Elastic member and display device including the same

Abstract

The elastic member according to an embodiment includes a first region defined as a folding region and a second region defined as an unfolding region, wherein the elastic member includes a first layer including a metal, a second layer including a metal or a plastic on the first layer, and a third layer between the first layer and the second layer, the first layer includes a plurality of pattern portions having a hole or a slot shape, the third layer has a storage modulus of 29 kPa to 150 kPa, the third layer is adhered to the first layer with a first adhesion force and to the second layer with a second adhesion force, and the first adhesion force and the second adhesion force are 400 gf / in to 1800 gf / in.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments relate to an elastic member and a display device including the elastic member. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for flexible or foldable display devices that can easily run various applications while being carried and display images on a large screen.

[0003] This flexible or foldable display device folds or partially bends when carried or stored, and can be displayed as an unfolded display when showing images. Therefore, the image display area can be increased, and the user can easily carry the display.

[0004] After a flexible or foldable display device is folded or bent, the process of unfolding the flexible display device again can be repeated.

[0005] In other words, since flexible or foldable display devices are repeatedly folded and unfolded, the substrate of the flexible display device is required to have a certain strength and elasticity, and the substrate should not crack or deform during the folding and unfolding process.

[0006] Meanwhile, as an elastic component constituting a flexible or foldable display device, the display substrate can be applied to the display device. That is, the display substrate can be applied to a display device in which an image is displayed by setting a display panel or touch panel on the elastic component.

[0007] To realize flexible or foldable display devices, multiple patterned holes or grooves that can disperse tensile and compressive stresses can be formed in elastic components.

[0008] In addition, an impact-absorbing layer for absorbing impacts applied to the elastic member and a planarization layer for planarizing patterned holes or grooves in the elastic member can be provided on the elastic member.

[0009] Therefore, there is a problem that the number of manufacturing processes for display devices including elastic components increases and the overall thickness of the display device increases, which limits the curvature of the display device.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for an elastic member with a novel structure that can solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Technical issues

[0012] The embodiments aim to provide an elastic member capable of achieving a thin thickness and having improved foldability, and a display device including the elastic member.

[0013] Technical solution

[0014] The elastic member according to the embodiment includes: a first region defined as a folding region and a second region defined as an unfolding region; and a first layer, a second layer on the first layer and a third layer located between the first layer and the second layer, wherein the first layer includes metal, the second layer includes metal or plastic, the first layer includes a plurality of patterned portions having holes or grooves, the third layer has a storage modulus of 29 kPa to 150 kPa, the third layer is adhered to the first layer with a first adhesive force and adhered to the second layer with a second adhesive force, and the first adhesive force and the second adhesive force are 400 gf / in to 1800 gf / in.

[0015] Beneficial effects

[0016] According to the embodiment, the elastic member can absorb the impact applied to the elastic member while the third layer of the elastic member is adhered to the first and second layers.

[0017] Therefore, since it is not necessary to set a separate shock-absorbing layer on the elastic member, the layered structure of the elastic member can be simplified.

[0018] Therefore, the processing efficiency of elastic components can be improved, and the folding characteristics of elastic components can be improved because the thickness of elastic components can be reduced.

[0019] Furthermore, in the elastic member according to the embodiment, the second layer for the surface flatness of the elastic member based on the pattern portion formed on the first layer may include metal or plastic.

[0020] Therefore, when it is desired to further improve the folding properties of the elastic member, plastic can be used as the second layer, while when it is desired to further improve the strength properties of the elastic member, metal can be used as the second layer.

[0021] Therefore, by changing the material and thickness of the second layer according to the application of the elastic component, the properties of the elastic component can be realized according to the application. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the elastic member according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a side view of the elastic member before folding, according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a side view of the elastic member after folding according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figures 5 to 7 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the layer structure of the elastic member according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a top view of the first surface of the second layer of the elastic member according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a top view of the second surface of the second layer of the elastic member according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 10 This is another top view of the first surface of the second layer of the elastic member according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the arrangement structure of the elastic members according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figures 13 to 14 It is a cross-sectional view of a flexible support member including an elastic member according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 15 and Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device including a flexible support member according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a display device applied according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the concept and scope of the present disclosure are not limited to the portion of the described embodiments and may be implemented in various other forms, and one or more elements of the embodiments may be selectively combined and substituted within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, unless otherwise expressly defined and stated, the terms used in the embodiments of the present disclosure (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted as having the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, and terms such as those defined in common dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant technical context.

[0035] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for describing embodiments and is not intended to limit this disclosure. In this specification, singular forms may also include plural forms unless specifically stated in the wording, and when described as “at least one (or more) of A, B, and C,” it may include at least one of all possible combinations of A, B, and C.

[0036] Furthermore, in describing the elements of embodiments of this disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are used only to distinguish elements from other elements, and are not limited to the nature, order, or sequence of the elements.

[0037] Furthermore, when an element is described as being “connected,” “joined,” or “linked” to another element, it can include not only cases where the element is directly “connected,” “joined,” or “linked” to other elements, but also cases where the element is “connected,” “joined,” or “linked” to another element through another element between the element and other elements.

[0038] Furthermore, when described as being formed or positioned “above” or “below” each element, “above” or “below” can include not only cases where two elements are directly connected to each other, but also cases where one or more other elements are formed or arranged between the two elements.

[0039] Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below", it can be based on an element that includes not only the upward direction but also the downward direction.

[0040] In the following description, the elastic member and folding support, as well as the display device including the elastic member, according to embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment. Figures 2 to 4 These are perspective and sectional views of the elastic member of the display device according to an embodiment.

[0042] Reference Figure 1 The display device 10 according to the embodiment may include an elastic member 1000 and a panel including a display panel 2000 and a touch panel 3000 disposed on the elastic member 1000.

