Covering window and method for manufacturing a covering window

Abstract

A cover window and a method of manufacturing a cover window are provided. The cover window includes a first member and a second member attached to the first member. A folded portion and a non-folded portion are defined in the cover window, the folded portion includes an inner surface compressed when the cover window is folded and an outer surface stretched when the cover window is folded, the first member is closer to the inner surface than the second member, and the second member is closer to the outer surface than the first member. The second member includes a plurality of support units disposed in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a cover window and a method of manufacturing a cover window. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices, such as organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays and liquid crystal displays, include display panels manufactured by forming multiple layers and elements on a substrate. Recently, flexible display panels and flexible display devices incorporating flexible display panels have been developed.

[0003] Flexible display devices can be classified according to their uses and forms into bendable display devices, foldable display devices, rollable display devices, and stretchable display devices. Among such flexible display devices, foldable display devices can be folded and unfolded like a book.

[0004] Foldable display devices possess the desired characteristics by being configured to fold in a compact form for easy carrying and unfold to provide a wide screen when in use. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Cover windows used in foldable display devices may include thin glass that will be folded, and when an impact is applied to the cover window, such as when an external object such as a pen falls on it, the risk of damage to the cover window may increase.

[0006] Embodiments of this disclosure are provided to increase the degree of freedom in the thickness of cover windows used in foldable display devices to increase strength (e.g., impact resistance) and improve the tensile strength of cover windows.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention provides a cover window, the cover window comprising: a first member; and a second member attached to the first member, wherein a folded portion and a non-folded portion are defined in the cover window, the folded portion comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface being compressed when the cover window is folded, and the outer surface being stretched when the cover window is folded, the first member being closer to the inner surface than the second member, the second member being closer to the outer surface than the first member, and the second member comprising a plurality of support units disposed in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other.

[0008] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of support units may have a first surface attached to the first member and a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein the width of the first surface of each of the plurality of support units may be greater than or equal to the width of the second surface of each of the plurality of support units.

[0009] In an embodiment, the second component may include a plurality of tensioning units disposed between the plurality of support units, and each of the plurality of tensioning units may have a first surface attached to the first component and a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein the width of the second surface of each of the plurality of tensioning units may be greater than or equal to the width of the first surface of each of the plurality of tensioning units.

[0010] In an embodiment, the cross-section of each of the plurality of stretching units may have a triangular shape, a straight-sided funnel shape, a circular funnel shape, or an hourglass shape.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first surface of each of the plurality of support units attached to the first member may have a width in the range of approximately 100 micrometers (μm) to approximately 1000 μm.

[0012] In an embodiment, the first surfaces of adjacent support units attached to the first member can be spaced apart from each other by a distance ranging from about 10 μm to about 100 μm.

[0013] In an embodiment, the second component may have a thickness in the range of approximately 100 μm to approximately 1000 μm.

[0014] In an embodiment, the first component may include ions of at least one metal.

[0015] In an embodiment, the cover window may further include a passivation film attached to the first component, wherein the first component may be disposed between the passivation film and the second component.

[0016] In an embodiment, the cover window may further include a third component attached to the second component, wherein the second component may be disposed between the first component and the third component, and the third component may include a plurality of additional support units disposed in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other.

[0017] In an embodiment, the area where the plurality of additional support units are located may be wider than the area where the plurality of support units are located.

[0018] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a cover window, the method comprising: forming a first component; preparing an original substrate; etching a first pattern into the original substrate to have a first depth and etching a second pattern into the original substrate to have a second depth, the second depth being less than the first depth, wherein the second depth is less than the thickness of the original substrate; filling the first pattern and the second pattern with a resin material; etching a first surface of the original substrate to expose the resin material filled in the second pattern; cutting the original substrate along the second pattern to form a second component; and forming the cover window by attaching the first component to the second component.

[0019] In an embodiment, the etching of the first pattern and the second pattern may include: etching the second pattern into the first surface and the second surface of the original substrate to have a third depth and a fourth depth, respectively, wherein the second depth may be the sum of the third depth and the fourth depth.

[0020] In an embodiment, the cover window may include a folded portion and a non-folded portion, the folded portion may include an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface being compressed when the cover window is folded, the outer surface being stretched when the cover window is folded, and the etching of the first pattern and the second pattern may include etching the first pattern into a region of the original substrate corresponding to the folded portion.

