Display device

Abstract

The display device includes: a display panel for displaying an image; a strip spring connected to the display panel to lift the display panel; a first roller on which the display panel is wound or unwound; a second roller on which the strip spring is wound or unwound; and a timing belt that causes the second roller to rotate in the same direction as the first roller when the first roller is wound or unwound.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display device, and more specifically, to a rollable display device that can display images even when rolled up. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices used in monitors for computers, televisions, or cellular phones include organic light-emitting display devices (OLEDs) that are self-emissive devices and liquid crystal display devices (LCDs) that utilize a single light source.

[0003] The applications of display devices are diversified for personal digital assistants as well as monitors for computers and televisions, and display devices with large display areas and reduced size and weight are being researched.

[0004] In addition, recently, rollable display devices, which are manufactured by forming display units and wiring on a flexible substrate such as plastic so that they can display images even when the display device is rolled up, are attracting attention as the next generation of display devices. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a display device is provided that maintains constant tension on a spring member applied to a display panel when the display device is wound and unwound.

[0006] In one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a display with a design structure is provided that allows the same mechanism to be applied to both internal and external display devices.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a display device includes a display panel on which an image is displayed; a strip spring connected to the display panel to lift the display panel; a first roller on which the display panel is wound or unwound; a second roller on which the strip spring is wound or unwound; and a timing belt that causes the second roller to rotate in the same direction as the first roller when the first roller is wound or unwound.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, when the display device is unfolded, the torque of the spring member is concentrated, so that excessive tension generated in the display panel can be minimized.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a first roller and a second roller disposed on different axes are synchronized to apply the same mechanism to the inner-type display device and the outer-type display device.

[0010] The embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to those described above, and other embodiments not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. Further details of the exemplary embodiments are included in the specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0011] The benefits and advantages of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and additional benefits and advantages are included in this specification. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A A front view of the display of the display device;

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1A Rear view of the display of the display device;

[0016] Figure 4A yes Figure 1A A front perspective view of the roller assembly of the display device;

[0017] Figure 4B yes Figure 1A Rear perspective view of the roller assembly of the display device;

[0018] Figure 5A yes Figure 4A Exploded perspective view of the first roller of the roller assembly of the display device;

[0019] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A perspective view of the first roller of the display device in its assembled state;

[0020] Figure 5C yes Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the first roller of the display device;

[0021] Figure 6A yes Figure 4A An exploded perspective view of the first part of the second roller of the roller assembly of the display device;

[0022] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A perspective view of the first part of the second roller of the display device in its assembled state;

[0023] Figure 7A and Figure 7B yes Figure 4A Exploded perspective view of the second roller of the display device;

[0024] Figure 8 It is a graphical representation of the torque applied to the display panel during the winding of the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, relative to a comparative example;

[0025] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0026] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as methods for achieving these advantages and features, will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, but will be implemented in various forms. Exemplary embodiments are provided by way of example only so that those skilled in the art can fully understand the disclosure and scope of this disclosure.

[0028] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, quantities, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings to describe exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are merely examples, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals generally denote similar...

[0029] The same elements. Furthermore, in the following description of this disclosure, detailed descriptions of known related technologies may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the subject matter of this disclosure. Terms such as "comprising," "having," and "consisting of" are used herein.

[0030] Such terminology is generally intended to allow for the addition of other components, unless the term is used in conjunction with the term "only". Unless otherwise explicitly stated, any reference to the singular may include the plural.

[0031] The component is interpreted to include the normal error range, even if not explicitly stated otherwise.

[0032] When using terms such as "above," "on top," "below," and "beside" to describe the positional relationship between two parts, one or more parts may be located between the two parts, unless the term "immediately follows" the other term.

[0033] Or use them together "directly".

[0034] Although the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components. Therefore, the first component referred to below may be the second component in the technical concept of this disclosure.

[0035] Features of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be attached or combined with each other in part or in whole, and may be interlocked and operated in various technical ways, and the embodiments may be performed independently of each other or in relation to each other.

[0036] In the following, a rollable display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Rollable display device

[0038] A rollable display device refers to a display device that can display images even when rolled up. Compared to conventional display devices in the prior art, rollable display devices can have high flexibility. The shape of a rollable display device can be freely changed and can be selected based on whether the rollable display device is in use. Specifically, when the rollable display device...

[0039] When the rollable display device is not in use, it is rolled up for storage in a reduced volume. Conversely, when the rollable display device is in use, it is unfolded.

[0040] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view of a display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] First, refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The display device 100 includes a display unit DP (also referred to herein as a display DP) and a housing unit HP (also referred to herein as a housing HP).

[0042] A display unit DP is a configuration for displaying images to a user, and for example, a display element and circuitry, wiring, and components for driving the display element can be disposed in the display unit DP. In this case, since the display device 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is a rollable display device 100, the display unit DP can be configured to be rolled up or unfolded. For example, the display unit DP can be formed of a display panel and a plurality of back strips, each back strip being flexible to be rolled up or unfolded. Reference will be made below. Figures 2 to 4B The display unit (DP) is described in more detail.

[0043] The housing unit HP is a housing that houses the display unit DP. The display unit DP can be rolled up to be housed in the housing unit HP, and the display unit DP can be unfolded to be positioned outside the housing unit HP.

[0044] The housing unit HP has an opening HPO through which the display unit DP moves to the interior and exterior of the housing unit HP. The display unit DP can move vertically by passing through the opening HPO of the housing unit HP, such as... Figure 1A Arrow A in the diagram is generally shown.

