses on the case where the plurality of support members 25 extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction).

[0120] In one embodiment, the support member 25 may comprise austenitic stainless steel. In other embodiments, the support member 25 may be manufactured from stainless steel, invar, nickel, cobalt, nickel alloys, nickel-cobalt alloys, etc. In yet another embodiment, the support member 25 may be manufactured from various metallic materials. In still another embodiment, the support member 25 may comprise a polymer compound (e.g., a polymer).

[0121] Multiple support members 25 can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). In one embodiment, the first housing 21 can be bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). For example, when the first housing 21 is bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction), the multiple support members 25 can also be bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction).

[0122] At least one of the plurality of support members 25 is movable in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). For example, the support member 25 adjacent to the first edge position EG1 is movable in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). In one embodiment, the second housing 23 can move at least one of the plurality of support members 25 in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). For example, when the second housing 23 is bent from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction), at least one of the plurality of support members 25 can move in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent from the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction).

[0123] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10 and bend the display panel 10 in consideration of the obtained information. The controller 1700 may include a first drive unit 1710 and a second drive unit 1730.

[0124] The first drive unit 1710 can control the housing assembly 20. In one embodiment, the first drive unit 1710 can control the bending of the first housing 21 and / or the second housing 23. In one embodiment, the first drive unit 1710 may include a motor. The motor can cause the wire 27 to contract or wind around to reduce the length of the wire 27.

[0125] In one embodiment, the first drive unit 1710 may include multiple motors. The multiple motors can control the bending of the first housing 21 and the second housing 23, respectively. In one embodiment, the multiple motors can control the bending of one housing. For example, when multiple motors control the first housing 21, the bending of both ends of the first housing 21 can be adjusted independently. As another example, when multiple motors control the second housing 23, the bending of both ends of the second housing 23 can be controlled independently. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent in various shapes.

[0126] In one embodiment, the first drive unit 1710 may be configured behind the display unit 1100. In this case, the first drive unit 1710 may include a fixing member for fixing the display unit 1100 to an external wall or the like. For example, the fixing member may include a bracket.

[0127] The second drive unit 1730 can be controlled to rotate the display unit 1100 about a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). In one embodiment, the second drive unit 1730 may include a motor. The motor can rotate the display unit 1100 about a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). Therefore, the display panel 10 can be rotated about a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) by the controller 1700.

[0128] Figure 3 It is a schematic representation along Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of the AA′ line display section 1100. Figure 3 In, with Figure 2a and Figure 2b The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0129] Reference Figure 3 The display unit 1100 may include a display panel 10, a cover window CW, an adhesive layer AL, a padding layer CSL, and multiple support members 25.

[0130] A cover window CW can be configured on the display panel 10. The cover window CW can be a flexible window. The cover window CW can be easily bent by external force without causing cracks, etc., while protecting the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the cover window CW can be a stretchable cover window that can be stretched and / or retracted.

[0131] Cover window CWs can include organic substances. For example, cover window CWs can include urethane-based substances. Cover window CWs can include polyurethanes. Cover window CWs can include polymers (e.g., polymers).

[0132] An adhesive layer AL can be disposed between the display panel 10 and the cover window CW. The adhesive layer AL can attach the display panel 10 and the cover window CW to each other. In one embodiment, the adhesive layer AL may include an optically clear adhesive (OCA).

[0133] A cushioning layer CSL can be configured between the display panel 10 and the plurality of support members 25. The cushioning layer CSL can act as a buffer between the display panel 10 and the plurality of support members 25. For example, the plurality of support members 25 can move independently in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). The distances that the plurality of support members 25 move in the third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction) can be different. In this case, the position of the cushioning layer CSL can be continuously changed according to the discontinuous movement distances of the plurality of support members 25. Therefore, the position of the display panel 10 can be continuously changed by the cushioning layer CSL and the plurality of support members 25, and it can be bent. In addition, the cushioning layer CSL can prevent or reduce damage to the display panel 10 caused by the plurality of support members 25.

[0134] In one embodiment, the cushioning layer CSL may include an elastomer. For example, it may include vulcanized natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastic fibers, foam, or thermoplastic elastomer. As other examples, the cushioning layer CSL may include at least one of polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride, elastomeric silicone, elastomeric polyurethane, and elastomeric polyisoprene. In some embodiments, a first lower adhesive layer may be disposed between the cushioning layer CSL and the display panel 10. In some embodiments, a second lower adhesive layer may be disposed between the cushioning layer CSL and the plurality of support members 25. For example, at least one of the first and second lower adhesive layers may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0135] Figure 4 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a display panel 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 In, with Figure 2a The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0136] Reference Figure 4 The display panel 10 may include edge positions. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and a second edge position EG2 extending in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). The first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 may be the ends of the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 may meet each other.

[0137] Display panel 10 may be an organic light-emitting display panel that utilizes organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) including an organic light-emitting layer as a display element. Alternatively, display panel 10 may be a light-emitting diode (LED) display panel that utilizes light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a display element. The size of the LED may be on the micrometer or nanometer scale. For example, the LED may be a micrometer LED. Alternatively, the LED may be a nanorod LED. The nanorod LED may include gallium nitride (GaN). In one embodiment, a color conversion layer may be disposed on the nanorod LED. The color conversion layer may include quantum dots. Alternatively, display panel 10 may be a quantum dot light-emitting display panel that utilizes quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QNDs) including a quantum dot light-emitting layer as a display element. Alternatively, display panel 10 may be an inorganic light-emitting display panel that utilizes inorganic light-emitting elements including inorganic semiconductors as display elements. Hereinafter, a detailed description will focus on the case where display panel 10 is an organic light-emitting display panel that utilizes organic light-emitting diodes as a display element.

[0138] Display panel 10 may include a display area DA. The display area DA can display an image. Pixels PX can be configured in the display area DA. In one embodiment, pixels PX may be connected to a scan line SL extending in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). In another embodiment, pixels PX may be connected to a data line DL extending in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction).

[0139] The display panel 10 may include a plurality of pixels PX, and the display panel 10 may display images using the plurality of pixels PX. Each pixel PX may include a subpixel, and the subpixel may emit light of a predetermined color using display elements. In this specification, a subpixel is the smallest unit for realizing an image and represents a light-emitting area.

[0140] In one embodiment, the display area DA may include a central display area CTDA and corner display areas CDA. The central display area CTDA may be configured at the center of the display panel 10. The corner display areas CDA may be configured between the central display area CTDA and the corners CN where they meet at the edges of the display panel 10. The corner CN may be defined as the portion where edges extending in different directions intersect. In one embodiment, if the display panel 10 is polygonal, the display panel 10 may include multiple corners CN.

[0141] In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a plurality of corner display areas CDA. For example, the display panel 10 may include a first corner display area CDA1, a second corner display area CDA2, a third corner display area CDA3, and a fourth corner display area CDA4. In one embodiment, the first corner display area CDA1 may be configured between the center display area CDA, a first edge position EG1, and a second edge position EG2.

[0142] The display panel 10 may include structures and / or materials that can be stretched and / or contracted. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x direction or -x direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z direction or -z direction) and from a second direction (e.g., the y direction or -y direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z direction or -z direction).

[0143] In one embodiment, in the corner display area CDA, the display panel 10 may include structures and / or materials that can be stretched and / or contracted. Therefore, the corner display area CDA can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) and from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction).

[0144] In one embodiment, the deformation degree of the corner display area CDA can be greater than that of the central display area CTDA, and the magnitude of the stress acting on the corner display area CDA can be relatively greater than the magnitude of the stress acting on the central display area CTDA. When the corner display area CDA has a structure and / or material that allows it to stretch or contract, the magnitude of the stress acting on the corner display area CDA can be reduced, and damage to the display panel 10 in the corner display area CDA can be prevented or reduced. Of course, the central display area CTDA can also have a structure and / or material that allows it to stretch or contract.

[0145] Figure 5 This is a schematic representation of an equivalent circuit diagram of the pixel circuit PC that can be applied to a display panel as an embodiment of the present invention.

[0146] Reference Figure 5 The pixel circuit PC can be connected to display elements (e.g., organic light-emitting diode OLED).

[0147] The pixel circuit PC may include a driving thin-film transistor T1, a switching thin-film transistor T2, and an energy storage capacitor Cst. Additionally, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) can emit red, green, or blue light, or red, green, blue, or white light.

