Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided, the display device including a display panel including a first area and a second area located around the first area, and a lower panel sheet located below the display panel and overlapping the first area and the second area, wherein the lower panel sheet includes a buffer member and a strength enhancement member, wherein the strength enhancement member is thinner than the buffer member, and a ratio of a thickness of the buffer member to a thickness of the strength enhancement member is 3 times to 6 times.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application filed on April 19, 2018, with application number 201810353154.7 and entitled "Display Device". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a display device. Background Technology

[0003] Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) possess excellent brightness, driving voltage, and response speed characteristics, and can be multi-color. Due to these advantages, OLEDs are being used in various products (primarily smartphones). An OLED comprises a display panel containing organic light-emitting elements. In the organic light-emitting elements, a cathode and an anode are arranged around an organic light-emitting layer. When a voltage is applied to the two electrodes, visible light is generated from the organic light-emitting layer connected to the electrodes.

[0004] Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are widely used in portable electronic devices such as smartphones and are easily exposed to external impacts. Furthermore, because the organic light-emitting layer is susceptible to moisture, OLEDs can be damaged by fluids introduced from the outside. To prevent this danger, display devices include functional components with features such as cushioning and waterproofing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of the inventive concept is to provide a display device with enhanced intensity enhancement function.

[0006] Another aspect of the inventive concept is to provide a display device with enhanced waterproofing.

[0007] However, the inventive concept is not limited to those described herein. These and other aspects of the inventive concept will become more apparent to a person skilled in the art upon referring to the detailed description of the inventive concept given below.

[0008] According to an aspect of the inventive concept, a display device is provided, the display device comprising: a display panel including a first region and a second region surrounding the first region; and a lower panel sheet located below the display panel and stacked with the first and second regions, wherein the lower panel sheet includes a buffer member and a strength reinforcing member, wherein the strength reinforcing member is thinner than the buffer member, and the ratio of the thickness of the buffer member to the thickness of the strength reinforcing member is approximately 3 to approximately 6 times.

[0009] According to another aspect of the inventive concept, a display device is provided, the display device comprising: a display panel including a first region and a second region surrounding the first region; a window disposed on the display panel and including a third region superimposed on the display panel and a fourth region protruding outward from the display panel; a lower panel disposed below the display panel and superimposed on the first and second regions; and a waterproof member disposed around the lower panel, wherein the waterproof member comprises a plurality of linear waterproof strips extending along the edge of the lower panel and a plurality of waterproof resins disposed in spaces between the waterproof strips.

[0010] According to another aspect of the inventive concept, a display device is provided, the display device comprising: a display panel; a window disposed on the display panel and including a first region superimposed on the display panel and a second region protruding outward from the display panel; a lower panel disposed below the display panel and superimposed on the display panel; and a waterproof member disposed on the second region of the window and not superimposed on the lower panel.

[0011] Any aspect of the inventive concept may additionally include a display device, wherein the first region is substantially located in a plane, and the second region is located in a plane different from the plane.

[0012] The display device may have a strength-reinforcing component, which may include polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0013] In the display device according to the embodiment, the thickness of the strength-enhancing member is approximately 25 μm to approximately 50 μm.

[0014] In the display device according to the embodiment, the thickness of the buffer member is approximately 100 μm to approximately 150 μm.

[0015] The display device may also include a first adhesive member disposed between the strength-reinforcing member and the cushioning member.

[0016] In the display device according to the embodiment, the thickness of the first adhesive member is about 20 μm to about 50 μm.

[0017] In the display device according to the embodiment, the ratio of the thickness of the strength-reinforcing member to the thickness of the first adhesive member is approximately 1 to approximately 1.04 times.

[0018] In the display device according to the embodiment, the lower panel further includes a heat dissipation member.

[0019] The display device may also include a second adhesive component disposed between the heat dissipation component and the strength reinforcing component.

[0020] In the display device according to the embodiment, the second adhesive component comprises a thermosetting epoxy material or an acrylic material. Attached Figure Description

[0021] These and / or other aspects will become apparent and more readily understood from the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

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

[0023] Figure 2 It is based on Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device of an embodiment;

[0024] Figure 3 It is based on Figure 1 A bottom view of the display device of an embodiment;

[0025] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by line IV-IV';

[0026] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by line V-V';

[0027] Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by line VI-VI';

[0028] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the lower panel according to an embodiment;

[0029] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the lower panel according to an embodiment;

[0030] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the display device according to an embodiment;

[0031] Figure 10 It is based on Figure 9 Rear view of the display device in an embodiment;

[0032] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 A sectional view taken by line XI-XI';

[0033] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 A sectional view taken by line XII-XII'; and

[0034] Figure 13 This is a rear view of the display device according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The advantages and features of this disclosure and its implementation methods can be more readily understood by referring to the detailed description of the exemplary embodiments below and the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and these exemplary embodiments will fully convey the concept of this disclosure to those skilled in the art, and this disclosure will be limited only to the scope of the appended claims.

