Display panel and display device including the same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a display panel and a display device including the display panel. The display panel includes: a first panel area; a second panel area facing the first panel area so that the second back side faces the first back side; a third panel area; a first hinge coupling portion for coupling one end of the first panel area and the opposite end of the second panel area to each other in a hinge coupling manner; and a second hinge coupling portion for coupling one end of the second panel area and the opposite end of the third panel area to each other in a hinge coupling manner, wherein the first panel area, the second panel area and the third panel area are continuously arranged and formed integrally with each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display panel and a display device, and in particular, to a Z-folding display panel in which an inner folding area and an outer folding area coexist, and a display device including the Z-folding display panel. Background Art

[0002] Generally, a Z-folded display device may be in a folded state via a Z shape when folded and may be implemented as a portable display device.

[0003] In addition, the Z-folding display device has an advantage in that, when the inner folding area and the outer folding area coexist, a display screen can be provided even in a folded state, and a wide display screen can be provided in an unfolded state.

[0004] In addition, the Z-folded display device can be implemented as an organic light emitting display device that displays images through organic light emitting diodes (hereinafter referred to as “OLEDs”) in an active area.

[0005] In an organic light-emitting display device, when a data voltage is applied to the gate of a driving thin film transistor (TFT), current flows between the drain and the source based on the voltage between the gate and the source and is supplied to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). Such an organic light-emitting display device adjusts the amount of current flowing through the organic light-emitting diode through the driving thin film transistor to display the grayscale of an image. Summary of the invention

[0006] In the above-mentioned organic light emitting display device, the TFT provided in each pixel adjusts the amount of current applied to the OLED to adjust the brightness of the self-luminous OLED.

[0007] However, a display device implemented as an organic light emitting display device has a disadvantage in that an outer edge of a screen may be exposed to the outside and thus may be easily impacted or scratched by an external force when carried.

[0008] Furthermore, in the case of a Z-folding display device implemented as a smart phone in a multi-folding scheme, the display device has a design disadvantage since the thickness of the phone in a folded state increases.

[0009] When the thickness of the main body of the display panel is reduced to solve the increased thickness problem, the battery capacity may be reduced. In addition, when the screen size increases in the unfolded state, it may be difficult to operate the display device with one hand.

[0010] Furthermore, in the case of a camera device, it may be difficult to reduce the thickness, so that the camera device may protrude from the main body to the outside and may be easily damaged or look unsightly.

[0011] Therefore, the inventors of the present specification invented a display panel including a first panel region, a second panel region, and a third panel region coupled to each other in a hinge-coupled manner.

[0012] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display panel capable of preventing a camera device from protruding to the outside with respect to a terminal of a multi-folding scheme and protecting a portion that is highly susceptible to impact may be provided.

[0013] In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure include a display device that may include a display panel, and an outer body may be added to the outside of the display unit to protect the folding area and the display unit. In such an embodiment of the display device, the surface of the display unit may be protected by a transparent plastic material, and the outer body may be used as a handle.

[0014] The features and aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above. Additional features and aspects will be set forth in part in the description that follows and will become apparent in part to those skilled in the art from the description or may be learned through practice of the inventive concepts provided herein. Other features and aspects of the inventive concepts may be realized and obtained through structures specifically pointed out in or derivable from the written description, its claims, and the accompanying drawings.

[0015] To achieve these and other advantages, and in accordance with the purposes of the present disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, a display panel may include: a first panel region having a first front side and a first back side; a second panel region having a second front side and a second back side, the second panel region being configured to overlap with the first panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at a boundary between the first panel region and the second panel region, wherein the second back side faces the first back side; a third panel region having a third front side and a third back side, the third panel region being configured to overlap with the second panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at a boundary between the second panel region and the third panel region, wherein the third front side faces the second front side; a first hinge coupling member for coupling the first end of the first panel region and the first end of the second panel region to each other in a hinge-coupled manner; and a second hinge coupling member for coupling the second end of the second panel region and the first end of the third panel region to each other in a hinge-coupled manner, wherein the first panel region, the second panel region and the third panel region are continuously arranged and formed integrally with each other.

[0016] In some example embodiments, a display device may include: the display panel described above; an outer body extending from a second end of the third panel area, the outer body having a width equal to the width of the third panel area and having a thickness and a vertical dimension greater than the thickness and a vertical dimension of the third panel area; and a transparent cover connected to the outer body, the transparent cover being used to cover a first front side of the first panel area when the display panel is fully folded in a Z shape.

[0017] In some example embodiments, the outer body can be configured to face and surround the first end of the first panel area, the first end of the second panel area, and the first hinge coupling member when the first panel area, the second panel area, and the third panel area are all in a Z-shaped folded state relative to each other.

[0018] In some example embodiments, the outer body may include: a cover receiving hole formed in the outer body, the transparent cover being configured to be inserted into or slide out of the cover receiving hole; and an accommodating space inside the outer body for accommodating the transparent cover inserted into the cover receiving hole.

[0019] In some example embodiments, the display device may further include: a movable holder connected to the transparent cover to enable the transparent cover to move into or out of the cover receiving hole; and a movable track for providing a moving path for the movable holder, wherein the movable holder and the movable track are arranged at a lower end of a third panel area integrally formed with the outer body.

[0020] In some example embodiments, as the moving holder moves from one side to the other side along the moving track, the transparent cover may be configured to be inserted into the cover receiving hole and into the accommodation space of the outer body.

[0021] In some example embodiments, as the moving holder moves from the other side to one side along the moving track, the transparent cover may be configured to protrude from the cover receiving hole to cover the third front surface of the third panel area or the first front surface of the first panel area.

[0022] In some example embodiments, the outer body may have an integrated storage hole for accommodating a touch pen.

[0023] In some example embodiments, the outer body may further include: a camera for photographing an external object to obtain an image thereof; a speaker for outputting sound; a flash for outputting light; and an illuminometer for detecting ambient brightness.

[0024] In some example embodiments, the display device may further include a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed inside the outer body and electrically connected to the camera device, the speaker, the flash, and the illuminometer.

[0025] In some example embodiments, the display device may further include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) for electrically connecting the printed circuit board (PCB) to the third panel area or the display of the third panel area.

[0026] In some example embodiments, the display panel may be connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) via a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), the printed circuit board (PCB) having at least one contact hole, and the printed circuit board (PCB) is electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) via the at least one contact hole.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display device may include: a foldable display panel, the foldable display panel including: a first panel area having a first display as a first front side of the first panel area; a second panel area having a second display as a second front side of the second panel area, the second panel area being configured to overlap with the first panel area in a folded state; a third panel area having a third display as a third front side of the third panel area, the third panel area being configured to overlap with the second panel area in a folded state; a first hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling the first panel area and the second panel area; The panel areas are coupled to each other; and a second hinge coupling member, which is used to couple the second panel area and the third panel area to each other in a hinge-coupled manner, wherein each of the first panel area, the second panel area and the third panel area includes an active area and an inactive area, wherein the first display, the second display and the third display are continuously arranged and formed integrally with each other, and wherein each of the first display, the second display and the third display includes a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines arranged to cross each other and a plurality of pixels respectively arranged at intersections between the scan lines and the data lines, each pixel including an organic light emitting diode.

[0028] In some example embodiments, the non-active area may include: a scan driver for applying a scan signal to a plurality of scan lines; a data driver for applying a data signal to a plurality of data lines; a power supply for providing a high potential voltage, a low potential voltage, and an initialization voltage to each pixel; and a timing controller for controlling the scan driver and the data driver.

[0029] In some example embodiments, a pixel may include a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns, wherein one of the scan lines is provided in a corresponding row of the plurality of sub-pixels, and two of the data lines are provided in a corresponding column of the plurality of sub-pixels. The display panel may further include: a first multiplexer configured to select one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; a second multiplexer configured to select the other of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; a first scan switch and a second scan switch, each of which is used to switch a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to be connected to one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; and a third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, each of which is used to switch a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to be connected to the other of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column.

[0030] In some example embodiments, the first scan switch and the second scan switch may be respectively disposed in two sub-pixels among the plurality of sub-pixels that are continuously arranged in the column direction along one data line among the two data lines, and the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch may be respectively disposed in two sub-pixels among the plurality of sub-pixels that are continuously arranged in the column direction along the other data line among the two data lines.

[0031] In some example embodiments, the first multiplexer may include a first multiplexer switch having: a first electrode connected to one of the two data lines; a gate electrode connected to a first multiplexer line for applying a first selection signal; and a second electrode connected to the first power.

