Display device

Abstract

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display device is provided that can change between a first mode and a second mode. Specifically, the display device includes: a display module, which includes a first part, a second part arranged below the first part, and a third part arranged between the first part and the second part and bent in the first mode; a supporting component, including a supporting plate arranged on the rear surface of the first part and a plurality of supporting rods arranged on the rear surfaces of the second part and the third part; a plate component, which is arranged below the supporting component and includes a magnet component that can move in a first direction so as to move away from or approach the first part; and a driving component, which is arranged below the plate component. When the display device switches from the first mode to the second mode, the third part is arranged parallel to the first part, and the magnet component moves in the first direction to overlap with the third part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device in which deformation of a curved area of ​​a display panel is improved. Background Art

[0002] Generally, electronic equipment for providing images to users, such as smart phones, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation devices, and smart TVs, includes a display device for displaying images. The display device generates images to provide the images to the user through a display screen.

[0003] In recent years, with the development of display device technology, various types of display devices have been developed. For example, foldable or rollable flexible display devices are being developed. Flexible display devices with various shapes can be easily carried and improve user convenience.

[0004] Flexible display devices can provide users with display screens of various sizes. For example, flexible display devices can operate in normal mode and extended mode. In normal mode, a portion of the flexible display module is exposed, while the remaining portion is folded within a housing. The folded portion can be unfolded in extended mode. However, in such flexible display devices, deformation may occur at the folded portion. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a display device in which deformation of a bent area is improved.

[0007] Technical Solution

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display device can change between a first mode and a second mode. Specifically, the display device includes: a display module, which includes a first portion, a second portion arranged below the first portion, and a third portion arranged between the first portion and the second portion so as to bend in the first mode; a supporting component, including a supporting plate arranged on the rear surface of the first portion and a plurality of supporting rods arranged on the rear surfaces of the second portion and the third portion; a plate component, which is arranged below the supporting component and includes a magnet component capable of moving in a first direction so as to move away from or approach the first portion; and a driving component, which is arranged below the plate component. When switching from the first mode to the second mode, the third portion is arranged parallel to the first portion, and the magnet component moves in the first direction to overlap with the third portion.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a display module; a support component disposed on a rear surface of the display module and including a support plate and a plurality of support rods; a first plate disposed below the support plate; a drive component disposed below the first plate; a second plate that moves away from or toward the first plate in a first direction; and a magnetic component disposed on the second plate. When the second plate moves away from the first plate in the first direction, the magnetic component is disposed below the support rods.

[0010] Beneficial effects

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the display device is switched from the first mode to the second mode, deformation of the third portion may be improved by the magnet part overlapping with the third portion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of a display module shown in .

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A plan view of the display panel is shown in FIG.

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of the pixel shown in .

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device shown in .

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A connection perspective view of the display device shown in FIG.

[0018] Figure 8 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0019] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the display device shown in .

[0020] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An enlarged view of portion A is shown in FIG.

[0021] Figure 11 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0022] Figure 12 yes Figure 2 A plan view of the display device shown in .

[0023] Figure 13 and Figure 14 is a view showing a structure in which a magnet member of a display device is provided according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 15 and Figure 16 is a view showing a structure of a panel member of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An enlarged view of portion BB is shown in FIG.

[0027] Figure 19 and Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] In this specification, it will also be understood that when a component (or region, layer, portion) is referred to as being "on," "connected to" or "coupled to" another component, it can be directly set / connected / coupled to one component or there may be a third component in between.

[0029] The same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the text. In addition, in the drawings, the thicknesses, ratios, and sizes of components are exaggerated for clarity of illustration.

[0030] The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0031] It will be understood that although terms such as "first" and "second" are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components. For example, a first element referred to as a first element in one embodiment may be referred to as a second element in another embodiment without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise mentioned, terms in the singular may include plural forms.

[0032] In addition, “under,” “below,” “above,” “upper,” etc. are used to explain the relationship between components shown in the drawings. These terms may be relative concepts and described based on the directions expressed in the drawings.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art in the art to which the present invention pertains. In addition, terms (such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with that in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless expressly defined as such herein.

[0034] The meaning of “include” or “comprise” specifies a property, a fixed number, a step, an operation, an element, a component or a combination thereof, but does not exclude other properties, fixed numbers, steps, operations, elements, components or a combination thereof.

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 1 The display device shown in represents a mode before the display module is expanded (hereinafter, referred to as a first mode), and Figure 2 The display device shown in represents a mode (hereinafter, referred to as a second mode) in which the display module is extended.

[0038] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The display device DD may include a display module DM and a housing CS. The housing CS may house the display module DM. The display module DM may be exposed to the outside through an opening OP defined in an upper portion of the housing CS.

[0039] The housing CS may include a first housing CS1 and a second housing CS2 coupled to each other to accommodate the display module DM. The second housing CS2 may be coupled to the first housing CS1 to move in a first direction DR1. That is, the second housing CS2 may move away from or toward the first housing CS1.

[0040] Hereinafter, a direction intersecting the first direction DR1 is defined as a second direction DR2. A direction intersecting substantially perpendicularly with a plane defined by the first and second directions DR1 and DR2 is defined as a third direction DR3. In this specification, the term "viewed from a plane" may refer to a state viewed from the third direction DR3.