[0043] The elastic member 1000 can support the display panel 2000 and the touch panel 3000. That is, the elastic member 1000 can be a support substrate that supports the display panel 2000 and the touch panel 3000.

[0044] Meanwhile, the touch panel 3000 can be integrally formed with the display panel 2000. For example, the touch panel 3000 can be integrally formed with the display panel 2000 in an on-cell or in-cell manner.

[0045] The elastic member 1000 may include metallic and non-metallic materials. Specifically, the elastic member 1000 may be formed of multiple layers, and the multiple layers may include at least one of metallic and non-metallic materials. For example, the elastic member 1000 may include metals, metal alloys, plastics, composite materials (e.g., carbon fiber reinforced plastics, magnetic or conductive materials, glass fiber reinforced materials, etc.), ceramics, sapphire, glass, etc.

[0046] The elastic member 1000 can be flexible or foldable. That is, the elastic member 1000 can be folded or bent in one direction. In other words, the elastic member 1000 can be a substrate for display in a flexible display device or a foldable display device.

[0047] In the elastic member 1000, a first direction 1D and a second direction 2D different from the first direction 1D can be defined. For example, the first direction 1D can be defined as the same direction as the folding axis direction of the elastic member 1000, and the second direction can be a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0048] One of the first direction 1D and the second direction 2D can be defined as the width direction of the elastic member 1000, and the other direction can be defined as the length direction of the elastic member 1000.

[0049] The elastic member 1000 can be folded with either the width direction or the length direction of the elastic member 1000 as the folding axis.

[0050] In the following text, for ease of description, the first direction is defined as the same direction as the folding axis. Furthermore, the first direction is defined as the width direction of the elastic member 1000, and the second direction is defined as the length direction of the elastic member 1000.

[0051] The elastic member 1000 may include at least two regions. Specifically, the elastic member 1000 may include a first region 1A and a second region 2A.

[0052] The first region 1A can be defined as the region where the elastic member 1000 is folded. That is, the first region 1A can be defined as the region where the elastic member 1000 and the display device 10 including the elastic member 1000 are folded. In other words, the first region 1A can be a folded region.

[0053] Furthermore, the second region 2A can be defined as the area where the elastic member 1000 is not folded. That is, the second region 2A can be defined as the area where the elastic member 1000 and the display device 10 including the elastic member 1000 are not folded. In other words, the second region 2A can be an unfolded area.

[0054] The first region 1A and the second region 2A will be described in detail below.

[0055] The display panel 2000 can be mounted on the elastic member 1000.

[0056] The display panel 2000 may include multiple pixels, which include switching thin-film transistors, driving thin-film transistors, power storage devices, and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).

[0057] A display panel may include a substrate, gate lines disposed on the substrate, data lines isolated from the gate lines, and a common power line. Typically, a pixel may be defined by the gate lines, data lines, and common power line.

[0058] The substrate may include a flexible material such as a plastic film, and the display panel 2000 may be realized by setting organic light-emitting diodes and pixel circuits on the flexible film.

[0059] The touch panel 3000 can be positioned above the display panel 2000. The touch panel 3000 can implement touch functionality in foldable or flexible display devices, and can be omitted in foldable or flexible display devices that only display images without touch functionality.

[0060] The touch panel 3000 may include a substrate and touch electrodes disposed on the substrate.

[0061] The substrate of the touch panel 3000 may include a material with flexible properties, such as a plastic film, and the touch panel 3000 can be realized by setting touch electrodes on the flexible film.

[0062] When the touch panel 3000 is integrally formed with the display panel 2000, the substrate of the touch panel 3000 can be the substrate of the display panel, or it can be a part of the display panel.

[0063] Meanwhile, the elastic member 1000 and the display panel 2000 can have different sizes.

[0064] For example, the area of ​​the elastic member 1000 may be more than 90% and less than 110% of the area of ​​the display panel 2000. Specifically, the area of ​​the elastic member 1000 may be more than 95% and less than 105% of the area of ​​the display panel 2000. More specifically, the area of ​​the elastic member 1000 may be more than 97% and less than 100% of the area of ​​the display panel 2000.

[0065] When the area of ​​the elastic member 1000 is less than 90% of the area of ​​the display panel 2000, the supporting force of the elastic member 1000 supporting the display panel 2000 or the touch panel 3000 decreases. Therefore, curling or other phenomena may occur in the unfolded area of ​​the elastic member 1000. Consequently, visibility may deteriorate when the user visually identifies the screen area, and when a touch is activated, the screen in the touch area may be incomplete due to the curled area, thus potentially causing touch malfunction.

[0066] Furthermore, when the area of ​​the elastic member 1000 increases to more than 110% of the area of ​​the display panel 2000, the elastic member 1000 can ensure the supporting force for supporting the display panel or touch panel. However, the bezel area of ​​the display device, including the substrate, display panel, and touch panel, may increase. Therefore, a wide effective screen area cannot be provided to the user, which may lead to inconvenience when using the display device.

[0067] Meanwhile, although not shown in the figure, the cover window protecting the foldable display device or flexible display device may be additionally provided above the touch panel 3000 or the display panel 2000 (when the touch panel is omitted).

[0068] Meanwhile, the elastic member 1000, the display panel 2000, and the touch panel 3000 can be bonded to each other through adhesive layers or the like.

[0069] Reference Figure 2 The elastic member 1000 can bend in one direction.

[0070] Specifically, the elastic member 1000 may include a first surface 1S and a second surface 2S opposite to the first surface 1S. In the elastic member 1000, the first surface 1S or the second surface 2S may be bent to face each other.

[0071] However, the embodiments are not limited thereto; the second surface and the first surface of the elastic member 1000 may be bent to face each other alternately. That is, the elastic member 1000 may include a plurality of first regions and a plurality of second regions.