[0148] The switching thin-film transistor T2 can be connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL, and based on the scan signal or switching voltage input from the scan line SL, it transmits the data signal or data voltage input from the data line DL to the driving thin-film transistor T1. The energy storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the switching thin-film transistor T2 and the driving voltage line PL, and stores a voltage equivalent to the difference between the voltage received from the switching thin-film transistor T2 and the first power supply voltage ELVDD supplied to the driving voltage line PL.

[0149] The driving thin-film transistor T1 can be connected to the driving voltage line PL and the energy storage capacitor Cst, and the driving current flowing from the driving voltage line PL to the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) can be controlled according to the voltage value stored in the energy storage capacitor Cst. The OLED can emit light with a predetermined brightness according to the driving current. The counter electrode of the OLED can receive the supply of a second power supply voltage ELVSS.

[0150] Figure 5 The illustration shows a pixel circuit PC comprising two thin-film transistors and one energy storage capacitor, but the pixel circuit PC may include three, four, five or more thin-film transistors.

[0151] Figure 6 This relates to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 The display panel is shown in a cross-sectional view along the BB' line.

[0152] Reference Figure 6 The display panel 10 may include a substrate 100, a pixel circuit layer PCL, a display element layer DEL, and an encapsulation layer ENL.

[0153] In one embodiment, the substrate 100 may include a first base layer 100a, a first barrier layer 100b, a second base layer 100c, and a second barrier layer 100d. In another embodiment, the first base layer 100a, the first barrier layer 100b, the second base layer 100c, and the second barrier layer 100d may be sequentially stacked within the substrate 100. In other embodiments, the substrate 100 may include glass.

[0154] At least one of the first substrate layer 100a and the second substrate layer 100c may include a polymeric resin such as polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, cellulose acetate propionate, etc.

[0155] The first barrier layer 100b and the second barrier layer 100d are barrier layers that prevent the penetration of external foreign substances, and may include materials such as silicon nitride (SiN). X It consists of single or multiple layers of inorganic materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and / or silicon nitride oxide (SiON).

[0156] A pixel circuit layer PCL can be disposed on substrate 100. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include a pixel circuit PC. The pixel circuit PC may include a driving thin-film transistor T1, a switching thin-film transistor T2, and an energy storage capacitor Cst.

[0157] The pixel circuit layer PCL may include an inorganic insulating layer IIL and an organic insulating layer OIL disposed below and / or above the components of the driving thin-film transistor T1. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include a buffer layer 111, a first gate insulating layer 112, a second gate insulating layer 113, and an interlayer insulating layer 114. The organic insulating layer OIL may include a first organic insulating layer 115 and a second organic insulating layer 116. The driving thin-film transistor T1 may include a first semiconductor layer Act1, a first gate electrode GE1, a first source electrode SE1, and a first drain electrode DE1.

[0158] A buffer layer 111 may be disposed on the substrate 100. The buffer layer 111 may include, for example, silicon nitride (SiN). X Inorganic insulating materials such as silicon nitride oxide (SiON) and silicon oxide (SiO2), and may be a single layer or multiple layers including the aforementioned inorganic insulating materials.

[0159] The first semiconductor layer Act1 can be disposed on the buffer layer 111. The first semiconductor layer Act1 may include polycrystalline silicon. Alternatively, the first semiconductor layer Act1 may include amorphous silicon, or an oxide semiconductor, or an organic semiconductor, etc. The first semiconductor layer Act1 may include a channel region and a drain region and a source region disposed on both sides of the channel region, respectively.

[0160] The first gate electrode GE1 may overlap with the channel region. The first gate electrode GE1 may include a low-resistance metallic material. The first gate electrode GE1 may include a conductive material containing molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be formed from multiple layers or a single layer of the above-mentioned materials.

[0161] The first gate insulating layer 112 between the first semiconductor layer Act1 and the first gate electrode GE1 may include, for example, silicon oxide (SiO2) or silicon nitride (SiN). X ), silicon nitride oxide (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2) and / or zinc oxide (ZnO) X Inorganic insulating materials such as zinc oxide (ZnO) are used. X It can be zinc monoxide (ZnO) and / or zinc dioxide (ZnO2).

[0162] The second gate insulating layer 113 can be configured to cover the first gate electrode GE1. The second gate insulating layer 113 can be similar to the first gate insulating layer 112, comprising materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) or silicon nitride (SiN). X ), silicon nitride oxide (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2) and / or zinc oxide (ZnO) X Inorganic insulating materials such as )

[0163] The upper electrode CE2 of the energy storage capacitor Cst can be disposed on the upper part of the second gate insulating layer 113. The upper electrode CE2 can overlap with the first gate electrode GE1 below it. At this time, the first gate electrode GE1 and the upper electrode CE2 of the driving thin film transistor T1 overlap with the second gate insulating layer 113 sandwiched between them, and form the energy storage capacitor Cst. That is, the first gate electrode GE1 of the driving thin film transistor T1 can function as the lower electrode CE1 of the energy storage capacitor Cst.

[0164] As described above, the energy storage capacitor Cst and the driving thin-film transistor T1 can be formed overlappingly. In some embodiments, the energy storage capacitor Cst can also be formed without overlapping with the driving thin-film transistor T1.

[0165] The upper electrode CE2 may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu), and may be a single layer or multiple layers of the aforementioned materials.

[0166] The interlayer insulating layer 114 may cover the upper electrode CE2. The interlayer insulating layer 114 may include silicon oxide (SiO2) or silicon nitride (SiN). X ), silicon nitride oxide (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO) X The interlayer insulation layer 114 can be a single layer or multiple layers including the aforementioned inorganic insulation materials.

[0167] The first drain electrode DE1 and the first source electrode SE1 can each be located on the interlayer insulating layer 114. The first drain electrode DE1 and the first source electrode SE1 can comprise materials with excellent conductivity. The first drain electrode DE1 and the first source electrode SE1 can comprise conductive materials containing molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and can be formed from multiple layers or a single layer comprising the aforementioned materials. As an embodiment, the first drain electrode DE1 and the first source electrode SE1 can have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0168] The switching thin-film transistor T2 may include a second semiconductor layer Act2, a second gate electrode GE2, a second drain electrode DE2, and a second source electrode SE2. The second semiconductor layer Act2, the second gate electrode GE2, the second drain electrode DE2, and the second source electrode SE2 are similar to the first semiconductor layer Act1, the first gate electrode GE1, the first drain electrode DE1, and the first source electrode SE1, respectively, so detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0169] The first organic insulating layer 115 can be configured to cover the first drain electrode DE1 and the first source electrode SE1. The first organic insulating layer 115 may include organic materials. For example, the first organic insulating layer 115 may include general polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), polymer derivatives with phenolic groups, acrylic polymers, imide polymers, aromatic ether polymers, amide polymers, fluorinated polymers, p-xylene polymers, vinyl alcohol polymers, and mixtures thereof.

[0170] The connecting electrode CML can be disposed on the first organic insulating layer 115. In this case, the connecting electrode CML can be electrically connected to the first drain electrode DE1 or the first source electrode SE1 respectively through the contact holes of the first organic insulating layer 115. The connecting electrode CML can include a material with excellent conductivity. The connecting electrode CML can include conductive materials containing molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and can be formed from multiple layers or a single layer including the above-mentioned materials. As an embodiment, the connecting electrode CML can have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0171] The second organic insulating layer 116 can be configured to cover the connection electrode CML. The second organic insulating layer 116 may include organic materials. The second organic insulating layer 116 may include general-purpose polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), polymer derivatives with phenolic groups, acrylic polymers, imide polymers, aromatic ether polymers, amide polymers, fluorinated polymers, p-xylene polymers, vinyl alcohol polymers, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the connection electrode CML and the second organic insulating layer 116 may be omitted.

[0172] The display element layer (DEL) can be configured on the pixel circuit layer (PCL). The display element layer (DEL) can include display elements. As a display element, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) can include a pixel electrode 211, an intermediate layer 212, and a counter electrode 213.

[0173] The pixel electrode 211 of the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) can be electrically connected to the connection electrode CML through the contact hole of the second organic insulating layer 116. Therefore, the OLED can be electrically connected to the pixel circuit PC.

[0174] Pixel electrode 211 may include conductive oxides such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). As another embodiment, pixel electrode 211 may include a reflective film containing silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), or compounds thereof. As yet another embodiment, pixel electrode 211 may also include a film formed of ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 above / below the aforementioned reflective film.