[0041] When the second case CS2 moves in the first direction DR1, the area of ​​the exposed surface of the display module DM may vary.

[0042] For example, the display device DD may operate in a first mode and a second mode according to the position of the second housing CS2.

[0043] The first mode may be defined as a mode of the display device DD when a distance between one end CS2_E of the second housing CS2 and one end CS1_E of the first housing CS1 is minimum. In the first mode, an area of ​​an exposed surface of the display module DM may be minimum.

[0044] The second mode may be defined as a mode of the display device DD when the distance between one end CS2_E of the second case CS2 and one end CS1_E of the first case CS1 is the largest. In the second mode, the area of ​​the exposed surface of the display module DM may be the largest.

[0045] The display device DD according to the embodiment of the present invention can realize a display screen having various sizes. Therefore, the user can use a wider display screen while conveniently carrying the display device DD.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the display device DD may include other components disposed between the display module DM and the case CS. These configurations will be described in detail later.

[0047] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of a display module shown in .

[0048] refer to Figure 3 The display module DM may include a display panel DP, an input sensing part ISP disposed on the display panel DP, a window WIN disposed on the input sensing part ISP, and an adhesive OCA disposed between the input sensing part ISP and the window WIN.

[0049] The display panel DP may be an emissive display panel. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic light-emitting display panel or a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. The emissive layer of an organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The emissive layer of a quantum dot light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots, quantum rods, or the like. However, the type of display panel DP is not limited thereto. The display panel DP may be a liquid crystal display panel.

[0050] For convenience of description, hereinafter, the display panel DP will be described as an organic light emitting display panel.

[0051] The display panel DP may be a flexible panel. For example, the display panel DP may be folded or unfolded in one direction.

[0052] The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a pixel layer PXL disposed on the substrate SUB, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the substrate SUB to cover the pixel layer PXL.

[0053] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA may substantially correspond to an exposed surface of the display module DM exposed to the case CS. The non-display area NDA may correspond to an edge of the display module DM that is not exposed by the frame of the case CS.

[0054] The pixel layer PXL may be disposed on the display area DA. The pixel layer PXL may include a plurality of pixels, and each of the pixels may include a light emitting element.

[0055] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include at least two inorganic layers and an organic layer disposed between the at least two inorganic layers. The inorganic layer may include inorganic materials and protect the pixel layer PXL from moisture / oxygen. The organic layer may include organic materials and protect the pixel layer PXL from foreign matter such as dust particles.

[0056] The input sensing part ISP can sense an external input (e.g., a user's touch) and convert the external input into a predetermined input signal, thereby providing the input signal to the display panel DP. The input sensing part ISP may include a plurality of sensing electrodes for sensing the external input. For example, the sensing electrodes may sense the external input in a capacitive manner. The display panel DP may receive the input signal from the input sensing part ISP and generate an image corresponding to the input signal.

[0057] The window WIN can protect the display panel DP and the input sensing component ISP from external scratches and impacts. The window WIN can be attached to the input sensing component ISP using an adhesive (OCA). The adhesive (OCA) may include an optically clear adhesive. An image generated on the display panel DP can pass through the window WIN and then be displayed to the user.

[0058] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A plan view of an example of a display panel shown in FIG.

[0059] refer to Figure 4 , the display panel DP may include a driving circuit GDC, a plurality of signal lines SGL, a plurality of signal pads DP-PD, and a plurality of pixels PX.

[0060] The driving circuit GDC may include a scan driving circuit that generates a plurality of scan signals and sequentially outputs the plurality of scan signals to the plurality of scan lines GL.

[0061] The signal lines SGL include scan lines GL, data lines DL, power lines PL, and control signal lines CSL. The scan lines GL, data lines DL, and power lines PL are connected to corresponding pixels PX, respectively. The control signal lines CSL can provide control signals to the scan driving circuit.

[0062] The signal pads DP-PD are respectively connected to the data line DL, the power line PL, and the control signal line CSL.

[0063] The display area DA may be defined as a region on which a pixel PX is disposed. For example, the pixel PX may include a first transistor T1, a second transistor T2, a capacitor C, and a light emitting element OLED.

[0064] exist Figure 4 , a circuit board PCB electrically connected to the display panel DP is also shown. The circuit board PCB may be a rigid circuit board or a flexible circuit board. A timing control circuit TC for controlling the operation of the display panel DP may be provided on the circuit board PCB. The circuit board PCB may include circuit board pads PCB-PD electrically connected to signal pads DP-PD of the display panel DP.

[0065] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of the pixel shown in .

[0066] refer to Figure 5 , the display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, an element layer DEL, a pixel defining layer PDL, a plurality of light emitting elements OLED and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0067] The substrate SUB may include a plurality of pixel areas PA and a non-pixel area NPA around each of the pixel areas PA. The substrate SUB may be a transparent substrate and include a flexible plastic material. For example, the substrate SUB may include polyimide (PI).