[0072] In the following description, such as Figure 2 As shown, the bending of the elastic member 1000 in the direction where the first surfaces 1S face each other will be mainly described.

[0073] The first region 1A and the second region 2A can be regions defined when the elastic member 1000 bends in a direction in which the first surfaces 1S face each other.

[0074] Specifically, the elastic member 1000 bends in one direction, and the elastic member 1000 can be divided into a first region 1A as a foldable region and a second region 2A as an unfolded region (non-foldable region).

[0075] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The elastic member 1000 may include a first region 1A, which is a region where the elastic member 1000 bends. The elastic member 1000 may include a second region 2A, which is not bent and is disposed adjacent to the first region 1A.

[0076] The first area 1A can be set between the second area 2A.

[0077] However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first region 1A may be further formed outside the second region 2A.

[0078] The first region 1A and the second region 2A can be formed on the same elastic member 1000. That is, the first region 1A and the second region 2A can be integrally formed with each other without being separated from the same elastic member 1000.

[0079] The dimensions of the first region 1A and the second region 2A can be different from each other. Specifically, the dimension of the second region 2A can be larger than the dimension of the first region 1A.

[0080] Furthermore, the area of ​​the first region 1A of the elastic member 1000 can be more than 1% and less than 30% of the total area of ​​the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the area of ​​the first region 1A of the elastic member 1000 can be more than 5% and less than 20% of the total area of ​​the elastic member 1000. The area of ​​the first region 1A of the elastic member 1000 can be more than 10% and less than 15% of the total area of ​​the elastic member 1000.

[0081] When the area of ​​the first region 1A of the elastic member 1000 is less than 1% of the total area of ​​the elastic member 1000, cracks may appear at the interface between the folded area and the unfolded area of ​​the elastic member 1000 during repeated folding and unfolding of the substrate, and thus the folding reliability of the elastic member 1000 may deteriorate.

[0082] Furthermore, when the area of ​​the first region 1A of the elastic member 1000 exceeds 30% of the total area of ​​the elastic member 1000, curling may occur in the folding area of ​​the display panel 2000 when the substrate is folded. Therefore, visibility may deteriorate when a user visually identifies the screen area, and when a touch is activated, the screen in the touch area may be incomplete due to the curled area, thus potentially causing touch malfunction.

[0083] The accompanying drawings show a first region 1A located at the center of the elastic member 1000, but the embodiment is not limited to this. That is, the first region 1A can be located at one end and the end region of the elastic member 1000. In other words, the first region 1A can be located at one end and the end region of the elastic member 1000, such that the size of the first region 1A is asymmetrical.

[0084] Figure 4 This is a side view of the substrate used for display after the substrate has been folded.

[0085] As the elastic member 1000 is folded in one direction, a first region 1A and a second region 2A can be formed on the elastic member 1000. That is, the folded region formed by folding the elastic member 1000 in one direction and the unfolded regions located at both ends of the folded region can be formed in the elastic member 1000.

[0086] A folded region can be defined as a region that forms curvature R, while an unfolded region can be defined as a region that does not form curvature R or whose curvature is close to zero.

[0087] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The elastic member 1000 can be folded in one direction to form an unfolded area, a folded area, and an unfolded area in sequence.

[0088] Multiple patterned portions may be formed in at least one of the first region 1A and the second region 2A to reduce and disperse the stress generated when the elastic member 1000 is folded. The patterned portions will be described in detail below.

[0089] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 5 to 12 A detailed description of the elastic member according to the embodiment.

[0090] Figures 5 to 7 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the layered structure of the elastic member 1000.

[0091] Reference Figure 5 The elastic member 1000 may include a first layer 100, a second layer 200, and a third layer 300. Specifically, the elastic member 1000 may include a first layer 100, a second layer 200 on the first layer 100, and a third layer 300 located between the first layer 100 and the second layer 200.

[0092] Specifically, the first layer 100 may include metal or metal alloy.

[0093] The first layer 100 may include a material having a thermal conductivity of about 20 W / mk or higher. Specifically, the first layer 100 may have a thermal conductivity of 30 W / mk to 200 W / mk. More specifically, the first layer 100 may have a thermal conductivity of 50 W / mk to 160 W / mk. More specifically, the first layer 100 may have a thermal conductivity of 80 W / mk to 120 W / mk.

[0094] When the thermal conductivity of the first layer 100 is less than 20 W / mk, the heat of the elastic component may not be effectively dissipated to the outside. Furthermore, when the thermal conductivity of the first layer 100 exceeds 200 W / mk, the thickness of the first layer 100 can be increased to increase its thermal conductivity, but the resulting heat dissipation effect due to the increased thermal conductivity may be relatively small.

[0095] Furthermore, the first layer 100 can have a yield strength of approximately 0.8 GPa or higher. Specifically, the yield strength of the first layer 100 can be 0.9 GPa or higher. More specifically, the yield strength of the first layer 100 can be 1.0 GPa or higher.

[0096] When the yield strength of the first layer 100 is less than 0.8 GPa, the strength of the elastic member decreases when the elastic member is folded, and thus the elastic member may undergo plastic deformation during the folding and recovery process of the elastic member 1000.

[0097] Furthermore, the thickness of the first layer 100 can be less than 60% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the thickness of the first layer 100 can be between 40% and 60% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. For example, the thickness of the elastic member 1000 can be between 150 μm and 300 μm, and the thickness of the first layer 100 can be between 40% and 60% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000.

[0098] When the thickness of the first layer 100 exceeds 60% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000, the overall flexibility or foldability of the elastic member 1000 may be reduced due to the increase in the thickness of the first layer 100.

[0099] Furthermore, when the thickness of the first layer 100 is less than 40% of the overall thickness of the elastic member 1000, the yield strength of the first layer 100 decreases, which may cause the elastic member 1000 to undergo plastic deformation when folded.