[0045] Furthermore, the display unit DP of the display device 100 can switch from a fully unfolded state to a fully rolled-up state, or from a fully rolled-up state to a fully unfolded state, or be selected to be in a position between a fully rolled-up state and a fully unfolded state.

[0046] Figure 1A The display unit DP of the fully extended display device 100 is shown. In the fully extended state, the display unit DP of the display device 100 is disposed outside the housing unit HP. That is, the fully extended state can correspond to a state in which the user can view the image on the display device 100 under the condition that the display unit DP is extended to be disposed as far outside the housing unit HP as possible, so that the display unit DP cannot be extended further.

[0047] Figure 1B The display unit DP of the fully rolled-up display device 100 is shown. In the fully rolled-up state, the display unit DP of the display device 100 is housed within the housing unit HP and cannot be rolled further. That is, from an aesthetic point of view, it is advantageous that the display unit DP is not located outside the housing unit HP when the user is not viewing the image on the display device 100. Therefore, the fully rolled-up state can correspond to the display unit DP being rolled up to be completely housed within the housing unit HP. Furthermore, when the display unit DP is in the fully rolled-up state housed within the housing unit HP, the size of the display device 100 is reduced, and the display device 100 can be easily carried.

[0048] Display unit

[0049] Figure 2 This is a plan view of the display unit DP of the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a rear view of the display unit DP of a display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The display unit DP of the display device 100 includes multiple back strips 110, a display panel 120, a flexible circuit film 130, and a printed circuit board 140.

[0050] Display panel 120 is a panel used to display images to a user. Display panel 120 may include display elements for displaying images, driving elements for driving the display elements, and wiring for transmitting various signals to the display elements and driving elements.

[0051] The display element can be defined in different ways depending on the type of display panel 120. For example, when display panel 120 is an organic light-emitting display panel, the display element can be an organic light-emitting diode including an anode, an organic light-emitting layer, and a cathode. For example, when display panel 120 is a liquid crystal display panel, the display element can be a liquid crystal display element. When display panel 120 is a light-emitting display panel including LEDs, the display element can be an LED. In the following, even if display panel 120 is assumed to be an organic light-emitting display panel, display panel 120 is not limited to organic light-emitting display panels. Furthermore, since the display device 100 according to one or more exemplary embodiments of this disclosure is a rollable display device, display panel 120 can be implemented as a flexible display panel to be rolled around or unfolded from roller units described elsewhere.

[0052] Reference Figure 2 The display panel 120 includes a display area AA and a non-display area NA.

[0053] The display area AA is the area in the display panel 120 where an image is displayed. Within the display area AA, multiple sub-pixels constituting multiple pixels and driving circuitry for driving these sub-pixels can be provided. The multiple sub-pixels can be the smallest unit constituting the display area AA, and display elements can be disposed in each of the multiple sub-pixels. For example, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) including an anode, an organic light-emitting layer, and a cathode can be disposed in each of the multiple sub-pixels, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the circuitry for driving the multiple sub-pixels can include driving elements and wiring. For example, the circuitry can be composed of thin-film transistors, storage capacitors, gate lines, and data lines, but is not limited thereto.

[0054] The non-display area NA is the area where no image is displayed. The non-display area NA is configured to surround the display area AA. Various wiring and circuits for driving the organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) of the display area AA are provided in the non-display area NA. For example, the non-display area NA may contain link lines that send signals to multiple sub-pixels and circuits of the display area AA, or driver ICs such as gating driver ICs or data driver ICs, but is not limited to these.

[0055] The flexible circuit film 130 is a film in which various components are disposed on a base film with elasticity. The flexible circuit film 130 is elastic, allowing a portion of it to be wound around or unwound from the roller unit along with the display unit DP. The flexible circuit film 130 provides signals to the circuitry of multiple sub-pixels and the display area AA, and can be electrically connected to the display panel 120. The flexible circuit film 130 is disposed at one end of the non-display area NA of the display panel 120 to provide power supply voltage or data voltage to the multiple sub-pixels and circuitry of the display area AA. Figure 2 The number of flexible circuit films 130 shown is illustrative, and the number of flexible circuit films 130 can vary according to the design and is not limited to this. Figure 2 The quantity shown.

[0056] Furthermore, driver ICs, such as gating driver ICs or data driver ICs, can also be disposed on the flexible circuit film 130. The driver IC is a component that processes data for displaying an image and drive signals for processing that data. Depending on the mounting method, the driver IC can be disposed using chip-on-glass (COG), chip-on-film (COF), or tape-on-carrier (TCP) packaging technologies. However, for ease of description, it is assumed that the driver IC is mounted on the flexible circuit film 130 in a chip-on-film manner, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0057] Printed circuit board 140 is disposed at one end of flexible circuit film 130 (e.g., the bottom end in some non-limiting examples) and connected to flexible circuit film 130. Printed circuit board 140 is a component that provides signals to driver IC. Printed circuit board 140 provides various signals to driver IC, such as drive signals or data signals. Various components can be disposed on printed circuit board 140. For example, a timing controller and a power supply unit (or power supply) can be disposed on printed circuit board 140. Although in Figure 2 A printed circuit board 140 is shown, but the number of printed circuit boards 140 can vary depending on the design and is not limited thereto.