[0036] The phrase "positioned "on" other elements or layers" includes all cases where the layer or element is placed directly on or between the other elements. Conversely, "directly on" other elements or layers indicates that no other elements or layers are disposed between the element and the other elements or layers. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same constituent elements. The term "and / or" includes each of one or more reference items and each combination of one or more reference items.

[0037] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element.

[0038] In the following description, embodiments of the inventive concept will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the display device 10 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 It is based on Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device 10 of an embodiment.

[0039] exist Figure 1 In this example, a portable terminal using the display device 10 according to an embodiment is shown. The portable terminal may be a tablet PC, smartphone, personal digital assistant (PDA), or wearable electronic device, etc. However, the display device 10 according to the embodiment is not necessarily applicable to the example above, and can also be applied to large electronic devices such as televisions and billboards, as well as small electronic devices and media electronic devices such as personal computers, laptops, car navigation units, and cameras. That is, the display device 10 according to the embodiment can be applied to other electronic devices without departing from the spirit of the inventive concept.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2The display device 10 includes: a display panel 100; a lower panel 400 disposed below the display panel 100; a waterproof member 500 disposed around the lower panel 400; and a bracket 600 disposed below the waterproof member 500. The display device 10 may also include a window 200 disposed on the display panel 100. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "on" and "upper surface" as used herein refer to the display surface side of the display panel 100, and the terms "below" and "lower surface" as used herein refer to the side of the display panel 100 opposite to the display surface side.

[0041] The display device 10 is divided into a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA is the area where the image is displayed, and the non-display area NDA is the area where the image is not displayed. The non-display area NDA is disposed around the display area DA. For example, when the display area DA is rectangular, the non-display area NDA can be disposed along the four sides of the display area DA.

[0042] The display device 10 may be rectangular in plan view. The display device 10 may include a first long side LS1 and a second long side LS2 facing each other, and a first short side SS1 and a second short side SS2 facing each other. Each corner where the long side LS1 or LS2 of the display device 10 intersects with the short side SS1 or SS2 of the display device 10 may be a right angle, but may also form a shape like... Figure 1 The curved surface shown is not limited to the example above; it can also be circular or other shapes.

[0043] Display panel 100 is a panel used to display images. For example, display panel 100 may be an organic light-emitting display panel. In the following embodiments, the application of an organic light-emitting display panel as display panel 100 will be described. However, other types of display panels, such as electrophoretic devices, may also be used as display panel 100.

[0044] The display panel 100 includes a plurality of organic light-emitting elements disposed on a substrate. The substrate can be a rigid substrate made of, for example, glass or a flexible substrate made of, for example, polyimide. When a polyimide substrate is used as the substrate, the organic light-emitting display panel 100 can be bent, folded, or rolled.

[0045] A window 200 is disposed on the display panel 100. The window 200 is disposed on the display panel 100 to protect the display panel 100 from external impacts while transmitting light emitted from the display panel 100. The window 200 may be made of a transparent material such as glass or resin.

[0046] Window 200 can be stacked with display panel 100 and cover the entire surface of display panel 100. Window 200 can be larger than display panel 100. For example, window 200 can protrude further outward than display panel 100 at the two short sides SS1 and SS2 of display device 10.

[0047] In one embodiment, a touch panel 300 may be disposed between the display panel 100 and the window 200. The touch panel 300 may have substantially the same size as the display panel 100 and may be stacked on top of it. The display panel 100 and the touch panel 300 may be bonded together using optically clear adhesive (OCA) or optically clear resin (OCR), and the touch panel 300 and the window 200 may be bonded together using OCA or OCR. The touch panel 300 may be omitted. In this case, the display panel 100 and the window 200 may be bonded together using OCA or OCR. In some embodiments, the display panel 100 may further include touch electrode units.

[0048] The lower plate 400 is disposed below the display panel 100. The lower plate 400 may have substantially the same dimensions as the display panel 100 and may be stacked with the display panel 100. The lower plate 400 is attached to the lower surface of the display panel 100 to perform a cushioning function to protect the display panel 100 from external impacts and a heat dissipation function to dissipate heat generated from the display panel 100 to the outside. The lower plate 400 may also perform electromagnetic wave shielding, grounding, strength enhancement, and / or digitization functions.

[0049] The waterproof component 500 is disposed along each edge of the lower panel 400. The waterproof component 500 may overlap with the lower panel 400, or may be separated from the lower panel 400 by a predetermined distance so as not to overlap with the lower panel 400. The waterproof component 500 can prevent water and other fluids from penetrating into the display device 10. The lower panel 400 and the waterproof component 500 will be described in detail later.

[0050] The bracket 600 is positioned below the waterproof component 500. The bracket 600 is positioned below the waterproof component 500 to protect the internal components of the display device 10, which are mounted on the waterproof component 500, from external influences. The bracket 600 can be formed as a quadrilateral housing with receiving areas. That is, the bracket 600 includes four side surfaces and a bottom surface, and the display panel 100, touch panel 300, lower panel 400, and waterproof component 500 can be disposed within the internal space formed by the side surfaces and bottom surface of the bracket 600.