[0100] The first layer 100 may include one or more metals. For example, the first layer 100 may include copper (Cu). Alternatively, the first layer 100 may be formed of an alloy of copper (Cu) with at least one of nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), silver (Ag), zinc (Zn), nitrogen (N), and aluminum (Al).

[0101] As described above, since the first layer 100 has a thermal conductivity within the aforementioned range, when the elastic member 1000 is applied to the display device, the elastic member 1000 can be used as a heat dissipation layer, thereby effectively dissipating heat.

[0102] Furthermore, since the first layer 100 has the yield strength and thickness within the aforementioned range, it can prevent the elastic member from undergoing plastic deformation when folded, thereby improving the folding characteristics.

[0103] At the same time, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first layer of 100 can be formed into multiple layers.

[0104] Reference Figure 6The first layer 100 may include the first-1 layer 110 and the first-2 layer 120 above the first-1 layer 110.

[0105] Layer 1-1 110 and Layer 1-2 120 may include metallic materials. Specifically, Layer 1-1 110 and Layer 1-2 120 may include different metallic materials.

[0106] For example, the first-1 layer 110 and the first-2 layer 120 may include materials with different thermal conductivity. Specifically, the first-1 layer 110 may include a material with a higher thermal conductivity than the first-2 layer 120.

[0107] Furthermore, the first-1 layer 110 and the first-2 layer 120 may comprise materials with different yield strengths. Specifically, the first-2 layer 120 may comprise a material with a yield strength higher than that of the first-1 layer 110.

[0108] For example, the first layer 110 may include copper or a copper alloy, and the first layer 120 may include SUS, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The first layer 110 and the first layer 120 may include various materials that meet the requirements of thermal conductivity and yield strength.

[0109] Furthermore, the first-1 layer 110 and the first-2 layer 120 can be configured to be in direct contact with each other. Specifically, the first-1 layer 110 and the first-2 layer 120 can be manufactured by an encapsulation method.

[0110] Overlap bonding is a method of joining the first-1 layer 110 and the first-2 layer 120 without the use of adhesives by means such as welding, rolling, casting or extrusion, and exhibits better bonding strength over time by disrupting the inter-layer structure and stabilizing the bonding of the layers through gap penetration.

[0111] For example, bonding can be formed by inducing atomic diffusion between dissimilar materials at the interface of different layers through rolling. Since overlay bonding can handle curved surfaces differently than bonding using adhesives, and uses atomic diffusion bonding instead of adhesive bonding, it has the advantage of being able to maintain the bond state for a long time.

[0112] Layer 1-1 110 and Layer 1-2 120 can be configured to have the same or different thicknesses. For example, when it is desired to improve the heat dissipation characteristics of the elastic member 1000, the thickness of Layer 1-1 110 can be set to be greater than the thickness of Layer 1-2 120. Alternatively, in order to improve the folding characteristics of the elastic member 1000, the thickness of Layer 1-2 120 can be greater than the thickness of Layer 1-1 110.

[0113] In other words, the thickness of the first-1 layer 110 and the thickness of the first-2 layer 120 can vary according to the characteristics to be achieved in the elastic member 1000.

[0114] Reference Figure 7 The first layer 100 may include the first-1 layer 110, the first-2 layer 120 on the first-1 layer 110, and the first-3 layer 130 on the first-2 layer 120.

[0115] Layer 1-1 110, Layer 1-2 120, and Layer 1-3 130 may include metallic materials. Specifically, Layer 1-1 110, Layer 1-2 120, and Layer 1-3 130 may include the same or different metallic materials.

[0116] For example, the first-1 layer 110 and the first-3 layer 130 may include the same material as each other, and the first-2 layer 120 may include a different material than the first-1 layer 110 and the first-3 layer 130.

[0117] Layer 1-1 110, Layer 1-3 130, and Layer 1-2 120 may include materials with different thermal conductivity. Specifically, Layer 1-1 110 and Layer 1-3 130 may include materials with a higher thermal conductivity than Layer 1-2 120.

[0118] Furthermore, the first-1 layer 110, the first-3 layer 130, and the first-2 layer 120 may comprise materials with different yield strengths. Specifically, the first-2 layer 120 may comprise a material with a yield strength higher than that of the first-1 layer 110 and the first-3 layer 130.

[0119] For example, the first-1 layer 110 and the first-3 layer 130 may include copper or copper alloy, and the first-2 layer 120 may include SUS, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The first-1 layer 110, the first-2 layer 120 and the first-3 layer 130 may include various materials that meet the requirements of thermal conductivity and yield strength.

[0120] Furthermore, the first-1 layer 110, the first-2 layer 120, and the first-3 layer 130 can be configured to be in direct contact with each other. Specifically, the first-1 layer 110, the first-2 layer 120, and the first-3 layer 130 can be manufactured using the aforementioned coating method.

[0121] Layer 1-1 110, Layer 1-2 120, and Layer 1-3 130 can be configured to have the same or different thicknesses. For example, when it is desired to improve the heat dissipation characteristics of the elastic member 1000, the thickness of Layer 1-1 110 and Layer 1-3 130 can be set to be greater than the thickness of Layer 1-2 120. Alternatively, when it is desired to improve the folding characteristics of the elastic member 1000, the thickness of Layer 1-2 120 can be set to be greater than the thickness of Layer 1-1 110 and Layer 1-3 130.

[0122] In other words, the thickness of the first-1 layer 110, the thickness of the first-2 layer 120, and the thickness of the first-3 layer 130 can vary according to the characteristics to be achieved in the elastic member 1000.

[0123] Therefore, the first layer of the elastic member may include at least one of layer 1-1, layer 1-2, and layer 1-3.

