Support components and their fabrication methods, display modules and their fabrication methods

Abstract

This disclosure provides a support component and its manufacturing method, as well as a display module using this support component and its manufacturing method. The support component includes a first support layer, a composite foam layer, and a second support layer. The composite foam layer is attached to a first surface of the first support layer. At least a portion of the first support layer has a perforated pattern. The second support layer is detachably disposed on a second surface of the first support layer to fill all the perforated patterns. By providing a detachable second support layer in the support component, and by designing the first support layer and the composite foam layer as a single piece, the support effect of the support component on the folding area of ​​the foldable flexible display panel is improved. This prevents marks from appearing on the flexible display panel during subsequent bonding processes, resulting in a better visual effect. After the bonding process is completed, the second support layer can be removed from the support component without affecting the stress release of the high-rigidity support component during bending.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of display technology, and more specifically, to a support component and its preparation method, and a display module and its preparation method. Background Technology

[0002] In the existing technology, during the fabrication of foldable flexible display panels, a polyimide (PI) film is typically used as a substrate, with a glass substrate underneath serving as a support. This glass substrate is removed by laser in the module section to form the flexible display panel. To support the foldable flexible display panel, a support layer structure needs to be attached to the back side in the light-emitting direction.

[0003] Understandably, the support layer material of foldable flexible display panels is mostly made of materials with high elastic modulus. These high elastic modulus materials generate significant stress when bent, making them prone to film separation or bending cracks in repeated bending scenarios. Therefore, stress relief areas need to be set at corresponding locations in the bendable areas of the flexible display panel. Specifically, Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the support layer structure of a foldable flexible display panel is shown. Support layer: as shown Figure 1 As shown, the support layer structure 100 includes a hollow pattern area 101 corresponding to the bendable area, which specifically includes several hollow patterns. The shape of these hollow patterns can be a combination of cylindrical holes, top arc and middle rectangle, etc., which can release the stress generated when the high-rigidity support layer structure 100 is bent.

[0004] However, the placement of the perforated pattern area 101 inevitably affects the flatness of the support layer structure, which in turn further affects the display effect of the flexible display panel: when such... Figure 1 When the support layer structure shown is bonded to the flexible display panel, regardless of the bonding method, since there is no stress point in the hollow pattern area 101 and the thickness of the support layer structure is thicker than other film layers, the hollow pattern will be transferred onto the flexible display panel due to uneven stress, and imprints that affect the appearance will appear on the display side; these imprints will be continuously aggravated in other bonding processes after the support layer structure is bonded. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the problems in the background art, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a support component and its preparation method, as well as a display module using the support component and its preparation method. By providing a removable second support layer in the support component, the problem of imprints formed on the flexible display panel during the bonding process of the display module is avoided.

[0006] Specifically, the first aspect of this disclosure provides a support component for a foldable flexible display panel, which may include:

[0007] A first support layer, at least a portion of which is provided with a perforated pattern, the distribution area of ​​which corresponds to the foldable area of ​​the flexible display panel;

[0008] A composite foam layer is attached to the first side of the first support layer near the flexible display panel.

[0009] The second support layer is detachably disposed on the second side of the first support layer away from the composite foam layer;

[0010] When the second support layer is disposed on the first support layer, the entire hollow pattern is filled by at least a portion of the second support layer.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, the second support layer includes a hollow support body whose shape is adapted to the hollow pattern.

[0012] When the second support layer is set on the first support layer, the hollow support body fits into the hollow pattern.

[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the contact surface between the hollow support and the first support layer is provided with a smooth coating.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, the second support layer includes an auxiliary disassembly body, which is fixedly connected to the hollow support body.

[0015] When the second support layer is set on the first support layer, the movement of the auxiliary disassembly body relative to the first support layer causes the hollow support body to separate from the hollow pattern, thereby realizing the disassembly of the second support layer relative to the first support layer.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect above, the auxiliary disassembly body includes two force-applying structures disposed on opposite sides of the second support layer;

[0017] The second support layer also includes a separable region that is in a connected state;

[0018] When the second support layer is provided on the first support layer, by applying forces in opposite directions to the two force-applying structures along the plane of the second support layer, the second support layer is separated into two parts at the separable area. Each part moves relative to the first support layer in the direction of the corresponding force, so as to achieve the disassembly of the second support layer relative to the first support layer.