[0175] A pixel defining film 118 with an opening 118OP exposing the central portion of the pixel electrode 211 can be disposed on the pixel electrode 211. The pixel defining film 118 may include organic and / or inorganic insulating materials. The opening 118OP can define the light-emitting region of light emitted from the organic light-emitting diode (OLED). For example, the width of the opening 118OP may correspond to the width of the light-emitting region.

[0176] Spacers 119 may be disposed on the pixel definition film 118. In the process of manufacturing the display panel 10, a mask may be used, which may be inserted into or in close contact with the pixel definition film 118. The spacers 119 can prevent damage or breakage of the substrate 100 and a portion of the multilayer films on the substrate 100 due to the mask during the deposition of the deposited material onto the substrate 100.

[0177] The spacer 119 may comprise an organic material such as polyimide. Alternatively, the spacer 119 may comprise a silicon nitride (SiN). X It can be an inorganic insulator such as silicon oxide (SiO2), or a mixture of organic and inorganic insulators.

[0178] In one embodiment, the spacer 119 may comprise a material different from the pixel definition film 118. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the spacer 119 may comprise the same material as the pixel definition film 118, and in this case, the pixel definition film 118 and the spacer 119 may be formed together in a masking process utilizing a halftone mask or the like.

[0179] Intermediate layer 212 can be disposed on pixel definition film 118 and pixel electrode 211. Intermediate layer 212 may include light-emitting layer 212b disposed on opening 118OP of pixel definition film 118. Light-emitting layer 212b may include a polymer or low-molecular-weight organic material that emits light of a predetermined color.

[0180] A first functional layer 212a and a second functional layer 212c can be disposed below and above the light-emitting layer 212b, respectively. The first functional layer 212a may include, for example, a hole transport layer (HTL), or a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer (HIL). The second functional layer 212c is a constituent element disposed on the light-emitting layer 212b and is an optional element. The second functional layer 212c may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL). The first functional layer 212a and / or the second functional layer 212c may be formed as a common layer covering the entire substrate 100, similar to the counter electrode 213 described later.

[0181] The counter electrode 213 can be formed of a conductive material with a low work function. For example, the counter electrode 213 may include a (semi-)transparent layer containing silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or alloys thereof. Alternatively, the counter electrode 213 may also include a layer such as ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 on the (semi-)transparent layer containing the aforementioned materials.

[0182] In some embodiments, a capping layer (not shown) may also be disposed on the counter electrode 213. The capping layer may include LiF, inorganic materials, and / or organic materials.

[0183] An encapsulation layer ENL can be disposed on the counter electrode 213. In one embodiment, the encapsulation layer ENL may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. In one embodiment, Figure 6 The illustration shows a case where the encapsulation layer ENL comprises a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, an organic encapsulation layer 320, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 stacked sequentially.

[0184] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), and zinc oxide (ZnO). X ), silicon oxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (SiN) XThe organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise one or more inorganic materials, such as silicon nitride oxide (SiON). The organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise a polymer-based material. Polymer-based materials may include acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, and polyethylene, etc. As one embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise acrylate.

[0185] Although not illustrated, a touch electrode layer can be configured on the encapsulation layer ENL, and an optical functional layer can be configured on the touch electrode layer. The touch electrode layer can receive external input (e.g., coordinate information based on touch operations). The optical functional layer can reduce the reflectivity of light incident from the outside toward the display device 1 (external light), and / or can improve the color purity of light emitted from the display device 1. As one embodiment, the optical functional layer may include a phase retarder and / or a polarizer. The phase retarder may be a film type or a liquid crystal coating type, and may include a λ / 2 phase retarder and / or a λ / 4 phase retarder. The polarizer may also be a film type or a liquid crystal coating type. The film type may include an extended synthetic resin film, and the liquid crystal coating type may include liquid crystals arranged in a predetermined arrangement. The phase retarder and polarizer may also include a protective film.

[0186] As another embodiment, the optical functional layer may include a black matrix and color filters. The color filters may be arranged to take into account the colors of light emitted from the pixels PX of the display panel 10. Each color filter may include red, green, or blue pigments or dyes. Alternatively, each color filter may include quantum dots in addition to the aforementioned pigments or dyes. Alternatively, some of the multiple color filters may not include the aforementioned pigments or dyes and may include scattering particles such as titanium dioxide.

[0187] As another embodiment, the optical functional layer may include a destructive interference structure. The destructive interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer disposed on different layers from each other. First reflected light and second reflected light reflected from the first reflective layer and the second reflective layer, respectively, can be destructively interfered with, thereby reducing external light reflectivity.

[0188] An adhesive component may be disposed between the touch electrode layer and the optical functional layer. The adhesive component may be made of materials known in the art without limitation. The adhesive component may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0189] Figure 7 This is an enlarged version of one embodiment. Figure 4 An enlarged view of section C of the display panel 10. Figure 8 This is an enlarged version of one embodiment. Figure 4 An enlarged view of section D of the display panel 10.

[0190] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The display panel 10 may have a through-hole TP extending through the display panel 10. No components of the display panel 10 may be disposed in the through-hole TP. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be stretched and / or contracted without damage. In other embodiments, the display panel 10 may not have the through-hole TP. In this case, the display panel 10 may include a material capable of being stretched and / or contracted. Hereinafter, a detailed description will focus on the case where the display panel 10 has the through-hole TP.

[0191] Reference Figure 7 The display panel 10 may include a pixel area PA and a connection area CA. The pixel area PA may be an area for configuring pixels PX. The pixel area PA may include a first pixel area PA1 and a second pixel area PA2. A first pixel PX1 may be configured in the first pixel area PA1. A second pixel PX2 may be configured in the second pixel area PA2. The connection area CA may include a first connection area CA1, a second connection area CA2, a third connection area CA3, and a fourth connection area CA4.

[0192] Multiple pixel regions PA can be spaced apart in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). In one embodiment, the multiple pixel regions PA can be spaced apart by a first interval d1 and a second interval d2, respectively. For example, the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2 can be spaced apart in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction).

[0193] A connecting region CA can extend between adjacent pixel regions PA. In one embodiment, each pixel region PA can be connected to four connecting regions CA. The four connecting regions CA connected to a pixel region PA can extend in different directions, and each connecting region CA can be connected to other pixel regions PA configured adjacent to the aforementioned pixel region PA.

[0194] In one embodiment, the first connection region CA1 can extend from the first pixel region PA1 toward the second pixel region PA2. Therefore, the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2 can be connected through the first connection region CA1, and the first pixel region PA1, the second pixel region PA2 and the first connection region CA1 can be integrally formed.

[0195] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the through portion TP can be defined as the edge position PAE1 of the first pixel region PA1, the edge position PAE2 of the second pixel region PA2, and the edge position CAE1 of the first connecting region CA1. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the through portion TP can be defined as the edge position PAE1 of the first pixel region PA1, the edge position PAE2 of the second pixel region PA2, the edge position CAE1 of the first connecting region CA1, and the edge position CAE2 of the second connecting region CA2.

[0196] A pixel region PA and a portion of multiple connected regions CA extending from it can be defined as a basic unit U. The basic unit U can be repeatedly configured along a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) and a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction), and it can be understood that the display panel 10 is a structure formed by connecting the repeatedly configured basic units U to each other. Two adjacent basic units U can be symmetrical to each other. For example, in... Figure 7 In this context, two adjacent basic units U in the left-right direction can be left-right symmetrical about a symmetry axis located between them and parallel to a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). Similarly, in... Figure 7 In this context, two adjacent basic units U in the vertical direction can be vertically symmetrical about a symmetry axis located between them and parallel to the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction).

[0197] Among multiple basic units U, adjacent basic units U (e.g., Figure 7 The four basic units U shown form a closed line CC between them. The closed line CC can define a spacer region V as an empty space. The spacer region V can be defined as the closed line CC formed by the edge positions of multiple pixel regions PA and the edge positions of multiple connecting regions CA. Each spacer region V can penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the display panel 10 respectively. The spacer region V can overlap with the through portion TP of the display panel 10.

[0198] In one embodiment, the angle θ between the edge position CAE1 of the first connection region CA1 and the edge position PAE2 of the second pixel region PA2 can be an acute angle. When a tensile force and / or a contractile force is applied to the display panel 10, the angle θ between the edge position CAE1 of the first connection region CA1 and the edge position PAE2 of the second pixel region PA2 can be changed.

[0199] The first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may overlap with the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2, respectively. In one embodiment, the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may each include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel. In other embodiments, the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may each include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, a blue sub-pixel, and a white sub-pixel, respectively.