[0068] A plurality of inorganic insulating layers BL may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The plurality of inorganic insulating layers BL may include a first inorganic insulating layer FL disposed on the substrate SUB and a second inorganic insulating layer BFL disposed on the first inorganic insulating layer FL.

[0069] The element layer DEL may include one or more transistors and a plurality of insulating layers. For example, the element layer DEL may include a first transistor T1 and a second transistor T2. However, the structure of the transistors included in the element layer DEL is not limited thereto.

[0070] The sources S1 and S2, active portions A1 and A2, and drains D1 and D2 of the first and second transistors T1 and T2 may be formed of a semiconductor pattern. An insulating layer 10 may be provided on the sources S1 and S2, active portions A1 and A2, and drains D1 and D2, and gates G1 and G2 may be provided on the insulating layer 10. An insulating layer 20 covering the gates G1 and G2 may be provided on the gates G1 and G2.

[0071] The upper electrode UE may be disposed on the insulating layer 20. The upper electrode UE may overlap with the gate G2 of the second transistor T2. The insulating layer 30 covering the upper electrode UE is disposed on the upper electrode UE.

[0072] The first connection electrode CNE1 may be disposed on the insulating layer 30 and may be connected to the connection signal line SCL through the contact hole CNT-1. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be disposed on the insulating layers 40 and 50 and may be connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 through the contact hole CNT-2.

[0073] An insulating layer 60 covering the second connection electrode CNE2 may be disposed on the second connection electrode CNE2, and the light emitting element OLED may be disposed on the insulating layer 60. The light emitting element OLED is connected to the second connection electrode CNE2 through the contact hole CNT-3.

[0074] The pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed on the element layer DEL. Specifically, the pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed on the insulating layer 60. The pixel defining layer PDL may overlap with the non-pixel area NPA. A plurality of pixel openings POP may be defined in the pixel defining layer PDL to overlap with the pixel area PA.

[0075] The light-emitting element OLED may be disposed in a pixel opening POP defined in a pixel defining layer PDL. Each of the pixel openings POP of the pixel defining layer PDL exposes at least a portion of the first electrode AE. The light-emitting element OLED may include a first electrode AE, a hole control layer HCL, an emission layer EML, an electron control layer ECL, and a second electrode CE stacked in sequence. The second electrode CE may have a unified shape and may be commonly disposed in multiple pixels PX.

[0076] A thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the second electrode CE. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include an organic material or an inorganic material.

[0077] Figure 6 According to the implementation method Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device shown in . Figure 7 According to the implementation method Figure 1 For ease of description, the display device shown in FIG. Figure 7 The display module DM and the support member SP are omitted in the figure.

[0078] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7The display device DD may include a case CS, a driving component DR, a plate component PP, a magnet component MP, a support component SP, and a display module DM. The driving component DR, the plate component PP, the magnet component MP, the support component SP, and the display module DM may be accommodated in the case CS.

[0079] The second housing CS2 may be coupled to the first housing CS1. For example, the second housing CS2 may be slidably coupled to the first housing CS1 in the first direction DR1.

[0080] The first case CS1 may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which openings are respectively formed in a top surface and one side. The first case CS1 may include an empty space therein.

[0081] Specifically, the first case CS1 may include a first bottom plate BP1, a first outer wall OSW1, a second outer wall OSW2, and a third outer wall OSW3.

[0082] The first bottom plate BP1 may have a rectangular shape when viewed in a plan view.The first to third outer walls OSW1 to OSW3 may extend from an edge of the first bottom plate BP1 in the third direction DR3.

[0083] The first outer wall OSW1 and the second outer wall OSW2 may extend in the first direction DR1. The first outer wall OSW1 and the second outer wall OSW2 may face each other. The third outer wall OSW3 may be disposed between one side of the first outer wall OSW1 and one side of the second outer wall OSW2. Figure 6 and Figure 7 , one side may mean a lower left end, and the other side may mean an upper right end. The one side and the other side may be opposite sides in the first direction DR1.

[0084] The third outer wall OSW3 may extend in the second direction DR2. An upper portion of the first outer wall OSW1 may be bent toward the first bottom plate BP1. The second outer wall OSW2 may have a shape symmetrical to the first outer wall OSW1 in the first direction DR1.

[0085] When viewed in plan, the second housing CS2 may have a rectangular shape. The upper portion of the second housing CS2 may be open. The second housing CS2 may include an empty space therein. The second housing CS2 may include a second bottom plate BP2, a first side wall SW1, a second side wall SW2, and a third side wall SW3.

[0086] The second bottom plate BP2 may have a rectangular shape when viewed in a plan view.The first to third side walls SW1 to SW3 may extend from an edge of the second bottom plate BP2 in the third direction DR3.

[0087] The first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 may extend in the first direction DR1. The first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 may face each other. The first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 may have shapes symmetrical to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0088] Each of the other sides of the first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 may have a convex shape. For example, each of the other sides of the first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 may have a semicircular shape.

[0089] The third side wall SW3 may be disposed between the other side of the first side wall SW1 and the other side of the second side wall SW2. The third side wall SW3 may extend in the second direction DR2. The third side wall SW3 may have a convex shape. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the third side wall SW3 may be convex toward the other side. Conversely, the inner peripheral surface of the third side wall SW3 may be concave toward the other side.