[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the elastic modulus of the material used to prepare the first support layer is greater than a first preset threshold.

[0020] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the difference between the elastic modulus of the material used to prepare the second support layer and the elastic modulus of the first support layer is less than a second preset threshold.

[0021] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the elastic modulus of the material used to prepare the second support layer is the same as that of the first support layer.

[0022] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the support component further includes:

[0023] The first protective layer is attached to the third side of the composite foam layer closest to the flexible display panel;

[0024] The second protective layer is detachably attached to the second side of the first support layer away from the composite foam layer.

[0025] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the second support layer is fixedly connected to the second protective layer;

[0026] When the second support layer is provided on the first support layer, the second support layer can be removed from the first support layer by removing the second protective layer relative to the first support layer.

[0027] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a method for fabricating a support component, comprising the following steps:

[0028] A first support layer and a second support layer are prepared respectively, wherein at least a portion of the first support layer is provided with a hollow pattern, and the second support layer includes a hollow support body whose shape is adapted to the hollow pattern.

[0029] A composite foam layer is attached to the first surface of the first support layer;

[0030] The second support layer is disposed on the first support layer from the second side of the first support layer so that the hollow support body fits into the hollow pattern.

[0031] In one possible implementation of the second aspect described above, the process of preparing the second support layer further includes:

[0032] A smooth coating is applied to the contact surface between the hollow support and the first support layer.

[0033] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the process of disposing the second support layer on the first support layer from the second surface of the first support layer further includes:

[0034] Apply lubricant to the surface of the second support layer;

[0035] The second support layer coated with lubricant is fitted into the first support layer.

[0036] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, after the hollow support body and the hollow pattern are fitted together, the preparation method further includes:

[0037] A protective layer is attached to the third side of the composite foam layer away from the first support layer and the second side of the first support layer, respectively.

[0038] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, the process of disposing the second support layer on the first support layer from the second surface of the first support layer further includes:

[0039] The second support layer is fixedly connected to a protective layer;

[0040] The protective layer is attached to the second side of the first support layer so that the hollow support body fits into the hollow pattern.

[0041] In one possible implementation of the first aspect described above, after the hollow support body and the hollow pattern are fitted together, the preparation method further includes:

[0042] Another protective layer is attached to the third side of the composite foam layer away from the first support layer.

[0043] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a display module including a foldable flexible display panel and at least a portion of the support components provided in the first aspect.

[0044] The fourth aspect of this disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a display module, comprising the following steps:

[0045] The support component provided in the first aspect is attached to the side of the foldable flexible display panel that is opposite to the light emission direction.

[0046] A preset bonding process is performed on the flexible display panel;

[0047] Once the bonding process is complete, the second support layer is removed from the support assembly.

[0048] Compared with the prior art, this disclosure has the following beneficial effects:

[0049] The technical solution provided in this disclosure incorporates a detachable second support layer within the support assembly, while the first support layer and the composite foam layer are designed as a single integrated material. This enhances the support effect of the support assembly on the folding area of ​​the foldable flexible display panel, preventing marks from appearing on the flexible display panel during subsequent bonding processes and resulting in a better visual appearance. After the flexible display panel bonding process is completed, the second support layer can be removed from the support assembly without affecting the stress release of the high-rigidity support assembly during bending, and without increasing the overall thickness of the display module. This support assembly has a simple manufacturing structure, is easy to assemble and disassemble, and has significant potential for widespread application. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Other features, objects, and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Figure 1 According to the background art, a schematic diagram of the support layer structure of a foldable flexible display panel is provided.

[0052] Figures 2a to 2b According to embodiments of this disclosure, a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a support component is provided.

[0053] Figure 3 According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a schematic diagram of an optional implementation structure is provided from a bottom-up view of a second side.

