Display module and display device including the same

Abstract

A display module and a display apparatus including the same are disclosed. The display module includes a display panel; and a metal foam layer in which a plurality of holes are formed, wherein each of the display panel and the metal foam layer has at least one bendable area, and wherein at least one perforation pattern is formed in the at least one bendable area of the metal foam layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display module and a display device including the display module, and more specifically, to a display module and a display device including the display module that can reduce stress concentration caused by bending of the display module. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices that display various information on a screen are a key technology in the information and communication age, and are developing towards higher performance while being thinner, lighter, and more portable.

[0003] Recently, with the development of display technology, foldable display devices are being developed. Such foldable display devices can be applied to various electronic devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Furthermore, foldable displays may be damaged when stress is concentrated on the bending area due to their bending.

[0005] Therefore, the applicant of this disclosure has invented a display module and display device that can reduce stress concentration caused by bending.

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a display module that can reduce stress concentration caused by bending in a bendable region, and a display device including the display module.

[0007] In addition, another object of this disclosure is to provide a display module that can improve rigidity and heat dissipation performance, and a display device including the display module.

[0008] Furthermore, another object of this disclosure is to provide a display module that can reduce the cost of each component, and a display device including the display module.

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the objectives described above. Other objectives and advantages not mentioned in this disclosure may be understood based on the following description and may become clearer based on embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, it will be readily understood that the objectives and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved using the means set forth in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the display module includes a display panel and a metal foam layer, and at least one perforated pattern is formed in a portion of the metal foam layer corresponding to a flexible region.

[0011] A display module according to one embodiment includes a display panel and a metal foam layer, wherein an organic material layer is included in a bendable region such that the bendable region has a modulus lower than that of the inflexible region.

[0012] A display module according to one embodiment includes: a display panel; and a metal foam layer having a plurality of holes formed therein, wherein each of the display panel and the metal foam layer has at least one flexible region, and wherein at least one perforation pattern is formed in at least one flexible region of the metal foam layer.

[0013] A display device according to one embodiment includes a display module, wherein the display module includes: a display panel; and a metal foam layer having a plurality of holes formed therein, wherein each of the display panel and the metal foam layer has at least one flexible region, and wherein at least one perforation pattern is formed in at least one flexible region of the metal foam layer.

[0014] A display module according to one embodiment includes: a display panel; and a metal foam layer having a plurality of pores, wherein each of the display panel and the metal foam layer has a flexible region and a non-flexible region, and wherein the flexible region includes an organic material layer such that the flexible region has a modulus lower than that of the non-flexible region.

[0015] A display device according to one embodiment includes a display module, wherein the display module includes: a display panel; and a metal foam layer having a plurality of pores, wherein each of the display panel and the metal foam layer has a flexible region and a non-flexible region, and wherein the flexible region includes an organic material layer such that the flexible region has a modulus lower than that of the non-flexible region.

[0016] In the display module and the display device including the display module according to the embodiment, at least one perforation pattern is formed in a portion of the metal foam layer corresponding to the bendable region, thereby reducing stress concentration caused by bending in the bendable region.

[0017] Furthermore, in the display module and the display device including the display module according to the embodiment, an organic material layer is included in the bendable region, such that the bendable region has a low modulus, thereby reducing stress concentration caused by bending in the bendable region.

[0018] Furthermore, the display module and the display device including the display module according to the embodiment can have improved rigidity and heat dissipation performance because a metal foam layer with multiple pores is disposed at the bottom of the display panel.

[0019] Furthermore, in the display module and the display device including the display module according to the embodiment, a metal foam layer is applied to the lower part of the display panel and a perforation pattern is formed in the flexible area of ​​the metal foam layer, so that a portion of its cost can be reduced due to the perforation.

[0020] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a diagram of a display module and a display device including the display module according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figures 3 to 6 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown is along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module according to the second to fifth embodiments.

[0024] Figures 7 to 9 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown is along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module according to the sixth to eighth embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as the methods for achieving these advantages and features, will be described later in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 1 The embodiments described in detail below will become apparent. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. Therefore, these embodiments have been set forth only to complete this disclosure and to fully convey the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, and this disclosure is limited only by the scope of the claims.