[0032] In some example embodiments, the first multiplexer switch may be configured to be turned on based on a first selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line to apply the first power received through the second electrode to one of the two data lines through the first electrode.

[0033] In some example embodiments, the second multiplexer may include a second multiplexer switch having: a first electrode connected to the other of the two data lines; a gate electrode connected to a second multiplexer line for applying a second selection signal; and a second electrode connected to the first power.

[0034] In some example embodiments, the second multiplexer switch may be configured to be turned on based on a second selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line to apply the first power received through the second electrode to the other of the two data lines through the first electrode.

[0035] According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the display unit may be protected by an outer body disposed outside the display unit and a transparent cover extending from the outer body, and the display unit may be prevented from being damaged when receiving an external impact or during movement.

[0036] Furthermore, the present disclosure may have an advantage of increased convenience in use because it is easier to manipulate the outer body with one hand even when the display screen size is increased in the unfolded state.

[0037] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present disclosure may reduce the thickness of the main body of the display panel by placing a camera device, a pen, a battery, etc. on the external body.

[0038] In addition, in the Z-folded display panel according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the data inputs of two sub-pixels arranged consecutively in the column direction can be connected to the data line at one side and the data line at the other side, respectively. Therefore, the display panel can operate in an interlace scheme.

[0039] In addition, in the Z-folded display panel according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display panel can be operated in an interlaced scheme, a plurality of sub-pixels can be grouped into odd frame groups and even frame groups, and for the first half frame, data signals can be applied to the sub-pixels corresponding to the odd frame group, and for the second half frame, data signals can be applied to the sub-pixels corresponding to the even frame group.

[0040] In addition, in the Z-folded display panel according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display panel is operated in a progressive scheme, the display panel can be operated based on 4 scan lines, so that data signals can be input to the first scan line to the fourth scan line in the order of the first line, the third line, the second line and the fourth line.

[0041] Therefore, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensing time may be increased due to the two horizontal period (2H) operation, thereby achieving high-speed operation.

[0042] Furthermore, in the Z-folded display panel according to example embodiments of the present disclosure, flicker may be removed during low-frequency operation for interlaced operation.

[0043] For example, according to the present disclosure, the thickness of the body of the display panel folded in a Z shape can be reduced, and the display panel can be manipulated with one hand when unfolded. To this end, for example, an outer body is added to the outside of the display unit to protect the folding area and the display unit. For example, the surface of the display unit can be protected by transparent plastic, and the outer body can be used as a handle. Therefore, the thickness of the display panel body can be reduced, the display panel can be manipulated with one hand when unfolded, and the part that is susceptible to impact can be protected.

[0044] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0045] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the present disclosure are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the inventive concepts as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the description serve to explain the principle of the disclosure.

[0047] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an external shape of a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 2 is a side view showing an example in which a display surface is protected by a transparent cover when a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is folded.

[0049] Figure 3 is a side view of a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure when unfolded.

[0050] Figure 4 is a side view showing an example in which a transparent cover slides into a cover receiving hole when the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is folded.

[0051] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view viewed from a side of a detached first panel region to a third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0052] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the front side of a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure when folded.

[0053] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a rear side of a display device when folded according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electrical connection relationship between a third panel area and an external body in a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a contact state between a third panel area of ​​a display device and a printed circuit board of an external body according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig.10 is a diagram showing an example of displaying an image when the display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is in a folded state.

[0057] Fig.11 is a diagram showing an example of a displayed image when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is in an unfolded state.

[0058] Fig.12 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a third panel area in a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Fig.13 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example pixel configuration.

[0060] Fig.14 is a circuit diagram illustrating an example circuit configuration of one sub-pixel in the third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Fig.15 is a diagram illustrating an interlaced scheme operation timing diagram of a third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Fig.16 is a diagram showing a row-by-row scheme operation timing diagram of a third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The advantages and features of the present disclosure and their implementation methods will be explained by the example implementation methods described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure can be implemented in different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the example implementation methods set forth herein. On the contrary, these example implementation methods are provided to make the present disclosure sufficiently thorough and complete to help those skilled in the art fully understand the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the scope of protection of the present invention is limited by the claims and their equivalents.

[0064] The shapes, sizes, ratios, angles, numbers, etc. of various exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings to describe the present disclosure are given as examples only. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrations in the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, similar reference numerals generally represent similar elements throughout the specification.

[0065] In addition, in order to simplify the description, the description and details of known steps and elements may be omitted. In addition, in the following detailed description of the present disclosure, many specific details may be set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, known methods, processes, components or circuits may not be described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0066] The terms used herein may be used only for the purpose of describing specific example embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Elements described in the singular, such as with the singular article "a" or "an," are intended to include plural elements, and vice versa, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0067] In cases where the terms “comprise,” “have,” “include,” etc. are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, operations, elements, and / or parts, one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, parts, and / or portions thereof may additionally be present unless a term such as “only” is used.

[0068] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The term "at least one" should be understood to include any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items. For example, the meaning of "at least one of a first element, a second element, and a third element" includes all combinations of the three listed elements, any combination of two of the three elements, and each individual element, the first element, the second element, and the third element.

[0069] When interpreting an element, even if an explicit description of such an error or tolerance range is not provided, the element will be interpreted as including the error or tolerance range.

[0070] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" or "connected to" another element or layer, it should be understood to mean that the element or layer can be directly on or directly connected to the other element or layer, or that intervening elements or layers may be present. In addition, when an element is referred to as being disposed "on" or "under" another element, it should be understood to mean that these elements can be disposed in direct contact with each other, or can be disposed without direct contact with each other.

[0071] When describing a temporal relationship, when the temporal order of two events is described as, for example, "after", "subsequently", "next" or "before", one or more other events may occur in between, unless more restrictive terms such as "directly", "immediately" or "directly" are used.

[0072] Although the terms "first", "second", A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be interpreted as being limited by these terms because they are not used to define a specific order or priority. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or part from another. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0073] The features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be coupled or combined with each other in part or in whole. As those skilled in the art can fully understand, they can be linked and operated in various ways technically. The embodiments may be performed independently of each other or in association with each other in various combinations.

[0074] As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as approximate terms and are intended to account for the inherent deviations in measurements or calculations that one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize. The terms may be used to prevent unauthorized exploitation by unauthorized infringers to design around exact or absolute numbers provided to aid in understanding the present disclosure.

[0075] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the inventive concept belongs. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this article.

[0076] In the description of a signal flow relationship, for example, even when “a signal is transmitted from node A to node B,” the signal may be transmitted from node A to node B via another node unless a more restrictive term such as “immediately” or “directly” is used.

[0077] Hereinafter, examples of display devices according to example embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When assigning reference numerals to components of the accompanying drawings, the same components may have the same reference numerals in different drawings unless otherwise specified. In addition, for ease of description, the scale of each component shown in the accompanying drawings may be different from the actual scale. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the scale shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0078] Hereinafter, a display panel and a display device including the same according to some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0079] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an external shape of a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 is a side view showing an example in which a display surface is protected by a transparent cover when a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is folded. Figure 3 is a side view of a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure when unfolded. Figure 4 is a side view showing an example in which a transparent cover slides into a cover receiving hole when a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is folded, and Figure 5 A cross-sectional view viewed from a side of a detached first panel region to a third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0080] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, a display device 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display panel 20 having a first panel area 110 , a second panel area 120 , and a third panel area 130 .

[0081] The first panel region 110 may include a first front surface 110a and a first rear surface 110b. The first front surface 110a may have the same area as the first rear surface 110b, or may have a smaller area than the first rear surface 110b.

[0082] The first panel area 110 may include a first display unit 112 on the first front surface 110a. The first display unit 112 may have the same area as the first front surface 110a, or may have a smaller area than the first front surface 110a.

[0083] The second panel region 120 may include a second front surface 120a and a second back surface 120b. The second front surface 120a may have the same area as the second back surface 120b, or may have a smaller area than the second back surface 120b.

[0084] The second panel area 120 may include a second display unit 122 on the second front surface 120a. The second display unit 122 may have the same area as the second front surface 120a, or a smaller area than the second front surface 120a.

[0085] The third panel region 130 may include a third front surface 130a and a third rear surface 130b. The third front surface 130a may have the same area as the third rear surface 130b, or a smaller area than the third rear surface 130b.

[0086] The third panel area 130 may include a third display unit 132 on the third front surface 130a. The third display unit 132 may have the same area as the third front surface 130a, or a smaller area than the third front surface 130a.