[0054] Figure 4 According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method using... Figure 3 A cross-sectional structural diagram of the support component of the optional implementation structure is shown.

[0055] Figure 5 According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method using... Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the fabrication process of the support component for the optional implementation structure is shown.

[0056] Figure 6 According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a schematic diagram of another optional implementation structure is provided from a bottom-up view of the second side.

[0057] Figure 7 According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method using... Figure 6 A cross-sectional structural diagram of the support component of the optional implementation structure is shown.

[0058] Figure 8 According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method using... Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the fabrication process of the support component for the optional implementation structure is shown.

[0059] Figure 9 According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display module is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0060] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this disclosure from the content disclosed herein. This disclosure can also be implemented or applied to systems through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this disclosure can also be modified or changed according to different viewpoints and application systems without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0061] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains can readily implement it. This disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0062] In this disclosure, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic represented in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this disclosure. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics represented may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples represented in this disclosure, as well as the features of those different embodiments or examples.

[0063] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the representation of this disclosure, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise expressly and specifically defined.

[0064] For the purpose of clarity, devices unrelated to the description are omitted, and the same or similar components throughout the specification are given the same reference numerals.

[0065] Throughout this specification, when it is said that a device is "connected" to another device, this includes not only "direct connection" but also "indirect connection" by placing other components in between. Furthermore, when it is said that a device "comprises" a certain constituent element, unless otherwise stated otherwise, this does not exclude other constituent elements, but rather implies that other constituent elements may be included.

[0066] When we say that a device is "above" another device, this can mean that it is directly above the other device, or it can mean that other devices are present in between. Conversely, when we say that a device is "directly" "above" another device, there are no other devices present in between.

[0067] Although the terms first, second, etc., are used in some instances herein to refer to various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, first interface and second interface, etc., are used. Furthermore, as used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms unless the context indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, components, items, kinds, and / or groups, but do not exclude the presence, occurrence, or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, items, kinds, and / or groups. The terms “or” and “and / or” as used herein are interpreted as inclusive, or mean any one or any combination thereof. Thus, “A, B, or C” or “A, B, and / or C” means “any one of: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B, and C.” Exceptions to this definition will only occur if the combination of elements, functions, steps, or operations is inherently mutually exclusive in some way.

[0068] The technical terms used herein are for reference only to specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. The singular form used herein includes the plural form unless the statement explicitly indicates otherwise. The word "comprising" as used in this specification means to specify a particular characteristic, region, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component, and does not exclude the presence or addition of other characteristics, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components.

[0069] Although not explicitly defined, all terms, including technical and scientific terms used herein, shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be further interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the relevant technical literature and the content of this present disclosure, and shall not be over-interpreted as having an ideal or overly formulaic meaning unless otherwise defined.

[0070] As can be seen from the relevant descriptions in the background art, the following methods are employed: Figure 1The support layer structure 100 shown can support the foldable flexible display panel. However, because the support layer structure 100 has a hollowed-out pattern area 101 to release bending stress, during the process of supporting the flexible display panel, uneven stress in the subsequent bonding process can cause the hollowed-out pattern of the hollowed-out pattern area 101 to be transferred onto the flexible display panel, resulting in imprints on the display side of the flexible display panel, affecting the appearance and user experience. In order to overcome the practical application problems mentioned above, this disclosure proposes a support component and its manufacturing method, which can support the foldable flexible display panel while avoiding the transfer of the hollowed-out pattern onto the flexible display panel. The composition structure of this support component will be specifically described below:

[0071] Specifically, Figures 2a to 2b According to embodiments of this disclosure, cross-sectional structural schematic diagrams of a support component are shown. This support component is applied to a foldable flexible display panel and may specifically include:

[0072] A first support layer 201, wherein at least a portion of the first support layer 201 is provided with a perforated pattern 201a. It is understood that the distribution area of ​​the perforated pattern 201a in the first support layer 201 corresponds to the foldable area of ​​the flexible display panel. The specific shape of the perforated pattern 201a is not limited here; those skilled in the art can choose a suitable perforated pattern shape according to actual needs, and no limitation is made here. (Refer to the background art provided...) Figure 1 It is understood that the structure of the first support layer 201 provided in this embodiment may be the same as the main structure of the support layer structure 100 provided in the background art, and will not be described in detail hereafter.

