Display panel folding method and folding device

Abstract

A folding method and a folding device for a display panel, wherein the display panel (2) comprises a main panel (21) and at least one driving plate (22) connected to the main panel (21); at least one group of alignment marks is provided on the display panel (2), and each group of alignment marks comprises: a first alignment mark (A1) located on the main panel (21) and a second alignment mark (A2) located on the driving plate (22); the folding method comprises: fixing the main panel (21) of the display panel (2) on a main bearing platform (100), fixing the driving plate (22) on a secondary bearing platform (200) (S1); controlling the secondary bearing platform (200) to move relative to the main bearing platform (100); The carrier (100) is flipped (S3); the positions of the first alignment mark (A1) and the second alignment mark (A2) on the folded display panel (2) are obtained (S3), and it is determined whether the first alignment mark (A1) and the second alignment mark (A2) in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions (S4); when one or more of the first alignment mark (A1) and the second alignment mark (A2) are not located at the corresponding preset positions, the position of the secondary carrier (200) is adjusted until the first alignment mark (A1) and the second alignment mark (A2) in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions (S5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of display device manufacturing, and in particular, to a folding method and a folding device for a display panel. Background Art

[0002] With the development of display technology, large-size display devices with relatively high contrast have been produced. Currently, a large-size display device is composed of multiple relatively small display panels spliced ​​together.

[0003] In some examples, the display panels used for splicing include a main panel and driver boards located on both sides of the main panel. Before splicing, the driver boards need to be folded to the back of the main panel. After folding, multiple main panels can be spliced ​​together to form a large-scale display device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide a method and device for folding a display panel.

[0005] As a first aspect of the present disclosure, a method for folding a display panel is provided, wherein the display panel includes a main panel and at least one driving board connected to the main panel, and at least one set of alignment marks is provided on the display panel, each set of alignment marks including: a first alignment mark located on the main panel and a second alignment mark located on the driving board; the folding method comprises:

[0006] Fixing the main panel of the display panel on the main supporting platform, and fixing the driving board on the auxiliary supporting platform;

[0007] Controlling the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform to fold the driving plate to a side of the main panel facing away from the main carrying platform;

[0008] Obtaining positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel, and determining whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions;

[0009] When one or more of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks are not in the corresponding preset positions, the position of the auxiliary support platform is adjusted until the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks in each group of alignment marks are all in the corresponding preset positions.

[0010] In some embodiments, in each group of alignment marks, the sum of the number of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks is greater than 2; when the two driving boards and the main panel in the display panel are located on the same plane, the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks in the same group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line;

[0011] The determining whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions specifically includes:

[0012] Determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in the same group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line. When the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in any group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line, it is determined that the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at the corresponding preset positions; when the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in at least one group of alignment marks are not on the same straight line, it is determined that one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset position.

[0013] In some embodiments, obtaining the positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel specifically includes:

[0014] The positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel are acquired by image acquisition.

[0015] In some embodiments, each of the driving plates is connected to the main panel via a flexible connector; and the folding method further comprises:

[0016] While fixing the driving plate on the auxiliary bearing platform, a part of the flexible connecting member is also fixed on the auxiliary bearing platform;

[0017] Before controlling the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform, forming adhesive glue at least on the surface of the flexible connector facing away from the auxiliary carrying platform;

[0018] After the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at corresponding preset positions, the adhesive on the display panel is cured.

[0019] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a folding device for folding a display panel, wherein the display panel includes: a main panel and at least one driving board connected to the main panel; the display panel is provided with at least one set of alignment marks, each set of alignment marks including: a first alignment mark located on the main panel and a second alignment mark located on the driving board; the folding device includes:

[0020] A main carrying platform, configured to carry and fix the main panel;

[0021] A secondary bearing platform, configured to bear and fix the driving plate;

[0022] a driving mechanism configured to drive the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform, so as to fold the driving plate to a side of the main panel facing away from the main carrying platform;

[0023] a position acquisition mechanism configured to acquire positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel;

[0024] a control mechanism configured to determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions, and to issue a control signal when one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset positions;

[0025] The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the auxiliary supporting platform according to the control signal until the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at corresponding preset positions.

[0026] In some embodiments, in each group of alignment marks, the sum of the number of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks is greater than 2; the display panel includes two driving boards, and the two driving boards are respectively located on opposite sides of the main panel. When the two driving boards in the display panel and the main panel are located on the same plane, the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in the same group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line;

[0027] The control mechanism is specifically configured to determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line. When the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in any group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line, it is determined that the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at corresponding preset positions; when the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in at least one group of alignment marks are not on the same straight line, it is determined that one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the location acquisition mechanism includes:

[0029] a first image acquisition unit configured to acquire the position of the first alignment mark on the folded display panel by image acquisition;

[0030] The second image acquisition unit is configured to acquire the position of the second alignment mark on the folded display panel by image acquisition.