[0051] In one embodiment, the bracket 600 can be tightly fitted to the waterproof component 500 without gaps to prevent fluids such as moisture from penetrating into the display device 10. Furthermore, a portion of the bracket 600 can be exposed to form the external design of the display device 10.

[0052] The display device 10 may include a first region CA and a second region EA disposed around the first region CA. Specifically, the first region CA may be substantially disposed on a plane, and the second region EA is not located on the same plane as the first region CA. In embodiments, the second region EA of the display device 10 may have a curved shape. For example, the second region EA may bend or fold downward from the plane on which the first region CA is located. The second region EA may include a surface that is bent outward in an outward direction. Alternatively, the second region EA may have a flat surface, but may be located in a plane at a predetermined angle to the plane of the first region CA.

[0053] In an embodiment, the display device 10 may consist only of a first region CA. That is, the display device 10 may include only a flat portion that is substantially located in a plane.

[0054] In this embodiment, the display device 10 may not be divided into a first region CA and a second region EA. Instead, the display device 10 may be composed of a single continuous bent surface. For example, the display device 10 may be shaped like a dome.

[0055] For ease of description, the following description will be based on display device 10, which includes a first region CA and a second region EA located in a different plane from the first region CA. Display devices 20 and 30, which consist only of the first region CA, will be described later.

[0056] The second region EA can be located on the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the rectangular display device 10, or on either the first long side LS1 or the second long side LS2. Although not shown in the figures, the second region EA can also be located on either or both of the short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 10.

[0057] The display panel 100, touch panel 300, window 200, lower panel 400, waterproof component 500, and bracket 600 can all be located in the first area CA and the second area EA.

[0058] The lower panel 400 and waterproof component 500 described above will now be described in more detail.

[0059] Figure 3 It is based on Figure 1 A bottom view of the display device 10 of an embodiment. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3A sectional view taken from line IV-IV'. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by line V-V'. Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken from line VI-VI'.

[0060] Reference Figures 2 to 6 The lower panel 400 includes at least one functional layer. The functional layer may perform functions such as heat dissipation, electromagnetic wave shielding, grounding, buffering, strength enhancement, support, and / or digitization. The functional layer may be a sheet made of a sheet or a film made of a film. However, the functional layer is not limited to sheets or films, and may also be a thin layer, coating, panel, or plate, etc.

[0061] The lower plate 400 may include multiple functional layers and interlayer bonding layers for joining the functional layers together. The functional layers may be stacked on top of each other. Adjacent functional layers may be joined together by interlayer bonding layers. Each functional layer and interlayer bonding layer may have the same dimensions in plan view. However, the inventive concept is not limited to this; some or all of the functional layers and interlayer bonding layers may have different dimensions. Furthermore, any one of the functional layers and interlayer bonding layers may protrude more outward than the other layers in a particular direction or in all directions. The planar shape of the lower plate 400 may be defined by the largest protrusion connecting the stacked functional layers and interlayer bonding layers. The specific configuration of the functional layers and interlayer bonding layers will be described later.

[0062] As described above, the lower panel sheet 400 can have substantially the same dimensions as the display panel 100 and can be stacked on top of the display panel 100. That is, the lower panel sheet 400 can be attached to the lower surface of the display panel 100 by means of an adhesive member (not shown). Specifically, the lower panel sheet 400 can be bent in the second region EA of the display device 10 (i.e., at the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 10) in the same shape as the display panel 100. In other words, when the lower panel sheet 400 with a flat shape is attached to the lower surface of the display panel 100 having the second region EA, the lower panel sheet 400 with a flat shape can be bent along the curvature of the second region EA of the display panel 100. As a result, the lower panel sheet 400 can be attached to the lower surface of the display panel 100 without having a raised area, and the curvature of the second region EA of the display panel 100 can be directly proportional to the curvature of the second region EA of the lower panel sheet 400.

[0063] The side surface of the lower panel 400 can be substantially aligned with the side surface of the display panel 100. When the side surface of the lower panel 400 is substantially aligned with the side surface of the display panel 100, the extended surface of the side surface of the lower panel 400 can not only pass through the side surface of the display panel 100, but the side surface of the lower panel 400 can also be positioned at a distance that is difficult to perceive with the naked eye from the side surface of the display panel 100. In the embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first side surface 400S1 of the lower panel 400 can be positioned further inward than the first side surface 100S1 of the display panel 100 at the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 10 (i.e., in the second region EA of the display device 10). However, the distance between the first side surface 400S1 of the lower panel 400 and the first side surface 100S1 of the display panel 100 can be very small. Alternatively, as... Figure 6 As shown, the extension line of the second side surface 400S2 of the lower panel 400 passes through the second side surface 100S2 of the display panel 100. When it is necessary to distinguish each side surface in this specification and drawings, the side surfaces will be referred to as "first side surface S1", "second side surface S2", "third side surface S3" and "fourth side surface S4". However, when simply referring to a side surface without distinguishing between different side surfaces, it will be referred to as "side surface". Furthermore, the first side surface S1 refers to the side surface corresponding to the first long side LS1 of the display device 10, and the second side surface S2, the third side surface S3 and the fourth side surface S4 are arranged clockwise from the first side surface S1.