[0073] The composite foam layer 202 is attached to the first side a of the first support layer 201 near the flexible display panel. It is understood that in the solutions provided in the background art, the support layer structure 100 and the composite foam layer are separate components and are relatively independently configured; and in the bonding process of the flexible display panel, the composite foam layer is often first bonded to the flexible display panel after the glass substrate has been removed, and then bonded to the support layer structure 100. In contrast, the embodiments provided in this disclosure use an integrated component for the composite foam layer 202 and the first support layer 201. This reduces potential transfer marks on the flexible display panel and simplifies the design of the protective film layer for the support components and the disassembly of the second support layer 203. These beneficial effects will be further explained later.

[0074] The second support layer 203 is detachably disposed on the second side b of the first support layer away from the composite foam layer 202. For example... Figure 2a or Figure 2bAs shown, the second support layer 203 is embedded from the second surface b into the first support layer 201. After the setup is completed, all the hollow patterns 201a are partially enclosed by the second support layer 203 (e.g., ...). Figure 2b (as shown) or all (as shown) Figure 2a As shown, the first support layer 201a is filled with the hollow pattern 201a to support the area of ​​the hollow pattern 201a. It is understood that because the second support layer 203 completely fills the hollow pattern 201a of the first support layer 201 during the installation process, the hollow pattern 201a will no longer transfer its marks onto the flexible display panel due to stress during the bonding process of the support assembly. This also avoids transfer marks during subsequent bonding processes, effectively solving the problem of transfer marks affecting the appearance mentioned in the background art. The following will further explain the specific implementation of the above-mentioned support assembly from multiple aspects, including the material, structure, and disassembly method of the support layer:

[0075] In the above embodiments, specifically, the elastic modulus value of the material used to prepare the first support layer 201 needs to be greater than a first preset threshold. It can be understood that modulus refers to the ratio of stress to strain of a material under stress. The elastic modulus can be regarded as an indicator of the ease with which a material undergoes elastic deformation. The larger the elastic modulus value, the greater the stress that can cause the material to undergo a certain elastic deformation.

[0076] Similar to the support layer structure 100 in the background technology, the first support layer needs to support the flexible display panel and be able to cooperate with the flexible display panel to perform folding operations. Therefore, it is necessary to limit the material of its preparation to have a high elastic modulus. For example, the material of the first support layer 201 can be stainless steel or titanium alloy. The appropriate material can be selected according to the actual application scenario, and no limitation is made here.

[0077] In the above embodiments, it is further necessary to limit the difference between the elastic modulus value of the material used to prepare the second support layer 203 and the elastic modulus value of the material used to prepare the first support layer 201 to be less than a second preset threshold. More preferably, the elastic modulus value of the material used to prepare the second support layer 203 is the same as the elastic modulus value of the first support layer 201. It is understood that although the second support layer 203 fills the area of ​​the hollow pattern 201a, if the elastic modulus of the second support layer 203 and the first support layer 201 differs too much, it will result in different deformations even though the first support layer 201 and the second support layer 203 after setup are subjected to the same force. This will lead to the presence of imprint transfer in the hollow pattern 201a area due to different amounts of deformation. Therefore, it is necessary to limit the elastic modulus value of the material used to prepare the second support layer 203 to be similar to the elastic modulus value of the first support layer 201, or to directly use the same material for preparation.

[0078] like Figure 2a or Figure 2b As shown, the second support layer 203 includes a plurality of hollow support bodies 203a. The shape of the hollow support body 203a is adapted to the hollow pattern 201a. When the second support layer 203 is disposed on the first support layer 201, the hollow support body 203a fills and supports the hollow pattern area by fitting into the through hole formed by the hollow pattern 201a.