[0031] In some embodiments, the folding device further comprises:

[0032] Side panels, arranged on opposite sides of the main bearing platform;

[0033] The mounting frame includes a first mounting arm and a second mounting arm disposed opposite to each other, and a connecting arm fixedly connected between the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm; the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm are both rotatably connected to the side plate;

[0034] Wherein, the auxiliary bearing platform is connected between the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm; the driving mechanism is specifically configured to drive the mounting frame to rotate relative to the side plate to drive the auxiliary bearing platform to flip relative to the main bearing platform.

[0035] In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism includes: multiple drivers, and the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm are both provided with the drivers; the drivers are configured to drive the end of the secondary supporting platform to move closer to or away from the connecting arm according to the control signal.

[0036] In some embodiments, the actuator comprises a piezoelectric ceramic actuator.

[0037] In some embodiments, a side of the first mounting arm facing the second mounting arm and a side of the second mounting arm facing the first mounting arm are both provided with mounting slots;

[0038] The folding device also includes:

[0039] A carrier platform mounting member is provided at both ends of the secondary carrier platform, at least a portion of the carrier platform mounting member extends into the mounting groove; the carrier platform mounting member is capable of relative displacement with the mounting frame along the extension direction of the first mounting arm;

[0040] an elastic telescopic member, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the auxiliary bearing platform and the connecting arm;

[0041] a support member, disposed on the connecting arm, the support member including a support end facing the secondary bearing platform;

[0042] In which, the support member has an extended state and a retracted state. When the support member is in the extended state, the distance between the support end and the connecting arm is greater than the distance between the support end and the connecting arm when the support member is in the retracted state, and is greater than the length of the elastic telescopic member when it is in the natural state.

[0043] In some embodiments, the auxiliary bearing platform has a bearing surface for bearing the driving plate, and a vacuum adsorption hole is provided on the auxiliary bearing platform, and one end of the vacuum adsorption hole is located on the bearing surface of the auxiliary bearing platform.

[0044] In some embodiments, each of the driving plates is connected to the main panel via a flexible connector, and the secondary carrying platform is further configured to carry a portion of the flexible connector;

[0045] The control mechanism is further configured to send a glue application signal before the driving mechanism drives the auxiliary carrying platform to flip; and send a curing signal after determining that the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions;

[0046] The folding device also includes:

[0047] a gluing mechanism configured to apply adhesive glue on a surface of the flexible connector facing away from the secondary supporting platform according to the gluing signal;

[0048] The curing mechanism is configured to cure the adhesive according to the curing signal. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] The accompanying drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention and constitute a part of the specification. Together with the following detailed description, they are used to explain the present invention but do not constitute a limitation of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a display panel to be folded provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 2 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the folded display panel.

[0052] Figures 3A to 3C Schematic diagrams of alignment marks on a display panel in different states provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the folding device provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 5 This is another perspective view of the folding device provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] Figure 6 This is another stereoscopic view of the folding device provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a secondary supporting platform provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure being arranged on a mounting frame.

[0057] Figure 8 For the Figure 7 Cross-sectional view along line AA'.

[0058] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of a method for folding a display panel provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0059] Figure 10 Schematic diagram of a display panel folding method provided in some other embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] The following describes the specific embodiments of the present invention in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to illustrate and explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0061] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a folding device for folding a display panel. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a display panel to be folded provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure, such as Figure 1 As shown, the display panel 2 includes a main panel 21 and at least one driver board 22 connected to the main panel 21. The main panel 21 and the driver board 22 are connected via a flexible connector 23a. The main panel 21 includes light-emitting devices for display, such as mini / micro LEDs; the driver board 22 includes a driver circuit 22a for driving the light-emitting devices to emit light.

[0062] In one example, the light-emitting device and the driving circuit 22a are both disposed on a flexible substrate 23, which is a continuous film layer. The material of the flexible substrate 23 may include polyimide (PI). The light-emitting device and the driving circuit 22a may be connected via signal lines disposed on the flexible substrate 23, so that the driving circuit 22a can provide the light-emitting device with an electrical signal for display via the signal lines. The main panel 21 may also include a relatively rigid carrier plate 21a, such as a glass plate. The carrier plate 21a and the light-emitting device are located on opposite surfaces of the flexible substrate 23. The driving board 22 may also include a relatively rigid carrier plate, which is located on the surface of the flexible substrate 23 facing away from the driving circuit 22a. Of course, in another example, the light-emitting device may be disposed on the carrier plate, and the driving circuit 22a may be disposed on the flexible substrate 23. The flexible substrate 23 may be connected to the edge of the carrier plate on which the light-emitting device is disposed, and the light-emitting device and the driving circuit 22a may be connected via signal lines disposed on the flexible substrate 23. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible substrate 23 is described as a continuous film layer as an example, wherein the portion of the flexible substrate 23 located between the main panel 21 and the driving board 22 serves as the flexible connector 23 a.