[0124] Meanwhile, multiple patterned portions can be formed in the first layer 100 to reduce and disperse the compressive and tensile stresses generated when the elastic member 1000 folds and recovers.

[0125] Specifically, holes or groove-shaped patterns that completely or partially penetrate the first layer 100 can be formed in the first layer 100.

[0126] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a top view of the first layer 100 of the elastic member 1000. Figure 8 This is a top view of the first 'surface 1S' of the first layer 100. Figure 9 This is a top view of the second 'surface 2S' of the first layer 100.

[0127] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The first layer 100 may include a plurality of patterned portions PA. Specifically, the first layer 100 may include a first patterned portion PA1 disposed in the first region 1A.

[0128] The first pattern part PA1 can be formed into a hole or groove shape.

[0129] Specifically, the first patterned part PA can be formed as a hole shape penetrating the first 'surface 1S' and the second 'surface 2S' of the first layer, or it can be formed as a groove shape formed on the first 'surface 1S' or the second 'surface 2S'.

[0130] When the first layer 100 is folded, the first patterned portion PA1 provided in the first region 1A (which is the region where the first layer 100 is folded) can easily fold the elastic member 1000. Specifically, since the thickness of the first layer 100 is reduced in the region where the elastic member 1000 is folded by the first patterned portion PA1, the compressive stress is reduced, so the elastic member 1000 can be easily folded.

[0131] In addition, refer to Figure 10 The first layer 10 may also include a second patterned portion PA2. Specifically, the first layer 100 may also include a second patterned portion PA2 disposed in the second region 2A.

[0132] The second pattern part PA2 can be formed into a hole or groove shape.

[0133] Specifically, the second patterned part PA can be formed as a hole shape penetrating the first surface 1S and the second surface 2S of the first layer, or it can be formed as a groove shape formed on the first surface 1S or the second surface 2S.

[0134] The second patterned portion PA2, located in the second region 2A (which is the folded area of ​​the first layer 100), can similarly maintain the physical properties of the first region 1A and the second region 2A.

[0135] Specifically, the second patterned portion PA2 can mitigate the heat-induced deformation differences in the first region 1A where the first patterned portion PA1 is provided. In other words, when heat is applied to the first layer 100, the heat-induced deformation differences in the first region 1A and the second region 2A can be mitigated by forming patterned portions in both the first region 1A and the second region 2A. Therefore, the elastic member 1000 can be prevented from bending or warping due to the first layer 100.

[0136] Furthermore, the second patterned portion PA2 formed in the second region 2A can alleviate the stress unevenness between the first region 1A and the second region 2A, thereby preventing the elastic member from bending.

[0137] Furthermore, when the first layer 100 and the third layer 300 are provided by the second pattern portion PA2 formed in the second region 2A, since the contact area of ​​the third layer 300 in the first region 1A and the second region 2A can be made uniform, the adhesion failure of the third layer 300 due to the step difference in the formation of the pattern portion can be prevented.

[0138] The second pattern portion PA2 can be formed in a shape that is the same as or similar to the shape of the first pattern portion PA1. Specifically, the second pattern portion PA2 can be formed in a shape having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, and the longitudinal direction of the second pattern portion PA1 and the longitudinal direction of the first pattern portion PA1 can extend in the same or similar directions, and the transverse direction of the second pattern portion PA2 and the transverse direction of the first pattern portion PA1 can extend in the same or similar directions.

[0139] Meanwhile, the first layer 100 may include hinge portions HN. Specifically, multiple hinge portions HN may be provided in the first region 1A of the first layer 100. The hinge portion HN is the region where the end region of the first layer 100 is opened to fold the first layer 100, and may be formed only in the first region 1A. Therefore, the hinge portion HN is the point where the elastic member 1000 begins to fold, and the first region 1A and the second region 2A of the elastic member 1000 can be distinguished according to whether a hinge portion is formed.

[0140] Refer again Figures 5 to 7 The elastic member 1000 may include a second layer 200. The second layer 200 may be disposed on the first layer 100.

[0141] The second layer 200 may be disposed on the first layer 100 to planarize the surface of the first layer 100. As described above, a plurality of patterned portions in the shape of holes or grooves are formed in the first layer 100, and the surface of the first layer 100 may be uneven due to the patterned portions. Therefore, when a panel or the like is directly adhered to the first layer 100, the adhesion to the panel may be reduced due to the surface characteristics of the first layer 100.

[0142] Therefore, the elastic member 1000 can have a second layer 200 disposed on the first layer 100 to planarize the adhesion surface of the elastic member 1000 to the panel. That is, the second layer 200 can be defined as a planarization layer of the elastic member 1000.

[0143] The second layer 200 may include metal or non-metal. Specifically, the second layer 200 may include metal or plastic. The second layer 200 may include different materials depending on the desired properties of the elastic member 1000, including its folding characteristics and strength.

[0144] For example, the second layer 200 may include plastic. For example, the second layer 200 may include polyimide (PI), but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0145] Since the second layer 200 includes plastic, the folding properties of the elastic member 1000 can be further improved. Specifically, since the elastic member 1000 includes a second layer 200 containing a plastic material with better folding properties than metal, when the elastic member 1000 is folded, the elastic member 1000 can be folded with a smaller radius of curvature, and the occurrence of plastic deformation in the second layer 200 during the folding and recovery of the elastic member 1000 can be minimized.

[0146] The thickness of the second layer 200 can be less than the thickness of the first layer 100. Furthermore, the thickness of the second layer 200 can be less than the thickness of the third layer 300, which will be described below. That is, the second layer 200 can be formed to have the smallest thickness among the layers of the elastic member 1000.

[0147] The thickness of the second layer 200 can be less than 25% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the thickness of the second layer 200 can be 15% to 25% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. For example, the thickness of the elastic member 1000 can be 150 μm to 300 μm, and the thickness of the second layer 200 can be 15% to 25% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000.