[0087] Although not shown in the drawings, each of the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120, and the third panel area 130 may include an active area (AA) configured to display an image and a non-active area (NA) configured to supply one or more signals to the active area.

[0088] The first panel region 110 may include a first display unit 112. The first panel region 110 may have the same area as the first display unit 112, or may have a larger area than the first display unit 112.

[0089] The second panel region 120 may include a second display unit 122. The second panel region 120 may have the same area as the second display unit 122, or may have a larger area than the second display unit 122.

[0090] The third panel region 130 may include a third display unit 132. The third panel region 130 may have the same area as the third display unit 132, or may have a larger area than the third display unit 132.

[0091] Since the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the third panel region 130 have the same size and area as described above, their internal structures may be the same or similar. Therefore, the third panel region 130 will be described as an example of an example embodiment in which the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the third panel region 130 have the same structure. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0092] The third panel region 130 may include a substrate therein, and a light blocking layer and a buffer layer may be disposed on the substrate. That is, the light blocking layer may be disposed on the substrate, and the buffer layer may be disposed on the light blocking layer.

[0093] The substrate may be formed of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), vinyl chloride, acrylic resin, polycarbonate (PC)-based resin, polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-based resin, polyethylene (PE)-based resin, polystyrene (PS)-based resin, polypropylene (PP)-based resin, polyimide (PI)-based resin, glass, silica, etc.

[0094] The light blocking layer may be made of a metal material having a light blocking function to block the inflow of external light. The light blocking layer may be formed as a single layer or multilayer structure made of one of metals such as molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0095] The buffer layer may be formed on the substrate and on the light blocking layer. The buffer layer covering the light blocking layer on the substrate may be formed in a structure in which a single insulating layer or a plurality of insulating layers are stacked to block foreign materials including moisture, oxygen, etc. introduced from the substrate. The buffer layer may be formed in a single layer or a multilayer structure of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or aluminum oxide (AlOx).

[0096] The third panel region 130 may have a third display unit 132 disposed on an uppermost layer.

[0097] The third display unit 132 includes a plurality of scan lines that can be arranged in rows, a plurality of data lines that are arranged in columns and intersect the scan lines, and a plurality of pixels at intersections between the scan lines and the data lines. Each pixel may include at least one sub-pixel. Therefore, a sub-pixel may be arranged at each intersection.

[0098] For example, in the third panel area 130, a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines may cross each other on a glass substrate or a plastic substrate. Sub-pixels having red, green, and blue colors, respectively, may be defined at each point where the scan lines and the data lines cross each other. One pixel including at least one sub-pixel may be referred to as a "unit pixel".

[0099] In this configuration, each of the sub-pixels may include an organic light emitting diode (OLED). A plurality of scan lines may be arranged in rows of the plurality of sub-pixels, and a plurality of data lines may be arranged in columns of the plurality of sub-pixels. Thus, in the plurality of sub-pixels, the light emitting diodes (OLED) may be arranged in rows and columns.

[0100] In this regard, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) may be simply referred to as a "light emitting diode (OLED)", "light emitting diode (EL)", "light emitting device (EL)", "EL" or "OLED".

[0101] In addition, on the third display unit 132 of the third panel region 130 , lines of force formed in a direction parallel to the data lines may be formed to be connected to the sub-pixels.

[0102] In addition, although not shown, each sub-pixel may include at least one organic light emitting diode, a capacitor, a switch thin film transistor and a drive thin film transistor. The drive thin film transistor may be referred to as a "drive transistor", "drive switch", "drive device", etc.

[0103] In this regard, each organic light emitting diode (OLED) can emit light with a current amount adjusted based on the voltage between the gate-source electrode of the driving thin film transistor. The anode of the organic light emitting diode (OLED) can be connected to a high potential voltage power supply, and the cathode can be connected to a low potential voltage power supply. An organic compound layer can be provided between the anode and the cathode.

[0104] The organic compound layer may include a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), a light emitting layer (EML), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL), but the present disclosure may not be limited thereto. For example, at least two organic compound layers emitting different colors of light may be stacked based on a series structure. When current flows through an organic light emitting diode (OLED), holes that have passed through the hole transport layer (HTL) and electrons that have passed through the electron transport layer (ETL) may move to the light emitting layer (EML) to form excitons. Therefore, the light emitting layer (EML) may emit visible light.

[0105] In addition, although not shown, the driving thin film transistor and the switching thin film transistor can be connected to the gate line (also referred to as the scan line herein), the control signal supply line and the data line. Therefore, based on the gate voltage input to the gate line (scan line), the current can flow through the switching thin film transistor, and at the same time, the switching thin film transistor can transmit the data voltage input to the data line to the driving thin film transistor. The capacitor can be arranged between the thin film transistor and the power line and connected to the thin film transistor and the power line, can be charged with the data voltage transmitted from the thin film transistor, and can maintain the charge of 1 frame.

[0106] The thin film transistor may be implemented as a PMOS type low temperature polysilicon (LTPS) TFT, thereby ensuring the desired response characteristics. For example, among the thin film transistors, at least one transistor may be implemented as an NMOS type or PMOS type oxide TFT having good leakage current characteristics when turned off, and the remaining transistors may be implemented as a PMOS type LTPS TFT having good response characteristics.

[0107] The first panel area 110 may include a first display unit 112, the second panel area 120 may include a second display unit 122, and the third panel area 130 may include a third display unit 132. In this regard, the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 may all have the same structure. The detailed structures of the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 will be described later.

[0108] When the second panel region 120 is in a folded state at a boundary between the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120 , the second back side 120 b of the second panel region 120 may face the first back side 110 b of the first panel region 110 and correspond to the first panel region 110 .

[0109] The first hinge coupling portion 140 can hinge-couple one end of the first panel region 110 and one end of the second panel region 120 to each other. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the left end of the first panel region 110 may be hinge-coupled to the right end of the second panel region 120 through the first hinge coupling portion 140 .

[0110] When the third panel region 130 is in a folded state at a boundary between the second panel region 120 and the third panel region 130 , the third front side 130 a of the third panel region 130 may face the second front side 120 a of the second panel region 120 and correspond to the second panel region 120 .

[0111] The second hinge coupling portion 150 may hinge-couple the other end of the second panel region 120 (which is opposite to one end of the second panel region 120) and one end of the third panel region 130 to each other. Figure 1 As shown, the left end of the second panel region 120 may be hinge-coupled to the right end of the third panel region 130 via the second hinge coupling portion 150 .

[0112] The left end of the third panel region 130 may extend with the same width as the width of the third panel region 130 (i.e., the dimension in the extension direction of the boundary between the second panel region 120 and the third panel region 130 (hereinafter referred to as the “boundary extension direction”)) to form the outer body 160, or may be coupled to the outer body 160. For example, the outer body 160 may be formed to extend from the left end of the third panel region 130 with the same width as the width of the third panel region 130. In this regard, each of the thickness (i.e., the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the boundary extension direction) and the vertical dimension (i.e., the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the display panel of the third display unit 132) of the outer body 160 may be greater than the thickness of the third panel region 130 (i.e., the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the display panel of the third display unit 132).

[0113] like Figure 1 As shown, the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120 and the third panel area 130 can be arranged continuously and can be formed integrally with each other. That is, the first display unit 112 of the first panel area 110, the second display unit 122 of the second panel area 120 and the third display unit 132 of the third panel area 130 can all be arranged continuously and can be formed integrally with each other. For example, the first display unit 112 as the first front side 110a of the first panel area 110, the second display unit 122 as the second front side 120a of the second panel area 120 and the third display unit 132 as the third front side 130a of the third panel area 130 can all be arranged continuously and can be formed integrally with each other.

[0114] The first hinge coupling portion 140 may be disposed between the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120. Thus, the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120 may be folded or unfolded through a hinge operation.

[0115] Therefore, the boundary between the first display unit 112 and the second display unit 122 may be bent and folded or unfolded.

[0116] The second hinge coupling portion 150 may be disposed between the second panel region 120 and the third panel region 130. Therefore, the second panel region 120 and the third panel region 130 may be folded or unfolded by a hinge operation.

[0117] Therefore, the boundary between the second display unit 122 and the third display unit 132 may be bent and folded or unfolded.

[0118] When the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120 and the third panel area 130 are unfolded, since the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122 and the third display unit 132 are arranged continuously and formed integrally with each other, the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120 and the third panel area 130 can be operated as one display screen.

[0119] In this regard, an image to be displayed on one display screen may be divided into three screen images, such that a first screen image may be displayed on the first display unit 112 , a second screen image may be displayed on the second display unit 122 , and a third screen image may be displayed on the third display unit 132 .