[0063] The display panel 2 may include one driving board 22; alternatively, the display panel 2 may include two driving boards 22 located on both sides of the main panel 21; alternatively, the display panel 2 may include three driving boards 22 located on three sides of the main panel 21; alternatively, the display panel 2 may include four driving boards 22 located on four sides of the main panel 21. In the embodiment disclosed herein, two driving boards 22 are used for illustration.

[0064] In the disclosed embodiment, the folding device folds the display panel, specifically folding the drive plate 22 toward the backlight side of the main panel 21, and causing the folded display panel to assume a target shape. In this disclosure, the "target shape" can be determined based on actual needs. For example, the target shape is a rectangle.

[0065] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the folded display panel, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, generally, in the folding process of the display panel, before the display panel is folded, an adhesive 3 is formed on at least the flexible connector 23a. After the display panel is folded, the adhesive 3 is cured so that the drive board 22 is fixed to the main panel 21 through the cured adhesive 3. In addition, the folding process of the display panel needs to ensure that after the display panel is folded, the gap between the side of the carrier plate 21a and the flexible substrate 23 is as small as possible. However, in the early stage of cutting and forming the carrier plate 21a, due to the limitations of the process conditions, the carrier plate 21a cannot reach the target shape, which in turn causes the splicing seam between two adjacent display panels to be smaller than a predetermined value when the folded display panel is spliced. For example, when the shape of the folded display panel is rectangular, the splicing seam after the display panels are spliced ​​can be smaller than a predetermined value. However, in reality, the two adjacent sides of the carrier plate 21a are not perpendicular, which causes the two sides of the folded display panel to be non-perpendicular.

[0066] In order to ensure that the display panel can be in the target shape after being folded, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, a group of alignment marks are formed on the display panel. When the folding device folds the display panel, the position of the alignment marks is detected to ensure that the display panel reaches the target shape after being folded.

[0067] Figures 3A to 3C Schematic diagrams of alignment marks on a display panel in different states provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 3A The distribution diagram of the alignment marks on the display panel in a flat state is shown. Figure 3B A distribution diagram of the alignment marks when the folded display panel reaches the target shape is shown; Figure 3C The figure shows the distribution of the alignment marks when the folded display panel does not reach the target shape. Figures 3A to 3CAs shown, each set of alignment marks on the display panel includes a first alignment mark A1 located on the main panel 21 and a second alignment mark A2 located on the drive plate 22. Each first alignment mark A1 and each second alignment mark A2 has a preset position. The preset position of each first alignment mark A1 (or second alignment mark A2) refers to the location of the first alignment mark A1 (or second alignment mark A2) after the display panel is folded and the folded display panel reaches the target shape. If the display panel is folded and the folded display panel does not reach the target shape, one or more of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 will not be at the corresponding preset position.

[0068] In one example of the present disclosure, the main panel 21 is connected to two drive plates 22, and the two drive plates 22 are respectively located on both sides of the main panel 21 along the first direction. In each group of alignment marks, the sum of the number of first alignment marks A1 and second alignment marks A2 is greater than 2. For example, each group of alignment marks includes two first alignment marks A1 and two second alignment marks A2, and the two second alignment marks A2 are respectively located on the two drive plates 22. In addition, for any group of alignment marks, when the display panel 2 is in a flat state (that is, the drive plate 22 and the active plate 21 are located on the same plane), the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in the group of alignment marks are located on a straight line extending along the first direction (such as Figure 3A When the display panel 2 is folded and the shape of the folded display panel 2 is different from the target shape, the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in the set of alignment marks are not on a straight line extending along the first direction (as shown); Figure 3C When the display panel 2 is folded and the shape of the folded display panel 2 is the target shape, the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in the set of alignment marks are on a straight line along the first direction (as shown); Figure 3B ). The present disclosure does not specifically limit the shapes of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2. For example, the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 may be circular, rectangular, or cross-shaped. The first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in a set of alignment marks may be located on a straight line extending along the first direction. Specifically, the center line connecting the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in the set of alignment marks may be located on a straight line extending along the first direction.

[0069] Of course, in other examples, after the display panel 2 is folded, the preset positions of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 can also be other positions. For example, when the display panel 2 is folded and the folded display panel 2 reaches the target shape, in any group, the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 are located on a straight line extending along the second direction. The second direction intersects the first direction (for example, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction). For another example, when the display panel 2 is folded and the folded display panel 2 reaches the target shape, in any group, the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 can be connected to form a preset shape (for example, a rectangle).