[0021] In an embodiment, the first component may include a plurality of support units corresponding to the first pattern in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other, and the first surface of each of the plurality of support units attached to the second component may have a width in the range of about 100 μm to about 1000 μm.

[0022] In an embodiment, the first surfaces of adjacent support units attached to the second member in the plurality of support units may be spaced apart from each other by a distance in the range of approximately 10 μm to approximately 100 μm.

[0023] In an embodiment, the second component may have a thickness in the range of approximately 100 μm to approximately 1000 μm.

[0024] In an embodiment, the first component may include ions of at least one metal.

[0025] In an embodiment, the resin material filled in the first pattern has a first surface attached to the first member and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the width of the second surface of the resin material filled in the first pattern is greater than or equal to the width of the first surface of the resin material filled in the first pattern.

[0026] In an embodiment, the cross-section of the resin material filling the first pattern may have a triangular shape, a straight-sided funnel shape, a circular funnel shape, or an hourglass shape.

[0027] According to an embodiment, the strength (e.g., impact resistance) of the cover window of the foldable display device can be improved.

[0028] According to the embodiments, the time and cost required for the manufacturing process can be reduced because the process of manufacturing the cover window of the foldable display device is simplified.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the stretchability of the cover window of the foldable display device can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a side view of a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment, and Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a top plan view of the cover window of a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the cover window of a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment, showing a side view of the structure illustrated when folded.

[0033] Figure 5A This is a cross-sectional view of the cover window of a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A An enlarged view of the circled part.

[0035] Figures 6 to 9 These are cross-sectional views of various embodiments of the support member for the cover window of a display device in an unfolded state.

[0036] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a cover window according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figures 11A to 11E It is shown Figure 10A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a cover window.

[0038] Figure 12 It is a top plan view showing the supporting base of the cover window divided into unit cells.

[0039] Figure 13 It is intercepted along line CC. Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the supporting substrate.

[0040] Figure 14 It is intercepted along line CC. Figure 12 Cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the supporting substrate.

[0041] Figure 15 and Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of an alternative embodiment of the cover window of a display device in an unfolded state. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments are illustrated. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0043] For the sake of clarity in describing the invention, parts that are not relevant to the description have been omitted, and throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar constituent elements.

[0044] Furthermore, since the dimensions and thicknesses of the constituent elements shown in the accompanying drawings are arbitrarily given for better understanding and ease of description, the present invention is not limited to the dimensions and thicknesses shown. In the drawings, the thicknesses of layers, films, panels, regions, etc., are exaggerated for clarity. In the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated for better understanding and ease of description.

[0045] It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, film, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on" another element, the element may be directly on the other element, or an intervening element may be present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, no intervening element is present. Furthermore, in this specification, the terms "on" or "above" refer to being positioned on or below a target portion, and do not necessarily mean being positioned on the upper side of the target portion based on the direction of gravity.

[0046] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or part from another element, component, area, layer, or part. Therefore, without departing from the teachings herein, “first element,” “first component,” “first area,” “first layer,” or “first part” discussed below may be referred to as “second element,” “second component,” “second area,” “second layer,” or “second part.”

[0047] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, “a,” “an,” “the,” and “at least one” do not indicate a limitation on quantity and are intended to include both the singular and the plural. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, “an element” has the same meaning as “at least one element.” “At least one” will not be construed as limiting “a” or “an.” “Or” means “and / or.” As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” or “containing” and / or “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, areas, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, areas, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0048] Furthermore, in this specification, the phrase "in a plan view" refers to the view of the target portion from above, and the phrase "in a cross-sectional view" refers to the view of the cross-section formed by vertically cutting the target portion from the side.

[0049] Furthermore, relative terms such as “below” or “bottom” and “above” or “top” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another as shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings, the relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device. For example, if the device is flipped in a drawing, an element described as being “below” the other elements will subsequently be oriented to be “above” the other elements. Thus, depending on the specific orientation in the drawing, the term “below” can cover both “below” and “above” orientations. Similarly, if the device is flipped in a drawing, an element described as being “below” or “under” the other elements will subsequently be oriented to be “above” the other elements. Thus, the terms “below” or “under” can cover both “above” and “below” orientations.

[0050] Given the measurements discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system), as used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the stated value and refers to an acceptable deviation from the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, or ±5% of the stated value.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in a general dictionary) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and in this disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense.