[0058] Even if not in Figure 2 As shown, an additional printed circuit board connected to the printed circuit board 140 may also be further disposed in the display device 100. For example, the printed circuit board 140 may refer to a source printed circuit board S-PCB on which a data driver is mounted, while the additional printed circuit board connected to the printed circuit board 140 may refer to a control printed circuit board C-PCB on which a timing controller is mounted. The additional printed circuit board may be disposed in the roller unit or in a housing unit HP outside the roller unit.

[0059] Reference Figure 3Multiple back strips 110 may be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 120. The multiple back strips 110 can support the display panel 120, and when the display panel 120 is wound around or unwound from the roller unit, the supporting force of the back strips 110 supports the display panel 120 and can prevent scratches and damage to the display panel 120. The multiple back strips 110 may also be referred to as aprons. The multiple back strips 110 may be formed of plastic material, but are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the multiple back strips 110 may be adhered to the display panel 120 by separate adhesive layers or foam tapes, as well as other adhesives, fasteners, glues, etc.

[0060] Despite Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shows multiple back strips 110 disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 120, but a rear cover with multiple openings may be additionally disposed between the display panel 120 and the multiple back strips 110. Furthermore, in some embodiments, only the rear cover may be used without the multiple back strips 110.

[0061] Connection structure between display unit and roller assembly

[0062] Figure 4A This is a front perspective view of the roller assembly RA of a display device 100 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4B This is a rear perspective view of the roller assembly RA of the display device 100. Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a perspective view illustrating the connection structure between the display unit DP and the roller assembly RA. The roller assembly RA may include a strip spring TS, a first roller 150, and a second roller 160 of the display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure.

[0063] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B A display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes a display unit DP and a roller assembly RA coupled to the display unit DP. The roller assembly RA may include a strip spring TS, a first roller 150 and a second roller 160, and the display device 100 also includes a headband HB.

[0064] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B The first roller 150 is positioned above the second roller 160. The display unit DP is connected to the first roller 150, and the first roller 150 is configured to wind or unwind the display unit DP.

[0065] A strip spring TS is connected to the second roller 160 and is configured to lift the display panel 120 of the display unit DP in response to the drive of the second roller 160.

[0066] A strip spring TS is disposed on the rear surface 102 of the display unit DP. The upper end TSU of the strip spring TS is fixed to the head bar HB, which is disposed at and connected to the upper end 120U of the display panel 120. The lower end TSL of the strip spring TS is fixed to the second roller 160. Therefore, the strip spring TS can be wound around or unwound from the second roller 160 and move the display unit DP in the vertical direction in response to the drive of the second roller 160.

[0067] The strip spring TS can be a bistable coil composite (BRC) component. The strip spring TS extends or bends in the row direction (i.e., the width direction of the strip spring TS) to wind or unwind in the column direction (i.e., the length direction of the strip spring TS). When the strip spring TS remains flat in the row direction, it winds in the column direction. Conversely, when the strip spring TS remains bent in the row direction, it is rigid in the column direction to unwind in the length direction. In other words, at least in… Figure 4B In the unfolding structure shown to provide rigidity for the display unit DP, the strip spring TS has a curved shape. When the strip spring TS is wound around the second roller 160, the strip spring TS flattens to assist the roller. When the strip spring TS unfolds again, the elasticity of the strip spring TS causes it to return to its curved shape to provide rigidity, as... Figure 4B As shown.

[0068] In this implementation, the stiffness of the strip spring TS in the column direction is related to the degree of bending of the strip spring TS in the row direction. That is, the degree of bending of the strip spring TS in the row direction can be appropriately selected based on the stiffness in the column direction that is beneficial to the display unit DP.

[0069] In a display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, an operation of stretching or bending a strip spring TS in the row direction is performed to cause the strip spring TS to be wound or unwound in the column direction, as described above. Specifically, during the winding operation of the second roller 160, the strip spring TS is wound in the column direction and simultaneously flattened in the row direction (i.e., the width direction) to be wound around the second roller 160 in a flattened state, and during the unwinding operation of the second roller 160, the strip spring is stretched in the column direction to unwind from the second roller 160.

[0070] During the unfolding operation of the second roller 160, the strip spring TS stretched in the column direction is rigid in the column direction, which suppresses the swaying and twisting of the unfolded display panel 120. Therefore, as long as no other external force is applied, the unfolded display panel 120 can remain flat due to the rigidity of the strip spring TS.

[0071] The header HB can be positioned on the uppermost DPU of the display unit DP. The header HB is positioned to secure the display unit DP and the upper TSU of the band spring TS. In some embodiments, the header HB only covers a portion of the surface adjacent to the uppermost edge of the display unit DP so as not to be hidden within... Figure 4A The image is displayed on the front surface of the display unit DP. For example, the display unit DP and the headline HB can be fixed with screws, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0072] Furthermore, in a display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a first fastening unit 150F (which may be referred to herein as a first fastener 150F) may be disposed on one end 150A (i.e., the first end 150A) of the first roller 150, and a second fastening unit 160F may be disposed on one end 160A (i.e., the first end 160A) of the second roller 160. The first fastening unit 150F and the second fastening unit 160F are connected to the timing belt BT for synchronization. Thus, in some embodiments, the timing belt BT allows the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 to rotate at the same speed and in the same direction (i.e., in some embodiments, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 rotate simultaneously with each other). In some embodiments, the second end 150B of the first roller 150 opposite to the first end 150A of the first roller 150 and the second end 160B of the second roller 160 opposite to the first end 160A of the second roller 160 may each omit the fastening units 150F, 160F, and the timing belt BT, respectively.