[0070] In some examples, when the driver board 22 and active board 21 of the display panel 2 are located on the same plane, the first alignment mark A1, the light-emitting device, the second alignment mark A2, and the driver circuit 22a are located on the same side of the flexible substrate 23, and the carrier board 21a and the light-emitting device are arranged on opposite sides of the flexible substrate 23. In this case, the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 can be manufactured simultaneously with certain signal lines or components in the driver circuit, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0071] Figure 4 is a three-dimensional diagram of a folding device provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 5 is another perspective view of the folding device provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 6 This is another perspective view of the folding device provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein: Figure 4 and Figure 5 Two perspective views of the folding device are shown before the auxiliary platform is flipped over. Figure 6 The figure shows a three-dimensional diagram of the folding device after the auxiliary supporting platform is folded. Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the folding device includes: a main carrying platform 100 , a secondary carrying platform 200 , a driving mechanism (not shown), a position acquisition mechanism, a control mechanism (not shown) and an adjustment mechanism 400 .

[0072] The main loading platform 100 is configured to carry the main panel 21. Optionally, the main loading platform 100 is provided with suction holes to secure the main panel 21 to the loading surface of the main loading platform 100 by vacuum suction; alternatively, the main loading platform 100 is provided with fixings to secure the main panel 21 to the loading surface of the main loading platform 100. Of course, the main panel 21 can also be secured to the main loading platform 100 by other means to prevent displacement of the main panel 21 during folding of the display panel. When the main panel 21 is located on the main loading platform 100, the supporting plate 21a is located on the side of the flexible substrate 23 facing away from the main loading platform 100.

[0073] The auxiliary platform 200 is configured to support and secure the drive plate 22. Furthermore, the auxiliary platform 200 can also secure a portion of the flexible connector 23a. Optionally, the auxiliary platform 200 is provided with suction holes to secure the drive plate 22 to its supporting surface via vacuum suction. Alternatively, the auxiliary platform 200 is provided with fixings to secure the drive plate 22 to its supporting surface. Of course, other methods can also be used to secure the drive plate 22 to the auxiliary platform 200.

[0074] The driving mechanism is configured to drive the auxiliary loading platform 200 to flip relative to the main loading platform 100 , thereby folding the driving plate 22 to a side of the main panel 21 facing away from the main loading platform 100 .

[0075] The position acquisition mechanism is configured to acquire the positions of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 on the folded display panel. The method by which the position acquisition mechanism acquires the positions of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 is not specifically limited. For example, the positions of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 can be acquired through image acquisition.

[0076] The control mechanism is configured to determine whether the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions. If one or more of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 are not located at corresponding preset positions, the control mechanism issues a control signal. As described above, the display panel includes two drive boards 22. When the drive boards 22 and the main panel 21 of the display panel are coplanar, the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in the same group of alignment marks are colinear. In this case, the control mechanism is specifically configured to determine whether the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in each group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line. When the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in any group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line, it is determined that the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in each group of alignment marks are located at the corresponding preset positions; when the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in at least one group of alignment marks are not on the same straight line, it is determined that one or more of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 are not in the corresponding preset positions, thereby sending a control signal.

[0077] The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the auxiliary platform 200 according to the control signal until the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in each group of alignment marks are located at corresponding preset positions.

[0078] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, after the auxiliary platform 200 is flipped relative to the main platform 100 and the driving plate 22 is folded to the side of the main panel 21 away from the main platform 100, the position acquisition mechanism can obtain the positions of the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2. If at least one first alignment mark A1 or at least one second alignment mark A2 is not in the corresponding preset position, the adjustment mechanism will adjust the position of the auxiliary platform 200, thereby adjusting the position of the driving plate 22, until each first alignment mark A1 and each second alignment mark A2 are in their respective corresponding preset positions. At this time, the shape of the folded display panel is the target shape.

[0079] In some embodiments, the folding device may further include a gluing mechanism and a curing mechanism. The control mechanism is further configured to issue a gluing signal before the drive mechanism drives the secondary carrier 200 to flip, and to issue a curing signal after determining that the first alignment mark A1 and the second alignment mark A2 in each group of alignment marks are both located at the corresponding preset positions. The gluing mechanism is configured to apply adhesive to the surface of the flexible connector 23a facing away from the secondary carrier 200 in response to the gluing signal. Alternatively, the gluing mechanism may apply adhesive to both portions of the drive plate 22 and portions of the main panel 21. The curing mechanism is configured to cure the adhesive in response to the curing signal.

[0080] Before the adhesive cures, the drive plate 22 is bent to the side of the main panel 21 facing away from the main support platform 100 and initially bonded to the main panel 21. The adhesive is very weak before curing, allowing the shape of the folded display panel to be adjusted. Once adjustments are complete, the adhesive is cured, finalizing the display panel's shape.

[0081] The structures of the gluing mechanism and the curing mechanism are not specifically limited in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the gluing mechanism may include a container disposed above the auxiliary loading platform 200 for receiving and dispensing adhesive. The curing mechanism may include a curing lamp, such as a UV lamp.

[0082] The folding device in the embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0083] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, there are two auxiliary platforms 200, which are respectively arranged on both sides of the main platform 100 along the first direction, and each auxiliary platform 200 is used to carry and fix a driving plate 22. Of course, the number of auxiliary platforms 200 can also be other numbers, for example, three or four.