[0120] Since the outer body 160 has a thickness and a vertical dimension greater than that of the third panel region 130 , the outer body 160 may be used as a handle when the first panel region 110 , the second panel region 120 , and the third panel region 130 are unfolded.

[0121] In the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer body 160 is shown to be extended from the third panel region 130 , but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the outer body 160 may be formed to extend from the first panel region 110 located on the opposite side of the third panel region 130 .

[0122] When the first panel region 110 , the second panel region 120 , and the third panel region 130 are in a folded state, the outer body 160 may have a shape formed to surround and face one end of the first panel region 110 , one end of the second panel region 120 , and the first hinge coupling portion 140 .

[0123] A cover receiving hole 162 into which the transparent cover 170 is inserted may be formed in the outer body 160 , and an accommodation space 164 for accommodating the transparent cover 170 inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 therein may be formed inside the outer body 160 .

[0124] When the first panel area 110 , the second panel area 120 and the third panel area 130 are in a folded state, the third panel area 130 can be positioned as the lowermost panel area, the second panel area 120 can be located on the third panel area 130 , and the first panel area 110 can be located on the second panel area 120 .

[0125] When the first panel region 110 , the second panel region 120 , and the third panel region 130 are in the folded state, the first panel region 110 may be positioned as the uppermost panel region, and the transparent cover 170 may be located on the first panel region 110 .

[0126] The transparent cover 170 may be positioned to cover the first front surface 110 a of the first panel region 110 . That is, the transparent cover 170 may protrude from the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 and be positioned to cover the first display unit 112 disposed on the first panel region 110 .

[0127] A moving holder 134 connected to the transparent cover 170 may be provided at a lower end of the third panel region 130 integrally formed with the outer body 160 to move the transparent cover 170 .

[0128] Furthermore, at a lower end of the third panel region 130 , a moving rail 136 providing a moving path of the moving holder 134 may be defined.

[0129] The moving track 136 may be defined in the form of a groove as long as the moving distance of the transparent cover 170, into which a portion of the moving holder 134 is inserted. That is, when the moving holder 134 and the transparent cover 170 are connected to each other, the transparent cover 170 may protrude from the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 or be inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 as much as the moving distance of the moving holder 134.

[0130] When the moving holder 134 moves from one side to the other side along the moving track 136, the transparent cover 170 can be inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 to be located in the accommodation space 164. Figure 4 When moving from the left end to the right end along the moving track 136 as shown, the transparent cover 170 may be inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 and may be located in the accommodation space 164 .

[0131] In one example, when the moving holder 134 moves from the other side to the one side along the moving track 136, the transparent cover 170 may protrude outward from the cover receiving hole 162 to cover the third front surface 130a (in the unfolded state) of the third panel area 130. Figure 4 The mobile holder 134 positioned as shown is as shown Figure 2 When moving from the right end to the left end along the moving track 136 as shown, the transparent cover 170 connected to the moving holder 134 can protrude outward from the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 and be positioned to cover the first display unit 112 of the first panel area 110.

[0132] The outer body 160 may include a storage hole 166 for storing a touch pen inserted therein. That is, the outer body 160 may include a storage hole 166 having a length equal to or greater than that of the touch pen in the accommodation space 164 therein. Therefore, the user can easily perform touch input on the screen of the first display unit 112 in the folded state or on the screen formed by the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 in the unfolded state using the touch pen disposed in the storage hole 166 of the outer body 160.

[0133] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the front side of a display device when folded according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a rear side of a display device when folded according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer body 160 may include a camera 180 , a speaker 182 , a flash unit 184 , and an illuminometer 186 .

[0135] The camera device 180 may be used to obtain an image by photographing an external object. A lens may be positioned to view through a through hole of the outer body 160 , and an internal circuit may be disposed in the receiving space 164 of the outer body 160 .

[0136] The speaker 182 may be used to output sound. The speaker 182 may include a cover receiving hole for inserting a separate earphone jack therein.

[0137] The flash unit 184 may be used for light output. For example, the flash unit 184 may be driven, for example, during operation of the camera 180 at night.

[0138] The illuminometer 186 may be used to detect ambient brightness. For example, the illuminometer 186 may detect ambient brightness through an illuminance sensor, so that the illuminometer 186 may be used to automatically operate the flash unit 184 when the camera 180 is operated at night.

[0139] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an electrical connection relationship between a third panel area and an outer body in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a contact state between a third panel area of ​​a display device and a printed circuit board of an external body according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9As shown, the outer body 160 of the display device 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 190 in the accommodation space 164 .

[0141] The printed circuit board 190 may be disposed inside the outer body 160 , and may be electrically connected to the camera 180 , the speaker 182 , the flash unit 184 , and the illuminometer 186 .

[0142] The printed circuit board 190 may be electrically connected to the third display unit 132 of the third panel area 130 through one or more flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs) 194 .

[0143] The printed circuit board (PCB) 190 may have at least one contact hole 192 formed therein. The printed circuit board (PCB) 190 may be electrically connected to a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) 194 via the at least one contact hole 192.

[0144] The flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) 194 may connect the printed circuit board (PCB) 190 and the third panel region 130 to each other, or electrically connect the printed circuit board (PCB) 190 and the third display unit 132 of the third panel region 130 to each other.

[0145] The flexible printed circuit board 194 may have one side electrically contacting the third display unit 132 of the third panel region 130 and the other side electrically contacting a printed circuit board (PCB) 190 via at least one contact hole 192 .

[0146] The printed circuit board (PCB) 190 may have a through hole defined therein, in which the camera device 180 extends. A through hole may also be defined in the outer face of the outer body 160, through which the camera device 180 is visually identified. Thus, the camera device 180 may be located in the accommodation space 164 inside the outer body 160, may extend through the printed circuit board (PCB) 190 via the through hole, and may be visually identified from the outside via the through hole of the outer face of the outer body 160.

[0147] Fig.10 is a diagram showing an example of displaying an image when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is in a folded state, and Fig.11 is a diagram showing an example of a displayed image when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is in an unfolded state.

[0148] like Fig.10As shown, in the display device 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first panel region 110 , the second panel region 120 , and the first panel region 110 are in a folded state, the first panel region 110 may be located at the top.

[0149] In this regard, the display device 100 may have the outer body 160 positioned on the left end thereof and the first panel region 110 positioned on the right end.

[0150] Therefore, the first panel area 110 may display an image through the first display unit 112 .

[0151] In this regard, the image displayed on the first display unit 112 may be one image having an area corresponding to the area of ​​the first display unit 112 based on the horizontal size (i.e., the size in the direction in which the border extends) and the vertical size (i.e., the size in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the border extends). That is, the one image may be one screen image that is not divided into three screen images.

[0152] like Fig.11 As shown, in the example display device 100, when the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120 and the third panel area 130 are in an expanded state, the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122 and the third display unit 132 can form a display screen that is continuously and integrally formed.

[0153] In this regard, the one display screen may be a screen having an area which is the sum of a first area based on the longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the first display unit 112, a second area based on the longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the second display unit 122, and a third area based on the longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the third display unit 132.

[0154] In this regard, the images displayed by the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122 and the third display unit 132 may be divided images respectively divided into a first image corresponding to a first area, a second image corresponding to a second area and a third image corresponding to a third area.

[0155] Therefore, the display device 100 may display the one image when the first image is output from the first display unit 112 , the second image is output from the second display unit 122 , and the third image is output from the third display unit 132 .

[0156] Fig.12 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a third panel area in a display device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig.13 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example pixel configuration.

[0157] like Fig.12 As shown, the third panel region 130 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an active area AA and a non-active area NA except the active area.

[0158] In this regard, the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120 may also have the same structure as the third panel region 130 , and components of the third panel region 130 described below may be equally applicable to the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120 .

[0159] The active area AA may include a third display unit 132 including a plurality of sub-pixels (PX) arranged in rows and columns. Thus, the active area of ​​the first panel area 110 may include the first display unit 112, and the active area of ​​the second panel area 120 may include the second display unit 122.

[0160] In the third display unit 132, a plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n and a plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1 and Dn_2 may cross each other. Each sub-pixel PX may be defined at a corresponding intersection therebetween. In this example configuration, each sub-pixel PX may include an organic light emitting diode (OLED).

[0161] For example, the third display unit 132 may include: a glass substrate or a plastic substrate; a plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n and a plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, Dn_2 that are arranged on the glass substrate or the plastic substrate and cross each other; and sub-pixels R, G and B that correspond to red, green and blue, respectively and are respectively defined at intersections between the scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n and the data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, Dn_2.