[0073] The first fastening unit 150F and the second fastening unit 160F may be configured with pulley structures. Therefore, when the second fastening unit 160F rotates, the timing belt BT connected to the second fastening unit 160F also rotates, and the first fastening unit 150F connected to the timing belt BT can rotate in the same direction as the second fastening unit 160F. Thus, in the display device 100 according to some embodiments of this disclosure, the timing belt BT can cause the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 to rotate in the same direction. Furthermore, each of the fastening units 150F and 160F may have similar constructions (e.g., at least the same diameter) to result in a direct power or torque transmission between the first roller 150 and the second roller 160, thereby causing the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 to rotate at the same speed. Other configurations are possible and are considered herein, including a drive mechanism configured to rotate the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 at the same speed and in the same direction without having a fastening unit and a timing belt, as well as other timing belt configurations, such as configurations with different structures, or fastening units that change the torque applied from one roller to another.

[0074] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 5A to 5CThe specific construction of the first roller 150 according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure is described.

[0075] First roller

[0076] Figure 5A This is an exploded perspective view of the first roller 150 of the roller assembly RA of a display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5B This is a perspective view of the first roller 150 of a display device 100 in an assembled state according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5C This is a cross-sectional view of the first roller of a display device 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0077] Reference Figures 5A to 5C The first roller 150 is connected to the display unit DP, more specifically to the display panel 120. Figure 4A Therefore, the display panel 120 can be wound around or unfolded from the first roller 150. Specifically, see reference... Figure 5C In the first roller 150, at least a portion of the printed circuit board 140 and the flexible circuit film 130 can be accommodated inside the first roller 150, such that the display panel 120 or the display unit DP or both can be connected to the first roller 150.

[0078] Reference Figures 5A to 5C The first roller 150 may include a substrate support unit 151 (which may also be referred to herein as substrate support unit 151 or support member 151), a plurality of housings 152 and a first fastening unit 150F.

[0079] The substrate support unit 151 may include a flattened portion 151F of a first roller 150 on which a printed circuit board 140 is disposed, and may be configured to guide the flexible circuit film 130 from the interior of the first roller 150 to the exterior of the first roller 150. That is, as Figure 5A and Figure 5C As shown, the substrate support unit 151 may include a flattened portion 151F on which a flexible circuit film 130 is disposed and a curved portion 151C on which the flexible circuit film 130 is disposed. In an embodiment, the flattened portion 151F is the flat and flat outer surface 151F of the substrate support unit 151, and the curved portion 151C is the curved outer surface 151C of the substrate support unit 151 integrated with and connected to the flat and flat outer surface 151F.

[0080] Multiple housings 152 are configured to house substrate support units 151. The multiple housings 152 are configured to have a cylindrical shape as a whole, such that the display panel 120 can be rolled or unfolded on the outer peripheral surfaces 152O of the multiple housings 152.

[0081] Multiple housings 152 can be separated into a first housing 152a and a second housing 152b, such as Figures 5A to 5C As shown.

[0082] Furthermore, multiple housing sides 152Sa and 152Sb may be further disposed on both sides of the multiple housings 152. The multiple housing sides 152Sa and 152Sb may be configured to fix the multiple housings 152 and the substrate support unit 151, but are not limited thereto.

[0083] The plurality of housing sides 152Sa and 152Sb may include a first side 152Sa and a second side 152Sb opposite to the first side 152Sa. In the embodiment, and referring to... Figure 5A and Figure 5B The first fastening unit 150F of the first roller 150 may be disposed on the second side 152Sb, but the position of the first fastening unit 150F is not limited thereto.

[0084] Refer to Figure 4A And continue to refer to Figures 5A to 5C The panel guide roller 170 may be disposed above the first roller 150. The panel guide roller 170 is arranged adjacent to the display panel 120 (or display unit DP) to apply tension to the display panel 120, such that the display panel 120 can be guided to flatten by the panel guide roller 170 when the display panel 120 is rolled up or unfolded. In an embodiment, the panel guide roller 170 is in direct contact with the display unit DP and is offset relative to the first roller 150.

[0085] like Figure 5C As shown, the plurality of housings 152 may include a first housing 152a overlapping with a second housing 152b. A portion of the first housing 152a is housed in a channel, notch, or groove 152c within the second housing 152b to provide a consistent radius of curvature to the outer peripheral surfaces 152O of the plurality of housings 152 before, at, and after the junction between the first housing 152a and the second housing 152b. Furthermore, the plurality of housings 152 may have an opening 153 through which a plurality of flexible circuit films 130 are inserted to allow the display unit DP to be wound or unwound from the outer peripheral surfaces 152O of the plurality of housings 152. The flexible circuit films 130 and the printed circuit board 140 are supported by a substrate support unit 151 and protected by the plurality of housings 152 within a first roller 150. In an embodiment, the outer peripheral edges 152P of the plurality of housings 152 are aligned with the outer peripheral edges DPO of the display unit DP, such that the display unit DP does not enter the plurality of housings 152 but instead wraps around the outer peripheral surfaces 152O of the plurality of housings during winding and unwound operations.

[0086] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 6A to 7BThe specific construction of the second roller 160 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is described.

[0087] Second roller

[0088] Figure 6A This is an exploded perspective view of the first portion 161 of the second roller 160 of a display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6B This is a perspective view of the first portion 161 of the second roller 160 of a display device 100 in an assembled state according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is an exploded perspective view of the second roller 160 of a display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0089] Reference Figures 6A to 7B The second roller 160 includes a first part 161 and a second part 162.