[0148] In other words, when the second layer 200 includes plastic, the thickness of the elastic member 1000 is 150 μm to 300 μm, and the thickness of the second layer 200 can be 15% to 25% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000.

[0149] When the thickness of the second layer 200 exceeds 25% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000, the flexibility or foldability of the elastic member 1000 may be reduced due to the increase in the thickness of the second layer 200.

[0150] Furthermore, when the thickness of the second layer 200 is less than 15% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000, the processing is difficult due to the small thickness of the second layer 200, and it may be difficult to fully ensure the surface flatness of the elastic member 1000 through the second layer 100.

[0151] Meanwhile, the second layer 200 may include metal. As an example, the second layer 200 may include SUS, but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0152] Since the second layer 200 includes metal, the strength of the elastic member 1000 can be further improved. Specifically, since the elastic member 1000 includes a second layer 200 containing a metallic material with better strength properties than plastic, the elastic member 1000 can be prevented from being damaged or broken when it is folded.

[0153] The thickness of the second layer 200 can be less than the thickness of the first layer 100. Furthermore, the thickness of the second layer 200 can be less than the thickness of the third layer 300, which will be described below. That is, the second layer 200 can be formed to have the smallest thickness among the layers of the elastic member 1000.

[0154] Furthermore, when the second layer 200 comprises metal, its thickness can be made smaller to prevent plastic deformation when the elastic member 1000 is folded and restored. That is, when the second layer 200 comprises metal, its thickness can be less than when the second layer 200 comprises plastic.

[0155] The thickness of the second layer 200 can be less than 10% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the thickness of the second layer 200 can be 4% to 10% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. For example, the thickness of the elastic member 1000 can be 150 μm to 300 μm, and the thickness of the second layer 200 can be 4% to 10% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000.

[0156] In other words, when the second layer 200 includes metal, the elastic member 1000 can have a thickness of 150 μm to 300 μm, and the second layer 200 can have a thickness of 4% to 10% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000.

[0157] When the thickness of the second layer 200 exceeds 10% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000, plastic deformation may occur in the second layer 200 due to the increased thickness. Therefore, the flexibility or foldability of the elastic member 1000 may be reduced.

[0158] Furthermore, when the thickness of the second layer 200 is less than 4% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000, the strength of the elastic member 1000 may be reduced due to the decrease in the thickness of the second layer 200.

[0159] The third layer 300 can be disposed between the first layer 100 and the second layer 200. The third layer 300 can be disposed between the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 to bond the first layer 100 and the second layer 200. That is, the third layer 300 can be used as an adhesive layer in the elastic member 1000.

[0160] Specifically, the third layer 300 can be adhered to the first layer 100 by a first adhesive force and can be adhered to the second layer 200 by a second adhesive force.

[0161] The first and second adhesion forces of the third layer 300 can be above 400 gf / in. Specifically, the first and second adhesion forces of the third layer 300 can be from 400 gf / in to 1800 gf / in.

[0162] When the adhesion force of the third layer 300 is less than 400 gf / in, the third layer 300 may peel off from the first layer 100 and / or the second layer 200 due to the compressive and tensile stresses generated when the elastic member 1000 is folded and unfolded. Furthermore, when the adhesion force of the third layer 300 exceeds 1800 gf / in, the first and second adhesion forces become excessive. When the elastic member 1000 is folded and unfolded, the compression and tension of the elastic member are limited by the adhesion force, which may cause damage to the elastic member 1000 during the folding and unfolding process.

[0163] Since the adhesion between the third layer 300 and the first layer 100 (including metal and non-metal) and the second layer 200 is within the aforementioned range, the reliability and folding characteristics of the elastic member can be improved.

[0164] Furthermore, a third layer 300 may be disposed between the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 to absorb impacts applied to the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the third layer 300 may have elastic force and resilience to absorb force according to the impact. That is, the third layer 300 may serve as an impact-absorbing layer in the elastic member 1000.

[0165] The third layer 300 can have a storage modulus of 29 kPa or higher. Specifically, the third layer 300 can have a storage modulus of 29 kPa to 150 kPa.

[0166] Therefore, the third layer 300 can be elastic to resist deformation and / or force caused by an impact applied from the outside. Thus, when an impact is applied to the elastic member 1000 from the outside, the elasticity of the third layer 300 can prevent the elastic member 1000 from being damaged or broken due to the impact.

[0167] Furthermore, the creep and recovery of the third layer 300 can be less than 250% creep and less than 8% recovery. Therefore, when an impact is applied to the elastic member 1000 from the outside, the third layer 300 has 250% creep, thereby fully absorbing the impact while recovering to 6%, thus preventing the elastic member from deforming after the impact is applied.

[0168] Furthermore, the tanδ (tangent delta) of the third layer 300 can be 0.2 to 1.8 at room temperature (25°C).

[0169] When a force of a certain period is applied to a material, stress is generated in the material. When deformation occurs based on the stress, the elastic modulus can be determined by stress and deformation.

[0170] In other words, a phase difference arises from the stress (typically sinusoidal stress) that periodically changes with time due to the viscoelasticity of the material. This results in a phase difference between the applied stress and the expansion, and the elastic modulus measured dynamically considering this phase difference can be interpreted as the storage modulus and the loss modulus. The storage modulus, as a direct result of DMA measurements, is the material's response to periodic stress and can correspond to the material's reversible elasticity. The loss modulus is a virtual physical property, a phase shift of up to 90°, and corresponds to the mechanical energy that is irreversibly lost as heat. The phase shift is defined as tanδ (tangent delta), which is the loss factor and is used to measure the damping behavior of a material.