[0026] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, numbers, etc., disclosed in the accompanying drawings used to describe embodiments of this disclosure are exemplary, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements herein. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, descriptions and details of well-known steps and elements have been omitted. Moreover, numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description of this disclosure to provide a thorough understanding of it. However, it should be understood that this disclosure can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of this disclosure.

[0027] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and “including” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, components, and / or portions thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. When a statement such as “at least one of…” appears after a list of elements, it may modify the entire list of elements and may not modify individual elements in the list. Errors or tolerances may occur in the interpretation of numerical values, even when no explicit description is available.

[0028] Furthermore, it should be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as existing "on" a second element or layer, the first element may be directly disposed on the second element or may be indirectly disposed on the second element, wherein a third element or layer is disposed between the first element or layer and the second element or layer. It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on the other element or layer, connected to or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediate elements or layers may exist. Additionally, it should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between two elements or layers," it may be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intermediate elements or layers may also exist.

[0029] Furthermore, as used herein, when a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is disposed "on" or "above" another layer, film, region, plate, etc., the former can directly contact the latter, or another layer, film, region, plate, etc., can be disposed between the former and the latter. As used herein, when a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is directly disposed "on" or "above" another layer, film, region, plate, etc., the former directly contacts the latter, and another layer, film, region, plate, etc., is not disposed between the former and the latter. Furthermore, as used herein, when a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is disposed "below" or "under" another layer, film, region, plate, etc., the former can directly contact the latter, or another layer, film, region, plate, etc., can be disposed between the former and the latter. As used herein, when a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is directly disposed "below" or "under" another layer, film, region, plate, etc., the former directly contacts the latter, and another layer, film, region, plate, etc., is not disposed between the former and the latter.

[0030] When describing temporal relationships, such as the temporal precedent between two events described as "after," "following," or "before," unless it is specified that "directly after," "directly following," or "directly before," another event may occur between them.

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

[0032] Features of the various embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in part or in whole with each other, and can be technically related to or operable on each other. The embodiments can be implemented independently of each other, or can be implemented together in an associated relationship.

[0033] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms and are intended to describe the inherent deviations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. This terminology can be used to prevent unauthorized infringers from circumventing the need for accurate or absolute figures provided in connection with this disclosure and thus engaging in unauthorized use.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the concepts of this invention pertain. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with the meaning of those terms in the context of the relevant art, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly so defined herein.

[0035] The following discloses a display module capable of reducing stress concentration caused by bending in a bendable region, and a display device including the display module.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a diagram of a display module DM and a display device 100 including the display module DM according to one embodiment.

[0037] Reference Figure 1 The display device 100 may include a foldable display module DM.

[0038] The display module DM can be divided into multiple regions based on whether the area is flexible or not. In one example, the display module DM can be divided into a first non-flexible region NFA1, a second non-flexible region NFA2, and a flexible region FA. The flexible region FA can be located between the first non-flexible region NFA1 and the second non-flexible region NFA2.

[0039] The bendable region FA can refer to the area of ​​the display module that is bent, and can be defined as the area where stress occurs due to bending. In this embodiment, a bendable region FA is illustrated in the display module DM. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The display module DM may include multiple bendable regions.

[0040] The display module (DM) can have an inward-folded state or an outward-folded state. The inward-folded state can be defined as follows: the display module is folded so that the display surfaces of the image on the display module DM face each other. The outward-folded state can be defined as follows: the display module is folded so that the back surfaces of the display module DM face each other.

[0041] The display device 100 may further include: a source driver (not shown) that converts image data into source signals and provides the source signals to the display module DM; and a timing controller (not shown) that provides image data received from the host system to the source driver.

[0042] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the first embodiment.

[0043] In this disclosure, each of the front direction and upper direction refers to the Z-axis direction, and each of the rear direction and lower direction refers to the -Z-axis direction. Although the Z-axis is not shown in the figure, the Z-axis direction is, for example, […]. Figure 2 The upward direction in the graph, and the -Z axis direction, for example, is... Figure 2 The downward direction in the diagram.