[0064] In this embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) 110 may be disposed on one side of the display panel 100. In this case, the side surface of the lower panel 400 may be positioned further inward than the side surface of the display panel 100. That is, as... Figure 5 As shown, when the FPCB 110 is disposed on the second short side SS2 of the display device 10, the fourth side surface 400S4 of the lower panel 400 can be positioned further inward than the fourth side surface 100S4 of the display panel 100 by a predetermined distance. In other words, the display panel 100 may include an area that protrudes outward from the fourth side surface 400S4 of the lower panel 400 to be exposed. The lower surface of the display panel 100 exposed by the lower panel 400 can provide space for the FPCB 110 to be disposed.

[0065] Refer again Figure 2 and Figure 3The waterproofing component 500 may be disposed around the lower panel 400. The waterproofing component 500 may include, but is not limited to, a plurality of linear waterproofing strips 510 extending along the edges of the lower panel 400, and a plurality of waterproofing resins 520 disposed in the spaces between the waterproofing strips 510. Although not shown in the figures, the waterproofing strips 510 may form a continuous quadrilateral frame shape. In this case, the waterproofing resins 520 may be omitted.

[0066] In this embodiment, the waterproof strip 510 may be provided along the edges LS1, LS2, SS1, and SS2 of the display device 10. Specifically, the first waterproof strip 511, the second waterproof strip 512, the third waterproof strip 513, and the fourth waterproof strip 514 may be provided along the two long sides LS1 and LS2 and the two short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 10. The planar shape of each of the waterproof strips 510 may be substantially similar to that of a rectangle. However, each of the waterproof strips 510 may include holes or protruding areas corresponding to camera areas, speaker areas, etc.

[0067] Waterproof tape 510 can be attached to the lower surface of the lower panel 400 on the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 10. Specifically, the first waterproof tape 511 and the third waterproof tape 513 can have the same shape as the planar shape of the lower panel 400 and can be stacked with the lower panel 400. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The outer surface 511OS of the first waterproof strip 511 can be substantially aligned with the first side surface 400S1 of the lower panel 400, and the inner surface 511IS of the first waterproof strip 511 can be substantially aligned with the boundary between the second region EA and the first region CA. That is, the first waterproof strip 511 and the third waterproof strip 513 can be provided only in the second region EA on the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 10. However, the inventive concept is not limited to this case, and the first waterproof strip 511 and the third waterproof strip 513 can also extend from the second region EA to the first region CA.

[0068] The waterproof strip 510 may not overlap with the display panel 100 on the two short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 10, and may be attached to the lower surface of the window 200. Specifically, each of the second waterproof strip 512 and the fourth waterproof strip 514 may be disposed in an area where the display panel 100 is not disposed, that is, disposed on the lower surface of the window 200 that protrudes outward from the side surface of the display panel 100. In an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 6As shown, the second waterproof strip 512 may not overlap with the display panel 100. In other words, the inner surface 512IS of the second waterproof strip 512 can be separated from the second side surface 100S2 of the display panel 100 by a predetermined distance. The outer surface 512OS of the second waterproof strip 512 is located inside the second side surface 200S2 of the window 200. In other words, the window 200 can protrude from the outer surface 512OS of the second waterproof strip 512, thereby exposing a portion of the lower surface of the window 200.

[0069] In an embodiment, when the FPCB 110 is disposed on one side of the display panel 100, the waterproof tape 510 may not overlap with the FPCB 110. That is, as Figure 5 As shown, the inner surface 514IS of the fourth waterproof strip 514 can be spaced apart from the outermost part of the FPCB 110 by a predetermined distance.

[0070] The thickness of the waterproof strips 511 and 513 attached to the lower surface of the lower panel 400 can be different from the thickness of the waterproof strips 512 and 514 attached to the lower surface of the window 200. That is, the second waterproof strip 512 and the fourth waterproof strip 514 attached to the lower surface of the window 200 can be formed to be thicker than the first waterproof strip 511 and the third waterproof strip 513 attached to the lower surface of the lower panel 400 to compensate for the step difference. In a specific embodiment, the thickness of the second waterproof strip 512 can be the same as the sum of the thickness of the first waterproof strip 511, the thickness of the touch panel 300, the thickness of the display panel 100, and the thickness of the lower panel 400, such as... Figure 6 As shown in the diagram. In other words, the shortest distance from the lower surface of the window 200 to the lower surface of the first waterproof strip 511 can be the same as the shortest distance from the lower surface of the window 200 to the lower surface of the second waterproof strip 512. In this case, the difference in thickness between the waterproof strips 510 (511 and 512) can compensate for the step difference caused by the display panel 100, touch panel 300, and lower panel 400 disposed between the first waterproof strip 511 and the window 200. Furthermore, buffering and / or heat dissipation functions can be provided by the thick waterproof strips 512 and 514 on the two short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 10 where the lower panel 400 is not disposed.