[0084] Before the auxiliary loading platform 200 is folded relative to the main loading platform 100, the loading surface of the auxiliary loading platform 200 is on the same horizontal plane as the loading surface of the main loading platform 100, so that the display panel can be placed horizontally before being folded. After the auxiliary loading platform 200 is flipped relative to the main loading platform 100, the loading surface of the auxiliary loading platform 200 is arranged opposite to the loading surface of the main loading platform 100.

[0085] Side panels 500 are provided on opposite sides of the main platform 100 along the second direction, and the side panels 500 and the main platform 100 are relatively fixed. For example, the side panels 500 and the main platform 100 are both provided on a base. For another example, the side panels 500 are fixed to the main platform 100.

[0086] The auxiliary platform 200 is arranged on the mounting frame 600. When the driving mechanism drives the auxiliary platform 200 to rotate, it drives the mounting frame 600 to rotate relative to the side plate 500 to drive the auxiliary platform 200 to flip relative to the main platform 100. Among them, the driving mechanism includes a driving motor. When the folding device includes two auxiliary platforms 200, the mounting frames 600 where the two auxiliary platforms 200 are located can be driven by the same driving motor, or can be controlled separately by two driving motors, which is not limited here. When the two mounting frames 600 are driven by the same driving motor, the driving motor can simultaneously control the two mounting frames 600 to rotate relative to the side plate 500 through a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism can adopt a gear, rack or other structure, or adopt other structures well known to those skilled in the art, which is not limited here.

[0087] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the auxiliary supporting platform provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure being arranged on a mounting frame, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the mounting frame 600 includes a first mounting arm 601 and a second mounting arm 602 disposed opposite each other, and a connecting arm 603 fixedly connected between the first mounting arm 601 and the second mounting arm 602. The first mounting arm 601 and the second mounting arm 602 are both rotatably connected to the side plate 500. For example, the first mounting arm 601 and the second mounting arm 602 are both rotatably connected to the side plate 500 via a first rotating shaft 604. The auxiliary supporting platform 200 is connected between the first mounting arm 601 and the second mounting arm 602.

[0088] Figure 8 For the Figure 7 The cross-sectional view of line AA' is as follows: Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, a mounting groove V may be provided on the side of the first mounting arm 601 facing the second mounting arm 602 and on the side of the second mounting arm 602 facing the first mounting arm 601. A supporting platform mounting member 605 is provided at both ends of the auxiliary supporting platform 200, and at least a portion of the supporting platform mounting member 605 extends into the mounting groove V; the supporting platform mounting member 605 can be relatively displaced with the mounting frame 600 along the extension direction of the first mounting arm 601. It should be noted that the two ends of the auxiliary supporting platform 200 refer to the end of the auxiliary supporting platform 200 close to the first mounting arm 601 and the end close to the second mounting arm 602. At least one elastic telescopic member 606 is provided between the auxiliary supporting platform 200 and the connecting arm 603, and the two ends of the elastic telescopic member 606 are respectively connected to the auxiliary supporting platform 200 and the connecting arm 603. For example, the number of the elastic telescopic members 606 is two, and the elastic telescopic members 606 are springs.

[0089] At least one support member 607 is provided on the connecting wall 603, and the support member 607 includes a support end facing the secondary support platform 200. For example, the number of the support members 607 is two, and the support member 607 is a top screw. The support member 607 has an extended state and a retracted state, and the distance between the support end and the connecting arm 603 when the support member 607 is in the extended state is greater than the distance between the support end and the connecting arm 603 when the support member 607 is in the retracted state, and is greater than the length of the elastic telescopic member 606 when it is in a natural state. The elastic telescopic member 606 is in a natural state refers to a state when the elastic telescopic member 606 is not subjected to tension and pressure. In one example, a mounting hole is provided on the connecting arm 603, a part of the support member 607 is provided in the mounting hole, and the support member 607 can be extended and retracted along the axial direction of the mounting hole, wherein the axial direction of the mounting hole is the same as the extension direction of the first mounting arm 601.

[0090] In some embodiments, before the driving mounting frame 600 rotates relative to the main bearing platform 100, the support member 607 can be extended, so that the elastic stretch member 606 is in a stretched state to apply a pulling force to the sub-bearing platform 200; when the sub-bearing platform 200 is flipped relative to the main bearing platform 100, the support member 607 is switched to a retracted state. At this time, the elastic stretch member 606 will continue to apply a pulling force to the sub-bearing platform 200 during the folding process of the display panel, and the pulling direction is from the sub-bearing platform 200 to the connecting arm 603. After the sub-bearing platform 200 rotates 90° (that is, the angle between the bearing surface of the sub-bearing platform 200 and the bearing surface of the main bearing platform 100 is less than 90°), the tension applied by the elastic stretch member 606 to the sub-bearing platform 200 will prevent an excessive gap from being generated between the flexible substrate 23 and the side of the bearing plate 21a.