[0162] like Fig.13 As shown, a plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n may be arranged such that one scan line is provided in each row consisting of a plurality of sub-pixels.

[0163] like Fig.13 As shown, the plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1 and Dn_2 may be arranged such that two data lines are disposed in each column consisting of a plurality of sub-pixels.

[0164] Each scan line may be connected to the scan driver 30 and each data line may be connected to the data driver 40. In addition, in the third display unit 132, power voltage supply lines ELVDD, Vini, and ELVSS may be further formed in a direction parallel to the data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, and Dn_2 and connected to each subpixel.

[0165] like Fig.13 As shown, a given pixel may include at least one of a first sub-pixel (e.g., red sub-pixels R1, R2), a second sub-pixel (e.g., green sub-pixels G1, G2), and a third sub-pixel (e.g., blue sub-pixels B1, B2). A pixel may include two second sub-pixels G1 and G2, such as Fig.13 shown.

[0166] In the third display unit 132, one scan line Scan#1 may be provided in each row, and two data lines may be provided in each column. For example, the data line D1_1 may be provided at one side (left side) of the column, and the data line D1_2 may be provided at the other side (right side) of the column. That is, in one sub-pixel R1, one scan line Scan#1 and two data lines D1_1 and D1_2 may be provided.

[0167] The third display unit 132 may include: a first multiplexer MUX 1, which is configured to select a data line D1_1 on one side (left side) of the two data lines set in each column; and a second multiplexer MUX 2, which is configured to select a data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) of the two data lines set in each column.

[0168] The third display unit 132 may include: a first scan switch T-Sc1 for switching a scan line Scan#1 disposed in the first row to be connected to a data line D1_1 disposed on one side (left side) in each column; a second scan switch T-Sc2 for switching a scan line Scan#2 disposed in the second row to be connected to a data line D1_1 disposed on one side (left side) in each column; a third scan switch T-Sc3 for switching a scan line Scan#3 disposed in the third row to be connected to a data line D1_2 disposed on the other side (right side) in each column; and a fourth scan switch T-Sc4 for switching a scan line Scan#4 disposed in the fourth row to be connected to a data line D1_2 disposed on the other side (right side) in each column. In this regard, each of the first to fourth scan switches T-Sc1 to T-Sc4 may be implemented as, for example, a thin film transistor (TFT).

[0169] The first scan switch T-Sc1 and the second scan switch T-Sc2 may be respectively disposed in two sub-pixels, for example, a first red sub-pixel R1 and a first blue sub-pixel B1, arranged continuously in a column direction along a data line D1_1 at one side (left side) among the plurality of sub-pixels. In this regard, the two sub-pixels arranged continuously in a column direction along a data line D1_1 at one side (left side) may be sub-pixels R1 and B1 of different colors, or sub-pixels G3 and G4 of the same color.

[0170] The third scan switch T-Sc3 and the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 may be respectively disposed in two sub-pixels, for example, the second red sub-pixel R2 and the second blue sub-pixel B2, which are arranged continuously in the column direction along the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) among the plurality of sub-pixels. In this regard, the two sub-pixels arranged continuously in the column direction along the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) may be sub-pixels R2 and B2 of different colors, or sub-pixels G1 and G2 of the same color.

[0171] The first scan switch T-Sc1 and the second scan switch T-Sc2 and the third scan switch T-Sc3 and the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be arranged along a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in a column direction, so that the first scan switch T-Sc1 and the second scan switch T-Sc2 can be set on the left side, and the third scan switch T-Sc3 and the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be set on the right side.

[0172] exist Fig.13 The first multiplexer MUX 1 in may include a first multiplexer switch T-MX1 having: a first electrode connected to a data line D1_1 on one side (left side), a gate electrode connected to a first multiplexer line MUX1 for applying a first selection signal, and a second electrode connected to a first power ELVDD.

[0173] When the first selection signal is applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line, Fig.13 The first multiplexer switch T-MX1 in the embodiment may be turned on. Therefore, the first power ELVDD applied through the second electrode of the first multiplexer switch T-MX1 may be applied to the data line D1_1 on one side (left side) through the first electrode.

[0174] exist Fig.13The second multiplexer MUX 2 in may include a second multiplexer switch T-MX2 having a first electrode connected to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side), a gate electrode connected to the second multiplexer line MUX2 for applying a second selection signal, and a second electrode connected to the first power ELVDD.

[0175] When the second selection signal is applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line, Fig.13 The second multiplexer switch T-MX2 in the circuit may be turned on. Therefore, the first power ELVDD applied through the second electrode may be applied to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) through the first electrode.

[0176] In addition, each sub-pixel may include at least one organic electroluminescent diode OLED, a capacitor Cst, switching thin film transistors T1 and T2, and a driving thin film transistor Tdr. In this regard, the organic electroluminescent diode OLED may include a first electrode (hole injection electrode), an organic compound layer, and a second electrode (electron injection electrode).

[0177] The organic compound layer may include a light-emitting layer for emitting light, and may also include various organic layers for efficiently transporting carriers including holes or electrons to the light-emitting layer. These organic layers may include a hole injection layer and a hole transport layer positioned between the first electrode and the light-emitting layer, and an electron injection layer and an electron transport layer positioned between the second electrode and the light-emitting layer.

[0178] The non-active area NA may be located in the rear surface of the third display unit 132 , and may include a brightness controller 10 , a scan driver 30 , a data driver 40 , a light emission controller 50 , a power supply 60 , and a timing controller 70 .

[0179] The brightness controller 10 may provide the data driver 40 with one gamma set selected from a plurality of gamma sets, each of which includes a plurality of gamma data, and may provide the light emitting controller 50 with dimming data corresponding to the selected gamma set.

[0180] The scan driver 30 may apply a scan signal to a plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n. For example, the scan driver 30 may sequentially apply a gate voltage to the sub-pixels based on one horizontal line in response to a gate control signal GCS input thereto. The scan driver 30 may be implemented as a shift register having a plurality of stages that sequentially output a high-level gate voltage in each horizontal period H.

[0181] The data driver 40 may apply a data signal to a plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1 and Dn_2. For example, the data driver 40 receives an image signal of a digital waveform applied from the timing controller 70, converts the image signal into a data voltage as an analog voltage having a grayscale value that each sub-pixel can handle, and then supplies the data voltage to each sub-pixel through the data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, Dn_2 in response to a data control signal DCS input thereto. In this regard, the data driver 40 may convert the image signal into a data voltage based on a plurality of reference voltages supplied from a reference voltage supplier (not shown).

[0182] In addition, the data driver 40 may apply the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini in the 30Hz operation mode and the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini in the 60Hz operation mode to the third display unit 132, so that the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini in the 30Hz operation mode are different from the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini in the 60Hz operation mode. For example, in the 30Hz operation mode, the data driver 40 may provide the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini having the same value to the third display unit 132. However, in the 60Hz operation mode, the data driver 40 may provide the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini different from the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini in the 30Hz operation mode to the third display unit 132. For example, in the 60Hz operation mode, the data driver 40 may provide the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini to the third display unit 132, so that the difference between the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini is greater than or equal to a predefined reference.

[0183] In addition, when the data driver 40 receives one selected gamma set from the brightness controller 10 , the data driver may provide the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini corresponding to the one selected gamma set to the third display unit 132 based on the lookup table.

[0184] The light emitting controller 50 may apply light emitting control signals EM1 to EMn to the plurality of sub-pixels.

[0185] The power supply 60 may provide a high potential voltage ELVDD, a low potential voltage ELVSS, and an initialization voltage Vini to each sub-pixel.

[0186] The timing controller 70 may control the scan driver 30 and the data driver 40. For example, the timing controller 70 may receive an image signal, a clock signal, and a timing signal, such as a vertical synchronization signal and a horizontal synchronization signal, from an external system, may generate a gate control signal GCS and a data control signal DCS based on the received signals, and may provide the gate control signal GCS and the data control signal DCS to the scan driver 30 and the data driver 40, respectively.

[0187] In this regard, the horizontal synchronization signal indicates the time required to display one row of the display screen, and the vertical synchronization signal may indicate the time required to display one frame of the display screen. In addition, the clock signal may refer to a signal based on which a control signal of each driver (e.g., the scan driver 30 and the data driver 40) is generated.

[0188] In one example, the timing controller 70 can be connected to an external system through a predetermined interface, and can receive the image-related signal and the timing signal output therefrom at high speed without noise. The interface may include an LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signal) scheme interface or a TTL (Transistor-Transistor Logic) scheme interface.