[0090] The guide grooves GG may be defined on inner surfaces of the first and second side walls SW1 and SW2, respectively, and may face each other in the second direction DR2. Each of the guide grooves GG may have a "U" shape. The guide grooves GG may include a first extension part EX1, a second extension part EX2, and a curved part CVP extending from the first extension part EX1 to the second extension part EX2.

[0091] The first extension part EX1 may extend from one side of the inner surface of each of the first and second side walls SW1 and SW2 toward the other side. The curved part CVP may be folded at the other side of each of the inner surfaces of the first and second side walls SW1 and SW2. The curved part CVP refers to a curved portion extending from one end of the first extension part EX1 and may have a "C" shape when viewed in the second direction DR2. The second extension part EX2 may extend from one end of the curved part CVP to extend toward one side again. In other words, the first extension part EX1 may extend in the first direction DR1, and the second extension part EX2 may extend in the first direction DR1 and be positioned below the first extension part EX1.

[0092] The roller RO may be disposed in the second housing CS2. The roller RO may be rotatably disposed within the second housing CS2. For example, the roller RO may be disposed adjacent to the inner circumferential surface of the third side wall SW3. The roller RO may be rotatably mounted on the other side of each of the inner surfaces of the first and second side walls SW1 and SW2.

[0093] The driving component DR may be disposed within the first housing CS1. The driving component DR may be fixed to the first housing CS1. For example, the driving component DR may be fixed to at least one of the first outer wall OSW1, the second outer wall OSW2, and the third outer wall OSW3 by adhesive, threaded connection, or the like.

[0094] The driving part DR may include a gear part GR, a rotation force transmission part DE, a motor MO and at least one guide rod B.

[0095] The gear member GR may be provided at the other side of the first housing CS1. In this embodiment, the gear member GR may include a first gear GR1 and a second gear GR2. The first gear GR1 may be provided adjacent to the first outer wall OSW1, and the second gear GR2 may be provided adjacent to the second outer wall OSW2.

[0096] The first gear GR1 and the second gear GR2 can be connected to the rotational force transmission member DE. The rotational force transmission member DE can be rotated by the motor MO. The rotational force transmission member DE can rotate integrally with the first gear GR1 and the second gear GR2. For example, when the rotational force transmission member DE is rotated in one direction by the motor MO, the first gear GR1 and the second gear GR2 can also rotate in the same direction.

[0097] The guide rod B can be set at one side of the gear component GR. In the present embodiment, the driving component DR may include three guide rods B. Specifically, the first guide rod B1, the second guide rod B2 and the third guide rod B3 can be arranged in sequence from the gear component GR. The first guide rod B1 can be set closest to the gear component GR, and the third guide rod B3 can be set farthest from the gear component GR. The second guide rod B2 can be set between the first guide rod B1 and the third guide rod B3. The guide rods B1 to B3 can perform the function of guiding the movement of the connecting component CP, which will be described later. Although not shown, the main board can be set at one side of the driving component DR. The main board can control the operation of each of the display module DM and the motor MO.

[0098] The plate part PP may be provided on the driving part DR. The plate part PP may include a first plate PL1, a second plate PL2, and a magnet part MP.

[0099] When viewed in a plan view, the first plate PL1 may have a rectangular shape. The first plate PL1 may be fixedly mounted within the first case CS1. For example, the first plate PL1 may be mounted within the first case CS1 using an adhesive, screw coupling, or the like.

[0100] A recess parallel to the first direction DR1 may be defined in the first plate PL1. For example, the recess may extend from the first surface F1 of the first plate PL1 toward the center of the first plate PL1.

[0101] In the present embodiment, the first plate PL1 may include a first recess RE1, a second recess RE2, and a third recess RE3. When viewed in a plan view, each of the first to third recesses RE1 to RE3 may have a rectangular shape. The first to third recesses RE1 to RE3 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2.

[0102] The second plate PL2 may be disposed within the second housing CS2. The second plate PL2 may be fixed to the second housing CS2. For example, the second plate PL2 may be fixed to the first and second side walls SW1 and SW2 of the second housing CS2 by adhesive, screws, or the like.

[0103] In a state in which the second case CS2 is coupled to the first case CS1 , the second plate PL2 may be disposed at the same height as the first plate PL1 in the third direction DR3 .

[0104] The second panel PL2 may include a sub-panel extending in the first direction DR1. In this embodiment, the second panel PL2 may include a first sub-panel SUP1, a second sub-panel SUP2, a third sub-panel SUP3, and a connection panel COP.

[0105] The first to third sub-boards SUP1 to SUP3 may extend from the second surface F2 of the connection panel COP toward the first panel PL1. The connection panel COP may extend in the second direction DR2. The connection panel COP may be fixed to the first and second side walls SW1 and SW2 of the second case CS2.

[0106] At least a portion of the sub-board may be inserted into the recess to move in the first direction DR1.

[0107] For example, the first sub-board SUP1 may be disposed in the first recess RE1. The second sub-board SUP2 may be disposed in the second recess RE2. The third sub-board SUP3 may be disposed in the third recess RE3. The first surface F1 of the first board PL1 and the second surface F2 of the connection board COP of the second board PL2 may contact each other.