[0091] In some embodiments, rolling elements 608 are provided on the upper surface and / or lower surface of the platform mounting element 605 to minimize friction between the platform mounting element 605 and the inner wall of the mounting groove V. For example, the rolling element 608 may be a spherical plunger.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown, the position acquisition mechanism includes: a first image acquisition unit 301 and a second image acquisition unit 302. The first image acquisition unit 301 is configured to acquire the position of the first alignment mark of the display panel after folding by image acquisition; the second image acquisition unit 302 is configured to acquire the position of the second alignment mark of the display panel after folding by image acquisition.

[0093] In some examples, there are multiple first image acquisition units 301, each corresponding one-to-one with a first alignment mark on the display panel. The position of each first image acquisition unit 301 can be determined based on the preset position of the first alignment mark. For example, the first image acquisition unit 301 can be a camera, and the position of each first image acquisition unit 301 satisfies that, when the folded display panel assumes the target shape, the center of the lens of the first image acquisition unit 301 directly aligns with the corresponding first alignment mark. Because the camera has a certain field of view, even if the first alignment mark deviates to a certain extent, it can still be captured by the camera. Similarly, there are multiple second image acquisition units 302, each corresponding one-to-one with a second alignment mark on the display panel. For example, the second image acquisition unit 302 can be a camera, and the position of each second image acquisition unit 302 satisfies that, when the folded display panel assumes the target shape, the center of the lens of the second image acquisition unit 302 directly aligns with the corresponding second alignment mark.

[0094] As described above, when the display panel is flat, the first alignment mark, the light-emitting device, the second alignment mark, and the driving circuit are located on the same side of the flexible substrate 23. The carrier plate 21a and the light-emitting device are located on opposite sides of the flexible substrate 23. Furthermore, when the main panel 21 is placed on the main loading platform 100, the carrier plate 21a is located on the side of the flexible substrate 23 facing away from the main loading platform 100. In other words, the first alignment mark is located on the side of the flexible substrate 23 facing the main loading platform 100, while when the driving plate 22 is folded to a position opposite the main panel 21, the second alignment mark is located above the flexible substrate 23. In this case, a receiving hole can be provided in the main loading platform 100, and the first image capture unit 301 can be placed in the receiving hole. The secondary loading platform 200 can be made transparent, and the second image capture unit 302 can be placed above the main loading platform 100, for example, on a bracket above the main loading platform 100. The position of the second image capture unit 302 can be fixed, or the bracket can be movable to allow for adjustment. Here, the term "transparent" in this disclosure means that the light transmittance is 80% or higher.

[0095] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the adjustment mechanism includes a plurality of actuators 400, wherein the actuators 400 are provided on both the first mounting arm 601 and the second mounting arm 602. The auxiliary platform 200 has a first end proximate to the first mounting arm 601 and a second end proximate to the second mounting arm 602. The actuators 400 on the first mounting arm 601 are configured to drive the first end of the auxiliary platform 200 to move toward or away from the connecting arm 603 according to the control signal; and the actuators on the second mounting arm 602 are configured to drive the second end of the auxiliary platform 200 to move toward or away from the connecting arm 603 according to the control signal.

[0096] like Figure 8 As shown, the secondary platform 200 has a back surface opposite its supporting surface. The platform mounting member 605 includes a support portion located on the back surface of the secondary platform 200. A protrusion 609 is provided on the support portion, extending to the location of the actuator 400. This allows the actuator 400 to drive the protrusion 609 toward or away from the connecting arm 603, thereby driving the end of the secondary platform 200 toward or away from the connecting arm 603. In one example, the actuator 400 can be a piezoelectric ceramic actuator, thereby driving the secondary platform 200 to achieve micron-level displacement, thereby improving driving accuracy.

[0097] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of a folding method for a display panel provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure, which is used for the folding device described above. Figure 9 As shown, the folding methods include:

[0098] S1. Fix the main panel of the display panel on the main supporting platform, and fix the driving board on the auxiliary supporting platform.

[0099] S2. Control the auxiliary bearing platform to flip relative to the main bearing platform, so as to fold the driving plate to the side of the main panel facing away from the main bearing platform.

[0100] S3. Acquire positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel.

[0101] S4. Determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions. When the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at corresponding preset positions, the shape of the folded display panel is the target shape.

[0102] S5. When one or more of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks are not in the corresponding preset positions, adjust the position of the auxiliary support platform until the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks in each group of alignment marks are all in the corresponding preset positions.

[0103] Figure 10 Schematic diagram of a folding method of a display panel provided in some other embodiments of the present disclosure, such as Figure 10 As shown, the following steps S1 to S6 are included:

[0104] Step S1: fix the main panel of the display panel on the main supporting platform, and fix the driving board on the auxiliary supporting platform. At the same time, fix a part of the flexible connector on the auxiliary supporting platform.