[0090] The first part 161 may include a motor MT, a motor fastener MTF (which may also be referred to herein as a motor fastener or motor fastening plate), a strip spring box 161D, a strip spring housing 161C, a strip spring housing side 161CS, a plurality of strip spring guides 161G, a plurality of first bearings BR1, and a guide member GM.

[0091] The motor MT can be located in the central portion, which is the innermost part of the second roller 160. In one embodiment, the motor MT is housed inside the first portion 161 of the second roller 160. The motor MT can rotate the second roller 160 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The motor MT is connected to a power unit (or power source) such as a separate external power supply or a built-in battery to be supplied with electricity via the timing belt BT for operating the second roller 160 and the first roller 150.

[0092] The strip spring box 161D can have a cylindrical shape and can accommodate the motor MT. The strip spring box 161D can also be connected to the motor MT. Specifically, as... Figure 6A As shown, a strip spring box 161D is disposed on one side surface of the strip spring box 161D to cover the motor MT, and can be connected to the motor MT by a motor fixing member MTF configured to fix the motor MT to the strip spring box 161D. Therefore, the strip spring box 161D can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the operation of the motor MT.

[0093] One end of the strip spring TS (e.g., the lower end TSL of the strip spring TS) is fixed to the strip spring box 161D. The strip spring TS is fixed to the strip spring box 161D, and when the strip spring box 161D is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise by the motor MT, the strip spring TS can be wound around or unwound from the strip spring box 161D. That is, the strip spring box 161D can be configured to wind or unwound the strip spring TS.

[0094] The strip spring housing 161C can be configured to accommodate the strip spring box 161D and the strip spring TS, meaning that the strip spring box 161D and the strip spring TS are housed within the strip spring housing 161C. Specifically, the strip spring housing 161C can be configured to surround at least a majority of the outer peripheral surface of the strip spring box 161D. The strip spring housing 161C can have a shape that allows the strip spring TS to be wound around or unwound from the strip spring box 161D. For example, even if the strip spring housing 161C can have such a shape as Figure 6A and Figure 6B The cylindrical shape with a C-shaped cross-section shown, the strip spring housing 161C may also have a partially open shape through which the strip spring TS passes (i.e., a cylindrical or circular shape with an opening), but is not limited thereto.

[0095] The strip spring housing 161C can be configured to rotate directly without the operation of the motor MT. For example, the strip spring housing 161C can be fixed inside the housing unit HP such that even if the strip spring box 161D housed within the strip spring housing 161C is rotated by the operation of the motor MT, the strip spring housing 161C will not rotate.

[0096] Reference Figure 6A and Figure 6B Multiple strip spring housing sides 161CS can be disposed on both sides of the strip spring housing 161C. That is, the multiple strip spring housing sides 161CS can include a first strip spring housing side 161CSa and a second strip spring housing side 161CSb connected to opposite sides of the strip spring housing 161C. The strip spring housing sides 161CS can cover the side surfaces of the motor MT and the strip spring box 161D housed within the strip spring housing 161C. Therefore, the multiple strip spring housing sides 161CS can be configured to more stably house the motor MT and the strip spring box 161D within the strip spring housing 161C. In embodiments, the strip spring housing 161C and the multiple strip spring housing sides 161CS can be constructed to be separable, such as... Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, it can also be constructed as a single unit, but it is not limited to this.

[0097] A strip spring guide 161G may be disposed within a strip spring housing 161C. The strip spring guide 161G may be connected to the strip spring housing 161C at a position corresponding to the position of the strip spring TS housed within the strip spring housing 161C. The strip spring guide 161G may be configured such that its thickness gradually decreases in the lifting direction of the display unit DP. In an embodiment, the strip spring guide 161G has a shape that tapers from its base or bottom towards its top. Therefore, the strip spring guide 161G guides the strip spring TS to wind or unwind; specifically, when the strip spring TS is winded or unwinded, the strip spring guide 161G can minimize the swaying of the strip spring TS.

[0098] Multiple first bearings BR1 can be disposed between the two sides of the strip spring box 161D and between the multiple strip spring housing sides 161CS. Therefore, the multiple first bearings BR1 can support the two sides of the strip spring box 161D, allowing the strip spring box 161D to rotate about the strip spring housing 161C. In an embodiment, the multiple first bearings BR1 include ball bearings, such as radial or annular ball bearings.

[0099] A guide member GM can also be disposed within the strip spring housing 161C. The guide member GM can be connected to the strip spring housing 161C at a position corresponding to the position of the strip spring TS housed within it. The guide member GM can be configured to have a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface of the strip spring TS. Therefore, the guide member GM can guide the strip spring TS housed within the strip spring housing 161C to wind or unwind.

[0100] See Figure 7A and Figure 7B The second part 162 of the second roller 160 may include a shaft SF, a spring member SM (which may also be referred to herein as spring SM), a plurality of second bearings BR2, a plurality of cover units 162CV (which may also be referred to herein as a plurality of covers 162CV), and a plurality of caps 162CAP.

[0101] Shaft SF can be configured to have the same rotating shaft as the second roller 160. One end SF1 (i.e., the first end SF1) of shaft SF is connected to motor MT, while the other end SF2 (i.e., the second end SF2) can be connected to timing belt BT. Figure 4A That is, the aforementioned second fastening unit 160F can be disposed at the other end SF2 of the shaft SF, so that the other end SF2 is connected to the timing belt BT. Figure 4A ).

[0102] Multiple caps 162CAP can be disposed at both ends SF1, SF2 of the shaft SF. The multiple caps 162CAP can have a circular or cylindrical shape to correspond to the cylindrical shape of the second roller 160.