[0052] In this document, embodiments are described with reference to cross-sectional views of schematic diagrams as idealized embodiments. Thus, variations in the illustrated shape will be anticipated, for example, due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of the areas shown herein, but will include deviations in shape, for example, due to manufacturing processes. For example, areas shown or described as flat may generally have rough and / or non-linear characteristics. Furthermore, sharp corners shown may be rounded. Therefore, the areas shown in the drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to show the precise shapes of the areas, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0053] In the following, embodiments of the cover window and the method of manufacturing the cover window according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a side view of a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment, and Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment.

[0055] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B An embodiment of the display device may be a foldable display device. (See reference...) Figure 1A and Figure 1B An embodiment of the display device may include a display panel 200 and a cover window 100 positioned on one surface of the display panel 200.

[0056] refer to Figure 2The display panel 200 may include a plurality of pixels PX configured to display an image. The display panel 200 may be a light-emitting display panel in which each of the plurality of pixels PX includes a light-emitting element, or a liquid crystal display panel in which each of the plurality of pixels PX includes a liquid crystal capacitor.

[0057] The surface of the display panel 200 on which the cover window 100 is positioned can be a display surface on which an image is displayed. Figure 2 The arrow shown indicates the direction in which the image is displayed.

[0058] refer to Figure 1A In embodiments of the display device, the opposing portions of the cover window 100 can be folded in a direction where they face each other. In such embodiments, the display surface may not be exposed when the display device is folded, and the display surface may be exposed when the display device is unfolded.

[0059] refer to Figure 1B In embodiments of the display device, the display panel 200 can be folded in a direction in which opposing portions face each other. In such an embodiment, the display surface can be exposed to the outside when the display device is folded, and the display surface can also be exposed when the display device is unfolded.

[0060] Figure 3 This is a top plan view of the cover window of the display device in the unfolded state according to an embodiment, and Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the cover window of a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment, showing a side view of the structure illustrated when folded.

[0061] refer to Figure 3 An embodiment of the cover window 100 includes a folded portion B that bends when folded and a non-folded portion A that does not bend (or is flat) when folded. The cover window 100 can be folded along a second direction DR2 relative to an imaginary folding axis in a first direction DR1, the second direction DR2 being perpendicular to the first direction DR1.

[0062] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 When the radius of curvature of the cover window is R when it is folded, the length d of the folded part B can be πR.

[0063] The radius of curvature R can range from about 1 millimeter (mm) to about 2 mm, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0064] Since the non-folded portion A is the part that is not bent, the non-folded portion A can also be called the flat portion.

[0065] In an embodiment, such as Figure 4As shown, when the cover window 100 is folded, the surfaces located inside and having opposing portions facing each other are defined as the inner surface IS, and the surfaces located outside are defined as the outer surface OS. In such an embodiment, the surface compressed during folding is the inner surface IS of the cover window 100, and the surface tensioned is the outer surface OS of the cover window 100.

[0066] In the above Figure 1A In the illustrated embodiment, when the overlay window 100 is coupled to the display panel 200, an image can be displayed through the inner surface IS of the overlay window 100, and the display panel 200, etc., can contact the outer surface OS. In such an embodiment, the inner surface IS of the overlay window 100 can be a display surface, and the outer surface OS can be a non-display surface.

[0067] In the above Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, when the overlay window 100 is coupled to the display panel 200, an image can be displayed through the outer surface OS of the overlay window 100, and the display panel 200, etc., can contact the inner surface IS. In such an embodiment, the outer surface OS of the overlay window 100 can be a display surface, and the inner surface IS can be a non-display surface.

[0068] An embodiment of the cover window 100 includes a cover glass 110 and a support member 120.

[0069] The cover glass 110 may comprise silicate-type glass. In embodiments, the cover glass 110 may contain ions of alkali metals or alkaline earth metals, such as ions of Na, K, Li, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, or Al. The ions of alkali metals or alkaline earth metals can generate non-bridging oxygen (“NBO”). In embodiments, a passivation film may be attached to one surface of the cover glass 110.

[0070] If the cover glass 110 is too thin, although the foldability is high, it may wrinkle or reduce strength under stress. Conversely, if the cover glass 110 is too thick, the flexibility, resilience, and elasticity in the folding area are reduced, and the folding characteristics deteriorate. Therefore, in the embodiments, the thickness of the cover glass 110 can be in the range of approximately 10 micrometers (μm) to 100 μm.