[0071] The first waterproof strip 511 and the third waterproof strip 513, which are arranged along the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 10, can be arranged adjacent to the second waterproof strip 512 and the fourth waterproof strip 514, which are arranged along the two short sides SS1 and SS2 of the display device 10, at each corner of the display device 10. Specifically, the short side of the first waterproof strip 511 extending in the width direction of the display device 10 and the short side of the third waterproof strip 513 extending in the width direction of the display device 10 can be arranged adjacent to the long side of the second waterproof strip 512 extending in the width direction of the display device 10. In addition, the other short side of the first waterproof strip 511 and the other short side of the third waterproof strip 513 can be arranged adjacent to the long side of the fourth waterproof strip 514. However, the waterproof strips 511 to 514 do not need to overlap each other, and a space can be formed between the waterproof strips 511 to 514. In a specific embodiment, since the first waterproof strip 511 can be set only in the second region EA, the short side of the first waterproof strip 511 can be set adjacent to the region in the second region EA where the long side of the second waterproof strip 512 is set.

[0072] Waterproof resin 520 can be disposed in each space between waterproof strips 511 to 514. Waterproof resin 520 can fill each space between waterproof strips 510 to completely block the interior area of ​​waterproof member 500 from the outside. That is, waterproof resin 520 can be configured to prevent gaps from forming between waterproof strips 511 to 514. Furthermore, waterproof resin 520 can be disposed in the space between the side surfaces of the display panel 100, touch panel 300, and lower panel 400 and the side surfaces of the waterproof strips 510. As a result, waterproof resin 520 can connect waterproof strips 511 to 514, allowing waterproof member 500 to have a continuous frame shape overall. Waterproof member 500 can be integrated with bracket 600 to completely block the interior area of ​​waterproof member 500 from external materials.

[0073] In an embodiment, the waterproof tape 510 may be a double-sided tape with waterproof functionality. In this case, the display device 10 can be made thinner because no additional adhesive is required. Each of the waterproof tapes 510 includes a substrate (not shown) and an adhesive layer (not shown) disposed on the upper and lower surfaces of the substrate. The substrate may be made of, but is not limited to, polyurethane (PU) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The adhesive layer may include an adhesive layer, a sticky layer, or a resin layer. For example, the adhesive layer may contain polymer materials classified as silicone polymers, urethane polymers, SU polymers having a silicone-urethane mixed structure, acrylic polymers, isocyanate polymers, polyvinyl alcohol polymers, gelatin polymers, vinyl polymers, latex polymers, polyester polymers, or water-based polyester polymers, etc.

[0074] Figure 7This is a cross-sectional view of the lower panel 400 according to an embodiment. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the lower panel 401 according to an embodiment. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The image shows the specific stacking structure of each of the lower panel pieces 400 and 401.

[0075] Reference Figure 7 The lower panel 400 may include a first functional layer 411, a second functional layer 412, and a third functional layer 413 stacked in sequence. In addition, the lower panel 400 may include a first interlayer bonding layer 421 and a second interlayer bonding layer 422 that combine the first functional layer 411, the second functional layer 412, and the third functional layer 413 together.

[0076] The first functional layer 411 is the uppermost functional layer, that is, the functional layer closest to the display panel 100. In an embodiment, the first functional layer 411 can be a buffer member to mitigate external impacts. The first functional layer 411 can prevent damage to the display device 10 by absorbing some of the impacts applied to the display panel 100.

[0077] The first functional layer 411 may be made of a polymer resin such as polyurethane, polycarbonate, polypropylene or polyethylene, or may be made of a sponge formed by foaming a rubber liquid, urethane material or acrylic material.

[0078] The first functional layer 411 can have a thickness of approximately 100 μm to approximately 150 μm. When the thickness of the first functional layer 411 is approximately 150 μm or less, sufficient cushioning can be achieved while making the display device 10 thinner. When the thickness of the first functional layer 411 is approximately 100 μm or more, the first functional layer 411 is thick enough to adequately absorb external impacts. Therefore, the first functional layer 411 can effectively protect the display device 10.

[0079] The second functional layer 412 may be disposed below the first functional layer 411. In an embodiment, the second functional layer 412 may be a support member supporting the lower panel 400. Furthermore, the second functional layer 412 may be a strength-enhancing member that strengthens the display device 10 against external impacts. That is, the second functional layer 412 assists the first functional layer 411 in ensuring the maximum impact resistance of the display device 10.

[0080] The second functional layer 412 may include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, the second functional layer 412 may be made of polyimide (PI). Because polyimide (PI) has excellent heat resistance, the second functional layer 412 will not shrink even if the display device 10 is exposed to high temperatures. Here, the term "high temperature" refers to a sufficiently high temperature that people can be exposed to in their daily lives, for example, 40 degrees Celsius or higher. When the second functional layer 412 shrinks, the lower panel 400 deforms, thereby separating from the display panel 100. In this case, the various functions of the lower panel 400 will not be fully realized. Furthermore, if the second functional layer 412 shrinks, a gap will be formed between the waterproof member 500 and the second functional layer 412. Therefore, the waterproof performance will be degraded.