[0044] Reference Figure 2 The display module DM according to the first embodiment includes a display panel 110, a first adhesive layer 120, a first support plate 130, a second adhesive layer 140, and a second support plate 150. Note that adhesive layers 120 and 140 are optional and may be omitted where appropriate (e.g., where the relevant components can be joined or fastened to each other by other means).

[0045] Display panel 110 includes a display area for displaying an image in a forward direction. In one example, a plurality of subpixels (not shown), a plurality of data lines (not shown), and a plurality of gate lines (not shown) may be arranged in the display area.

[0046] The first support plate 130 is disposed at the lower part of the display panel 110. The first adhesive layer 120 is disposed between the display panel 110 and the first support plate 130 to adhere the first support plate 130 to the lower part of the display panel 110.

[0047] The first support plate 130 can be formed as a thin film having a thickness less than that of the first adhesive layer 120. In one example, the first support plate 130 can be made of a stainless steel film.

[0048] The second support plate 150 is disposed below the first support plate 130. The second adhesive layer 140 is disposed between the first support plate 130 and the second support plate 150 to adhere the second support plate 150 to the lower part of the first support plate 130.

[0049] The second support plate 150 may be formed to have a thickness greater than that of the first support plate 130. In one example, the second support plate 150 may have a thickness greater than that of the first support plate 130, and may be made of stainless steel, which is the same material as the first support plate 130.

[0050] Based on whether the area is bendable when the display module DM is folded, the second support plate 150 can be divided into a first inflexible area NFA1, a second inflexible area NFA2, and a bendable area FA.

[0051] Perforations 152 may be formed in the bendable region FA of the second support plate 150. In one example, perforations 152 having widths and thicknesses corresponding to the width and thickness of the bendable region FA may be formed in the bendable region FA of the second support plate 150.

[0052] The display module DM includes a perforation 152 formed in the bendable region FA of the second support plate 150 to reduce stress caused by bending.

[0053] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the second embodiment.

[0054] Reference Figure 3 The display module DM according to the second embodiment includes a display panel 210, an adhesive layer 220, and a metal foam layer 230. Note that the adhesive layer 220 is optional and can be omitted where appropriate (e.g., when the display panel 210 and the metal foam layer 230 can be otherwise joined or fastened to each other).

[0055] Display panel 210 includes a display area for displaying images in the forward direction.

[0056] A metal foam layer 230 is disposed on the lower part of the display panel 210. An adhesive layer 220 is disposed between the display panel 210 and the metal foam layer 230 to adhere the metal foam layer 230 to the lower part of the display panel 210.

[0057] The metal foam layer 230 includes a metal as its main component and has multiple pores therein. In one example, the metal foam layer 230 may include copper as its main component, and multiple pores formed therein. Due to the multiple pores, the metal foam layer 230 may be elastic or shock-absorbing.

[0058] In this disclosure, a description of the process for manufacturing the metal foam layer 230, which is mainly composed of metal and has a large number of pores therein, is omitted because determining such a description would obscure the essence of this disclosure.

[0059] The metal foam layer 230 may include a first inflexible region NFA1, a second inflexible region NFA2, and a flexible region FA. At least one perforation pattern 234 is formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230. The perforation pattern 234 extends in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0060] The perforated pattern 234 can be formed in the following shape: the dimension of the shape in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230 (which may also be referred to herein as the “width” of the perforated pattern) gradually decreases as it extends from the vertical center toward each of the top and bottom.

[0061] In one example, the perforation pattern 234 can be formed as an elliptical shape extending in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230. In another example, the perforation pattern 234 can be formed as a rhomboid shape extending in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230. In yet another example, the perforation pattern 234 can be deformed into a shape such that the stress caused by the folding of the display module DM in the flexible region FA can be reduced due to the perforation of the pattern in its thickness direction.

[0062] also, Figure 3 Three perforation patterns 234 are illustrated. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and size of the perforation patterns 234 can be determined based on the size of the bendable region or the magnitude of the stress caused by bending.

[0063] In the display module DM according to the second embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 234 is formed in a portion of the metal foam layer 230 corresponding to the flexible region FA, and extends in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230. Therefore, stress concentration caused by bending on the flexible region FA can be reduced.

[0064] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the second embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 with multiple holes is provided at the lower part of the display panel 210, which improves the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the display device.