[0071] Support member 120 is attached to one surface of cover glass 110. Support member 120 prevents cover glass 110 from being damaged when an impact is applied to it. When cover glass 110 is folded, support member 120 is expected to be appropriately elongated to correspond to the folded portion B. In the following text, it will be referred to as... Figure 4 Refer to together Figure 5A and Figure 5B Detailed description of support component 120.

[0072] Figure 5A This is a cross-sectional view of the cover window of the display device in the unfolded state according to an embodiment, and Figure 5B yes Figure 5A An enlarged view of the circled part.

[0073] refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B An embodiment of the cover window 100 may include a cover glass 110, a support member 120, and an adhesive layer 130 located between the cover glass 110 and the support member 120. In an embodiment of the cover window 100, the support member 120 includes a base 122, a plurality of support units 124a to 124e (i.e., a plurality of support units 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d, and 124e), and a plurality of tension units 126a to 126f (i.e., a plurality of tension units 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d, 126e, and 126f).

[0074] When the cover window 100 is folded, the support member 120 may have a radius of curvature R corresponding to (see Figure 4 The thickness h of the support member 120. Typically, when the support member 120 is included in the foldable cover window 100, it is desirable that the thickness of the cover window 100 be thin, but it is desirable that the thickness of the cover window 100 be greater than or equal to a certain thickness to ensure strength characteristics. For example, in embodiments where the radius of curvature R is in the range of approximately 1 mm to approximately 2 mm, the thickness h of the support member 120 can be in the range of approximately 100 μm to approximately 1000 μm.

[0075] The substrate 122 may include glass, quartz, or plastic, etc.

[0076] Support units 124a to 124e can be formed by etching a substrate 122. The substrate 122 can be etched at a predetermined angle α (where 0° < α ≤ 180°). The shapes of the support units 124a to 124e and the stretching units 126a to 126f can be determined based on the etched shape of the substrate 122. In an embodiment, the cross-section of each of the support units 124a to 124e can be an inverted triangle or an inverted trapezoid. In an embodiment, the cross-section of each of the support units 124a to 124e can have various shapes, which will be referred to later. Figures 6 to 9 Describe it.

[0077] Each of the support units 124a to 124e has a width w ranging from approximately 100 μm to approximately 1000 μm. Since each of the support units 124a to 124e has a width equal to or greater than the thickness of the pen tip at the time of pen stroke (e.g., 0.1 mm), the impact caused by the pen stroke can be effectively dispersed between patterns.

[0078] In this embodiment, the support units 124a to 124e are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance l. Herein, the predetermined distance l can range from approximately 10 μm to approximately 100 μm, thereby improving ease of manufacturing, while the predetermined distance l can be less than or equal to the thickness of the pen tip at the time of pen application (e.g., 0.1 mm).

[0079] By implementing support units 124a to 124e in the folded portion B of the cover glass 110, impacts can be dispersed between patterns to increase the stiffness against pen strokes, thereby improving both strength and folding characteristics.

[0080] One of the stretching units 126a to 126f is positioned between the support units 124a to 124e and between the base 122 and the support units 124a and 124e. The stretching units 126a to 126f provide a uniform thickness to the support member 120, absorb impact forces, and prevent damage when joined to the display panel 200 (see [link]). Figure 2 The front surface of the device contains empty spaces (air layers), thereby improving visibility and adhesion.

[0081] The stretching elements 126a to 126f can be formed by filling the space between the support elements 124a to 124e and between the substrate 122 and the support elements 124a and 124e with a transparent resin material. The transparent resin material can be a transparent resin, such as an optically transparent resin, having a refractive index substantially the same as that of the substrate 122. In one embodiment, for example, the transparent resin material may include at least one material selected from acrylic, epoxy, silicone, polyurethane, polyurethane compounds, polyurethane acrylic compounds, mixed sol-gels, and siloxanes. These materials can be mixed in various combinations to enhance strength and elasticity, depending on the properties of the transparent resin material.

[0082] Each of the stretching units 126a to 126f can be configured such that the width of the corresponding surface of the outer surface OS is greater than or equal to the width of the surface attached to the cover glass 110 to facilitate stretching in the folded state. In an embodiment, the cross-section of each of the stretching units 126a to 126f will be described as triangular or trapezoidal. In an embodiment, the cross-section of each of the stretching units 126a to 126f can have various shapes, which will be referred to later. Figures 6 to 9 Describe it.

[0083] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, Table 1 below shows pen drop evaluation results for the cover window 100 according to the embodiment and the cover window 100 according to the comparative example, obtained by dropping a pen with a 0.3mm tip.