[0105] Step S2: Control the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform, so as to fold the driving plate to the side of the main panel facing away from the main carrying platform.

[0106] Step S21: forming adhesive at least on the surface of the flexible connector facing away from the secondary supporting platform, wherein the viscosity of the adhesive before curing is less than the viscosity of the adhesive after curing.

[0107] Step S3, obtaining the positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel. Step S3 specifically includes: obtaining the positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark by image acquisition.

[0108] Step S4: determining whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions.

[0109] Optionally, when the display panel is in a flattened state, the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in the same group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line. In this case, step S4 specifically includes: judging whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line; when the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in any group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line, determining that the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions; when the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in at least one group of alignment marks are not on the same straight line, judging that one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset position.

[0110] Step S5: When one or more of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks are not at the corresponding preset positions, adjust the position of the auxiliary support platform until the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks in each group of alignment marks are all at the corresponding preset positions.

[0111] Step S6: Curing the adhesive, for example, by UV light.

[0112] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, after the driving plate is folded to the side of the main panel away from the main supporting platform, the positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are obtained, and when at least one first alignment mark or at least one second alignment mark A2 is not in the corresponding preset position, the position of the sub-supporting platform is adjusted, thereby adjusting the position of the driving plate, until each first alignment mark and each second alignment mark are in their respective corresponding preset positions. At this time, the shape of the folded display panel is the target shape, so that when multiple folded display panels are spliced ​​into a large-size display screen, the splicing seam of the display panel meets the requirements.

[0113] It is understood that the above embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments for illustrating the principles of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art may make various modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit and substance of the present disclosure, and such modifications and improvements are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for folding a display panel, wherein: The display panel includes a main panel and at least one driving board connected to the main panel. The display panel is provided with at least one set of alignment marks, each set of alignment marks including: a first alignment mark located on the main panel and a second alignment mark located on the driving board. The folding method includes: Fixing the main panel of the display panel on the main supporting platform, and fixing the driving board on the auxiliary supporting platform; Controlling the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform to fold the driving plate to a side of the main panel facing away from the main carrying platform; Obtaining positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel, and determining whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions; When one or more of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks are not located at the corresponding preset positions, adjusting the position of the auxiliary supporting platform until the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks in each group of alignment marks are all located at the corresponding preset positions; The folding method is performed by a folding device, and the folding device includes: A main carrying platform, configured to carry and fix the main panel; A secondary bearing platform, configured to bear and fix the driving plate; a driving mechanism configured to drive the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform, so as to fold the driving plate to a side of the main panel facing away from the main carrying platform; a position acquisition mechanism configured to acquire positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel; a control mechanism configured to determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions, and to issue a control signal when one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset positions; an adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the position of the auxiliary carrying platform according to the control signal until the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions; The folding device also includes: Side panels, arranged on opposite sides of the main bearing platform; The mounting frame includes a first mounting arm and a second mounting arm disposed opposite to each other, and a connecting arm fixedly connected between the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm; the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm are both rotatably connected to the side plate; The auxiliary carrying platform is connected between the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm; the driving mechanism is specifically configured to drive the mounting frame to rotate relative to the side plate, so as to drive the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform; The adjustment mechanism includes: a plurality of drivers, each of the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm is provided with the driver; the driver is configured to drive the end of the secondary supporting platform to move closer to or away from the connecting arm according to the control signal; A mounting groove is provided on a side of the first mounting arm facing the second mounting arm and a side of the second mounting arm facing the first mounting arm; The folding device also includes: A carrier platform mounting member is provided at both ends of the secondary carrier platform, at least a portion of the carrier platform mounting member extends into the mounting groove; the carrier platform mounting member is capable of relative displacement with the mounting frame along the extension direction of the first mounting arm; an elastic telescopic member, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the auxiliary bearing platform and the connecting arm; a support member, disposed on the connecting arm, the support member including a support end facing the secondary bearing platform; The support member has an extended state and a retracted state. When the support member is in the extended state, the distance between the support end and the connecting arm is greater than the distance between the support end and the connecting arm when the support member is in the retracted state, and is greater than the length of the elastic member in the natural state. The auxiliary bearing platform has a back side opposite to its bearing surface, and the bearing platform mounting member includes a supporting portion, which is located on the back side of the auxiliary bearing platform. A protrusion is provided on the supporting portion, and the protrusion extends to the position of the driver. The driver drives the protrusion to move closer to or away from the connecting arm, thereby driving the end of the auxiliary bearing platform to move closer to or away from the connecting arm.

2. The folding method according to claim 1, wherein: In each group of alignment marks, the sum of the number of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks is greater than 2; when the two driving boards and the main panel in the display panel are located on the same plane, the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks in the same group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line; The determining whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions specifically includes: Determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in the same group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line. When the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in any group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line, it is determined that the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at the corresponding preset positions; when the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in at least one group of alignment marks are not on the same straight line, it is determined that one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset position.