[0108] The magnet part MP may be provided on the second plate PL2. When viewed in a plan view, the magnet part MP may have a rectangular shape. However, the shape of the magnet part MP is not limited thereto.

[0109] The magnet component MP may include a permanent magnet. For example, the magnet component MP may include samarium, scandium, yttrium, neodymium, etc.

[0110] In this embodiment, the magnetic component MP may include a first magnet MA1, a second magnet MA2, and a third magnet MA3. The first magnet MA1 may be provided on the first sub-board SUP1, the second magnet MA2 may be provided on the second sub-board SUP2, and the third magnet MA3 may be provided on the third sub-board SUP3.

[0111] The magnet part MP may be inserted into a groove defined in the second plate PL2. Specifically, the first magnet MA1 may be inserted into a first groove H1 defined in the first sub-plate SUP1.

[0112] The second magnet MA2 may be inserted into a second groove H2 defined in the second sub-plate SUP2 .

[0113] The third magnet MA3 may be inserted into a third groove H3 defined in the third sub-plate SUP3 .

[0114] In the present embodiment, the case where the magnetic part MP is provided on the second plate PL2 is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second plate PL2 itself may be made of a magnetic material, and the magnetic material may also be a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

[0115] The plate part PP may further include protrusions PR on the bottom surface of the plate part PP. For example, the protrusions PR may be provided on the bottom surface of the second plate PL2. The protrusions PR may include a first protrusion PR1 and a second protrusion PR2. The first protrusion PR1 may be provided on the bottom surface of the first sub-plate SUP1. The second protrusion PR2 may be provided on the bottom surface of the third sub-plate SUP3. The first protrusion PR1 and the second protrusion PR2 may be arranged along the first direction DR1.

[0116] The first protrusion PR1 and the second protrusion PR2 can be coupled to rotate while engaging with the first gear GR1 and the second gear GR2, respectively. However, the arrangement structure of the protrusion PR is not limited thereto. The arrangement structure of the protrusion PR can be variously modified. For example, the protrusion PR can also be provided on the bottom surface of the third sub-board SUP3.

[0117] The display module DM may include a first portion PO1, a second portion PO2, and a third portion PO3. The third portion PO3 may be disposed between the first portion PO1 and the second portion PO2.

[0118] The shape of the display module DM can be varied. Specifically, in the first mode (see Figure 1 ), the first portion PO1 of the display module DM may be exposed to the outside, and the second portion PO2 and the third portion PO3 may be disposed within the second case CS2. The third portion PO3 may be disposed in a state of being bent between the third side wall SW3 and the roller RO.

[0119] In the second mode (see Figure 2 ), the first portion PO1, the third portion PO3, and a portion of the second portion PO2 of the display module DM may be exposed to the outside. The third portion PO3 and a portion of the second portion PO2 may be extended in parallel with the first portion PO1 in the first direction DR1. The remaining portion of the second portion PO2 may be disposed within the second housing CS2.

[0120] The shape of the display module DM may be changed as the second plate PL2 on which the magnet part MP is disposed moves in the first direction DR1. Details regarding this structure will be described later.

[0121] The support member SP may be provided on the rear surface of the display module DM. An adhesive may be provided between the display module DM and the support member SP. For example, the adhesive may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The support member SP may be attached to the display module DM by the adhesive.

[0122] The support member SP may include a support plate SPL and a plurality of support bars SB disposed on the other side of the support plate SPL. The support plate SPL may be provided on the rear surface of the first portion PO1. The plurality of support bars SB may be provided on the rear surfaces of the second portion PO2 and the third portion PO3.

[0123] Each of the support bars SB may extend in the second direction DR2 and be arranged in the first direction DR1. The support bars SB may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each of the support bars SB may have an inverted trapezoidal shape when viewed in the second direction DR2.

[0124] For example, the support bars SB are shown as being spaced apart from each other, but the structure of the support bars SB is not limited thereto. For example, the support bars SB may be implemented as a coupling structure in which the support bars SB are rotatably coupled to each other. Both sides of each support bar SB can be inserted into the guide groove GG to move along the guide groove GG.

[0125] The support rod SB may be made of metal or magnetic material. In the second mode, the portion of the support rod SB that overlaps the third portion PO3 may be magnetically coupled to the magnetic component MP. This will be described later. However, the material of the support rod SB is not limited thereto and may include non-metallic materials. In this case, a coating comprising a metal or magnetic material may also be provided on the bottom surface of the support rod SB.

[0126] The connecting part CP can connect the driving part DR to any one of the outermost supporting rods SB among the plurality of supporting rods SB or one end of the second part PO2. For example, the connecting part CP can be a wiring. One end of the connecting part CP can be fixed to the rotational force transmission part DE. The connecting part CP can be wound or loosened while winding the rotational force transmission part DE. The connecting part CP can be guided to move by the first guide rod B1, the second guide rod B2 and the third guide rod B3. The other end of the connecting part CP can be connected to one end of the second part PO2. As another example, the other end of the connecting part CP can be connected to a supporting rod SB arranged to overlap with one end of the second part PO2.