[0084] (Table 1)

[0085]

[0086] As shown in Table 1, since the cover window 100 according to the embodiment was damaged when the pen was dropped from a height of 15 cm, which is higher than the height that caused damage to Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2, it can be seen that the impact resistance of the embodiment of the cover window 100 is improved. Next, reference will be made to... Figures 6 to 9 Various embodiments of support members 620, 720, 820 and 920 are described.

[0087] Figures 6 to 9 These are cross-sectional views of various embodiments of the support member for the cover window of a display device in an unfolded state.

[0088] refer to Figure 6 An embodiment of the support member 620 includes a base 622, a plurality of support units 624a to 624e (i.e., a plurality of support units 624a, 624b, 624c, 624d and 624e) and a plurality of tension units 626a to 626f (i.e., a plurality of tension units 626a, 626b, 626c, 626d, 626e and 626f).

[0089] In such an embodiment, each of the support units 624a to 624e may have a bullnose-like cross-section. The substrate 622 can be etched in the first region 6260 such that the angle α becomes 90°, and then the substrate 622 can be etched in the second region 6262 by gradually decreasing the angle α from a predetermined depth. Subsequently, the support units 624a to 624e can be formed with… Figure 6 In the form of.

[0090] The stretching units 626a to 626f can be formed by filling the space between the support units 624a to 624e and between the substrate 622 and the support units 624a and 624e with a transparent resin material.

[0091] Next, refer to Figure 7In an alternative embodiment, the support member 720 includes a base 722, a plurality of support units 724a to 724e (i.e., a plurality of support units 724a, 724b, 724c, 724d and 724e) and a plurality of tension units 726a to 726f (i.e., a plurality of tension units 726a, 726b, 726c, 726d, 726e and 726f).

[0092] In such an embodiment, each of the support units 724a to 724e may have a trapezoidal cross-section. The substrate 722 can be etched in the first region 7260 such that angle α becomes 90°, and then etched in the second region 7262 by reducing angle α to a specific angle (e.g., 60°). The support units 724a to 724e can then be formed with… Figure 7 In the form of.

[0093] The stretching elements 726a to 726f can be formed by filling the spaces between the support elements 724a to 724e and between the substrate 722 and the support elements 724a and 724e with a transparent resin material. Each of the stretching elements 726a to 726f can have a straight-edged funnel-shaped cross-section.

[0094] Next, refer to Figure 8 In another alternative embodiment, the support member 820 includes a base 822, a plurality of support units 824a to 824e (i.e., a plurality of support units 824a, 824b, 824c, 824d and 824e) and a plurality of tension units 826a to 826f (i.e., a plurality of tension units 826a, 826b, 826c, 826d, 826e and 826f).

[0095] In such an embodiment, the substrate 822 can be etched in the first region 8260 such that the angle α becomes 90°, and the substrate 822 can be etched in the second region 8262 by reducing the angle α to a first angle (e.g., 1°), and then etched by gradually increasing the angle α to a second angle (e.g., 90°). Subsequently, the support units 824a to 824e can be formed with... Figure 8 In the form of.

[0096] The stretching elements 826a to 826f can be formed by filling the space between the support elements 824a to 824e and between the substrate 822 and the support elements 824a and 824e with a transparent resin material. Each of the stretching elements 826a to 826f can have a circular funnel-shaped cross-section.

[0097] Next, refer to Figure 9In another alternative embodiment, the support member 920 includes a base 922, a plurality of support units 924a to 924e (i.e., a plurality of support units 924a, 924b, 924c, 924d and 924e) and a plurality of tension units 926a to 926f (i.e., a plurality of tension units 926a, 926b, 926c, 926d, 926e and 926f).

[0098] In such an embodiment, the substrate 922 can be etched in the first region 9260 such that angle α becomes a first angle (e.g., 120°), and the substrate 922 can be etched in the second region 9262 such that angle α becomes a second angle (e.g., 60°). Subsequently, the support units 924a to 924e can be formed with... Figure 9 In the form of.

[0099] The stretching elements 926a to 926f can be formed by filling the spaces between the support elements 924a to 924e and between the substrate 922 and the support elements 924a and 924e with a transparent resin material. Each of the stretching elements 926a to 926f can have an hourglass-shaped cross-section.

[0100] In these embodiments, the substrate can be etched into various shapes to form support units and tension units. The support units and tension units can have cross-sectional shapes obtained by combining the shapes described above, but are not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0101] Next, we will refer to Figure 10 and Figures 11A to 11E An embodiment describing a method for manufacturing a cover window.