[0082] The thickness of the second functional layer 412 can be in the range of approximately 25 μm to 50 μm. That is, the ratio of the thickness of the first functional layer 411 to the thickness of the second functional layer 412 can be approximately 3 to 6 times. Preferably, the ratio of the thickness of the first functional layer 411 to the thickness of the second functional layer 412 can be approximately 4 to 5 times. Compared with display devices 20 and 30 which are composed only of the first region CA, display devices 10 including the curved second region EA are more susceptible to external impacts. That is, when an impact of the same intensity is applied, the curved portion experiences greater stress than the flat portion. Therefore, display devices 10 including the curved second region EA are easily damaged by external impacts. When the thickness of the second functional layer 412 is approximately 25 μm or greater, in other words, when the ratio of the thickness of the first functional layer 411 to the thickness of the second functional layer 412 is 3 times or greater, not only the first region CA can be adequately protected, but the second region EA can also be adequately protected. Furthermore, when the ratio of the thickness of the first functional layer 411 to the thickness of the second functional layer 412 is three times or greater, the second functional layer 412 can withstand the pressure transmitted from the outside to the display device 10, thereby more effectively preventing damage to the display panel 100. In addition, it can prevent the second functional layer 412 from shrinking due to heat.

[0083] When the thickness of the second functional layer 412 is approximately 50 μm or less, that is, when the ratio of the thickness of the first functional layer 411 to the thickness of the second functional layer 412 is 6 times or less, the second functional layer 412 can have sufficient elasticity to be disposed along the second region EA of the display device 10. Specifically, the second functional layer 412 can have a high level of elasticity depending on the properties of its constituent materials. For example, when the second functional layer 412 is made of polyimide (PI), the elastic modulus of the second functional layer 412 is approximately 330 kg / mm². 2Therefore, when the second functional layer 412 is too thick, it will be difficult for the second functional layer 412 to bend with an appropriate curvature along the curvature of the second region EA. In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the first functional layer 411 may be approximately 125 μm, and the thickness of the second functional layer 412 may be approximately 25 μm.

[0084] The first interlayer bonding layer 421 can be disposed between the first functional layer 411 and the second functional layer 412. That is, the first interlayer bonding layer 421 can be placed between the first functional layer 411 and the second functional layer 412 to combine the first functional layer 411 and the second functional layer 412 together.

[0085] The first interlayer bonding layer 421 may be an adhesive layer containing an adhesive or tack. For example, the first interlayer bonding layer 421 may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), OCA, or OCR.

[0086] The thickness of the first interlayer bonding layer 421 can be similar to the thickness of the second functional layer 412. That is, the ratio of the thickness of the second functional layer 412 to the thickness of the first interlayer bonding layer 421 can be 1 to 2.5 times, preferably 1 to 1.5 times, and more preferably 1 to 1.04 times. If the first interlayer bonding layer 421 is too thin compared to the second functional layer 412, the first functional layer 411 and the second functional layer 412 will not be sufficiently bonded together. Furthermore, if the first interlayer bonding layer 421 is too thick compared to the second functional layer 412, the overall thickness of the lower panel 400 will increase, making it difficult to make the display device 10 thinner.

[0087] Furthermore, the thickness of the first interlayer bonding layer 421 can be approximately 20 μm to approximately 50 μm, preferably 25 μm to 35 μm, and more preferably 26 μm. If the first interlayer bonding layer 421 is too thick, the thickness of the display device 10 cannot be reduced, and the material cost increases. Therefore, the thickness of the first interlayer bonding layer 421 can be 50 μm or less. The first interlayer bonding layer 421 can have sufficient adhesive strength to prevent the first functional layer 411 and the second functional layer 412 from separating from each other. That is, the first interlayer bonding layer 421 should have sufficient adhesive strength to maintain the second functional layer 412, which has a certain level of elasticity, in a bent shape while keeping the second functional layer 412 attached to the first functional layer 411. A first interlayer bonding layer 421 with a thickness of approximately 20 μm or more can ensure sufficient adhesive strength to firmly bond the first functional layer 411 and the second functional layer 412 together. The first interlayer bonding layer 421, with a thickness of 26 μm, can have sufficient adhesive strength to prevent the first functional layer 411 and the second functional layer 412 from separating from each other in the second region EA due to the elasticity of the second functional layer 412, while making the display device 10 thinner.

[0088] The third functional layer 413 may be disposed below the second functional layer 412. In an embodiment, the third functional layer 413 may be a heat dissipation component. The third functional layer 413 may shield electromagnetic waves and dissipate heat generated inside the display device 10 to the outside. For example, the third functional layer 413 may be made of a conductive metal with good thermal conductivity, such as copper, silver, gold, aluminum, nickel, or a combination of these metals.