[0065] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the second embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 made of copper is applied to the lower part of the display panel 210, and a perforation pattern 234 is formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230. Therefore, the cost of a portion of the device can be reduced due to the perforation pattern.

[0066] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the third embodiment.

[0067] Reference Figure 4 According to the third embodiment, the display module DM includes a display panel 210, an optional adhesive layer 220, and a metal foam layer 230. Regarding this, ... Figure 3 The description of the same components (i.e., display panel 210 and adhesive layer 220) is as follows: Figure 3 The description in the text is replaced.

[0068] A metal foam layer 230 is disposed on the lower part of the display panel 210, and includes copper as the main component and has a plurality of pores therein.

[0069] The metal foam layer 230 includes a first inflexible region NFA1, a second inflexible region NFA2, and a flexible region FA. A first perforation pattern 236a and a second perforation pattern 236b are formed in the flexible region FA.

[0070] The first perforation pattern 236a and the second perforation pattern 236b formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 can extend in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0071] In one example, a first perforation pattern 236a at the horizontal center of the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 may extend in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230. A second perforation pattern 236b may extend in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230, the dimension of the second perforation pattern 236b in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230 (which may also be referred to herein as the “thickness” of the perforation pattern) being smaller than the dimension of the first perforation pattern 236a in the thickness direction, and forming around the first perforation pattern 236a.

[0072] In another example, a first perforation pattern 236a at the horizontal center of the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 may extend in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230. A second perforation pattern formed around the first perforation pattern 236a may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0073] In another example, a first perforation pattern 236a at the horizontal center of the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230. A second perforation pattern may be formed above and below the first perforation pattern 236a and may extend in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0074] In the display module DM according to the third embodiment, the first perforation pattern 236a and the second perforation pattern 236b can be formed in the portion of the metal foam layer 230 corresponding to the flexible region FA. Therefore, stress concentration caused by bending of the display module DM in the flexible region FA can be reduced.

[0075] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the third embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 with multiple holes is provided at the lower part of the display panel 210, which improves the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the display device.

[0076] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the third embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 made of copper material can be applied to the lower part of the display panel 210, and a first perforation pattern 236a and a second perforation pattern 236b can be formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230. Therefore, the cost of a portion of the module can be reduced due to the perforations.

[0077] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the fourth embodiment.

[0078] Reference Figure 5 According to the fourth embodiment, the display module DM includes a display panel 210, an optional adhesive layer 220, and a metal foam layer 230.

[0079] A metal foam layer 230 is disposed on the lower part of the display panel 210 and includes copper as the main component, and a plurality of pores are formed therein.

[0080] The metal foam layer 230 includes a first inflexible region NFA1, a second inflexible region NFA2, and a flexible region FA. At least one perforated pattern 234 is formed in the flexible region FA.

[0081] In one example, at least one perforated pattern 234 may be formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 and may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0082] At least one perforated pattern 234 may be formed in a shape having a thickness that gradually decreases as it extends from a horizontal center toward each of the two opposite sides. In one example, the perforated pattern 234 may be formed as an elliptical shape extending in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230. In another example, the perforated pattern 234 may be formed as a rhomboid shape extending in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0083] In another example, the shape of the perforated pattern 234 can be deformed into a certain shape, such that when the pattern is perforated in the width direction, the stress caused by the bending of the display module DM in the flexible region FA can be reduced. Furthermore, the size and number of the perforated pattern 234 can be determined according to the size of the flexible region FA or the magnitude of the stress.

[0084] also, Figure 5 Three perforated patterns 234 are illustrated. This disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and size of the perforated patterns 234 can be determined based on the size of the bendable region or the magnitude of the stress caused by bending.

[0085] In the display module DM according to the fourth embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 234 is formed in a portion of the metal foam layer 230 corresponding to the flexible region FA and extends in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230, so that stress concentration caused by bending on the flexible region FA can be reduced.

[0086] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the fourth embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 with multiple holes is provided at the lower part of the display panel 210, which improves the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the device.

[0087] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the fourth embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 comprising copper material is applied to the lower part of the display panel 210, and at least one perforation pattern 234 is formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230. Therefore, the cost of a portion of the device can be reduced due to the perforation.