[0200] Reference Figure 7 The description of the structure of the display panel 10 illustrates the structure of the display panel 10 in the corner display area CDA, but in other embodiments, Figure 4 The structure of the display panel 10 of the central display area CTDA can also be compared with that of the reference. Figure 7 The structure of the display panel 10 described is the same as or similar to that of the panel described above.

[0201] Reference Figure 8 The corner display area CDA may include an inner corner display area ICDA and an outer corner display area OCDA. The inner corner display area ICDA can be configured between the outer corner display area OCDA and the center display area CTDA.

[0202] The outer corner display area (OCDA) may include an extension area (LA) extending in one direction. The extension area LA may extend in a direction away from the central display area (CTDA). The extension area LA may include a first pixel area (PA1) and a second pixel area (PA2). The first pixel area (PA1) and the second pixel area (PA2) may each extend in a direction away from the central display area (CTDA). The first pixel area (PA1) and the second pixel area (PA2) may face each other.

[0203] In a first pixel region PA1, multiple first pixels PX1 can be arranged side-by-side. In one embodiment, multiple first pixels PX1 can be arranged side-by-side along a line in the first pixel region PA1. In other embodiments, multiple first pixels PX1 can be arranged side-by-side along multiple lines in the first pixel region PA1. In a second pixel region PA2, multiple second pixels PX2 can be arranged side-by-side. In one embodiment, multiple second pixels PX2 can be arranged side-by-side along a line in the second pixel region PA2. In other embodiments, multiple second pixels PX2 can be arranged side-by-side along multiple lines in the second pixel region PA2.

[0204] The through-hole TP can be configured in the outer corner display area OCDA. The through-hole TP can be configured between multiple extended areas LA. For example, the through-hole TP can be configured between a first pixel area PA1 and a second pixel area PA2. At least a portion of the through-hole TP can be defined as the edge position PAE1 of the first pixel area PA1 and the edge position PAE2 of the second pixel area PA2. In one embodiment, the through-hole TP can be a shape with one side open.

[0205] In the internal corner display area, the ICDA may not have a through section TP. In the internal corner display area, the ICDA may have a pixel PX.

[0206] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel 10 with a through-hole TP according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 In, with Figure 6 The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0207] Reference Figure 9 The display panel 10 may have a through-hole TP. The first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2 may be separated therebetween by the through-hole TP. The edge positions of the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2 may define at least a portion of the through-hole TP.

[0208] The display panel 10 may include a substrate 100, a pixel circuit layer (PCL), a display element layer (DEL), and an encapsulation layer (ENL). In one embodiment, the substrate 100, the pixel circuit layer (PCL), the display element layer (DEL), and the encapsulation layer (ENL) may be separated by a through-hole (TP). In one embodiment, the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may further include a first inorganic layer (PVX1). In one embodiment, the display element layer (DEL) may further include a second inorganic layer (PVX2).

[0209] The following describes in detail the stacked structure of the display panel 10 having the through portion TP. However, the stacked structure of the display panel 10 having the through portion TP is not limited to this, and various embodiments are possible.

[0210] The organic insulating layer OIL may have holes HL. In one embodiment, the holes HL may be configured to overlap with the holes in the first organic insulating layer 115 and the second organic insulating layer 116. In other embodiments, the holes HL may be provided in the second organic insulating layer 116. In this case, the upper surface of the first organic insulating layer 115 may be exposed by the holes in the second organic insulating layer 116. Hereinafter, a detailed description will focus on the case where the holes HL are provided in the first organic insulating layer 115 and the second organic insulating layer 116.

[0211] In some embodiments, the organic insulating layer OIL may have a groove recessed in the thickness direction of the organic insulating layer OIL instead of the hole HL. In some embodiments, the organic insulating layer OIL may not have the hole HL or the groove.

[0212] In one embodiment, a first inorganic layer PVX1 may be disposed between an interlayer insulating layer 114 and a first organic insulating layer 115. The first inorganic layer PVX1 may cover a first source electrode SE1, a first drain electrode DE1, a second source electrode SE2, and a second drain electrode DE2. In one embodiment, the first inorganic layer PVX1 may have contact holes to electrically connect the first source electrode SE1 or the first drain electrode DE1 to a connecting electrode CML.

[0213] In other embodiments, the first inorganic layer PVX1 may be disposed between the first organic insulating layer 115 and the second organic insulating layer 116. In this case, the first inorganic layer PVX1 may cover the connection electrode CML. At least a portion of the first inorganic layer PVX1 may be exposed by the aperture HL. The first inorganic layer PVX1 may comprise silicon nitride (SiN). X A single or multilayer film of inorganic materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and / or silicon oxide (SiO2). In some embodiments, the first inorganic layer PVX1 may be omitted.

[0214] An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) can be disposed on a second organic insulating layer 116. The OLED may include a first OLED1 and a second OLED2. The first OLED1 can be disposed on the substrate 100 as a first display element, overlapping with a first pixel region PA1. The first OLED1 can realize a first pixel PX1. The second OLED2 can be disposed on the substrate 100 as a second display element, overlapping with a second pixel region PA2. The second OLED2 can realize a second pixel PX2.

[0215] The first organic light-emitting diode (OLED) 1 may include a first pixel electrode 211A, an intermediate layer 212, and a counter electrode 213. The second organic light-emitting diode (OLED) 2 may include a second pixel electrode 211B, an intermediate layer 212, and a counter electrode 213. The first pixel electrode 211A and the second pixel electrode 211B can be connected to the connecting electrode CML through contact holes in the second organic insulating layer 116.

[0216] A second inorganic layer PVX2 can be disposed between the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) and the second organic insulating layer 116. The second inorganic layer PVX2 may include a plurality of inorganic patterns spaced apart from each other on the second organic insulating layer 116. The second inorganic layer PVX2 may have a protruding top PT projecting towards the center of the aperture HL. Therefore, the lower surface of the protruding top PT can be exposed in the aperture HL. That is, the aperture HL may have an undercut structure. The second inorganic layer PVX2 may include silicon nitride (SiN). X Single or multilayer films of inorganic materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and / or silicon oxide (SiO2).

[0217] The protruding top PT of the aperture HL and the second inorganic layer PVX2 can be a structure for disconnecting the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c. In one embodiment, the first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c, and the counter electrode 213 can be formed on the entire surface of the substrate 100. In this case, the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c may include organic material, and external oxygen or moisture can flow into the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) from the through-hole TP through at least one of the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c. Such oxygen or moisture may damage the OLED. The protruding top PT of the aperture HL and the second inorganic layer PVX2 can disconnect the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c, and the separated first and second functional layer patterns can be disposed inside the aperture HL. Therefore, moisture or oxygen can be prevented from flowing into the OLED from the through-hole TP, and damage to the OLED can be prevented. However, the structure that disconnects the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c is not limited to this. Various structures that disconnect the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c can be applied to the display panel 10.

[0218] The first dam section DAM1 and the second dam section DAM2 can be disposed on the second inorganic layer PVX2. The first dam section DAM1 and the second dam section DAM2 can protrude from the second inorganic layer PVX2 toward the thickness direction of the substrate 100. The first dam section DAM1 and the second dam section DAM2 can be disposed adjacent to the through section TP.

[0219] A first dam portion DAM1 can be disposed on a first pixel region PA1. In one embodiment, the first dam portion DAM1 can surround a first organic light-emitting diode OLED1. The first dam portion DAM1 can be configured to be closer to the through portion TP than the aperture HL. The first dam portion DAM1 may include a first pattern layer 118D1 and a first upper pattern layer 119D1. In one embodiment, the first pattern layer 118D1 may include the same material as the pixel defining film 118. The first upper pattern layer 119D1 may include an organic insulator and / or an inorganic insulator.

[0220] The second dam portion DAM2 can be disposed on the second pixel region PA2. In one embodiment, the second dam portion DAM2 can surround the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2. The second dam portion DAM2 can be configured to be closer to the through portion TP than the aperture HL. The second dam portion DAM2 may include a second pattern layer 118D2 and a second upper pattern layer 119D2. In one embodiment, the second pattern layer 118D2 may include the same material as the pixel defining film 118 and the first pattern layer 118D1. The pixel defining film 118, the first pattern layer 118D1, and the second pattern layer 118D2 can be formed simultaneously. The second upper pattern layer 119D2 may include an organic insulator and / or an inorganic insulator. The second upper pattern layer 119D2 may include the same material as the first upper pattern layer 119D1. The first upper pattern layer 119D1 and the second upper pattern layer 119D2 can be formed simultaneously. In some embodiments, at least one of the first dam portion DAM1 and the second dam portion DAM2 may be omitted.