[0079] It is understandable that, such as Figure 2a or Figure 2b As shown, the second support layer 203, including the hollow support body 203a, is fitted from bottom to top onto the first support layer 201 from the second surface b to achieve a detachable configuration of the first support layer 201 and the second support layer 203. To ensure a tighter fit between the first support layer 201 and the second support layer 203, minimizing gaps and imprints, a suitable chemical etching solution can be used during the fabrication of the first support layer 201 and the second support layer 203. This etching process forms a smooth surface pattern by etching the inner edges of each hollow pattern 201a and the outer edges of each hollow support body 203a. This not only avoids uneven surfaces that could lead to a loose fit but also reduces friction between the first support layer 201 and the second support layer 203 by lowering surface roughness, facilitating the subsequent disassembly of the second support layer 203.

[0080] Furthermore, such as Figure 2a or Figure 2b As shown, a smooth plating layer 203b is provided on the contact surface between the hollow support 203a and the first support layer 201. It can be understood that, to further reduce the friction between the second support layer 203 and the first support layer 201, this can be achieved by applying a smooth plating layer 203b with good ductility and a relatively soft texture to the side of the hollow support 203a. Specifically, copper can be selected as the material for preparing the smooth plating layer 203b, and this is not limited here. Figure 2a or Figure 2b It can be seen that if the cross-sectional width of a single hollow pattern 201a is set as X, and the cross-sectional width of the hollow support 203a is set as Y, then the cross-sectional width of a single smooth surface coating 203b can be obtained as follows: Furthermore, the cross-sectional width of a single smooth coating 203b is much smaller than the cross-sectional width of the hollow support 203a.

[0081] like Figure 2bAs shown, the second support layer 203 may further include an auxiliary disassembly body 203c, wherein the auxiliary disassembly body 203c is fixedly connected to the hollow support body 203a. When the second support layer 203 is disposed on the first support layer 201, the movement of the auxiliary disassembly body 203c relative to the first support layer 201 causes the hollow support body 203a to detach from the hollow pattern 201a, thereby achieving the disassembly of the second support layer 203 relative to the first support layer 201. It can be understood that, in cases such as... Figure 2a The second support layer 203 structure shown only includes the structure related to the hollow support 203a. This means that during subsequent disassembly, it requires the assistance of other support components to complete the disassembly operation. However, as shown in the diagram... Figure 2b In the second support layer 203 structure shown, the auxiliary disassembly body 203c is located below the hollow support body 203a and is fixedly connected to the hollow support body 203a. For example... Figure 2b As shown in the diagram, in the cross-sectional view, at least a portion of the auxiliary disassembly body 203c extends beyond the edge of the first support layer 201, giving the second support layer 203 more stress points to allow the second support layer 203 to be disassembled relative to the first support layer 201. The specific disassembly process will be explained in detail later.

[0082] Understandably, based on the aforementioned Figure 2a and Figure 2b As can be seen from the relevant examples, the second support layer 203 can consist of only the hollow support body 203a, or it can consist of both the hollow support body 203a and the auxiliary disassembly body 203c. The following provides two optional implementation structures of the support components to further illustrate the technical solution provided in this disclosure:

[0083] Specifically, Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an optional embodiment is shown from a bottom-up view of the second surface b. It can be seen that, in addition to the first support layer 201, composite foam layer 202 (not shown), and second support layer 203 mentioned in the previous embodiments, the support assembly also includes a first protective layer 204 and a second protective layer 205. The first protective layer 204 is attached to the third surface of the composite foam layer 202 near the flexible display panel, and the second protective layer 205 is attached to the second surface b of the first support layer 201 away from the composite foam layer 202. The coverage areas of both the first and second protective layers 205 are larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first support layer 201 in the same direction, and the coverage area of ​​the first protective layer 204 is larger than that of the second protective layer 205. It is understood that attaching protective film layers to the upper and lower surfaces of the support assembly is a common practice used by those skilled in the art, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0084] It is understandable that, in cases like Figure 3 In the optional implementation structure shown, the second support layer 203 only includes the structure of the hollow support body 203a, and the relevant cross-sectional structure can be as follows: Figure 4 As shown. Because the hollow support 203a needs to fill the area of ​​the hollow pattern 201a, the second support layer 203, which only contains the hollow support 203a, is completely embedded in the first support layer 201 when it is set up, making it relatively difficult to disassemble directly. Therefore, in the case of... Figure 3 In the optional embodiment shown, each hollow support 203a is first fixedly connected to the second protective layer 205, that is, the second support layer 203 is fixedly connected to the second protective layer 205 as a whole. This allows the hollow support 203a to fit into the hollow pattern 201a when the second protective layer 205 is attached to the second surface b of the first support layer 201. Furthermore, during the subsequent removal of the second protective layer 205, the fitted hollow support 203a will leave the first support layer 201 along with the second protective layer 205, thus enabling the disassembly of the second support layer. In practice, the fixed connection between the hollow support 203a and the second protective layer 205 can be achieved using strong adhesive, and is not limited to this method.

[0085] Specifically, Figure 5 An example of using, as shown Figure 3 The schematic diagram of the fabrication process of the support component for the optional implementation structure is shown below. Figure 5 As shown, it may include the following steps:

[0086] Step 501: Prepare a first support layer and a second support layer respectively. At least a portion of the first support layer has a perforated pattern, and the second support layer includes a perforated support body whose shape is adapted to the perforated pattern. The preparation method of the first and second support layers can be the chemical etching method provided in the previous embodiments, and will not be elaborated here.

[0087] Step 502: Attach a composite foam layer to the first side of the first support layer.

[0088] Step 503: Fix the second support layer to a protective layer. The protective layer is the second protective layer described in the preceding embodiments.

[0089] Step 504: Attach the protective layer to the second side of the first support layer so that the hollow support body fits into the hollow pattern.

[0090] Step 505: Attach another protective layer to the third side of the composite foam layer away from the first support layer.

[0091] It is understandable that, through the above steps 501 to 505, the following can be achieved: Figure 3 The optional implementation structure shown illustrates the preparation, assembly, and disassembly of the support components. As can be seen from the description of the foregoing embodiments, the integrated material design of the first support layer and the composite foam layer in step 502 not only facilitates the subsequent disassembly of the second support layer but also simplifies the design of the protective film layer. If the first support layer and the composite foam layer were designed using individual materials, further design of the adhesion between the second support layer and the first and second protective layers would be necessary to prevent adhesion to other film layers, such as the composite foam layer, which could lead to problems such as difficulty in disassembly. Therefore, the integrated material design of the composite foam layer and the first support layer in the technical solution provided in this disclosure, compared to the individual material design in the prior art, can reduce ink transfer while simplifying the structural design of the support components and the protective film layer, and has significant potential for widespread application.

[0092] In other embodiments provided in this disclosure, Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an alternative implementation structure from a bottom-up view of the second surface b, for comparison. Figure 3 It can be seen that, Figure 6 The optional implementation structure shown also includes a first protective layer 204 and a second protective layer 205. The positional relationship between the first protective layer 204 and the second protective layer 205 and the first support layer 201 and the composite foam layer 202 (not shown in the figure) is the same as that in the previous embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0093] like Figure 6 As shown, the second support layer 203 includes both a hollow support body 203a and an auxiliary disassembly body 203c. The relevant cross-sectional structure can be seen as follows: Figure 7 As shown. Combined with Figure 6 and Figure 7 As can be seen, the auxiliary disassembly body 203c includes two force-applying structures disposed on opposite sides of the second support layer 203, and the second support layer 203 also includes a separable region in a connected state. When the second support layer 203 is disposed on the first support layer 201, by applying forces in opposite directions to the two force-applying structures along the plane of the second support layer 203, the second support layer 203 is separated into two parts at the separable region. Each part moves relative to the first support layer 201 along the direction of the corresponding force, thereby achieving the disassembly of the second support layer 203 relative to the first support layer 201.