[0103] The plurality of caps 162CAP may include a first cap 162CAPa disposed at one end SF1 of the shaft SF and a second cap 162CAPb disposed at the other end SF2 of the shaft SF. In an embodiment, a first fixing unit 162Fa (which may also be referred to herein as a first fastener 162Fa) may be disposed in the first cap 162CAPa and connected to one end SMa (i.e., the first end SMa) of the spring member SM. The spring member SM and one end SMa of the spring member SM will be described in more detail below.

[0104] Multiple second bearings BR2 can be housed within multiple caps 162CAP. In other words, the second bearings BR2 can be configured to be accommodated within multiple caps 162CAP. A second fixing unit 162Fb (which may also be referred to herein as a second fastener 162Fb) can be housed within one of the second bearings BR2 and connected to the other end SMb of the spring member SM (i.e., the second end SMb). The spring member SM and the other end SMb of the spring member SM will be described in more detail below.

[0105] The spring member SM can be configured to surround the outer peripheral surface SFO of the shaft SF. One end SMMa of the spring member SM is connected to the shaft SF, which is connected to the motor MT, and the other end SMb of the spring member SM is connected to one of a plurality of caps 162CAP, for example, in a non-limiting example, to a second cap 162CAPb.

[0106] Specifically, one end SMa of the spring member SM is connected to one end SF1 of the shaft SF, which is connected to the motor MT. The other end SMa of the spring member SM is also attached to the first fixing unit 162Fa located in the first cover 162CAPa. The other end SMb of the spring member SM is connected to the second fixing unit 162Fb located in the second bearing BR2 located in the second cap 162CAPb. Therefore, one end SMa of the spring member SM rotates at the same speed as the motor MT, and the other end SMb of the spring member SM can rotate via the second bearing BR2. Other configurations are also considered, such as both ends SMa of the spring member SM being attached to the corresponding motors.

[0107] Multiple cover units 162CV are provided to house the spring member SM, the shaft SF, multiple second bearings BR2, and multiple caps 162CAP within the cover units 162CV. The multiple cover units 162CV may also be cylindrical in shape.

[0108] The plurality of cover units 162CV may include a first cover 162CVa and a second cover 162CVb, the second cover 162CVb having a mounting groove configured to connect with the first cover 162CVa. In an embodiment, the mounting groove is similar to the channel 152C of the plurality of housings of the first roller 150.

[0109] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 8 The specific deployment operation of the display device 100 according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure is described.

[0110] Display device unfolding

[0111] Figure 8 It is applied to the display panel 120 when the display device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is wound. Figure 4A The graphical representation of torque. Figure 8 In the figure, the X-axis is the time taken until the display device 100 is fully extended, and the Y-axis is the magnitude of the torque applied to the display panel 120 when the display device 100 is fully extended.

[0112] In the display device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, one end SMa of the spring member SM of the second roller 160 rotates at the same speed as the motor, and the other end SMb of the spring member SM rotates by the rotation of the second bearing BR2 and one end SMa. Therefore, in some embodiments, when the display device 100 is wound or unwound, the tension applied to the spring member SM of the display panel 120 can be maintained substantially constant with very small deviation.

[0113] Reference Figure 8 In the prior art display device according to the comparative example, both ends of the display panel are fixed, causing the tension applied to the display panel to gradually increase when the display device is unfolded. Therefore, when stress is concentrated on the display panel, excessive tension is generated within it, increasing the likelihood of damage.

[0114] Therefore, in the display device 100 according to the embodiment of this disclosure, one end SMa of the spring member SM rotates at the same speed as the motor MT, and the other end SMb of the spring member SM rotates via the second bearing BR2 and the rotation of one end SMa. That is, one end of the spring member SM is not fixed, but is configured to rotate freely. Therefore, the energy stored in the spring member SM can be maintained at a predetermined level, and the tension of the spring member SM applied to the display panel 120 can be maintained constant. More specifically, when the motor MT starts to rotate, one end SMa of the spring member SM will start to rotate and store energy in the spring member SM. Once the energy stored in the spring member SM reaches a minimum threshold level for the rotation of the other end SMb of the spring member SM (i.e., at least the amount of force used to overcome the friction associated with the rotation of the other end SMb), the other end SMb of the spring member SM will start to rotate and release the energy (i.e., the tension) stored in the spring member SM. Accordingly, in the display device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, one end SMa of the spring member SM of the second roller 160 rotates at the same speed as the motor MT, and the other end SMb of the spring member SM is configured to rotate via the second bearing BR to maintain a consistent level of energy stored in the spring member SM and to apply a constant or relatively constant tension to the display panel 120 during winding and unwinding operations. Therefore, when the display device 100 is wound or unwound, the tension applied to the spring member SM of the display device 100 can be maintained substantially constant. Correspondingly, when the display device 100 is unwound, the torque of the spring member SM is concentrated and maintained relatively constant, so that excessive tension generated in the display panel 120 can be minimized.