[0102] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a cover window according to an embodiment, and Figures 11A to 11E It is shown Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a cover window.

[0103] First, a substrate is provided for forming the supporting member (“providing substrate” in S100). In this document, the substrate will be described as the original substrate (or parent substrate) capable of manufacturing multiple cover windows.

[0104] After that, as Figure 11A As shown, for forming support elements 1124 and unit element boundary lines E1 and E2 respectively on the substrate 1122 (see... Figure 11C The patterns 1125 and 1127 are processed (e.g., etched) (“processed pattern” of S110). The substrate 1122 can be dry-etched or wet-etched. In one embodiment, for example, the substrate 1122 can be processed by using laser-induced depth etching (“LIDE”).

[0105] In one embodiment, the substrate 1122 may be penetrated by the pattern 1125. In such an embodiment, the depth of the pattern 1125 may be equal to the thickness of the substrate 1122. In an alternative embodiment, the pattern 1127 does not penetrate the substrate 1122. In such an embodiment, the depth of the pattern 1127 may be less than the thickness of the substrate 1122.

[0106] Reference Figures 12 to 14 This will be described in more detail.

[0107] Figure 12 This is a top plan view showing the supporting base of the cover window divided into unit cells. Figure 13 It is intercepted along line CC. Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the supporting substrate, and Figure 14 It is intercepted along line CC. Figure 12 Cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the supporting substrate.

[0108] In an embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, patterns 1225 and 1227 are formed on the original substrate 1200. Pattern 1225 is etched to form support unit 1124 (see Figure 1227). Figure 11A Pattern 1225 is positioned within the folded portion B, and not within the folded portion A. Pattern 1227 is etched to form unit cell boundary lines E1 and E2 (see...). Figure 11C ).

[0109] In an embodiment, such as Figure 13 As shown, pattern 1227 can be etched into the original substrate 1200 to have a first depth h1. Pattern 1225 can be etched into the original substrate 1200 to have a second depth h2. In this document, the first depth h1 is less than the second depth h2. The first depth h1 can be less than the thickness of the original substrate 1200.

[0110] In an embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, pattern 1227 may have a quadrilateral cross section, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, for example, pattern 1227 may have a polygonal shape, a semi-circular shape, an outer rounded corner shape, a semi-outer rounded corner shape, or a straight-edged funnel shape, etc.

[0111] In alternative embodiments, such as Figure 14As shown, pattern 1227a can be etched into a first surface of the original substrate 1200 to have a first depth h11, and pattern 1227b can be etched into a second surface of the original substrate 1200 to have a second depth h12. Pattern 1225 can be etched into the original substrate 1200 to have a second depth h22. In this document, the first depth (h11+h12) obtained by adding the first depth h11 and the second depth h12 is less than the second depth h22. The first depth (h11+h12) can be less than the thickness of the original substrate 1200.

[0112] Each of patterns 1227a and 1227b may have a quadrilateral cross-section, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, for example, the cross-section of each of patterns 1227a and 1227b may have a polygonal shape, a semi-circular shape, an outer rounded corner shape, a semi-outer rounded corner shape, or a straight-edge funnel shape, etc. In an embodiment, patterns 1227a and 1227b formed on opposite surfaces of the original substrate 1200 may have cross-sections containing shapes different from each other.

[0113] Support unit 1124 (see) Figure 11A It can have a width w in the range of approximately 100 μm to approximately 1000 μm (see...) Figure 5B ), and can be achieved through Figure 10 The patterns 1125 formed in processing S110 are spaced apart from each other by a distance l in the range of approximately 10 μm to approximately 100 μm (see... Figure 5B In such an embodiment, the support unit 1124 can be configured as shown in reference to... Figures 5A to 9 The form of the description is formed.

[0114] In an embodiment, such as Figure 11B As shown, patterns 1125 and 1127 are formed by filling transparent resin materials 1126 and 1128 respectively. Figure 10 (S120 "filler resin material").

[0115] Next, as Figure 11C As shown, the first surface 1122a of the substrate 1122 (see...) Figure 11B Etching Figure 10 The "processed upper surface" of S130 is used to expose the transparent resin material 1128, and then cut along the unit cell boundary lines E1 and E2, and as shown in the figure. Figure 11D As shown, the support member 1120 is formed in the form of a unit cell. Figure 10 (S140's "processing unit").