[0221] The encapsulation layer ENL can cover the first organic light-emitting diode OLED1 and the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2. The encapsulation layer ENL can be disposed on the counter electrode 213. The encapsulation layer ENL can be separated therebetween by sandwiching the through portion TP. In one embodiment, the encapsulation layer ENL may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. In one embodiment, Figure 9 The illustration shows a case where the encapsulation layer ENL comprises a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, an organic encapsulation layer 320, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 stacked sequentially.

[0222] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can cover the organic light-emitting diode (OLED). The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can cover the substrate 100 entirely and continuously. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can cover the first OLED1, the aperture HL, the first dam DAM1, the second dam DAM2, and the second OLED2. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the protruding top PT of the second inorganic layer PVX2. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the first inorganic layer PVX1. Therefore, moisture or oxygen can be prevented from flowing into the OLED through the through-hole TP via the organic material layer. Furthermore, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can be separated based on the through-hole TP.

[0223] An organic encapsulation layer 320 can be disposed on the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310. The organic encapsulation layer 320 can overlap with the first organic light-emitting diode (OLED1) and the second organic light-emitting diode (OLED2), and the organic encapsulation layer 320 can fill the via HL. In one embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be separated with reference to the through-port TP. For example, the organic encapsulation layer 320 overlapping with the first organic light-emitting diode OLED1 can extend to the first dam DAM1. The organic encapsulation layer 320 overlapping with the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 can extend to the second dam DAM2. The first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 protrude from the upper surface of the second inorganic layer PVX2 in the thickness direction of the substrate 100, thus allowing control over the flow of the organic encapsulation layer 320.

[0224] The second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can cover the organic encapsulation layer 320. The second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can cover the substrate 100 entirely and continuously. The second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can contact the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 on the first dam portion DAM1 and the second dam portion DAM2. Therefore, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be separated through the first dam portion DAM1 and the second dam portion DAM2. Furthermore, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can be separated based on the through portion TP.

[0225] The following explains the control reference. Figures 1 to 9 Various embodiments of a control method for a display device 1 to bend a display panel 10 are described.

[0226] Figure 10 It is a three-dimensional view schematically representing the shape of the display device 1 before it is bent. Figure 11a and Figure 11b It is a three-dimensional view schematically representing the shape of the display device 1 after it has been bent. Figure 11a This is a perspective view showing the front surface of the display unit 1100. Figure 11b This is a perspective view of the back of the display unit 1100.

[0227] Reference Figure 10 An image can be displayed in the display area DA of the display panel 10. The display panel 10 may include edge positions. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the x direction or the -x direction) and a second edge position EG2 extending in a second direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction).

[0228] In one embodiment, when the first edge position EG1 extends in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and the second edge position EG2 extends in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction), the display area DA of the display panel 10 can be a flat plane. When the display area DA is a flat plane, distortion can be prevented or reduced when multiple users view the image displayed on the display area DA. Furthermore, even when viewing the image of the display device 1 from various angles, distortion perceived by the user can be prevented or reduced.

[0229] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information corresponding to the operation of a remote control connected to the display device 1. In other embodiments, the information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information corresponding to the voice signal of a user viewing the image. In yet another embodiment, the information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information related to the type of content included in the image. In yet another embodiment, the information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be the location information of at least one user viewing the image. For example, the location information of the at least one user may be the location information of one user. As another example, the location information of the at least one user may be the location information of multiple users. A detailed description of the information used to bend the display panel 10 will be given later.

[0230] Reference Figure 11a and Figure 11bThe controller 1700 can consider the obtained information to bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 each have curvature. In one embodiment, when the display panel 10 is bent, the first edge position EG1 may have curvature. In this case, the position of a point of the second edge position EG2 may be changed in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). The position of a point of the second edge position EG2 may be changed in a direction closer to the center of the display panel 10. Furthermore, the position of a point of the second edge position EG2 may be changed in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). In particular, the position of a point of the second edge position EG2 may be changed in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). Figure 11a and Figure 11b The z-direction is changed.

[0231] In one embodiment, when the display panel 10 is bent, the second edge position EG2 may have curvature. In this case, the position of a point on the first edge position EG1 may be changed in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). The position of a point on the first edge position EG1 may be changed in a direction closer to the center of the display panel 10. Furthermore, the position of a point on the first edge position EG1 may be changed in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). In particular, the position of a point on the first edge position EG1 may be... Figure 11a and Figure 11b The z-direction is altered. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be changed to a concave shape. In this case, the sense of presence and / or immersion experienced by the user viewing the image displayed in the display area DA can be increased.

[0232] This concludes the explanation of the case where the display panel 10 is changed from a flat shape to a recessed shape, but the display panel 10 can also be changed from a recessed shape to a flat shape.

[0233] In embodiments of the present invention, the display panel 10 may include a flat state and a state in which the display panel 10 is bent into a concave shape. Therefore, the size of the space occupied by the display device 1 can be adjusted.

[0234] Embodiments of the present invention may take into account the information obtained by the controller 1700 to bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 respectively have curvature. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can provide users with various viewing experiences based on the obtained information, and can diversify the effective utilization of the display device 1.

[0235] Reference Figure 11bThe housing assembly 20 can bend the display panel 10. The housing assembly 20 can bend the display panel 10 from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). The first edge position EG1 of the bent display panel 10 can have curvature.

[0236] In this specification, bending a constituent element from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) means that the cross section of the constituent element intersecting a plane (e.g., the xz plane) extending in the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) and the third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) is bent concavely or convexly.

[0237] The housing assembly 20 can bend the display panel 10 from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). In this case, the second edge position EG2 of the bent display panel 10 can have curvature.

[0238] In this specification, bending a constituent element from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) means that the cross section of the constituent element intersecting a plane (e.g., the yz plane) extending in the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) and the third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) is bent concavely or convexly.

[0239] The first housing 21 can extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and can be configured behind the display panel 10. The first housing 21 can be bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). The first housing 21 can be bent under the control of the controller 1700. Therefore, the first housing 21 can bend the display panel 10 from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). Furthermore, the first housing 21 can bend the display panel 10 so that the first edge position EG1 has curvature.

[0240] The second housing 23 can extend in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) and can be configured behind the display panel 10. The second housing 23 can be bent from the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). The second housing 23 can be bent under the control of the controller 1700. Therefore, the second housing 23 can cause the display panel 10 to bend from the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). Furthermore, the second housing 23 can cause the display panel 10 to bend so that the second edge position EG2 has curvature.

[0241] In one embodiment, the line 27 can bend the first housing 21 and / or the second housing 23. For example, the first housing 21 and / or the second housing 23 can be bent when the line 27 is contracted or when the length of the line 27 is shortened by a motor.

[0242] In one embodiment, the plurality of support members 25 may extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). In another embodiment, the plurality of support members 25 may be spaced apart from each other along a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction).

[0243] Multiple support members 25 can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). In one embodiment, the first housing 21 can be bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). For example, when the first housing 21 is bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction), the multiple support members 25 are also bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent from the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction).

[0244] At least one of the plurality of support members 25 is movable in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). For example, the support member 25 adjacent to the first edge position EG1 is movable in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). In one embodiment, the second housing 23 can move at least one of the plurality of support members 25 in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). For example, when the second housing 23 is bent from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction), at least one of the plurality of support members 25 can move in a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction). Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent from the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction).

[0245] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10 and bend the display panel 10 in consideration of the obtained information. The controller 1700 may include a first drive unit 1710 and a second drive unit 1730.

[0246] The first drive unit 1710 can control the housing assembly 20. In one embodiment, the first drive unit 1710 can control the bending of the first housing 21 and / or the second housing 23. In one embodiment, the first drive unit 1710 may include a motor. The motor can cause the wire 27 to contract or wind around to reduce the length of the wire 27.

[0247] In one embodiment, the first drive unit 1710 may include multiple motors. The multiple motors can control the bending of the first housing 21 and the second housing 23, respectively. In one embodiment, the multiple motors can control the bending of one housing. For example, when multiple motors control the first housing 21, the bending of both ends of the first housing 21 can be adjusted independently. As another example, when multiple motors control the second housing 23, the bending of both ends of the second housing 23 can be controlled independently. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent in various shapes.

[0248] The second drive unit 1730 can control the display unit 1100 to rotate about a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) as an axis. In one embodiment, the second drive unit 1730 may include a motor. The motor can rotate the display unit 1100 about a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) as an axis. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be rotated about a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) as an axis by the controller 1700.