[0115] Furthermore, the strip spring TS is synchronized with the motor MT, so that the rising speed of the strip spring TS remains constant along with the rotational speed of the motor MT. Additionally, the second roller 160 is connected to the motor MT, which is synchronized with the strip spring TS to have the same rotational speed as the motor MT. However, as the display panel 120 unfolds from the first roller 150, the radius of the cylindrical shape formed by the first roller 150 and the display panel 120 gradually decreases, allowing the rotational speed of the first roller 150 to be increased during the unfolding process of the display panel 120. Therefore, the rotational speed of the first roller 150 is preferably different from the rotational speed of the second roller 160, but the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 are connected by a timing belt BT. As a result, the actual rotational speed of the first roller 150 can be the same as the rotational speed of the second roller 160. In this embodiment, the second roller 160 is not directly connected to the motor MT, but rather the shaft SF is directly connected to the motor MT, which may result in a rotational angle difference between the shaft SF and the second roller 160. Therefore, as... Figure 8As shown, since rollers 150 and 160 typically move at the same speed and deviate from the speed of shaft SF based on the rotational angle difference between shaft SF and the second roller 160, the torque of the spring member SM may increase over time. However, Figure 8 The torque of the spring member SM, increased for the reasons described above, is very small, thus minimizing the generation of excessive tension in the display panel 120. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the other end SMb of the spring member SM is configured to rotate and release the tension in the spring member SM, which further helps to mitigate the rapidly increasing torque as shown in the comparative example.

[0116] Furthermore, in the display device 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied to both internal and external display devices. Here, an internal display device refers to a display type in which the surface of the display panel 120 displaying the image faces the roller during winding, while an external display device refers to the opposite display type, that is, a display type in which the surface of the display panel 120 displaying the image faces the roller in the opposite direction or away from the roller during winding.

[0117] Specifically, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first fastening unit 150F and the second fastening unit 160F of the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be connected to the timing belt BT. Therefore, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can rotate in the same direction via the timing belt BT, that is, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied regardless of whether the display device 100 is an internal display device or an external display device. Accordingly, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied to both internal and external display devices, giving the display device 100 a structure with a wider range of applicability to different types of display devices.

[0118] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device 900 according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9 The display device 900 can be similar to Figures 1A to 8 The display device 100, except for the arrangement structure of the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 and the other features described below, will omit redundant descriptions of common features between the display devices 100 and 900.

[0119] Reference Figure 9 In a display device 900 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a first roller 150 may be disposed below a second roller 160.

[0120] In the display device 900, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 disposed above the first roller 150 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied to both internal and external display devices.

[0121] Specifically, in the display device 900, the first fastening unit 150F and the second fastening unit 160F of the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be connected to the timing belt BT. Therefore, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can rotate in the same direction via the timing belt BT, that is, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied regardless of whether the display device 900 is an internal or external display device. Accordingly, in the display device 900 according to the exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied to both internal and external display devices, thereby providing a display device 900 with a structural design that can be easily modified. As a result, the construction of rollers 150 and 160 is not limited to... Figures 1A to 8 The example provided includes a first roller 150 above a second roller 160, and may also include a second roller 160 above a first roller 150.

[0122] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 The display device 1000 can be similar to Figures 1A to 8 The display device 100, except for the arrangement structure of the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 and the following description, will omit redundant descriptions of common features between the display devices 100 and 1000.

[0123] Reference Figure 10 In the display device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first roller 150 may be disposed on the side of the second roller 160, or in other words, the first roller 150 may be disposed in front of or behind the second roller 160, wherein the rollers 150 and 160 are substantially aligned on the same horizontal plane.

[0124] In the display device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 disposed on the side of the first roller 150 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied to both internal display devices and external display devices.

[0125] Specifically, in another exemplary embodiment of the display device 1000 according to this disclosure, the first fastening unit 150F and the second fastening unit 160F of the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be connected to the timing belt BT. Therefore, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 rotate in the same direction via the timing belt BT, that is, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied regardless of whether the display device 1000 is an internal display device or an external display device. Therefore, in another exemplary embodiment of the display device 1000 according to this disclosure, the first roller 150 and the second roller 160 can be synchronized. Therefore, the same mechanism can be applied to both internal and external display devices, thereby providing a display device 1000 with a structural design that can be easily modified. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited to the specific construction of the rollers 150 and 160, but considers any arrangement of the rollers 150 and 160 relative to each other.

[0126] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can also be described as follows:

[0127] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a display panel on which an image is displayed; a strip spring connected to the display panel to lift the display panel; a first roller on which the display panel is wound or unwound; a second roller on which the strip spring is wound or unwound; and a timing belt that, when the first roller is wound or unwound, causes the second roller to rotate in the same direction as the first roller.

[0128] The display device may further include a motor for rotating the second roller; and a strip spring housing the motor, the strip spring being wound around or unfolded from the strip spring housing.

[0129] The second roller can be set on one side of the strip spring box.

[0130] The display device may also include a spring member disposed in the second roller and connected at one end to a motor.

[0131] The second roller may include a shaft having one end connected to the motor and the other end connected to the timing belt; a plurality of caps that house bearings and are disposed at both ends of the shaft; and a cover unit that houses the spring member, the shaft, and the plurality of caps and has a cylindrical shape.

[0132] One end of the spring member can be connected to a shaft to connect to a motor, while the other end of the spring member can be connected to one of a plurality of caps.

[0133] One end of the spring component can rotate at the same speed as the motor, and the other end of the spring component can rotate via a bearing.

[0134] 5. The first roller can be set below the second roller.

[0135] The first roller can be set on the side of the second roller.

[0136] The first roller can be positioned above the second roller.

[0137] The display device may also include a panel guide roller disposed above the first roller to apply tension to the display panel.

[0138] The strip spring box may also include a strip spring guide that guides the winding or unwinding of the strip spring.

[0139] The higher the display unit, the smaller the thickness of the strip spring guide.