[0127] The driving component DR and the display module DM can be connected to each other through a driving connector DRC. One end of the driving connector DRC can be connected to the main board of the driving component DR, and the other end of the driving connector DRC can be connected to the timing control circuit TC of the display panel DP (see Figure 4 ). The mainboard can apply signals to the display module DM through the drive connector DRC.

[0128] Figure 8 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0129] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the display device shown in .

[0130] basically, Figure 8 and Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing the display device DD in the first mode. Figure 9 The display module DM and the support member SP are omitted in the figure.

[0131] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the first mode, the exposed surface area of ​​the display module DM can be minimized. Specifically, in the first mode, the third portion PO3 can bend in a downward direction (e.g., a third direction DR3) relative to the roller RO. The second portion PO2 can be disposed below the first portion PO1. The second portion PO2 can be disposed parallel to the second base plate BP2.

[0132] The first to third sub-plates SUP1 to SUP3 of the second plate PL2 can be fully inserted into the first to third recesses RE1 to RE3 of the first plate PL1, respectively. The first surface F1 of the first plate PL1 can contact the second surface F2 of the connection plate COP of the second plate PL2. In this case, the position of the second plate PL2 can be defined as a first point.

[0133] In the first mode, the magnetic part MP may overlap the first portion PO1 of the display module DM. Specifically, the first magnet MA1 may be disposed below the first portion PO1. Although not shown, the second magnet MA2 and the third magnet MA3 may be positioned the same as the first magnet MA1 in the first direction DR1.

[0134] In the first mode, the first portion PO1 and the support plate SPL may be provided on the first extension part EX1. The second portion PO2, the third portion PO3 and the plurality of support rods SB may be provided on the curved part CVP and the second extension part EX2.

[0135] The gear member GR can allow the second plate PL2 to move in the first direction DR1. Specifically, the first gear GR1 can rotate while being coupled to the first protrusion PR1. Therefore, the second plate PL2 on which the first protrusion PR1 is formed can move linearly in the first direction DR1. Although not shown, the second gear GR2 can also rotate while being coupled to the second protrusion PR2 (see Figure 6 ) while rotating.

[0136] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An enlarged view of portion A is shown in FIG.

[0137] refer to Figure 10 The first protrusion PR1 may include a plurality of protrusions PRT. Each of the protrusions PRT may have a triangular prism shape extending in the second direction DR2. A recess portion REP may be defined between adjacent protrusions PRT. When viewed in the second direction DR2, the protrusion PRT may have an inverted triangular shape, and the recess portion REP may have a triangular shape.

[0138] The first gear GR1 may include a plurality of gear protrusions GR_P. Each of the gear protrusions GR_P may have a triangular prism shape extending in the second direction DR2. Each of the gear protrusions GR_P may have a triangular shape when viewed in the second direction DR2.

[0139] The shape of the gear protrusion GR_P may correspond to the shape of the recess portion REP. At least one pair of gear protrusions GR_P of the first gear GR1 may be disposed in the recess portion REP of the first protrusion PR1. The second protrusion PR2 and the second gear GR2 may have the same shape as the first protrusion PR1 and the first gear GR1, respectively (see Figure 6 ).

[0140] Figure 11 It is along Figure 2 A sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0141] Figure 12 yes Figure 2 A plan view of the display device shown in .

[0142] basically, Figure 11 and Figure 12 is a view showing the display device DD in the second mode.

[0143] For ease of description, Figure 12 The display module DM and the support member SP are omitted in the figure.

[0144] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the display device DD can switch from the first mode to the second mode.

[0145] Specifically, when the motor MO of the driving part DR is operated, the rotation force transmission part DE may rotate in the clockwise direction. When the rotation force transmission part DE rotates, the gear part GR may rotate in the clockwise direction.

[0146] The first gear GR1 can rotate while coupled to the first protrusion PR1. Similarly, the second gear GR2 can rotate while coupled to the second protrusion PR2. Therefore, the second plate PL2 can move to the right in the first direction DR1. Since the second plate PL2 is fixed to the second case CS2, the second case CS2 can also move integrally with the second plate PL2.

[0147] When the first gear GR1 and the second gear GR2 rotate clockwise, the connecting part CP wrapped around the rotational force transmission part DE can be loosened. The loosened connecting part CP can be moved by the guide rods B1, B2, and B3. The connecting part CP can hold one end of the second part PO2 when the second part PO2 is unfolded, so that the display module DM can be stably unfolded.

[0148] In the second mode, the exposed surface area of ​​the display module DM can be maximized. Specifically, when the second panel PL2 moves to the right along the first direction DR1, the third portion PO3 and a portion of the second portion PO2 of the display module DM can be expanded in the first direction DR1. In the second mode, the third portion PO3 and a portion of the second portion PO2 can be arranged parallel to the first portion PO1.

[0149] The first plate PL1 may overlap the first portion PO1. The second plate PL2 may overlap a portion of the first portion PO1, the third portion PO3, and a portion of the second portion PO2. The second plate PL2 may support a portion of the first portion PO1. Since the second plate PL2 supports at least a portion of the first portion PO1 even in the second mode, the flatness between the first portion PO1 and the third portion PO3 of the display module DM can be stably maintained.