[0094] exist Figure 6 and Figure 7In the illustrated implementation structure, each strip-shaped hollow support 203a is broken near the middle, and a chamfered design, as shown in the enlarged area, is used at the break point to reduce stress and facilitate disassembly. The force-applying structures on the left and right sides can be designed as handle structures, which can connect each strip-shaped hollow support 203a embedded in the hollow pattern 201a area into one piece, so that it can be removed from the left and right sides after installation. After the entire bonding process is completed, the second support layer 203 of this design can be pulled out from both sides of the display panel for disassembly. This requires that the upper and lower surfaces of the second support layer 203 be non-adhesive and not bonded to the first support layer 201 and the second protective layer 205. In the specific installation process, lubricant can be applied to the surface of the second support layer 203, and the chamfered design of the connection area can provide a more convenient disassembly effect.

[0095] Specifically, Figure 8 An example of using, as shown Figure 6 The schematic diagram of the fabrication process of the support component for the optional implementation structure is shown below. Figure 8 As shown, it may include the following steps:

[0096] Step 801: Prepare a first support layer and a second support layer respectively. At least a portion of the first support layer is provided with a hollow pattern, and the second support layer includes a hollow support body whose shape is adapted to the hollow pattern.

[0097] Step 802: Attach a composite foam layer to the first surface of the first support layer. The above steps are the same as those in steps 501 to 502 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0098] Step 803: Apply lubricant to the surface of the second support layer.

[0099] Step 804: Fit the second support layer coated with lubricant to the first support layer.

[0100] Step 805: Attach a protective layer to the third side of the composite foam layer away from the first support layer and the second side of the first support layer, respectively.

[0101] It is understandable that, through the above steps 801 to 805, the following can be achieved: Figure 6 The fabrication, assembly, and disassembly of the support components in the optional implementation structure shown. Figure 6 The optional implementation structure shown and Figure 3 All the optional implementation structures shown can achieve a detachable second support layer in the support assembly, which can eliminate the imprint transfer situation that occurs in the flexible display panel bonding process.

[0102] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a display module is also provided, which includes a foldable flexible display panel and at least a portion of the support component provided in the foregoing embodiments. Specifically, in the finished display module, the support component is attached to the back of the foldable flexible display panel to provide necessary support. At this time, the second support layer in the support component has been removed, leaving only the first support layer to support and cooperate with the flexible display panel, and releasing bending stress through the hollowed-out pattern area during the bending process of the flexible display panel.

[0103] Specifically, Figure 9 A schematic flowchart of a display module manufacturing method is shown according to an embodiment of this disclosure, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the specific steps may include the following:

[0104] Step 901: Attach a support component to the side of the foldable flexible display panel opposite to the light emission direction. The support component can be any of the support components described in the preceding embodiments.

[0105] Step 902: Perform a preset bonding process on the flexible display panel. It is understood that after the flexible display panel and support components are set up, the module bonding process that may produce imprints includes, but is not limited to, the bonding process of individual materials, such as the bonding process of polyimide film and stainless steel metal support; the bonding process of stainless steel metal support and display panel assembly; the bonding process of polyester film assembly and display panel assembly; the bonding process of finished film and display panel assembly; and the bonding process of display panel assembly and polyurethane film. In other words, all bonding processes that may produce imprint transfers need to be completed before the second support layer of the support component is removed; this is not limited to these specific processes.

[0106] Step 903: After the bonding process is completed, remove the second support layer from the support assembly. The method for removing the second support layer can be found in the solutions provided in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0107] In summary, the technical solution provided in this disclosure, by incorporating a detachable second support layer within the support assembly and integrating the first support layer and the composite foam layer into a single material, enhances the support effect of the support assembly for the folding area of ​​the foldable flexible display panel. This prevents marks from appearing on the flexible display panel during subsequent bonding processes, resulting in a superior visual appearance. Furthermore, the second support layer can be removed from the support assembly after the flexible display panel bonding process is completed, without affecting the stress release of the high-rigidity support assembly during bending, and without increasing the overall thickness of the display module. This support assembly has a simple manufacturing structure, is easy to assemble and disassemble, and has significant potential for widespread application.