[0140] The display device may further include: a printed circuit board connected to the display unit to provide signals to the display unit; and a flexible circuit film connecting the display unit and the printed circuit board.

[0141] At least a portion of the printed circuit board and the flexible circuit film can be housed in the first roller.

[0142] 5. In one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the display device includes: a display panel; a strip spring coupled to the display panel; and a roller assembly coupled to the display panel and the strip spring, the roller assembly including a first roller configured to wind or unwind the display panel and a second roller separate from the first roller, the second roller being configured to wind or unwind the strip spring simultaneously with the winding or unwinding of the display panel.

[0143] The roller assembly may further include: a motor configured to rotate the second roller; and a timing belt coupled to the first roller and the second roller, the timing belt being configured to rotate the first roller in the same direction and at the same speed as the second roller.

[0144] The display device may also include a panel guide roller disposed above the first roller and configured to apply tension to the display panel.

[0145] The roller assembly may further include: a motor; and a spring having a first end and a second end, the first end of the spring being coupled to the motor, and the second end of the spring being freely rotatable to release tension in the spring.

[0146] In one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the display device includes: a display panel; a strip spring coupled to the display panel; and a roller assembly coupled to the display panel and the strip spring, including: a first roller configured to wind or unwind the display panel; and a second roller configured to wind or unwind the strip spring, wherein the second roller includes a spring having a first end and a second end, at least one of the first end and the second end being freely rotatable to release tension in the spring.

[0147] The roller assembly may also include a motor, with a first end of the spring connected to the motor and a second end of the spring that is free to rotate.

[0148] The roller assembly may also include a panel guide roller configured to apply tension to the display panel.

[0149] The roller assembly may also include a timing belt coupled to the first roller and the second roller, the timing belt being configured to rotate the second roller in the same direction as the first roller.

[0150] Although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can be implemented in many different forms without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting of the present disclosure. The scope of protection of the present disclosure should be interpreted based on the appended claims, and all technical concepts within the scope of their equivalents should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0151] Based on the detailed description above, these and other changes can be made to the embodiments. Generally, the terminology used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and claims, but should be interpreted to include all possible embodiments and the full scope of equivalents enjoyed by these claims. Therefore, the claims are not limited to this disclosure.

[0152] Cross-reference to related applications

[0153] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0193484, filed on December 30, 2021, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A display device, the display device comprising: Display panel, the display panel being configured to display images; A strip spring, the strip spring being connected to the display panel and configured to lift the display panel; The first roller, on which the display panel is wound or unwound; The second roller, on which the strip spring is wound or unwound; A timing belt, the timing belt being configured to cause the second roller to rotate in the same direction as the first roller in response to the first roller being wound or unwound; A motor configured to rotate the second roller; as well as A spring component is disposed in the second roller and connected to the motor at one end, the other end of which is free to rotate to release tension in the spring component.

2. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A strip spring housing, the strip spring being wound around or unwound from the strip spring housing. The second roller is disposed on one side of the strip spring box.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The second roller includes: A shaft having one end connected to the motor and the other end connected to the timing belt; Multiple caps are disposed on one end and the other end of the shaft; Bearings, the bearings being housed in the plurality of caps; and A cover, which houses the spring member, the shaft, and the plurality of caps, the cover having a cylindrical shape. Wherein, one end of the spring member is connected to the shaft and the motor, and the other end of the spring member is connected to one of the plurality of caps.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, One end of the spring member rotates at the same speed as the motor, and the other end of the spring member rotates via the bearing.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first roller is positioned below the second roller.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first roller is disposed on the side of the second roller.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first roller is positioned above the second roller.

8. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A panel guide roller is disposed above the first roller and configured to apply tension to the display panel.

9. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The strip spring box also includes a strip spring guide configured to guide the winding or unwinding of the strip spring.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The thickness of the strip spring guide decreases as the height of the strip spring guide decreases.

11. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A printed circuit board connected to the display panel to provide signals to the display panel; as well as A flexible circuit film, which connects the display panel and the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board and at least a portion of the flexible circuit film are housed inside the first roller.

12. A display device, the display device comprising: Display panel; A strip spring, the strip spring being connected to the display panel; A roller assembly, connected to the display panel and the belt spring, the roller assembly comprising: A first roller, configured to wind or unfold the display panel; The second roller, which is separate from the first roller, is configured to wind or unwind the strip spring simultaneously with the winding or unwinding of the display panel; A timing belt, the timing belt being connected to the first roller and the second roller, the timing belt being configured to cause the first roller to rotate in the same direction and at the same speed as the second roller; A motor, configured to rotate the second roller; and A spring having a first end and a second end, the first end of the spring being connected to the motor, and the second end of the spring being freely rotatable to release tension in the spring.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein the display device comprises: A panel guide roller is disposed above the first roller and configured to apply tension to the display panel.

14. A display device, the display device comprising: Display panel; A strip spring, the strip spring being connected to the display panel; A roller assembly, connected to the display panel and the belt spring, the roller assembly comprising: motor; A first roller, configured to wind or unfold the display panel; and A second roller is configured to wind or unwind the strip spring, wherein the second roller includes a spring having a first end and a second end, the first end of the spring being coupled to the motor and the second end of the spring being freely rotatable to release tension in the spring.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The roller assembly also includes a panel guide roller configured to apply tension to the display panel.

16. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The roller assembly also includes a timing belt coupled to the first roller and the second roller, the timing belt being configured to cause the second roller to rotate in the same direction as the first roller.

Images