[0150] In the second mode, the magnet part MP may overlap the third portion PO3 of the display module DM. More specifically, the magnet part MP may be disposed under a support bar SB among the plurality of support bars SB that overlaps the third portion PO3.

[0151] The magnetic component MP can be magnetically coupled to the third portion PO3. Specifically, the magnetic component MP can be magnetically coupled to the support bar SB overlapping the third portion PO3. Therefore, the third portion PO3 of the display module DM and the support bar SB overlapping the third portion PO3 can be in close contact with the magnetic component MP.

[0152] According to this embodiment, when the magnetic component MP overlaps the third portion PO3 in the second mode, deformation of the third portion PO3 can be reduced. Specifically, since the third portion PO3 is provided in a curved shape in the first mode, even when the display device DD switches to the second mode and the third portion PO3 is unfolded, residual deformation can be retained in the third portion PO3. However, in the present invention, the magnetic component MP can be provided to overlap the third portion PO3 in the second mode to minimize deformation of the third portion PO3.

[0153] Hereinafter, a display device having a structure different from that of the above-described embodiment will be described. In the following description, description of a configuration overlapping with the above-described embodiment will be omitted, and a configuration different from that of the above-described embodiment will be described in detail.

[0154] Figure 13 and Figure 14 is a view showing a structure in which a magnet member of a display device is provided according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the arrangement shapes of the magnetic parts MP' and MP" may be variously modified. For example, the magnetic parts MP' and MP" may be provided only on some of the three sub-boards SUP1 to SUP3.

[0156] Specifically, the magnetic component MP' can be provided on the second sub-board SUP2, and the second sub-board SUP2 is provided between the first sub-board SUP1 and the third sub-board SUP3 (see FIG. Figure 13 ). The magnetic component MP" can be provided on the first sub-board SUP1 and the third sub-board SUP3 (see Figure 14 ).

[0157] As described above, when the magnetic parts MP' and MP" are provided only on some sub-boards instead of on all sub-boards, the process of manufacturing the display device DD may be facilitated and the weight of the display device DD may be reduced.

[0158] Figure 15 and Figure 16 is a view showing a structure of a panel member of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 , the shapes of the plate parts PP' and PP" can be changed in various ways.

[0160] For example, the second panels PL2' and PL2" may include one or two sub-panels. The shapes of the first panels PL1' and PL1" may be changed to correspond to the shapes of the second panels PL2' and PL2", respectively.

[0161] In detail, the second plate PL2' may include one sub-plate SUP' provided at a central portion of the second plate PL2'. The first plate PL1' may include a recess RE' defined in a central portion to correspond to the shape of the second plate PL2' (see FIG. Figure 15 ).

[0162] The second plate PL2" may include two sub-plates SUP1" and SUP2" spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. The first plate PL1" may include two recesses RE1" and RE2" to correspond to the shape of the second plate PL2" (see FIG. Figure 16 ).

[0163] Although not shown, protrusions may also be provided on the bottom surfaces of the sub-boards SUP', SUP1", and SUP2", respectively.

[0164] As described above, when the second panels PL2' and PL2" include one or two sub-panels, the process of manufacturing the second panels PL2' and PL2" may be facilitated.

[0165] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An enlarged view of portion BB is shown in FIG.

[0167] refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18, the second plate PL2 may further include an extension plate EXP provided between the connection plate COP and the roller RO.

[0168] The extension panel EXP may extend from the connection panel COP in the first direction DR1 , and a top surface EXP_UF of the extension panel EXP may overlap with the display module DM.

[0169] The extension plate EXP may include a curved surface EXP_CF. The curved surface EXP_CF may face the outer peripheral surface of the roller RO. Since the surface of the extension plate EXP facing the roller RO is formed as the curved surface EXP_CF, the top surface EXP_UF of the extension plate EXP may extend further in the first direction DR1 than the bottom surface EXP_BF.

[0170] The top surface EXP_UF of the extension panel EXP may support the display module DM and the support bar SB disposed in a space between the connection panel COP and the roller RO.

[0171] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the second panel PL2 further includes the extension panel EXP disposed between the connection panel COP and the roller RO, the panel part PP may more stably support the display module DM and the support bar SB.

[0172] Figure 19 and Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 , the second board PL2-1 of the display device DD-1 may be disposed on the driving part DR-1. The second board PL2-1 may be fixed to the top surface of the driving part DR-1.

[0174] In this embodiment, the driving component DR-1 can be fixed in the second housing CS2. For example, the driving component DR-1 can be fixed to the second housing CS2 by adhesive, screw connection, etc.

[0175] The driving component DR-1 can move in the first direction DR1. Specifically, in the first mode, the driving component DR-1 can be disposed under the first portion PO1 (see Figure 19 In the second mode, the driving component DR-1 may be disposed below a portion of the first portion PO1 and the second portion PO2 (see Figure 20 ).