[0171] The thickness of the third layer 300 can be less than the thickness of the first layer 100. In addition, the thickness of the third layer 300 can be greater than the thickness of the second layer 200.

[0172] The thickness of the third layer 300 can be less than 35% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the thickness of the third layer 300 can be 25% to 35% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. For example, the thickness of the elastic member 1000 can be 150 μm to 300 μm, and the thickness of the third layer 300 can be 25% to 35% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000.

[0173] In other words, the thickness of the elastic member 1000 can be from 150μm to 300μm, and the thickness of the third layer 300 can be 25% to 35% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000.

[0174] When the thickness of the third layer 300 exceeds 35% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000, the flexibility or foldability of the elastic member 1000 may be reduced due to the increased thickness of the third layer 300.

[0175] Furthermore, when the thickness of the third layer 300 is less than 25% of the total thickness of the elastic member 1000, the third layer 300 can be peeled off from the first layer 100 and / or the second layer 200 by the compressive and tensile stresses generated when the elastic member 1000 is folded and restored.

[0176] As described above, the third layer 300 can possess both adhesive properties and shock absorption properties. In other words, the third layer 300 can be an impact-absorbing adhesive layer. The adhesive properties and shock absorption properties of the third layer 300 can be controlled by controlling the crosslinking of the materials forming the third layer 300.

[0177] Since the third layer 300 possesses both adhesive and impact-absorbing properties, a separate impact-absorbing layer can be omitted from the elastic member. In other words, while the first and second layers are bonded together by the third layer, the force or deformation from an externally applied impact can be absorbed by the third layer, thus eliminating the need for a separate impact-absorbing layer.

[0178] Therefore, the processing of elastic components can be facilitated by simplifying the stacking structure of the elastic components. Furthermore, since the individual shock-absorbing layer and the separate adhesive layer used to adhere the shock-absorbing layer can be removed from the elastic component, the overall thickness of the elastic component can be reduced. Therefore, the folding properties of the elastic component can be improved.

[0179] Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is a view used to illustrate the layout of the third layer 300.

[0180] Reference Figure 11 The third layer 300 can be disposed on the upper surface of the first layer 100. Specifically, after the third layer 300 is disposed on the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 is disposed on the third layer 300, the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 can be bonded together by applying pressure to the upper surface through the third layer 300.

[0181] In this case, the third layer 300 is not disposed within the first pattern portion PA1 and the second pattern portion PA2 formed on the first layer 100, but the third layer 300 may be disposed only on the upper surface of the first layer 100.

[0182] Since the third layer is not located within the patterned portion of the first layer, when the elastic member is applied to the display device, the refraction and total internal reflection of light through the third layer can be minimized, thereby improving the light transmittance.

[0183] Alternatively, refer to Figure 12 The third layer 300 can be disposed on the upper surface of the first layer 100. Specifically, the third layer 300 can be disposed within the first pattern portion PA1 and the second pattern portion PA2 of the first layer 100. Specifically, the third layer 300 can be disposed as follows: Figure 12 The pattern is provided such that it completely fills the interior of the first pattern portion PA1 and the second pattern portion PA2, or it can partially fill the interior of the first pattern portion PA1 and the second pattern portion PA2.

[0184] Specifically, after a third layer 300 is disposed on the first layer 100 and a second layer 200 is disposed on the third layer 300, while pressure is applied to the second layer 200 and it fills the interior of the first pattern portion PA1 and the second pattern portion PA2 wholly or partially, the third layer 300 can adhere to the first layer 100 and the second layer 200.

[0185] Since the third layer is disposed within the patterned portion of the first layer, when the first and second layers are joined by the third layer, the adhesion properties can be improved by making the area of ​​pressure applied in the first and second regions of the first layer uniform.

[0186] In addition, it can prevent impurities from penetrating through the patterned part of the first layer.

[0187] According to the embodiment, the elastic member can absorb the impact applied to the elastic member while the third layer of the elastic member is adhered to the first and second layers.

[0188] Therefore, since there is no need to set a separate shock-absorbing layer on the elastic member, the stacking structure of the elastic member can be simplified.

[0189] Therefore, the processing efficiency of elastic components can be improved, and the folding characteristics of elastic components can be improved because the thickness of elastic components can be reduced.

[0190] Furthermore, in the elastic member according to the embodiment, considering the surface flatness of the elastic member based on the pattern portion formed on the first layer, the second layer may include metal or plastic.

[0191] Therefore, when it is desired to further improve the folding properties of the elastic component, plastic can be used as a second layer; when it is desired to further improve the strength properties of the elastic component, metal can be used as a second layer.

[0192] Therefore, by changing the material and thickness of the second layer according to the application of the elastic component, the properties of the elastic component can be realized according to the application.

[0193] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 13 to 14 The description includes a folding support member with an elastic member according to the above embodiments.

[0194] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 14 The folding support may include an elastic member and a protective layer 400. Figure 13 This diagram shows a folding support member for the third layer within the patterned section of the first layer. Figure 14 The diagram shows a folded support member consisting of multiple layers, which is provided within the patterned section of the first layer.

[0195] The folding support may include the aforementioned elastic member 1000 and a protective layer 400 disposed below the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the protective layer 400 may be disposed below the first layer 100 or the first-first layer 110 of the elastic member 1000.

[0196] Although not shown in the figure, an adhesive layer may be provided between the protective layer 400 and the first layer 100 or between the protective layer 400 and the first-1 layer 110, and the elastic member 1000 and the protective layer 400 may be bonded together by the adhesive layer.

[0197] The protective layer 400 can be colored. For example, the protective layer 400 can be formed as a black-based color.

[0198] The protective layer 400 may include metal particles. For example, the protective layer 400 may include copper particles. Therefore, by increasing the thermal conductivity of the protective layer 400, heat generated in the display device can be dissipated through the protective layer 400.