[0089] The third functional layer 413 can have a thickness of approximately 9 μm to 18 μm. When the thickness of the third functional layer 413 is approximately 9 μm or greater, the third functional layer 413 can rapidly dissipate heat generated inside the display device 10 to suppress local temperature rise in the display device 10. When the thickness of the third functional layer 413 is approximately 18 μm or less, it can prevent an increase in manufacturing costs and allows the display device 10 to be made thinner.

[0090] The second interlayer bonding layer 422 can be disposed between the second functional layer 412 and the third functional layer 413. That is, the second interlayer bonding layer 422 can be placed between the second functional layer 412 and the third functional layer 413 to combine the second functional layer 412 and the third functional layer 413 together.

[0091] The second interlayer bonding layer 422 can be made of, but is not limited to, acrylic adhesives, epoxy adhesives, silicone adhesives, or mixtures of these materials. In an embodiment, the second interlayer bonding layer 422 can be made of an adhesive containing a thermosetting epoxy material. When the second interlayer bonding layer 422 is heat-cured, its strength increases. Therefore, the second interlayer bonding layer 422 can more effectively protect the display device 10. In an embodiment, the second interlayer bonding layer 422 can be made of acrylic adhesive. Because the acrylic adhesive layer has thermal conductivity, it ensures superior heat dissipation performance.

[0092] Reference Figure 8 The fourth functional layer 413_2 can be set between the second functional layer 412_1 and the third functional layer 413_1 of the lower plate 401.

[0093] The fourth functional layer 413_2 may include thermally conductive particles. These particles may have a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mK or greater. Examples of thermally conductive particles include carbon black, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, and graphene. The fourth functional layer 413_2 may include a single type of thermally conductive particle or a mixture of two or more types of thermally conductive particles. In this case, the third functional layer 413_1 may be used to immobilize the thermally conductive particles.

[0094] The thermally conductive particles can have a plate-like structure with carbon atoms connected in the horizontal direction. In this case, the fourth functional layer 413_2 can have a higher thermal conductivity in the horizontal direction than in the vertical direction, and can have excellent heat dissipation. Furthermore, since the fourth functional layer 413_2 can have a good elastic modulus, it can be disposed only in the first region CA, and not in the second region EA.

[0095] The fourth functional layer 413_2 can have a thickness of approximately 15 μm to 25 μm, preferably 17 μm. When the thickness of the fourth functional layer 413_2 is approximately 15 μm or greater, sufficient heat dissipation in the vertical direction can be achieved. When the thickness of the fourth functional layer 413_2 is less than approximately 25 μm, the display device 10 can be made thinner.

[0096] In the above embodiments, it has been described that the first functional layers 411 and 411_1 are buffering members, the second functional layers 412 and 412_1 are strength-reinforcing members, and the third functional layers 413 and 413_1 and the fourth functional layer 413_2 are heat dissipation members. Here, the stacking order can be appropriately changed without compromising the purpose of the inventive concept. For example, the first functional layers 411 and 411_1 can be strength-reinforcing members, the second functional layers 412 and 412_1 can be buffering members, and the third functional layers 413 and 413_1 and the fourth functional layer 413_2 can be heat dissipation members.

[0097] Other embodiments of the inventive concept will be described below.

[0098] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the display device 20 according to an embodiment. Figure 10 It is based on Figure 9 The rear view of the display device 20 in the embodiment. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The lower panel 2400 and waterproof component 2500 are shown to also be applicable to the flat panel display device 20. In the following embodiments, descriptions of components identical to those in the above embodiments will be omitted or briefly given, and the differences from the above embodiments will be mainly described.

[0099] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The display device 20 may consist of only the first region CA. That is, the display device 20 may be a flat display device that is formed approximately flat without any curved regions.

[0100] The waterproof component 2500 of the display device 20 may not overlap with the lower panel 2400 and may be disposed on the lower surface of the window 2200. That is, the first waterproof strip 2511 and the third waterproof strip 2513 disposed on the two long sides LS1 and LS2 of the display device 20 may not overlap with the lower panel 2400 and may be disposed directly on the lower surface of the window 2200. In other words, the waterproof component 2500 may be disposed on the exposed portion of the lower surface of the window 2200 that protrudes outward from the side surface of the display panel 2100. However, the inventive concept is not limited to this; the first waterproof strip 2511 and the third waterproof strip 2513 may also overlap with the lower panel 2400 to conform to the... Figure 1 In the embodiment, the first waterproof strip 511 and the third waterproof strip 513 of the display device 10 are directly disposed on the lower surface of the lower plate 2400.

[0101] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 The sectional view taken by line XI-XI'.

[0102] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The side surface 2100S1 of the display panel 2100, the side surface 2300S1 of the touch panel 2300, and the side surface 2400S1 of the lower panel 2400 can be substantially aligned with each other.

[0103] The inner surface of the waterproof tape 2510 (2511 and 2513) can be separated outward from the side surface 2400S1 of the lower panel 2400 by a predetermined distance. That is, as Figure 11 As shown, the inner surface 2511IS of the first waterproof strip 2511 can be located outside the side surface 2400S1 of the lower panel 2400.