[0249] Figure 12a It is Figure 11aA cross-sectional view of the curved display panel 10 along line EE′. Figure 12b It is Figure 11a A cross-sectional view of the curved display panel 10 along the FF′ line. Figure 12c It is Figure 11a A cross-sectional view of the curved display panel 10 along line GG′. Figures 12a to 12c In, with Figure 4 The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0250] Combination Figure 4 For reference Figures 12a to 12c The display panel 10 may include a display area DA. In the curved display panel 10, the display area DA may have a recessed shape. The display area DA may include a central display area CTDA and a corner display area CDA. The central display area CTDA may be disposed at the center of the display panel 10. The corner display area CDA may be disposed between the corner CN where the central display area CTDA meets the edge of the display panel 10.

[0251] The display panel 10 may include multiple corner display areas CDA. For example, the display panel 10 may include a first corner display area CDA1, a second corner display area CDA2, a third corner display area CDA3, and a fourth corner display area CDA4.

[0252] The corner display area CDA may have a first direction curvature and a second direction curvature. In this specification, the first direction curvature may be defined as the curvature of a cross section (e.g., xz section) in a first direction (e.g., the x direction or -x direction). The second direction curvature may be defined as the curvature of a cross section (e.g., yz section) in a second direction (e.g., the y direction or -y direction).

[0253] In one embodiment, the first corner display area CDA1 may have a first curvature C11 in a first direction and a first curvature C12 in a second direction. In one embodiment, the second corner display area CDA2 may have a second curvature C21 in a first direction and a second curvature C22 in a second direction. In one embodiment, the third corner display area CDA3 may have a third curvature in a first direction and a third curvature in a second direction. In one embodiment, the fourth corner display area CDA4 may have a fourth curvature in a first direction and a fourth curvature in a second direction.

[0254] Therefore, the bent display panel 10 may appear concave when viewed from a cross-section (e.g., xz section) in a first direction (e.g., the x direction or -x direction). The bent display panel 10 may also appear concave when viewed from a cross-section (e.g., yz section) in a second direction (e.g., the y direction or -y direction).

[0255] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of corner display areas (CDA) may not have a first directional curvature. In another embodiment, at least one of the plurality of corner display areas (CDA) may not have a second directional curvature.

[0256] In one embodiment, the first-direction curvature of any one of the plurality of corner display areas CDA can be the same as the first-direction curvature of another of the plurality of corner display areas CDA. For example, the first-direction first curvature C11 of the first corner display area CDA1 can be the same as the first-direction second curvature C21 of the second corner display area CDA2. In other embodiments, the first-direction curvature of any one of the plurality of corner display areas CDA can be different from the first-direction curvature of another of the plurality of corner display areas CDA. For example, the first-direction first curvature C11 of the first corner display area CDA1 can be different from the first-direction second curvature C21 of the second corner display area CDA2. The first-direction first curvature C11 of the first corner display area CDA1 can be less than or greater than the first-direction second curvature C21 of the second corner display area CDA2. The first-direction curvatures of the plurality of corner display areas CDA can be controlled by the controller 1700. Figure 11b The first housing 21 is used for adjustment.

[0257] In one embodiment, the second-direction curvature of any one of the plurality of corner display areas CDA can be the same as the second-direction curvature of another of the plurality of corner display areas CDA. For example, the second-direction first curvature C12 of the first corner display area CDA1 can be the same as the second-direction second curvature C22 of the second corner display area CDA2. In other embodiments, the first-direction curvature of any one of the plurality of corner display areas CDA can be different from the first-direction curvature of another of the plurality of corner display areas CDA. For example, the second-direction first curvature C12 of the first corner display area CDA1 can be different from the second-direction second curvature C22 of the second corner display area CDA2. The second-direction first curvature C12 of the first corner display area CDA1 can be less than or greater than the second-direction second curvature C22 of the second corner display area CDA2. The second-direction curvature of the plurality of corner display areas CDA can be controlled by the controller 1700. Figure 11b The second housing 23 is used for adjustment.

[0258] The display panel 10 may include structures and / or materials capable of being stretched and / or contracted. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction) and can be bent from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). The controller 1700 can control the first housing 21 and the second housing 23 to bend the display panel 10 into various shapes.

[0259] Figure 13 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the display area of ​​a bent display panel 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 13 In, with Figure 7 The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0260] Reference Figure 13 The display panel 10 may have a through portion TP extending through the display panel 10. No components of the display panel 10 may be disposed in the through portion TP. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be stretched and / or contracted without damage.

[0261] In one embodiment, the shape of the through portion TP in the bent display panel 10 can be deformed. In the bent display panel 10, the angle θ′ between the edge position CAE1 of the first connecting region CA1 and the edge position PAE2 of the second pixel region PA2 can be changed, the area or shape of the separating region V′ can be changed, and the position of the pixel region PA can also be changed.

[0262] By changing the aforementioned angle θ′, increasing the area of ​​the separating region V′, and / or deforming its shape, each pixel region PA can be rotated at a predetermined angle. Through the rotation of each pixel region PA, the interval between pixel regions PA (e.g., the first interval d1′ and the second interval d2′) can vary with position.

[0263] A bent display panel 10 can generate stress in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction), a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction), and / or a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). When the display panel 10 has a through-hole TP, the shape of the through-hole TP can be deformed in the bent display panel 10, reducing stress in the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction), the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction), and / or the third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). Therefore, damage to the display panel 10 can be prevented or reduced.

[0264] Figure 14a and Figure 14bThis diagram illustrates an embodiment of the present invention where the display panel 10 is bent by considering information corresponding to the operation of a remote control. Figure 14a and Figure 14b In, with Figure 10 and Figure 11a The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0265] Reference Figure 14a and Figure 14b An image can be displayed in the display area DA of the display panel 10. The display panel 10 may include edge positions. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the x direction or the -x direction) and a second edge position EG2 extending in a second direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction).

[0266] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 connected to the display device 1. Here, the information corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 may be an output signal generated corresponding to the operation of a user who selects a button or menu on the remote control 1410 to bend the display panel 10.

[0267] The controller 1700 can take into account information corresponding to the operation of the remote controller 1410 to bend the display panel 10, and can control the display panel 10 to display an image.

[0268] Reference Figure 14a The information corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 may be a first output signal corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 by a user who selects the first button 1411 of the remote control 1410. The controller 1700 may obtain the first output signal to bend the display panel 10, and control the display panel 10 to bend and display an image in consideration of the obtained first output signal. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 may control the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 to extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction), respectively. Therefore, the display panel 10 may be flat.

[0269] Reference Figure 14bThe information corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 may be a second output signal corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 by a user who selects the second button 1413 of the remote control 1410. The controller 1700 may obtain the second output signal to bend the display panel 10, and take into account the obtained second output signal to control the display panel 10 to bend and display an image. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 may take into account the second output signal to bend the display panel 10 such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 respectively have curvature.

[0270] Figure 14b This describes a case where there is only one second button 1413; however, in other embodiments, there may be multiple second buttons 1413. In this case, the information corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 may be a second output signal corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 by a user who selects at least one of the multiple second buttons 1413. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 may consider the second output signal corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 by a user who selects at least one of the multiple second buttons 1413 to control the degree to which the display panel 10 is bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). In one embodiment, the controller 1700 may consider the second output signal corresponding to the operation of the remote control 1410 by a user who selects another of the multiple second buttons 1413 to control the degree to which the display panel 10 is bent from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). Therefore, the user can view images displayed on the display panel 10, which is bent in various shapes.

[0271] Figure 15a and Figure 15b This diagram illustrates an embodiment of the present invention where the display panel 10 is bent by considering information corresponding to the user's voice signal. Figure 15a and Figure 15b In, with Figure 14a and Figure 14b The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0272] Reference Figure 15a and Figure 15b An image can be displayed in the display area DA of the display panel 10. The display panel 10 may include edge positions. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the x direction or the -x direction) and a second edge position EG2 extending in a second direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction).

[0273] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information corresponding to the audio signal of the user viewing the image.

[0274] The controller 1700 can obtain information corresponding to the user's voice signal in order to bend the display panel 10, and take into account the obtained information corresponding to the user's voice signal to control the display panel 10 to bend and display an image.

[0275] Reference Figure 15a The user's voice signal can be a pre-set first voice signal. For example, the pre-set first voice signal can be a voice signal that implies a desired flat image display. In this case, the controller 1700 can control the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 to extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) and a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction), respectively. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be flat.