[0189] Fig.14 is a circuit diagram illustrating an example circuit configuration of one sub-pixel in the third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0190] like Fig.14 As shown in, in the third display unit 132 of the third panel area 130 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a sub-pixel (e.g., each sub-pixel) may include a plurality of thin film transistors T1 to T6, an organic electroluminescent diode OLED, a driving thin film transistor Tdr, and an internal compensation circuit.

[0191] In this regard, the organic electroluminescent diode (OLED) may be referred to as a "light emitting diode (OLED)", "light emitting diode (EL)", "light emitting element (EL)", "EL" or "OLED". In addition, the driving thin film transistor Tdr may be referred to as a "driving transistor Tdr" or a "driving switch Tdr".

[0192] At least one (e.g., all) of the thin film transistors T1 to T6 and Tdr included in the sub-pixel PX may be implemented as a PMOS type LTPS (low temperature polysilicon) TFT. Therefore, the desired response characteristics may be ensured. For example, at least one of the thin film transistors T1 to T6 may be implemented as an NMOS type or PMOS type oxide TFT having good leakage current characteristics when turned off, and each of the remaining transistors may be implemented as a PMOS type LTPS TFT having good response characteristics. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0193] The OLED may emit light according to the amount of current adjusted based on the gate-source voltage Vgs of the driving thin film transistor Tdr. The anode electrode of the OLED may be connected to the node P8, and the cathode electrode of the OLED may be connected to the low potential power voltage ELVSS. An organic compound layer may be formed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode.

[0194] The organic compound layer may include a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), a light emitting layer (EML), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, two or more organic compound layers emitting different colors may be stacked according to a series structure. When current flows through a light emitting diode (OLED), holes passing through the hole transport layer (HTL) and electrons passing through the electron transport layer (ETL) may move to the light emitting layer (EML) and may be combined with each other therein to form excitons. Therefore, the light emitting layer (EML) may emit visible light.

[0195] The driving thin film transistor Tdr is a driving element that can control the current flowing through the OLED based on its gate-source voltage Vgs. The driving thin film transistor Tdr may have a gate electrode connected to the node P5, one of the first electrode and the second electrode connected to the node P2, and the other of the first electrode and the second electrode connected to the node P6. The gate-source voltage Vgs of the driving transistor Tdr may refer to a voltage across the node P5 and the node P6.

[0196] In addition, the first thin film transistor T1 operated based on the nth first scan signal S1(n) may be connected to the node P5 and the node P6 and disposed between the node P5 and the node P6. That is, the first thin film transistor T1 may be configured such that one of its first electrode and its second electrode is connected to the node P5, the other is connected to the node P6, and its gate electrode is connected to a line for receiving the nth first scan signal S1(n), for example, through the node P7.

[0197] In addition, the second thin film transistor T2 connected to the data line Vdata can be connected to the node P2. That is, the second thin film transistor T2 can be configured such that one of its first electrode and its second electrode (at P1) is connected to the data line Vdata, the other is connected to the node P2, and its gate electrode is connected to the line for receiving the nth first scan signal S1(n) (at P7).

[0198] Therefore, the first thin film transistor T1 and the second thin film transistor T2 may be turned on based on the nth first scan signal S1 (n).

[0199] In addition, the gate electrode of the driving transistor Tdr may be connected to the first electrode of the storage capacitor Cst. The second electrode of the storage capacitor Cst may be connected to the first power, ie, the high potential power VDD (eg, ELVDD).

[0200] In addition, the third thin film transistor T3 may be connected to the first electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the second electrode of the storage capacitor Cst and disposed between the first electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the second electrode of the storage capacitor Cst. That is, the third thin film transistor T3 may be configured such that one of its first electrode and its second electrode is connected to the node P2, the other is connected to the node P3, and its gate electrode is connected to a line for receiving the light emission control signal EM.

[0201] In addition, the fourth thin film transistor T4 can be connected to the second electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the anode electrode of the OLED and disposed between the second electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the anode electrode of the OLED. That is, the fourth thin film transistor T4 can be configured such that one of its first electrode and second electrode is connected to the node P6, the other is connected to the node P8, and its gate electrode is connected to a line for receiving the light emission control signal EM.

[0202] Therefore, the third thin film transistor T3 and the fourth thin film transistor T4 may be turned on based on the light emission control signal EM.

[0203] In addition, the fifth thin film transistor T5 may be connected to the first electrode of the storage capacitor Cst. That is, the fifth thin film transistor T5 may be configured such that one of its first electrode and its second electrode is connected to the node P4, the other is connected to the first initialization voltage line Vinit1, and its gate electrode is connected to the line to which the (n-4)th second scan signal S2(n-4) is applied, for example, through the node P9.

[0204] In addition, the sixth thin film transistor T6 can be connected to the anode electrode of the OLED. That is, the sixth thin film transistor T6 can be configured so that one of its first electrode and second electrode is connected to the node P8, the other is connected to the second initialization voltage line Vinit2, and its gate electrode is connected to the line to which the (n-4)th second scan signal S2(n-4) is applied.

[0205] The compensation circuit may be configured to sample the gate-source voltage Vgs to compensate for a variation in the threshold voltage of the driving transistor Tdr, and may be configured to include first to sixth thin film transistors T1 to T6 and a storage capacitor Cst.

[0206] The driving transistor Tdr can control the current flowing through the light emitting diode OLED based on the data signal Vdata. In this regard, the brightness of the OLED can be adjusted based on the amplitude of the current. The third thin film transistor T3 and the fourth thin film transistor T4 as light emitting control transistors can be connected to the driving transistor Tdr and the light emitting diode OLED to control the light emission of the OLED.

[0207] Specifically, in response to the light emission control signal EM supplied from the light emission control line, the third thin film transistor T3 and the fourth thin film transistor T4 as the light emission control transistors may be turned on so that the current flowing through the driving transistor Tdr may be transmitted to the OLED so that the OLED may emit light. When the third thin film transistor T3 and the fourth thin film transistor T4 are turned off, the current flowing through the driving transistor Tdr may not be transmitted to the OLED, and thus the OLED may not emit light.

[0208] As described above, the brightness of the display device may be determined based on the magnitude of the current supplied from the driving transistor Tdr and the duration for which the light emission control transistors T3 and T4 are turned on.

[0209] Fig.15 is a diagram illustrating an interlaced scheme operation timing diagram of a third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0210] like Figures 12 to 15 As shown in , the third panel area 130 according to the example embodiment of the present disclosure can operate in an interlaced scheme. In this example case, a frame can be divided into a first half frame and a second half frame. For the first half frame, sub-pixels R1 and R2 arranged in odd rows can operate. For the second half frame, sub-pixels B1 and B2 arranged in even rows operate.

[0211] That is, the third panel area 130 may activate odd-numbered rows for a first half of a single frame, and may activate even-numbered rows for a second half of the single frame.

[0212] For example, for the first half frame, the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) can be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) can be turned off based on a high signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the (n-1)th first scan signal Scan#1 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Therefore, the first scan switch T-Sc1 can be turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) can be applied to the first red sub-pixel R1 set in the odd first row. Therefore, the first red sub-pixel R1 set in the odd first row can be operated to emit light.

[0213] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) may be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) may be turned on based on a low signal. The low signal may be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the nth third scan signal Scan#3 as a low signal may be applied to the scan line. Therefore, the third scan switch T-Sc3 may be turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) may be applied to the second red sub-pixel R2 disposed in the odd third row. Therefore, the second red sub-pixel R2 disposed in the odd third row may be operated to emit light.

[0214] In this regard, the (n-1)th first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 may have a low level in the first two horizontal periods (2H). When the signal applied to the second multiplexer MUX2 is switched from a high signal to a low signal, the nth third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 may be in a low level state in two horizontal periods (2H). That is, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, the low level of the (n-1)th first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 and the low level of the nth third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 overlap each other in one horizontal period (1H). Therefore, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, a flickering phenomenon may not occur.

[0215] In one example, for the second half frame (not shown), the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) can be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) can be turned off based on a high signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the (n+1)th second scan signal Scan#2 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Therefore, the second scan switch T-Sc2 is turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) can be applied to the first blue sub-pixel B1 set in the even second row. Therefore, the first blue sub-pixel B1 set in the even second row can be operated to emit light.