[0176] The second plate PL2-1 can move integrally with the driving part DR-1. Therefore, in the first mode, the second plate PL2-1 can overlap the first portion PO1. In the second mode, the second plate PL2-1 can overlap the second portion PO2 and the third portion PO3.

[0177] The second plate PL2-1 may include an electromagnet. The drive component DR-1 may selectively apply current to the second plate PL2-1. For example, in the first mode, the drive component DR-1 may not apply current to the magnet component MP. In the second mode, the drive component DR-1 may apply current to the magnet component MP.

[0178] In the second mode, when the driving part DR-1 applies current to the second plate PL2-1, the second plate PL2-1 can be magnetically coupled to the second portion PO2 and the third portion PO3. More precisely, the second plate PL2-1 can be magnetically coupled to the support bar SB overlapping the second portion PO2 and the third portion PO3.

[0179] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the driving part DR-1 supplies current to the second panel PL2-1 in the second mode, the second panel PL2-1 can be magnetically coupled to the extended area (i.e., the second portion PO2) and the third portion PO3 of the display module DM. Therefore, deformation of the extended portion of the display module DM can be improved.

[0180] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention covers modifications and variations of the present invention to the extent they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Therefore, to the maximum extent permitted by law, the scope of the present invention is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the appended claims and their equivalents, and shall not be limited or restricted by the foregoing detailed description.

[0181] Industrial Applicability

[0182] According to the embodiments of the present invention, deformation of a flexible display device can be improved. Therefore, the present invention has high industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A display device capable of switching between a first mode and a second mode, the display device comprising: a display module comprising, in the first mode, a first portion, a second portion disposed below the first portion, and a third portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion so as to bend; a supporting member comprising a supporting plate provided on a rear surface of the first portion and a plurality of supporting rods provided on rear surfaces of the second portion and the third portion; a plate member disposed below the support member and including a magnet member movable in a first direction so as to be away from or approach the first portion; as well as a driving member disposed below the plate member, wherein, when switching from the first mode to the second mode, the third portion is arranged parallel to the first portion, and the magnet component moves in the first direction to overlap with the third portion, wherein the magnet component and the third portion move away from each other when switching from the second mode to the first mode, and Wherein, when switching from the first mode to the second mode, the magnet component and the third part move closer to each other.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The plate component further comprises: a first plate disposed below the first portion; and A second plate, the magnetic component is arranged on the second plate.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The first plate includes a recess parallel to the first direction, and The second plate includes a sub-plate parallel to the first direction, and the magnetic component is provided on the sub-plate, When the second board moves along the first direction to approach the first board, at least a portion of the sub-board is inserted into the recess.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein The recess is provided in plural, and the plurality of recesses are spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and The sub-board is provided in plural numbers, and the sub-boards are respectively disposed in the plural recesses.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein The magnet member is disposed in a groove defined in the daughter board.

6. The display device according to claim 3, wherein The second plate is movable from a first point to a second point along the first direction, wherein when the second plate is disposed at the first point, the magnetic component overlaps the first portion, and When the second plate moves to the second point, the magnet member overlaps with the third portion.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The plate member further includes a protrusion on a bottom surface of the plate member.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The driving member includes a gear member coupled to rotate by engaging with the protrusion. 9 . The display device according to claim 8 , further comprising a connecting member configured to connect any one of the outermost supporting bars among the plurality of supporting bars or one end of the second portion to the driving member.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The driving member is fixed to overlap with the first portion. 11 . The display device according to claim 9 , further comprising a driving connector configured to connect the driving component to the display module.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein Each of the plurality of support rods includes a magnetic material.

13. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first housing configured to accommodate the first portion, the support plate, and the drive component; as well as a second housing configured to accommodate the second and third parts, the plurality of support rods, and the magnet assembly; The second shell is coupled to the first shell to move in the first direction so as to move away from or approach the first shell.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: Both sides of each of the plurality of support bars are respectively inserted into guide grooves defined in an inner surface of the second housing to move along the guide grooves, which face each other in a second direction crossing the first direction.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein Each of the guide slots comprises: a first extension member extending in the first direction; a second extending member extending in the first direction and disposed below the first extending member; and A curved member extends from the first extension member to the second extension member.

16. The display device according to claim 13, further comprising: a roller rotatably coupled within the second housing; as well as an extension plate disposed between the plate member and the roller, Wherein, the extension plate has a curved surface.

17. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The plate member is disposed on the driving member, and The plate member and the driving member move integrally.

18. A display device comprising: A display module including a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion so as to bend; a supporting member disposed on a rear surface of the display module and comprising a supporting plate supporting the first portion and a plurality of supporting rods supporting the second portion and the third portion; a first plate disposed below the support plate; a driving component, disposed below the first plate; a second plate, moving away from or closer to the first plate in a first direction; as well as a magnetic component, disposed on the second plate, wherein, when the second plate moves away from the first plate in the first direction, the magnetic component is disposed under the support rod, wherein when the second plate moves closer to the first plate, the magnet component and the third portion move away from each other, and When the second plate moves away from the first plate, the magnet component and the third portion move closer to each other.

19. The display device according to claim 18, wherein The second plate includes a protrusion on a bottom surface of the second plate.

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