[0276] Reference Figure 15b The user's voice signal can be a pre-set second voice signal. For example, the pre-set second voice signal could be a voice signal meaning "Please provide the image with a curved surface." Alternatively, the pre-set second voice signal could be a voice signal meaning "Please provide the image only to me." In this case, the controller 1700 can take the obtained information into account to control the bending of the display panel 10, such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 each have curvature.

[0277] Figure 16a and Figure 16b This diagram illustrates an embodiment of the present invention where the display panel 10 is bent taking into account the types of content included in the image. Figure 16a and Figure 16b In, with Figure 14a and Figure 14b The same symbol represents the same component, so repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0278] Reference Figure 16a and Figure 16b An image can be displayed in the display area DA of the display panel 10. The display panel 10 may include edge positions. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the x direction or the -x direction) and a second edge position EG2 extending in a second direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction).

[0279] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be related to the type of content included in the image. In one embodiment, the information related to the type of content included in the image can be obtained from metadata of the content included in the image.

[0280] Reference Figure 16a The content included in the image can be a pre-defined first content category. For example, the pre-defined first content category could be that the image includes at least one of the following: news, telephone shopping, or a TV series. In this case, the controller 1700 can control the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 to extend in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction), respectively. Therefore, the display panel 10 can be flat.

[0281] Reference Figure 16b The content included in the image can be a pre-defined second content category. For example, the pre-defined second content category could be that the image includes at least one content from movies and games. In this case, the controller 1700 can take the obtained information into account to control the display panel 10 to bend, such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 each have curvature.

[0282] Figure 17 , Figure 18 as well as Figures 19a to 19c This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention in which the display panel 10 is bent taking into account the user's position. Figure 17 , Figure 18 as well as Figures 19a to 19c This represents the xz section of the display panel 10.

[0283] Reference Figure 17 An image can be displayed in the display area DA of the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. In one embodiment, the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may be configured at both ends of the first display area DA1 in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction).

[0284] The display panel 10 may include an edge location. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge location extending in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). Figure 17 , Figure 18 as well as Figures 19a to 19c(not shown in the image) and a second edge position EG2 extending in a second direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction).

[0285] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information regarding the position of at least one user. In one embodiment, the user's position may be defined as the position of the user's head relative to the display panel 10.

[0286] In one embodiment, the location information of the at least one user may be the location information of one user. In other embodiments, the location information of the at least one user may be the location information of multiple users.

[0287] In one embodiment, the controller 1700 may use a position sensor of the display device 1 to obtain information about the user's position. The position sensor may be, for example, a laser displacement sensor, an ultrasonic displacement sensor, etc.

[0288] The controller 1700 can consider information about the user's position to bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position and the second edge position EG2 each have a curvature. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 can consider information set by the user to bend the display panel 10, such that it has a preset curvature at the first edge position and a preset curvature at the second edge position EG2. For example, if the position of the at least one user is a single user's position information, the controller 1700 can bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position and the second edge position EG2 each have a curvature. As another example, if the position information of the at least one user is the position information of multiple users, the controller 1700 can maintain the display panel 10 in a flat shape. As yet another example, if the position information of the at least one user is the position information of multiple users, the controller 1700 can consider any one of the multiple user position information to bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position and the second edge position EG2 each have a curvature.

[0289] In one embodiment, the controller 1700 can bend the display panel 10 so that the center of curvature CT of the display panel 10 is aligned with the user's position. The center of curvature CT of the display panel 10 can be the center of curvature at a first edge position and the center of curvature at a second edge position EG2.

[0290] Reference Figure 18The user's position can be changed. In one embodiment, the user's position can be changed in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and / or a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or the -z-direction).

[0291] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 can compare information about the user's position with a preset center of curvature CT of the display panel 10.

[0292] Reference Figures 19a to 19c If the information about the user's position is inconsistent with the preset curvature center CT of the display panel 10, the controller 1700 can make the information about the user's position consistent with the curvature center CT of the display panel 10.

[0293] Reference Figure 19a The controller 1700 can rotate the display panel 10 about an axis AX in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction).

[0294] Reference Figure 19b and Figure 19c The controller 1700 may take into account the obtained information to bend the display panel 10 so that the first edge position and the second edge position EG2 respectively have curvature.

[0295] Reference Figure 19b When the distance from the user to the display panel 10 increases, at least one of the curvature of the first edge position and the curvature of the second edge position EG2 can decrease. The distance from the user to the display panel 10 can be defined as the distance from the center of the display panel 10 to the user's position. In this case, the curvature of the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3 can decrease. That is, the degree to which the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3 are bent can decrease relatively. In other embodiments, when the distance from the user to the display panel 10 decreases, at least one of the curvature of the first edge position and the curvature of the second edge position EG2 can increase. In this case, the curvature of the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3 can increase. That is, the degree to which the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3 are bent can increase relatively.

[0296] Reference Figure 19cThe controller 1700 can take into account information about the user's position to bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position and the second edge position EG2 each have curvature. In one embodiment, the curvature of the second display area DA2 and the curvature of the third display area DA3 can be different from each other. For example, the second display area DA2 may not be bent, while the third display area DA3 may be bent.

[0297] Display panel 10 can rotate about an axis AX in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction), but the range of rotation of display panel 10 can be limited. In this embodiment, controller 1700 can take into account information about the user's position to bend display panel 10. In particular, controller 1700 can bend display panel 10 such that the curvature of the second display area DA2 and the curvature of the third display area DA3 are different from each other. Therefore, even if the user is in a location beyond the range of rotation of display panel 10, the user can still view the image.

[0298] Figure 20 , Figure 21a and Figure 21b This is a diagram illustrating a case where the display panel 10 is bent taking into account the user's position, according to other embodiments of the present invention. Figure 20 , Figure 21a and 21b This represents the yz section of the display panel.

[0299] Reference Figure 20 An image can be displayed in the display area DA of the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the display area DA may include a middle display area MDA, an upper display area UDA, and a lower display area LDA. The upper display area UDA and the lower display area LDA may be configured at both ends of the middle display area MDA in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction).

[0300] The display panel 10 may include edge positions. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and a second edge position extending in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). Figure 20 , Figure 21a and Figure 21b (Not shown in the image).

[0301] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information regarding the position of at least one user. In one embodiment, the user's position may be defined as the position of the user's head relative to the display panel 10.

[0302] The controller 1700 can take into account information about the user's position to bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position each have curvature. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 can take into account information set by the user to bend the display panel 10, such that it has a preset curvature at the first edge position EG1 and a preset curvature at the second edge position.

[0303] In one embodiment, the controller 1700 can bend the display panel 10 so that the center of curvature CT of the display panel 10 is aligned with the user's position. In one embodiment, the center of curvature CT of the display panel 10 can be the center of curvature at a first edge position EG1 and the center of curvature at a second edge position.

[0304] Reference Figure 21a and Figure 21b The user's position can be changed. In one embodiment, the user's position can be changed in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The controller 1700 can consider the obtained information to bend the display panel 10 such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position each have curvature. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 can consider the obtained information to change the curvature of the second edge position. In this case, the upper curvature UC of the upper display area UDA and the lower curvature LC of the lower display area LDA can be changed to be different from each other. In one embodiment, the upper curvature UC of the upper display area UDA and the lower curvature LC of the lower display area LDA can be changed so that the user's position coincides with the curvature center CT of the display panel 10.

[0305] Reference Figure 21a The user's location can be Figure 21a The curvature UC of the upper display area UDA may be relatively smaller than the lower curvature LC of the lower display area LDA.

[0306] Reference Figure 21b The user's location can be Figure 21b The curvature is changed in the -y direction. In one embodiment, the upper curvature UC of the upper display area UDA can be relatively larger than the lower curvature LC of the lower display area LDA.

[0307] Figures 22a to 22c This is a diagram illustrating a case where the display panel 10 is bent taking into account the user's position, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23a It is Figure 22c The display panel 10 is a cross-sectional view along the HH′ line. Figure 23b It is Figure 22c The display panel 10 is shown in cross-section along line II′. Figure 23c It is Figure 22c The display panel 10 is a cross-sectional view shown along line JJ′.

[0308] Reference Figure 22a An image can be displayed in the display area DA of the display panel 10. The display area DA may include a central display area CTDA and a corner display area CDA. The central display area CTDA may be configured at the center of the display panel 10. The corner display area CDA may be configured between the central display area CTDA and the corner CN where the edge of the display panel 10 meets.