[0088] Figure 6 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the fifth embodiment.

[0089] Reference Figure 6According to the fifth embodiment, the display module DM includes a display panel 210, an optional adhesive layer 220, and a metal foam layer 230.

[0090] A metal foam layer 230 is disposed on the lower part of the display panel 210 and includes a first inflexible region NFA1, a second inflexible region NFA2, and a flexible region FA. A third perforation pattern 234a and fourth perforation patterns 234b and 234c are formed in the flexible region FA and extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0091] In one example, a third perforation pattern 234a may be formed on the upper part of the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 and may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230. Fourth perforation patterns 234b and 234c, having a width smaller than that of the third perforation pattern 234a, may be disposed below the third perforation pattern 234a and may extend in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0092] In another example, the third perforation pattern 234a may be formed at the vertical center of the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 and may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230. The fourth perforation patterns 234b and 234c may be formed above and below the third perforation pattern 234a and may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0093] In another example, a third perforation pattern 234a may be formed below the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 and may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230. Fourth perforation patterns 234b and 234c, having a width smaller than that of the third perforation pattern 234a, may be formed above the third perforation pattern 234a and may extend in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0094] In the display module DM according to the fifth embodiment, the third perforation pattern 234a and the fourth perforation patterns 234b and 234c are formed in the portion of the metal foam layer 230 corresponding to the flexible region FA, so that the stress concentration caused by the bending of the display module DM in the flexible region FA can be reduced.

[0095] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the fifth embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 with multiple holes is provided at the lower part of the display panel 210, which improves the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the device.

[0096] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the fifth embodiment, a metal foam layer 230 made of copper material is applied to the lower part of the display panel 210, and a third perforation pattern 234b and a fourth perforation pattern 234c are formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230, so that the cost of a portion of the device can be reduced due to the perforations.

[0097] In one example, the display device 100 may be configured such that at least one of the extension direction, thickness, width, and shape of at least one perforation pattern formed in the portion of the flexible region FA corresponding to the display module DM in the metal foam layer 230 can be determined based on whether the device is in an inward or outward folded state.

[0098] Figure 7 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the sixth embodiment.

[0099] Reference Figure 7 According to the sixth embodiment, the display module DM includes a display panel 310, an adhesive layer 320, and a metal foam layer 330. Note that the adhesive layer 320 is optional and may be omitted where appropriate (e.g., when the display panel 310 and the metal foam layer 330 can be otherwise joined or fastened to each other).

[0100] Display panel 310 includes a display area for displaying images in the forward direction.

[0101] A metal foam layer 330 is disposed on the lower part of the display panel 310. The metal foam layer 330 is fixed to the lower part of the display panel 310 by an adhesive layer 320. The adhesive layer 320 is disposed between the display panel 310 and the metal foam layer 330 to adhere the metal foam layer 330 to the display panel 310.

[0102] The metal foam layer 330 may include copper as a main component, and multiple pores may be formed within the metal foam layer 330. The metal foam layer 330 may be elastic or shock-absorbing due to the multiple pores.

[0103] The metal foam layer 330 includes a first inflexible region NFA1, a second inflexible region NFA2, and a flexible region FA. The flexible region FA includes an organic material layer 340, such that the flexible region FA has a modulus lower than that of each of the first inflexible region NFA1 and the second inflexible region NFA2.

[0104] The metal foam layer 330 includes a first metal foam layer 332 corresponding to the flexible region FA, a second metal foam layer 334a corresponding to the first inflexible region NFA1, and a third metal foam layer 334b ​​corresponding to the second inflexible region NFA2.

[0105] The first metal foam layer 332 is disposed between the second metal foam layer 334a and the third metal foam layer 334b, and the thickness of the first metal foam layer 332 is less than the thickness of each of the second metal foam layer 334a and the third metal foam layer 334b.

[0106] The organic material layer 340 can be accommodated in a space corresponding to the difference between the thickness or vertical dimension of the first metal foam layer 332 and the thickness or vertical dimension of each of the second metal foam layer 334a and the third metal foam layer 334b.