[0216] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) may be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) may be turned on based on a low signal. The low signal may be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the (n+2)th fourth scan signal Scan#4 as a low signal may be applied to the scan line. Therefore, the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 may be turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) may be applied to the second blue sub-pixel B2 disposed in the even fourth row. Therefore, the second blue sub-pixel B2 disposed in the even fourth row may be operated to emit light.

[0217] In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the (n+1)th second scan signal applied to the second scan line Scan#2 can be in a low level state. When the signal applied to the second multiplexer MUX2 is switched from a high signal to a low signal, in two horizontal periods (2H), the (n+2)th fourth scan signal applied to the fourth scan line Scan#4 can be in a low level state. That is, when the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 is switched to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, the low level of the (n+1)th second scan signal Scan#2 and the low level of the (n+2)th fourth scan signal Scan#4 can overlap with each other in one horizontal period (1H). Therefore, when the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 is switched to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, a flickering phenomenon may not occur. Therefore, in Fig.15 , “Data1” indicates the level of the data voltage applied to each sub-pixel (R1, R2, B1, B2).

[0218] As described above, in the third panel area 130 according to the example embodiment of the present disclosure, when the third panel area 130 operates in the interlaced scheme, flicker does not occur when the operation of one sub-pixel is switched to the operation of another sub-pixel.

[0219] Fig.16 is a diagram showing a row-by-row scheme operation timing diagram of a third panel region according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0220] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 as well as Fig.16 As shown in, when the third panel area 130 according to the example embodiment of the present disclosure operates in a row-by-row scheme, for one frame or for a half (1 / 2) frame, first, the first red sub-pixel R1 among the red sub-pixels R can be operated based on the first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1; second, the second red sub-pixel R2 among the red sub-pixels R can be operated based on the third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3; third, the first blue sub-pixel B1 among the blue sub-pixels B can be operated based on the second scan signal applied to the second scan line Scan#2; fourth, the second blue sub-pixel B2 among the blue sub-pixels B can be operated based on the fourth scan signal applied to the fourth scan line Scan#4.

[0221] That is, when the third panel area 130 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure operates in a row-by-row scheme, for one frame or for a half (1 / 2) frame, a data signal may be applied to a plurality of sub-pixels on a 4-row basis (or a 4-scan line basis). First, a data signal may be applied to a pixel (R1) of the first row. Next, a data signal may be applied to a pixel (R2) of the third row. Then, a data signal may be applied to a pixel (B1) of the second row. Then, a data signal may be applied to a pixel (B2) of the fourth row.

[0222] For example, for the first half (1 / 2) frame, the first multiplexer MUX1 can be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 can be turned off based on a high signal. A low signal can be applied to the data line D1_1 on one side (left), and a high signal can be applied to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the (n-2)th first scan signal Scan#1 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Therefore, the first scan switch T-Sc1 can be turned on, and therefore in two horizontal periods (2H), a low signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) can be applied to the first red sub-pixel R1 in the red sub-pixel. Therefore, the first red sub-pixel R1 connected to the first scan line in the red sub-pixel R can be operated to emit light.

[0223] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 can be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 can be turned on based on a low signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the (n-1)th third scan signal Scan#3 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Therefore, the third scan switch T-Sc3 can be turned on, and therefore in two horizontal periods (2H), the low signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) can be applied to the second red sub-pixel R2 in the red sub-pixel R. Therefore, the second red sub-pixel R2 in the red sub-pixel R connected to the third scan line can be operated to emit light.

[0224] For the second half (1 / 2) frame, the first multiplexer MUX1 can be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 can be turned off based on a high signal. A high signal can be applied to the data line D1_1 on one side (left), and a low signal can be applied to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, in two horizontal periods (2H), the nth second scan signal Scan#2 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Therefore, the second scan switch T-Sc2 can be turned on, and therefore in two horizontal periods (2H), a high signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) can be applied to the first blue sub-pixel B1 of the blue sub-pixel B. Therefore, the first blue sub-pixel B1 connected to the second scan line in the blue sub-pixel B can be operated to emit light.

[0225] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 can be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 can be turned on based on a low signal. The high signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, the (n+1)th fourth scan signal Scan#4, which is a low signal, can be applied to the scan line during two horizontal periods (2H). Therefore, the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be turned on, and therefore, in two horizontal periods (2H), a high signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) can be applied to the second blue sub-pixel B2 in the blue sub-pixel B. Therefore, the second blue sub-pixel B2 in the blue sub-pixel B connected to the fourth scan line can be operated to emit light. Therefore, in Fig.16 , “Data1” indicates the level of the data voltage applied to each sub-pixel (R1, R2, B1, B2).

[0226] In this regard, the (n-2)th first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 may be at a low level and last for two horizontal periods (2H). When the signal applied to the second multiplexer MUX2 is switched from a high signal to a low signal, the (n-1)th third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 may be in a low level state for two horizontal periods (2H). That is, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, the low level of the (n-2)th first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 and the low level of the (n-1)th third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 may overlap each other in one horizontal period (1H) of the two horizontal periods (2H). Therefore, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, a flickering phenomenon may not occur.

[0227] In addition, when the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 is switched to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, the low level of the nth second scanning signal applied to the second scanning line Scan#2 and the low level of the (n+1)th fourth scanning signal applied to the fourth scanning line Scan#4 overlap each other in one horizontal period (1H) of the two horizontal periods (2H). Therefore, when the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 in the blue sub-pixel B is switched to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, a flickering phenomenon may not occur.

[0228] As described above, in the third panel area 130 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, in the case where the third panel area 130 operates in the row-by-row scheme, flicker does not occur when the operation of one sub-pixel is switched to the operation of another sub-pixel.

[0229] As described above, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a display panel may include: a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns; a plurality of scan lines arranged such that one scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels; a plurality of data lines arranged such that two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels; a first multiplexer MUX1 configured to select a data line D1_1 at one side of the two data lines provided in each column; and a second multiplexer MUX2 configured to select a data line D1_2 at the other side of the two data lines provided in each column.

[0230] Furthermore, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device 100 may include a display panel, the display panel including: a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns; a plurality of scan lines arranged such that one scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels; a plurality of data lines arranged such that two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels; a first multiplexer MUX1 configured to select a data line D1_1 at one side of the two data lines provided in each column; a second multiplexer MUX2 configured to select a data line D1_2 at the other side of the two data lines provided in each column; a first scan switch and a second scan switch, each of which is used to switch a scan line provided in a corresponding row (a row corresponding to the first scan switch and / or the second scan switch) to be connected to a scan line provided in a corresponding column (a row corresponding to the first scan switch and / or the second scan switch); The present invention relates to a plurality of sub-pixels, wherein the first scan switch and the second scan switch are connected to each other in a column direction of the sub-pixels, wherein the pair of the first scan switch and the second scan switch and the pair of the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch are arranged alternately with each other in a zigzag manner in the column direction of the sub-pixels.

[0231] As described above, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display panel is operated in a low-speed mode (30 Hz), the device may be operated in an interlaced scheme, wherein a plurality of sub-pixels are grouped into odd frame groups and even frame groups, and for the first half frame, data voltages may be applied to sub-pixels corresponding to the odd frame groups, and for the second half frame, data voltages may be applied to sub-pixels corresponding to the even frame groups; and when the device is operated in a high-speed mode (60 Hz to 120 Hz), the device may be operated in a progressive scheme, wherein the device may be operated on the basis of four scan lines, so that data voltages may be input to the first scan line to the fourth scan line in the order of the first scan line, the third scan line, the second scan line, and the fourth scan line.

[0232] The following examples pertain to further implementations:

[0233] Example 1: A display panel comprises: a first panel region having a first front side and a first back side; a second panel region having a second front side and a second back side, wherein, when the display panel is in a folded state at a boundary between the first panel region and the second panel region, the second panel region faces the first panel region so that the second back side faces the first back side; a third panel region having a third front side and a third back side, wherein, when the display panel is in the folded state at the boundary between the second panel region and the third panel region, the third panel region faces the second panel region so that the third front side faces the second front side; a first hinge coupling portion for coupling one end of the first panel region and the opposite end of the second panel region to each other in a hinge-coupled manner; and a second hinge coupling portion for coupling one end of the second panel region and the opposite end of the third panel region to each other in a hinge-coupled manner, wherein the first panel region, the second panel region and the third panel region are continuously arranged and formed integrally with each other.

[0234] Example 2: The display panel according to Example 1 further includes: an outer body extending from one end of the third panel area and having a width equal to the width of the third panel area, and the thickness and vertical dimension of the outer body are both greater than the thickness and vertical dimension of the third panel area; and a transparent cover, which is used to cover the first front side of the first panel area.