[0104] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 A sectional view taken from line XII-XII'.

[0105] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 12 Waterproof strips 2511 to 2514 can have the same thickness. That is, since all waterproof strips 2511 to 2514 are provided on the lower surface of window 2200, no steps are formed between them. Therefore, waterproof strips 2511 to 2514 can have the same thickness.

[0106] The waterproof strips 2511 to 2514 can be separated from each other by a predetermined distance at each corner of the display device 20. That is, the first waterproof strip 2511, the second waterproof strip 2512, the third waterproof strip 2513 and the fourth waterproof strip 2514 can be arranged adjacent to each other, but they can be arranged without overlapping each other.

[0107] Waterproof resin 2520 can be placed in each space between waterproof strips 2511 and 2514.

[0108] In an embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, the waterproof resin 2520 can be disposed in the space between the short side of the first waterproof strip 2511 and the long side of the second waterproof strip 2512.

[0109] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, in an embodiment, a space may be formed between the long side of the first waterproof strip 2511 and the short side of the second waterproof strip 2512. That is, when in Figure 10 and Figure 12 When a space is formed in the width direction of the display device 20, in this embodiment, a space may also be formed in the length direction of the display device 20. In this case, the waterproof resin 2520 may be disposed in each space formed in the length direction of the display device 20.

[0110] In the current embodiment, the interior of the display device 20 is completely isolated from the outside by the waterproof component 2500 and the bracket 2600 attached to the waterproof component 2500. That is, since there is no space between the waterproof component 2500 and the bracket 2600, fluids from outside the display device 20 are unlikely to penetrate into the display device 20.

[0111] Figure 13 This is a rear view of the display device 30 according to an embodiment.

[0112] Reference Figure 13 The waterproof component 3500 of the display device 30 can be formed as a continuous line extending along the outer periphery of the window 3200. That is, the waterproof component 3500 can be formed solely of waterproof strips and shaped as a quadrilateral frame. In this case, since there is no space formed between multiple waterproof strips, the waterproof resin can be omitted.

[0113] Throughout the entire display device 30, the waterproof component 3500 can have the same thickness. That is, like the waterproof component 2500 of the display device 20, the waterproof component 3500 of the display device 30 does not overlap with the lower panel 3400 and is disposed on the lower surface of the window 3200. Therefore, no steps are formed between the areas of the waterproof component 3500.

[0114] The display device 30 according to the current embodiment can protect its internal components from external fluids such as moisture by using only the waterproof component 3500. That is, omitting the waterproof resin simplifies the process and reduces costs.

[0115] The display device according to an embodiment includes a lower panel sheet with a strength-reinforcing member, and the lower panel sheet prevents the display device from being damaged by external impacts.

[0116] Furthermore, by preventing fluids such as moisture from being introduced into the display device, the waterproofing of the display device can be improved.

[0117] However, the effects of the inventive concept are not limited to those described herein. The above and other effects of the inventive concept will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the claims.

[0118] While the inventive concept has been specifically shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concept as defined in the claims. Exemplary embodiments should be considered for descriptive purposes only and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: The display panel includes a first side extending in a first direction, a second side extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, a third side opposite to the first side, and a fourth side opposite to the second side. A window is disposed on the display panel and includes a first area superimposed on the display panel and a second area protruding outward from the display panel; The bracket is located below the display panel; The lower plate is disposed between the display panel and the bracket; as well as A waterproof component is installed between the window and the bracket. The waterproof component includes: a first waterproof portion disposed along a first side of the display panel; a second waterproof portion disposed along a second side of the display panel; a third waterproof portion disposed along a third side of the display panel; and a fourth waterproof portion disposed along a fourth side of the display panel. The first waterproof section, the second waterproof section, the third waterproof section, and the fourth waterproof section do not overlap with the lower panel, and Each of the first waterproof section, the second waterproof section, the third waterproof section, and the fourth waterproof section overlaps with the second region of the window.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first waterproof section, the second waterproof section, the third waterproof section, and the fourth waterproof section is in direct contact with the window and the bracket.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first waterproof section, the second waterproof section, the third waterproof section, and the fourth waterproof section is not superimposed on the display panel.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The first waterproof part, the second waterproof part, the third waterproof part, and the fourth waterproof part are integrally formed.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, In the plan view, the waterproof component completely surrounds the lower panel.

6. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: A touch-sensing component is disposed between the window and the display panel. Each of the first waterproof part, the second waterproof part, the third waterproof part, and the fourth waterproof part is not superimposed on the touch sensing component.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The waterproof component comprises a polymer material.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: A flexible circuit board is disposed on the second side of the display panel. The second waterproof part is not stacked with the flexible circuit board.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The length of the first side of the display panel in the first direction is longer than the length of the second side of the display panel in the second direction.

10. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The inner surface of the bracket faces the side surface of the window and the side surface of the waterproof component.

11. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The window defines a camera area, and The waterproof component does not overlap with the camera area of ​​the window.

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