[0107] In one example, the organic material layer 340 may be disposed in the flexible region FA of the display module DM, between the adhesive layer 320 and the first metal foam layer 332.

[0108] In one example, the thickness of the organic material layer 340 may be less than the thickness of the first metal foam layer 332. In another example, the thickness of the organic material layer 340 may be equal to the thickness of the first metal foam layer 332, and therefore the first metal foam layer 332 may be omitted. The thickness of the organic material layer 340 may be determined based on target values ​​for the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the display module DM or the amount of stress caused by bending.

[0109] According to the sixth embodiment, the display module DM includes an organic material layer 340 in the bendable region FA, which gives the bendable region FA a low modulus, thereby reducing stress concentration caused by bending in the bendable region FA.

[0110] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the sixth embodiment, a metal foam layer 330 with multiple holes is provided at the lower part of the display panel 310, which improves the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the device.

[0111] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the sixth embodiment, an organic material layer 340 is formed in the flexible region FA, between the adhesive layer 320 and the first metal foam layer 332, which allows for a reduction in the cost of the device due to perforation.

[0112] Figure 8 It is along Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the seventh embodiment.

[0113] Reference Figure 8The display module DM according to the seventh embodiment includes a display panel 310, an optional adhesive layer 320, and a metal foam layer 330. As a result of... Figure 7 The description of the same components, display panel 310 and adhesive layer 320, is as follows: Figure 7 The description in the text is replaced.

[0114] The display module DM includes an organic material layer 340 in the bendable region FA, such that the modulus of the bendable region FA is lower than the modulus of each of the first inflexible region NFA1 and the second inflexible region NFA2.

[0115] The first metal foam layer 332 corresponding to the flexible region FA is formed to have a thickness less than that of each of the second metal foam layer 334a and the third metal foam layer 334b ​​corresponding to the first inflexible region NFA1 and the second inflexible region NFA2, respectively.

[0116] The organic material layer 340 can be accommodated in the space disposed below the first metal foam layer 332 and corresponding to the difference between the thickness of the first metal foam layer 332 and the thickness of each of the second metal foam layer 334a and the third metal foam layer 334b.

[0117] In one example, the organic material layer 340 may be disposed in the flexible region FA of the display module DM, below the first metal foam layer 332. In another example, the organic material layer 340 may be formed to have a thickness less than that of the first metal foam layer 332. In this respect, the thickness of the organic material layer 340 may be determined based on target values ​​for the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the display module DM or the amount of stress caused by bending.

[0118] According to the seventh embodiment, the display module DM includes an organic material layer 340 in the bendable region FA, which gives the bendable region FA a low modulus, thereby reducing stress concentration caused by bending in the bendable region FA.

[0119] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the seventh embodiment, a metal foam layer 330 with multiple holes is provided at the lower part of the display panel 310, which improves the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the device.

[0120] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the seventh embodiment, an organic material layer 340 is formed in the flexible region FA below the first metal foam layer 332, thereby reducing part of the cost of the device due to perforation.

[0121] Figure 9 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown is along the cutting line I-I', and is a partial cross-sectional view of the display module DM according to the eighth embodiment.

[0122] Reference Figure 9 The display module DM according to the eighth embodiment includes a display panel 310, an optional adhesive layer 320, and a metal foam layer 330. In this respect, as with... Figure 7 The description of the same components, display panel 310 and adhesive layer 320, is as follows: Figure 7 The description in the text is replaced.

[0123] The display module DM includes an organic material layer 340 in the bendable region FA. The bendable region FA, including the organic material layer 340, therefore has a modulus lower than that of each of the first and second inflexible regions NFA1 and NFA2. The bendable region FA includes the organic material layer 340 and a first metal foam layer 332 containing a large number of pores. Therefore, the module is elastic to reduce stress caused by bending.

[0124] In one example, the first metal foam layer 332 is formed to have a thickness less than that of each of the second metal foam layer 334a and the third metal foam layer 334b. The organic material layer 340 can be accommodated in the space corresponding to the thickness difference.

[0125] In one example, the organic material layer 340 may be disposed between the first metal foam layer 332 and the adhesive layer 320, and may have a thickness less than that of the first metal foam layer 332. The thickness of the organic material layer 340 may be determined based on target values ​​for the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the display module DM or the amount of stress caused by bending.