[0235] Example 3: A display panel according to Example 2, wherein the outer body has a shape formed to face and surround one end of the first panel area, the opposite end of the second panel area and the first hinge coupling portion when the first panel area, the second panel area and the third panel area are all in the folded state relative to each other.

[0236] Example 4: A display panel according to Example 2 or 3, wherein a cover receiving hole is formed in the outer body, wherein the transparent cover is inserted into the cover receiving hole, and wherein an accommodating space for accommodating the transparent cover inserted into the cover receiving hole is formed inside the outer body.

[0237] Example 5: A display panel according to Example 4, wherein a movable retainer connected to the transparent cover to move the transparent cover and a movable track for providing a moving path for the movable retainer are formed at the lower end of the third panel area integrally formed with the outer body.

[0238] Example 6: The display panel according to Example 5, wherein when the moving holder moves from one side to the other side along the moving track, the transparent cover is inserted into the cover receiving hole and accommodated in the accommodating space.

[0239] Example 7: A display panel according to Example 5 or 6, wherein when the movable retaining member moves from the other side to the one side along the movable track, the transparent cover protrudes outward from the cover receiving hole to cover the third front side of the third panel area.

[0240] Example 8: The display panel according to any one of Examples 2 to 7, wherein a storage hole is defined in the outer body, wherein the touch pen is inserted into and stored in the storage hole.

[0241] Example 9: A display panel according to any one of Examples 2 to 8, wherein the external body further includes: a camera device for photographing an external object to obtain an image thereof; a speaker for outputting sound; a flash unit for outputting light; and an illuminance meter for detecting ambient brightness.

[0242] Example 10: The display panel according to Example 9 further includes: a printed circuit board PCB, which is arranged inside the outer body and is electrically connected to the camera device, the speaker, the flash unit and the illuminance meter.

[0243] Example 11: The display panel according to Example 10 further includes: a flexible printed circuit board FPCB, which is used to electrically connect the printed circuit board PCB to the third panel area or the third display unit of the third panel area.

[0244] Example 12: A display panel according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein at least one contact hole is formed in the printed circuit board PCB, wherein the printed circuit board PCB is electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board FPCB via the at least one contact hole.

[0245] Example 13: A display device, comprising: a display panel, comprising: a first panel area, which has a first display unit as a first front side of the first panel area; a second panel area, which has a second display unit as a second front side of the second panel area and corresponds to the first panel area; a third panel area, which has a third display unit as a third front side of the third panel area and corresponds to the second panel area; a first hinge coupling portion, which is used to couple the first panel area and the second panel area to each other in a hinge-coupled manner; and a second hinge coupling portion, which is used to couple the second panel area and the third panel area to each other in a hinge-coupled manner, wherein each of the first panel area, the second panel area and the third panel area includes an active area and a non-active area. active area, wherein the first display unit, the second display unit and the third display unit are arranged continuously and formed integrally with each other, wherein each of the first display unit, the second display unit and the third display unit includes a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines arranged to cross each other and a plurality of pixels respectively arranged at intersections between the plurality of scan lines and the plurality of data lines, wherein each pixel includes an organic light emitting diode, wherein each of the inactive areas includes: a scan driver for applying scan signals to the plurality of scan lines; a data driver for applying data signals to the plurality of data lines; a power supply for providing a high potential voltage, a low potential voltage and an initialization voltage to each pixel; and a timing controller for controlling the scan driver and the data driver.

[0246] Example 14: A display device according to Example 13, wherein the pixel includes a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns, wherein a scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels, and two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels; wherein the display panel further includes: a first multiplexer configured to select a data line provided at one side of the two data lines in each column; a second multiplexer configured to select a data line provided at the other side of the two data lines in each column; each of a first scan switch and a second scan switch, each of the first scan switch and the second scan switch being used to switch the scan line provided in each row to be connected to the data line provided at the one side in each column; and each of a third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, each of the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch being used to switch the scan line provided in each row to be connected to the data line provided at the other side in each column.

[0247] Example 15: A display device according to Example 14, wherein the first scanning switch and the second scanning switch are respectively arranged in two sub-pixels among the multiple sub-pixels whose data lines are arranged continuously in the column direction along one side, and wherein the third scanning switch and the fourth scanning switch are respectively arranged in two sub-pixels among the multiple sub-pixels whose data lines are arranged continuously in the column direction along the other side.

[0248] Example 16: A display device according to Example 14 or 15, wherein the first multiplexer includes a first multiplexer switch, which is configured so that its first electrode is connected to the data line at one side, its gate electrode is connected to the first multiplexer line for applying a first selection signal, and its second electrode is connected to the first power.

[0249] Example 17: A display device according to Example 16, wherein the first multiplexer switch is turned on based on the first selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line, so that the first power applied to the first multiplexer switch through the second electrode is applied to the data line at the one side through the first electrode.

[0250] Example 18: A display device according to any one of Examples 14 to 17, wherein the second multiplexer includes a second multiplexer switch having a first electrode connected to a data line on the other side, a gate electrode connected to a second multiplexer line for applying a second selection signal, and a second electrode connected to the first power.

[0251] Example 19: A display device according to Example 18, wherein the second multiplexer switch is turned on based on the second selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line, so that the first power applied through the second electrode is applied to the data line at the other side through the first electrode.

[0252] It should be understood that the exemplary embodiments described above are illustrative and non-restrictive in all aspects. The protection scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted by the claims.

[0253] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made to the present disclosure without departing from the technical concept or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to cover modifications and changes of the present disclosure as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A display panel, comprising: a first panel region having a first front side and a first back side; a second panel region having a second front side and a second back side, the second panel region being configured to overlap with the first panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at a boundary between the first panel region and the second panel region, wherein the second back side faces the first back side; a third panel region having a third front face and a third back face, wherein the third panel region is configured to overlap with the second panel region when the display panel is in the folded state at a boundary between the second panel region and the third panel region, wherein the third front face faces the second front face; an outer body extending from a second end of the third panel region; a transparent cover connected to the outer body for covering the first front surface of the first panel area when the display panel is fully folded in a Z shape; a movable holder connected to the transparent cover; A moving track for providing a moving path for the moving holder; a first hinge coupling member for coupling a first end of the first panel region and a first end of the second panel region to each other in a hinge-coupled manner; and a second hinge coupling member for coupling the second end of the second panel region and the first end of the third panel region to each other in a hinge-coupling manner, wherein the first panel region, the second panel region and the third panel region are continuously arranged and formed integrally with each other, The outer body includes a cover receiving hole formed in the outer body, and an accommodating space inside the outer body for accommodating a transparent cover inserted into the cover receiving hole. Wherein, as the moving holder moves from one side to the other side along the moving track, the transparent cover is configured to be inserted into the cover receiving hole and into the accommodation space of the outer body.

2. A display device, comprising: The display panel according to claim 1; The outer body has a width equal to a width of the third panel region, and has a thickness and a vertical dimension greater than the thickness and the vertical dimension of the third panel region.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The outer body is configured to face and surround the first end of the first panel area, the first end of the second panel area and the first hinge coupling member when the first panel area, the second panel area and the third panel area are all in the folded state in a Z shape relative to each other.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The transparent cover is configured to be inserted into or slid out of the cover receiving hole.

5. The display device according to claim 4, in, The movable holder is connected to the transparent cover to enable the transparent cover to be moved into or out of the cover receiving hole; as well as Wherein, the moving retainer and the moving track are arranged at the lower end of the third panel area which is formed integrally with the outer body.

6. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: As the moving holder moves from the other side to the one side along the moving track, the transparent cover is configured to protrude from the cover receiving hole to cover the third front surface of the third panel area or the first front surface of the first panel area.

7. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The outer body has an integrated storage hole for receiving a stylus pen.

8. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The outer body also includes: A camera device for photographing an external object to obtain an image thereof; A speaker for outputting sound; a flash lamp for outputting light; and Lux meter, which is used to detect the ambient brightness.

9. The display device according to claim 8, further comprising: A printed circuit board PCB is disposed inside the outer body and is electrically connected to the camera device, the speaker, the flash lamp and the illuminometer.

10. The display device according to claim 9, further comprising: A flexible printed circuit board FPCB is used to electrically connect the printed circuit board PCB to the third panel area or a third display unit of the third panel area.

11. The display device according to claim 9, wherein: The display panel is connected to the printed circuit board PCB via a flexible printed circuit board FPCB, the printed circuit board PCB has at least one contact hole, and the printed circuit board PCB is electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board FPCB via the at least one contact hole.

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