[0116] like Figure 11EAs shown, the support member 1120 in the form of a unit cell is combined or stacked with the covering glass 1110. Figure 10 (S150, "Joint support member and cover glass"). Cover glass 1110 and support member 1120 can be joined by a joint on the first surface 1122a of support member 1120 (see S150). Figure 11B The adhesive layer 1130 is applied or coated onto the surface to bond them together.

[0117] In an embodiment, a passivation film may be further provided or laminated on the upper surface of the cover glass 1110 (i.e., on the surface of the cover glass 1110 that is not joined with the support member 1120).

[0118] In one embodiment, the cover glass 1110 may be joined to a plurality of support members 1120 to improve impact resistance. (See reference...) Figure 15 and Figure 16 This will be described.

[0119] Figure 15 and Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of an alternative embodiment of the cover window of a display device in an unfolded state.

[0120] refer to Figure 15 In an embodiment of the cover window 101, a plurality of support members 1520 and 1550 may be attached to a first surface of the cover glass 1510 of the cover window 101. Specifically, support member 1550 may be attached to support member 1520 via an adhesive layer 1540 between support member 1550 and support member 1520, and support member 1520 may be attached to cover glass 1510 via an adhesive layer 1530 between support member 1520 and cover glass 1510. In the tension unit 1526 of support member 1520, the width of the surface of tension unit 1526 attached to support member 1550 is greater than the width of the surface of tension unit 1526 attached to cover glass 1510. In the tension unit 1556 of support member 1550, the width of the surface corresponding to the outer surface OS is greater than or equal to the width of the surface of tension unit 1556 attached to support member 1520. In such an embodiment, the support units 1524 and 1554 of the two support members 1520 and 1550 have a tapered shape with similar angles.

[0121] In one embodiment, the support member 1550 near the outer surface OS can be located at the folded portion B (see [reference]). Figure 12 The support unit 1554 has fewer or more support units than the support unit 1524 of the support member 1520.

[0122] In an embodiment, the area where the support unit 1554 is positioned on the support member 1550 near the outer surface OS can be wider than the area where the support unit 1524 is positioned on the support member 1520.

[0123] refer to Figure 16 In an embodiment of the cover window 102, a plurality of support members 1620 and 1650 may be attached to a first surface of the cover glass 1610 of the cover window 102. Specifically, support member 1650 may be attached to support member 1620 via an adhesive layer 1640 between support member 1650 and support member 1620, and support member 1620 may be attached to cover glass 1610 via an adhesive layer 1630 between support member 1620 and cover glass 1610. In the tension unit 1626 of support member 1620, the width of the surface of tension unit 1626 attached to support member 1650 is greater than the width of the surface of tension unit 1626 attached to cover glass 1610. In the tension unit 1656 of support member 1650, the width of the surface of tension unit 1656 corresponding to the outer surface OS is less than or equal to the width of the surface of tension unit 1656 attached to support member 1620. In such an embodiment, the support units 1624 and 1654 of the two support members 1620 and 1650 have tapered shapes at different angles.

[0124] In one embodiment, the support member 1650 near the outer surface OS can be located in the folded portion B (see...). Figure 12 The support unit 1654 has fewer or more support units than the support unit 1624 of the support member 1620.

[0125] In an embodiment, the area where the support unit 1654 is positioned on the support member 1650 near the outer surface OS can be wider than the area where the support unit 1624 is positioned on the support member 1620.

[0126] In one embodiment, support member 1650 may be positioned on the upper surface of the cover glass 1610 of the cover window 102, and support member 1620 may be positioned on the lower surface of the cover window 102. In another embodiment, in the tension unit 1626 of support member 1620, the width of the surface of tension unit 1626 attached to support member 1650 is greater than the width of the surface of tension unit 1626 attached to cover glass 1610. In the tension unit 1656 of support member 1650, the width of the surface of tension unit 1656 corresponding to the outer surface OS is less than or equal to the width of the surface of tension unit 1656 attached to support member 1620. In such an embodiment, support units 1624 and 1654 of the two support members 1620 and 1650 have tapered shapes at different angles. The cover window 102 can be... Figure 1A or Figure 1B Fold in the direction shown.

[0127] This invention should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.