[0126] In another example, at least one perforated pattern 332a may be additionally formed in the first metal foam layer 332 disposed beneath the organic material layer 340. In one example, the perforated pattern 332a may extend in the thickness direction of the first metal foam layer 332. In another example, the perforated pattern 332a may extend in the width direction of the first metal foam layer 332.

[0127] The display module DM according to the eighth embodiment includes an organic material layer 340 and a first metal foam layer 332 in the bendable region FA, wherein a plurality of pores are formed. Furthermore, at least one perforation pattern 332a is formed in the first metal foam layer 332, thereby reducing stress concentration caused by bending in the bendable region FA.

[0128] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the eighth embodiment, a metal foam layer 330 with multiple holes is provided at the lower part of the display panel 310, which improves the rigidity and heat dissipation performance of the device.

[0129] Furthermore, in the display module DM according to the eighth embodiment, an organic material layer 340 is disposed between the adhesive layer 320 and the first metal foam layer 332 in the flexible region FA, and at least one perforation pattern 332a is formed in the first metal foam layer 332. Therefore, the cost of a portion of the device can be reduced due to the perforations. Note that... Figure 9 The positions of the organic material layer 340 and the first metal foam layer 332 shown can be interchanged, while still achieving the effects described above according to the eighth embodiment.

[0130] In one example, the thickness and location of the organic material layer 340 included in the flexible region FA of the display module DM can be determined based on whether the display device 100 is in an inward or outward folded state. Furthermore, the extension direction, thickness, width, and shape of the perforated pattern formed in the first metal foam layer 332 corresponding to the flexible region FA can be determined based on whether the display device 100 is in an inward or outward folded state.

[0131] The display module DM according to the first embodiment includes a display panel 110, an optional first adhesive layer 120, a first support plate 130, an optional second adhesive layer 140, and a second support plate 150. The first support plate 130 is disposed below the display panel 110 and is made of a stainless steel film. The second support plate 150 is disposed below the first support plate 130 and has a thickness greater than that of the first support plate 130. Perforations corresponding to the width of the bendable region FA are formed in the portion of the second support plate 150 corresponding to the bendable region FA.

[0132] The display module DM according to the second embodiment includes a display panel 210, an optional adhesive layer 220, and a metal foam layer 230 having a plurality of holes therein. The adhesive layer 220 can be bonded to the lower portion of the display panel 210, and the metal foam layer 230 can be bonded to the lower portion of the adhesive layer 220. Each of the display panel 210, the adhesive layer 220, and the metal foam layer 230 has at least one flexible region FA. At least one perforation pattern 234 is formed in at least one flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230.

[0133] In the second embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 234 extends in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer 230.

[0134] In the second embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 234 has a width that decreases as it extends from its vertical center toward each of its top and bottom.

[0135] In the third embodiment, a first perforation pattern 236a is formed at the horizontal center of the bendable region FA of the metal foam layer 230, and a second perforation pattern 236b having a thickness less than that of the first perforation pattern 236a is formed adjacent to two opposite sides of the first perforation pattern.

[0136] In the fourth embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 234 extends in the width direction of the metal foam layer.

[0137] In the fourth embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 234 has a thickness that decreases as it extends in the horizontal direction from its horizontal center toward each of its two opposite sides.

[0138] In the fifth embodiment, a third perforation pattern 234a is formed in the flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230 and extends in the width direction of the metal foam layer 230. Fourth perforation patterns 234b and 234c, having a width smaller than that of the third perforation pattern 234a, are formed below the third perforation pattern 234a.

[0139] The display module DM according to the sixth embodiment includes a display panel 310, an optional adhesive layer 320, and a metal foam layer 330 having multiple pores. The adhesive layer 320 can be bonded to the lower portion of the display panel 310, and the metal foam layer 330 can be bonded to the lower portion of the adhesive layer 320. Each of the display panel 310, the adhesive layer 320, and the metal foam layer 330 has a flexible region FA and non-flexible regions NFA1 and NFA2. An organic material layer 340 is included in the flexible region FA such that the flexible region FA has a modulus lower than that of each of the non-flexible regions NFA1 and NFA2.