[0309] The display panel 10 may include multiple corner display areas CDA. For example, the display panel 10 may include a first corner display area CDA1, a second corner display area CDA2, a third corner display area CDA3, and a fourth corner display area CDA4.

[0310] The display panel 10 may include edge positions. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a first edge position EG1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and a second edge position EG2 extending in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction).

[0311] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may be information regarding the position of at least one user. In one embodiment, the user's position may be defined as the position of the user's head relative to the display panel 10.

[0312] Reference Figure 22b and Figure 22c The controller 1700 can consider information about the user's position to bend the display panel 10, such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 each have a curvature. In one embodiment, the controller 1700 can consider information set by the user to bend the display panel 10, such that it has a preset curvature for the first edge position EG1 and a preset curvature for the second edge position EG2. In one embodiment, in the bent display panel 10, the display area DA may have a concave shape.

[0313] Reference Figure 22c and Figures 23a to 23c The user's position can be changed. In one embodiment, the user's position can be changed in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). For example, in Figure 22cThe image shows how the user's position is changed in the -x and -y directions.

[0314] The controller 1700 can obtain information to bend the display panel 10. The controller 1700 can take the obtained information into account to bend the display panel 10 such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 each have curvature.

[0315] The corner display area CDA may have a first directional curvature in a cross section (e.g., xz section) in a first direction (e.g., x direction or -x direction) and a second directional curvature in a cross section (e.g., yz section) in a second direction (e.g., y direction or -y direction).

[0316] In one embodiment, the first corner display area CDA1 may have a first curvature C11 in a first direction and a first curvature C12 in a second direction. In one embodiment, the second corner display area CDA2 may have a second curvature C21 in a first direction and a second curvature C22 in a second direction. In one embodiment, the third corner display area CDA3 may have a third curvature in a first direction and a third curvature C32 in a second direction. In one embodiment, the fourth corner display area CDA4 may have a fourth curvature in a first direction and a fourth curvature C42 in a second direction.

[0317] In one embodiment, the first-direction curvature of any one of the plurality of corner display areas CDA may differ from the first-direction curvature of another of the plurality of corner display areas CDA. For example, the first-direction first curvature C11 of the first corner display area CDA1 may differ from the first-direction second curvature C21 of the second corner display area CDA2. The first-direction first curvature C11 of the first corner display area CDA1 may be greater than the first-direction second curvature C21 of the second corner display area CDA2.

[0318] The second-direction curvature of any one of the multiple corner display areas CDA can be different from the second-direction curvature of another of the multiple corner display areas CDA. For example, the first curvature C12 of the second direction of the first corner display area CDA1 can be greater than the fourth curvature C42 of the second direction of the fourth corner display area CDA4. The second curvature C22 of the second direction of the second corner display area CDA2 can be greater than the third curvature C32 of the second direction of the third corner display area CDA3.

[0319] The display panel 10 of embodiments of the present invention can be bent from a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or -x-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction), and can be bent from a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or -y-direction) toward a third direction (e.g., the z-direction or -z-direction). This bending is possible because the display panel 10 is a stretchable display panel that can be stretched and / or contracted.

[0320] Furthermore, the controller 1700 can take into account the information obtained to make the display panel 10 bend into various shapes. Therefore, various viewing experiences can be provided to the user viewing the image through the display area DA, and the image distortion perceived by the user can be reduced.

[0321] In some embodiments, the information obtained to bend the display panel 10 may include, along with the position information of at least one user viewing the image, at least one of the following: information corresponding to the operation of a remote control connected to the display device, information corresponding to the voice signal of the user viewing the image, and information related to the type of content included in the image. In this case, the controller 1700 may take the obtained information into account to bend the display panel 10 such that the first edge position EG1 and the second edge position EG2 each have curvature.

[0322] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0323] Reference Figure 24 An image can be displayed in the display area of ​​the display panel (S100), wherein the display panel includes a first edge position extending in a first direction and a second edge position extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0324] Then, information can be obtained by bending the display panel (S200).

[0325] Then, the obtained information can be used to bend the display panel so that the first edge position and the second edge position each have curvature (S300).

[0326] The invention described above has been illustrated with reference to one embodiment, but this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications and variations of the embodiment can be achieved. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention should be determined solely by the technical concept of the claims.

Claims

1. A display device comprising: The display panel includes a first edge position extending in a first direction and a second edge position extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and includes a display area for displaying an image; The controller obtains information to bend the display panel, and, taking into account the obtained information, controls the display panel to bend and display the image. A housing assembly, disposed behind the display panel, is controlled by the controller to bend the display panel. The housing assembly includes: A first housing extends in the first direction, and the display panel bends from the first direction toward a third direction that intersects the first and second directions by contracting a line located inside the first housing. as well as A second housing extends in the second direction, and the display panel bends from the second direction toward the third direction by contracting a line located inside the second housing. In the bent display panel, the first edge position and the second edge position each have curvature.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display area includes a central display area and corner display areas disposed between the central display area and the corners where the first edge position and the second edge position meet. In the bent display panel, the corner display area is bent from the first direction toward a third direction that intersects the first and second directions, and from the second direction toward the third direction.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The corner display area includes a first corner display area and a second corner display area. In the bent display panel, The first corner display area has a first curvature in a first direction on the cross-section in the first direction and a first curvature in a second direction on the cross-section in the second direction. The second corner display area has a second curvature in a first direction on the cross-section in the first direction and a second curvature in a second direction on the cross-section in the second direction. The first curvature in the first direction and the second curvature in the first direction are different.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The information obtained to bend the display panel is at least one of the following: information corresponding to the operation of the remote control connected to the display device, information corresponding to the voice signal of the user viewing the image, and information related to the type of content included in the image.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The information obtained by bending the display panel is the position information of at least one user viewing the image.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The housing assembly further includes: a plurality of support members that support the display panel and extend in the first direction, and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The first housing causes the plurality of supports to bend from the first direction toward the third direction.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The housing assembly further includes: a plurality of support members that support the display panel and extend in the first direction, and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The second housing causes at least one of the plurality of supports to move upward in the third party.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The housing assembly further includes: a plurality of support members that support the display panel and extend in the first direction, and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The display device further includes a pad layer located between the display panel and the plurality of support members.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel has a through portion that extends through the display panel.

10. A method for controlling a display device, comprising: The step of displaying an image in the display area of ​​a display panel, wherein the display panel includes a first edge position extending along a first direction and a second edge position extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction; The step of obtaining information by bending the display panel; The step of taking into account the obtained information to bend the display panel so that the first edge position and the second edge position respectively have curvature; The step of bending the first housing, which is located behind the display panel and extends in the first direction, from the first direction toward a third direction intersecting the first and second directions by contracting the lines located inside the first housing; and The step of bending the second housing, which is located behind the display panel and extends in the second direction, from the second direction toward the third direction by shrinking the line located inside the second housing.

11. The control method for the display device according to claim 10, wherein, The display area includes: a central display area; and corner display areas, disposed between the central display area and the corners where the first edge position and the second edge position meet. The steps of bending the display panel include: The step of bending the corner display area from the first direction toward a third direction intersecting the first and second directions; and The step of bending the corner display area from the second direction toward the third direction.

12. The control method for the display device according to claim 11, wherein, The corner display area includes a first corner display area and a second corner display area. The first corner display area has a first curvature in a first direction on the cross-section in the first direction and a first curvature in a second direction on the cross-section in the second direction. The second corner display area has a second curvature in a first direction on the cross-section in the first direction and a second curvature in a second direction on the cross-section in the second direction. The first curvature in the first direction and the second curvature in the first direction are different.

13. The control method for the display device according to claim 10, wherein, The information obtained to bend the display panel is at least one of the following: information corresponding to the operation of the remote control connected to the display device, information corresponding to the voice signal of the user viewing the image, and information related to the type of content included in the image.

14. The control method for the display device according to claim 10, wherein, The information obtained by bending the display panel is the position information of at least one user viewing the image.

15. The control method for the display device according to claim 10, further comprising: The step of bending a plurality of support members that support the display panel and extend in the first direction and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction from the first direction toward the third direction.

16. The control method for the display device according to claim 10, further comprising: The step of moving at least one of a plurality of supports that support the display panel and extend in the first direction and are spaced apart from each other in the second direction upward in the third party.

17. The control method for the display device according to claim 10, further comprising: The step of rotating the display panel about the second direction as an axis.

18. The control method for the display device according to claim 10, further comprising: The step of deforming the shape of the through portion that penetrates the display panel.

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