[0108] The above description, in conjunction with specific preferred embodiments, provides a further detailed explanation of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting the specific implementation of this disclosure to these descriptions. For those skilled in the art, various simple deductions or substitutions can be made without departing from the concept of this disclosure, and all such modifications and substitutions should be considered within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A support component for use in a foldable flexible display panel, characterized in that, include, A first support layer, wherein at least a portion of the first support layer is provided with a hollow pattern, and the distribution area of ​​the hollow pattern corresponds to the foldable area of ​​the flexible display panel; A composite foam layer is attached to the first side of the first support layer near the flexible display panel. The second support layer is detachably disposed on the first support layer from the second side of the first support layer away from the composite foam layer; When the second support layer is disposed on the first support layer, all of the hollowed-out patterns are filled by at least a portion of the second support layer.

2. The support component as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second support layer includes a hollow support body, the shape of which is adapted to the hollow pattern; When the second support layer is disposed on the first support layer, the hollow support body is fitted with the hollow pattern.

3. The support component as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The contact surface between the hollow support and the first support layer is provided with a smooth coating.

4. The support component as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The second support layer includes an auxiliary disassembly body, which is fixedly connected to the hollow support body; When the second support layer is disposed on the first support layer, the hollow support body is separated from the hollow pattern by the movement of the auxiliary disassembly body relative to the first support layer, so as to realize the disassembly of the second support layer relative to the first support layer.

5. The support component as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic modulus of the material used to prepare the first support layer is greater than a first preset threshold.

6. The support component as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The difference between the elastic modulus of the material used to prepare the second support layer and the elastic modulus of the first support layer is less than a second preset threshold.

7. The support component as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The elastic modulus of the material used to prepare the second support layer is the same as that of the first support layer.

8. The support component as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The first protective layer is attached to the third side of the composite foam layer near the flexible display panel; The second protective layer is detachably attached to the second side of the first support layer away from the composite foam layer.

9. The support component as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The second support layer is fixedly connected to the second protective layer; When the second support layer is disposed on the first support layer, the second support layer can be removed from the first support layer by removing the second protective layer relative to the first support layer.

10. A method for fabricating a support component, applied to the fabrication of a foldable flexible display panel, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: A first support layer and a second support layer are prepared respectively. At least a portion of the first support layer is provided with a hollow pattern. The second support layer includes a hollow support body. The shape of the hollow support body is adapted to the hollow pattern, and the distribution area of ​​the hollow pattern corresponds to the foldable area of ​​the flexible display panel. A composite foam layer is attached to the first surface of the first support layer; The second support layer is detachably disposed on the first support layer from the second side of the first support layer, so that the hollow support body fits into the hollow pattern.

11. The preparation method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The process of preparing the second support layer also includes: A smooth coating is provided on the contact surface between the hollow support and the first support layer.

12. The preparation method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The process of disposing the second support layer from the second surface of the first support layer onto the first support layer further includes: Apply lubricant to the surface of the second support layer; The second support layer coated with lubricant is fitted to the first support layer.

13. The preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that, After the hollow support body and the hollow pattern are fitted together, the preparation method further includes: A protective layer is attached to the third side of the composite foam layer away from the first support layer and the second side of the first support layer, respectively.

14. The preparation method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The process of disposing the second support layer from the second surface of the first support layer onto the first support layer further includes: The second support layer is fixedly connected to a protective layer; The protective layer is attached to the second side of the first support layer so that the hollow support body fits into the hollow pattern.

15. The preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that, After the hollow support body and the hollow pattern are fitted together, the preparation method further includes: Another protective layer is attached to the third side of the composite foam layer away from the first support layer.

16. A display module, characterized in that, It includes a foldable flexible display panel and at least a portion of the support component as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

17. A method for manufacturing a display module, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: A support component as described in any one of claims 1 to 9 is attached to the side of the foldable flexible display panel opposite to the light emission direction; A preset bonding process is performed on the flexible display panel; Once the bonding process is completed, the second support layer is removed from the support assembly.

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