[0140] In the sixth embodiment, the metal foam layer 330 includes a first metal foam layer 332 corresponding to the flexible region FA and a second metal foam layer 334a corresponding to the inflexible region.

[0141] In the sixth embodiment, the thickness of the first metal foam layer 332 is less than the thickness of the second metal foam layer 334a.

[0142] In the sixth embodiment, the organic material layer 340 is housed in a space corresponding to the difference between the thickness of the first metal foam layer 332 and the thickness of the second metal foam layer 334a.

[0143] In the sixth embodiment, an organic material layer 340 is formed between the adhesive layer 320 and the first metal foam layer 332 corresponding to the flexible region FA.

[0144] In the seventh embodiment, an organic material layer 340 is formed beneath a first metal foam layer 332 corresponding to the flexible region FA.

[0145] In the eighth embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 332a is formed in the first metal foam layer 332.

[0146] In the eighth embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 332a extends in the thickness direction of the first metal foam layer 332.

[0147] In the eighth embodiment, at least one perforated pattern 332a extends in the width direction of the first metal foam layer 332.

[0148] A display device 100 according to one embodiment includes a display module DM. The display module DM includes a display panel 210, an optional adhesive layer 220, and a metal foam layer 230 having a plurality of holes therein. Each of the display panel 210, the adhesive layer 220, and the metal foam layer 230 has at least one flexible region FA. At least one perforation pattern 234 is formed in at least one flexible region FA of the metal foam layer 230.

[0149] A display device 100 according to another embodiment includes a display module DM, and the display module DM includes a display panel 310, an optional adhesive layer 320, and a metal foam layer 330 having a plurality of pores. Each of the display panel 310, the adhesive layer 320, and the metal foam layer 330 has a flexible region FA and inflexible regions NFA1 and NFA2. An organic material layer 340 is included in the flexible region FA such that the flexible region FA has a modulus lower than that of each of the inflexible regions NFA1 and NFA2.

[0150] The scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the scope of the claims, and all technical concepts within the scope thereof should be understood to be included within the scope of this disclosure. Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to these embodiments. This disclosure can be implemented in various ways without departing from the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure are not intended to limit the technical concept of this disclosure, but are used to describe this disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of this disclosure is not limited by the embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of protection of this disclosure should be understood through the claims, and all technical concepts within the scope of this disclosure should be understood to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A display module, comprising: Display panel; as well as A metal foam layer containing multiple pores. Each of the display panel and the metal foam layer has at least one flexible region, and the metal foam layer supports the display panel. Wherein, at least one perforated pattern is disposed in at least one flexible region of the metal foam layer; and The dimension of the at least one perforated pattern in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer decreases as the pattern extends horizontally from the horizontal center of the pattern toward each of the two opposite sides of the pattern.

2. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one perforated pattern extends in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer.

3. The display module according to claim 2, wherein, The dimension of the at least one perforated pattern in the width direction of the metal foam layer decreases as the perforated pattern extends from the vertical center of the pattern toward each of the top and bottom of the pattern.

4. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one perforated pattern includes: A first perforated pattern is disposed at the horizontal center of the flexible region of the metal foam layer; and The second perforation pattern has a smaller dimension in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer than the first perforation pattern in the thickness direction, and is adjacent to two opposite sides of the first perforation pattern.

5. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one perforated pattern extends in the width direction of the metal foam layer.

6. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one perforated pattern further includes: A third perforation pattern is formed in the flexible region of the metal foam layer and extends in the width direction of the metal foam layer; and A fourth perforation pattern, the size of which is smaller in the width direction than the size of the third perforation pattern in the width direction, and is formed below the third perforation pattern.

7. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one perforated pattern has an elliptical or rhomboid shape.

8. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, One perforation pattern in the flexible region of the metal foam layer extends in the thickness direction of the metal foam layer, and another perforation pattern in the flexible region of the metal foam layer extends in the width direction of the metal foam layer.

9. The display module according to claim 1, further comprising: An adhesive layer having at least one bendable region is disposed between the display panel and the metal foam layer to adhere the metal foam layer to the display panel.

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