3. The folding method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The obtaining of the positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel specifically includes: The positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel are acquired by image acquisition.

4. The folding method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Each of the driving plates is connected to the main panel via a flexible connector; the folding method further comprises: While fixing the driving plate on the auxiliary bearing platform, a part of the flexible connecting member is also fixed on the auxiliary bearing platform; Before controlling the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform, forming adhesive glue at least on the surface of the flexible connector facing away from the auxiliary carrying platform; After the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at corresponding preset positions, the adhesive on the display panel is cured.

5. A folding device for folding a display panel, wherein: The display panel includes: a main panel and at least one driving board connected to the main panel; the display panel is provided with at least one set of alignment marks, each set of alignment marks including: a first alignment mark located on the main panel and a second alignment mark located on the driving board; the folding device includes: A main carrying platform, configured to carry and fix the main panel; A secondary bearing platform, configured to bear and fix the driving plate; a driving mechanism configured to drive the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform, so as to fold the driving plate to a side of the main panel facing away from the main carrying platform; a position acquisition mechanism configured to acquire positions of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark on the folded display panel; a control mechanism configured to determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions, and to issue a control signal when one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset positions; an adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the position of the auxiliary carrying platform according to the control signal until the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions; The folding device also includes: Side panels, arranged on opposite sides of the main bearing platform; The mounting frame includes a first mounting arm and a second mounting arm disposed opposite to each other, and a connecting arm fixedly connected between the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm; the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm are both rotatably connected to the side plate; The auxiliary carrying platform is connected between the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm; the driving mechanism is specifically configured to drive the mounting frame to rotate relative to the side plate, so as to drive the auxiliary carrying platform to flip relative to the main carrying platform; The adjustment mechanism includes: a plurality of drivers, each of the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm is provided with the driver; the driver is configured to drive the end of the secondary supporting platform to move closer to or away from the connecting arm according to the control signal; A mounting groove is provided on a side of the first mounting arm facing the second mounting arm and a side of the second mounting arm facing the first mounting arm; The folding device also includes: A carrier platform mounting member is provided at both ends of the secondary carrier platform, at least a portion of the carrier platform mounting member extends into the mounting groove; the carrier platform mounting member is capable of relative displacement with the mounting frame along the extension direction of the first mounting arm; an elastic telescopic member, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the auxiliary bearing platform and the connecting arm; a support member, disposed on the connecting arm, the support member including a support end facing the secondary bearing platform; The support member has an extended state and a retracted state. When the support member is in the extended state, the distance between the support end and the connecting arm is greater than the distance between the support end and the connecting arm when the support member is in the retracted state, and is greater than the length of the elastic member in the natural state. The auxiliary bearing platform has a back side opposite to its bearing surface, and the bearing platform mounting member includes a supporting portion, which is located on the back side of the auxiliary bearing platform. A protrusion is provided on the supporting portion, and the protrusion extends to the position of the driver. The driver drives the protrusion to move closer to or away from the connecting arm, thereby driving the end of the auxiliary bearing platform to move closer to or away from the connecting arm.

6. The folding device according to claim 5, wherein: In each group of alignment marks, the sum of the number of the first alignment marks and the second alignment marks is greater than 2; the display panel includes two driving boards, and the two driving boards are respectively located on opposite sides of the main panel; when the two driving boards in the display panel and the main panel are located on the same plane, the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in the same group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line; The control mechanism is specifically configured to determine whether the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line. When the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in any group of alignment marks are located on the same straight line, it is determined that the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are located at corresponding preset positions; when the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in at least one group of alignment marks are not on the same straight line, it is determined that one or more of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark are not located at the corresponding preset position.

7. The folding device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The position acquisition mechanism includes: a first image acquisition unit configured to acquire the position of the first alignment mark on the folded display panel by image acquisition; The second image acquisition unit is configured to acquire the position of the second alignment mark on the folded display panel by image acquisition.

8. The folding device according to claim 5, wherein: The driver includes a piezoelectric ceramic driver.

9. The folding device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The auxiliary bearing platform has a bearing surface for bearing the driving plate. A vacuum adsorption hole is provided on the auxiliary bearing platform, and one end of the vacuum adsorption hole is located on the bearing surface of the auxiliary bearing platform.

10. The folding device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: Each of the driving plates is connected to the main panel via a flexible connector, and the secondary carrying platform is further configured to carry a portion of the flexible connector; The control mechanism is further configured to send a glue coating signal before the driving mechanism drives the auxiliary carrying platform to flip; and after determining that the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark in each group of alignment marks are both located at corresponding preset positions, issuing a curing signal; The folding device also includes: a gluing mechanism configured to apply adhesive glue on a surface of the flexible connector facing away from the secondary supporting platform according to the gluing signal; The curing mechanism is configured to cure the adhesive according to the curing signal.

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