[0199] The protective layer 400 may be disposed on a region of the elastic member 1000. Specifically, the protective layer 400 may be disposed in a region corresponding to the first region 1A of the elastic member 1000. Alternatively, the protective layer 400 may be disposed in a region corresponding to the first region 1A and the second region 2A of the elastic member 1000.

[0200] For example, the protective layer 400 can be disposed in the regions corresponding to the first region 1A and the second region 2A of the elastic member 1000, and can be disposed in an area smaller than the sum of the areas of the first region 1A and the second region 2A. Specifically, the protective layer 400 can be disposed in 80% to 90% of the sum of the areas of the first region 1A and the second region 2A of the elastic member.

[0201] Furthermore, the thickness of the protective layer 400 can be less than the total thickness of the elastic member 1000. That is, the thickness of the protective layer 400 can be less than the sum of the thicknesses of the first, second, and third layers of the elastic member 1000.

[0202] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 15 to 16 The description includes a display device with a folding support member according to the above embodiments.

[0203] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 The display device 10 may include a folding support and a panel. Figure 15 This is a diagram showing a third-layer display device in which no elastic member is provided within the pattern section of the first layer. Figure 16 This diagram shows a display device with multiple third layers arranged within the pattern section of the first layer.

[0204] The display device 10 may include a folding support and a panel layer 600, the panel layer 600 including a touch panel disposed on the folding support and including a display panel and / or a touch panel.

[0205] The adhesive layer 500 can be disposed between the elastic member 1000 and the panel layer 600, and the elastic member 1000 can be adhered to the panel layer 600 through the adhesive layer 500.

[0206] As described above, since the elastic member 1000 can flatten the adhesion surface of the elastic member through the second layer 200, the elastic member and the panel layer can be stably bonded to each other without being affected by step differences.

[0207] The adhesive layer 500 between the elastic member 1000 and the panel layer 600 may have different properties than the third layer 300 of the elastic member 1000.

[0208] Specifically, the thickness of the adhesive layer 500 can be less than the thickness of the third layer 300. For example, the thickness of the adhesive layer 500 can be from 5 μm to 15 μm.

[0209] Furthermore, the adhesive properties of the adhesive layer 500 can be less than those of the third layer 300. Specifically, the adhesive force of the adhesive layer 500 can be 400 or less.

[0210] Furthermore, the adhesive layer 500 and the third layer 300 may have different elastic moduli. That is, the adhesive layer 500 does not have the same elastic modulus as the third layer, which has storage modulus, creep and recovery, and tanδ value. Therefore, the adhesive layer 500 may not have elastic properties other than adhesive properties.

[0211] The features, structures, and effects described in the above embodiments are included in at least one embodiment, but are not limited to one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures, and effects described in each embodiment can be combined or modified by those skilled in the art for other embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that content related to such combinations and modifications is included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0212] Furthermore, the foregoing primarily describes embodiments, but these embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and applications not mentioned above can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically represented in the embodiments may vary. Moreover, it should be interpreted that differences associated with such changes and applications are included within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An elastic member foldable based on a folding axis, the elastic member comprising: a first region defined as a folding region including the folding axis and being close to the folding axis, and a second region defined as a non-folding region located further from the folding axis than the folding region; and a first layer, a second layer provided on the first layer, and a third layer provided between the first layer and the second layer, wherein the first layer includes a metal, the second layer includes a metal or a plastic, the first layer includes a plurality of through-holes, wherein the first layer includes a 1-1 layer and a 1-2 layer overcoated on the 1-1 layer, wherein the 1-1 layer and the 1-2 layer include different metals, wherein each of the plurality of through-holes includes a first portion penetrating the 1-1 layer and a second portion penetrating the 1-2 layer, wherein a width of the first portion decreases toward the 1-2 layer, and a width of the second portion decreases toward the 1-1 layer, and wherein a width of each of the plurality of through-holes has a minimum width at an interface at which the 1-1 layer and the 1-2 layer contact each other. a thickness of the third layer is smaller than a thickness of the first layer, and 2. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, wherein a thickness of the third layer is greater than a thickness of the second layer. a thickness of the third layer is 25% to 35% of a total thickness of the elastic member.

3. The elastic member of claim 2, wherein, a thickness of the second layer is smaller than the thicknesses of the first layer and the third layer.

4. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, the 1-1 layer includes copper or a copper alloy, 5. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, wherein the 1-2 layer includes SUS, and wherein the second layer includes SUS or polyimide. a thickness of the first layer is 40% to 60% of a total thickness of the elastic member.

6. The elastic member of claim 5, wherein, a thermal conductivity of the 1-1 layer is greater than a thermal conductivity of the 1-2 layer.

7. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, a yield strength of the 1-2 layer is greater than a yield strength of the 1-1 layer.

8. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, the second layer includes a plastic, and 9. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, a thickness of the second layer is 15% to 25% of a total thickness of the elastic member. the second layer includes a metal, and 10. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, a thickness of the second layer is 4% to 10% of a total thickness of the elastic member. a loss factor tan d of the third layer is 0.2 to 1.8 at room temperature, i.e., 25°C.

11. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, a thickness of the elastic member is 150 pm to 300 pm.

12. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, the third layer is provided to fill the plurality of through-holes.

13. The elastic member of claim 1, wherein, the third layer is provided to partially fill the plurality of through-holes.

14. The elastic member of claim 13, wherein, 15. A folding support comprising: the elastic member of any one of claims 1 to 14; and a protective layer provided below the elastic member.

16. A display device comprising: the elastic member of any one of claims 1 to 14; a protective layer below the elastic member; an adhesive layer on the elastic member; and a panel layer on the adhesive layer, wherein the panel layer includes at least one of a display panel and a touch panel. ​ ​

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