[0128] Although the invention has been specifically shown and described with reference to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made to the invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A covering window, wherein, The coverage window includes: First component; and The second component is attached to the first component. The covered window defines a folded portion and a non-folded portion. The folding portion includes an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface being compressed when the cover window is folded, and the outer surface being stretched when the cover window is folded. The first component is closer to the inner surface than the second component. The second component is closer to the outer surface than the first component. The second component includes a plurality of support units disposed in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other. The second component further includes a plurality of tension units disposed between the plurality of support units, and Each of the plurality of support units and each of the plurality of tension units extends completely through the second member.

2. The cover window according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of support units has a first surface attached to the first member and a second surface opposite to the first surface. Wherein, the width of the first surface of each of the plurality of support units is greater than or equal to the width of the second surface of each of the plurality of support units.

3. The cover window according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of stretching elements has a first surface attached to the first member and a second surface opposite to the first surface. Wherein, the width of the second surface of each of the plurality of stretching units is greater than or equal to the width of the first surface of each of the plurality of stretching units.

4. The cover window according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the plurality of stretching elements has a cross-section that is triangular, straight-sided funnel-shaped, circular funnel-shaped, or hourglass-shaped.

5. The cover window according to claim 2, wherein, The first surface of each of the plurality of support units, which is attached to the first member, has a width in the range of 100 μm to 1000 μm.

6. The cover window according to claim 2, wherein, The first surfaces of adjacent support units of the plurality of support units, which are attached to the first member, are spaced apart from each other by a distance in the range of 10 μm to 100 μm.

7. The cover window according to claim 1, wherein, The second component has a thickness in the range of 100 μm to 1000 μm.

8. The cover window according to claim 1, wherein, The first component comprises ions of at least one metal.

9. The cover window according to claim 1, wherein, The cover window also includes: A passivation film is attached to the first component. The first component is disposed between the passivation film and the second component.

10. The cover window according to claim 1, wherein, The cover window also includes: The third component is attached to the second component. The second component is disposed between the first component and the third component, and The third component includes a plurality of additional support units disposed in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other.

11. The cover window according to claim 10, wherein, The area where the plurality of additional support units are located is wider than the area where the plurality of support units are located.

12. A method for manufacturing a cover window, the method comprising: Forming the first component; Prepare the original substrate; A first pattern is etched into the original substrate to have a first depth and a second pattern is etched into the original substrate to have a second depth, the second depth being less than the first depth, wherein the second depth is less than the thickness of the original substrate; Fill the first pattern and the second pattern with resin material; The first surface of the original substrate is etched to expose the resin material filled in the second pattern; Cut the original substrate along the second pattern to form the second component; and The cover window is formed by attaching the first component to the second component. The cover window defines a folded portion and a non-folded portion. The second member includes a plurality of support units disposed in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other. The second member also includes a plurality of tension units disposed between the plurality of support units, and each of the plurality of support units and each of the plurality of tension units extends completely through the second member.

13. The manufacturing method according to claim 12, wherein, The etching of the first pattern and the second pattern includes: The second pattern is etched into the first and second surfaces of the original substrate to have a third depth and a fourth depth, respectively. The second depth is the sum of the third depth and the fourth depth.

14. The manufacturing method according to claim 12, wherein, The folding portion includes an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface being compressed when the cover window is folded, and the outer surface being stretched when the cover window is folded. The etching of the first pattern and the second pattern includes: The first pattern is etched into the region of the original substrate corresponding to the folded portion.

15. The manufacturing method according to claim 14, wherein, The first component includes a plurality of support units corresponding to the first pattern in the folded portion and spaced apart from each other, and Each of the plurality of support units of the second component has a width in the range of 100 μm to 1000 μm on its first surface attached to the first component.

16. The manufacturing method according to claim 15, wherein, The adjacent support units of the plurality of support units of the second member are attached to the first surface of the first member and spaced apart from each other by a distance in the range of 10 μm to 100 μm.

17. The manufacturing method according to claim 12, wherein, The second component has a thickness in the range of 100 μm to 1000 μm.

18. The manufacturing method according to claim 12, wherein, The first component comprises ions of at least one metal.

19. The manufacturing method according to claim 14, wherein, The resin material filled in the first pattern has a first surface attached to the first member and a second surface opposite to the first surface. Wherein, the width of the second surface of the resin material filled in the first pattern is greater than or equal to the width of the first surface of the resin material filled in the first pattern.

20. The manufacturing method according to claim 16, wherein, The cross-section of the resin material filling the first pattern has a triangular shape, a straight-sided funnel shape, a circular funnel shape, or an hourglass shape.

Images