Flexible display module, its fabrication method, and display device

Abstract

This invention relates to a flexible display module, its fabrication method, and a display device. The flexible display module includes: a flexible display panel comprising a first flat area, a bending area, and a second flat area connected sequentially, the flexible display panel having a first surface and a second surface arranged opposite to each other; a polymer film layer adhered to the first surface, the polymer film layer at least covering the bending area, an edge region of the first flat area near the bending area, and an edge region of the second flat area near the bending area; and a first photoresist layer coated on the surface of the first surface corresponding to the first flat area, the edge of the first photoresist layer being connected to the edge of the polymer film layer. The flexible display module proposed in this invention avoids the problem of the protective layer starting position being too high due to the siphon effect in the prior art, effectively reduces the risk of air bubbles generated during polarizer lamination, and can reduce the width of the bezel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a flexible display module, its manufacturing method, and a display device. Background Technology

[0002] This section provides only background information relevant to this disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] With the development of display technology, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) flexible display panels are gradually emerging. Flexible display panels refer to screens that can be bent, folded, and have excellent flexibility. Compared with traditional rigid screens, flexible screens have good flexibility, thin and light size, lower power consumption, and resistance to scratching and rubbing.

[0004] Currently, flexible OLED display modules, which utilize flexible display panels, are widely used as display components in various electronic products. Narrow bezels and ultra-thin module designs are increasingly favored by terminal manufacturers and consumers. The narrow bezel solution is achieved through Pad bending technology.

[0005] In existing technologies, a protective layer (such as polyester polyurethane adhesive, Micro coating layer, or MCL) is formed on the outside of the bending area of ​​a flexible display panel using a dispensing molding method. However, due to the siphon effect, the starting position of the protective layer is too high, which leads to problems such as air bubbles in the optically clear adhesive layer (OCA) during bonding. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The objective of this invention is to at least solve the problem in the prior art where the protective layer formed in the bending area using dispensing molding results in an excessively high starting position. This objective is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a flexible display module is provided, the flexible display module comprising: a flexible display panel including a first flat plate region, a bending region, and a second flat plate region connected in sequence, the flexible display panel having a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other, the portion of the first surface located in the first flat plate region being a light-emitting surface; a polymer film layer adhered to the first surface, the polymer film layer at least covering the bending region, an edge region of the first flat plate region near the bending region, and an edge region of the second flat plate region near the bending region; and a first photoresist layer coated on the surface of the first surface corresponding to the first flat plate region, the edge of the first photoresist layer being connected to the edge of the polymer film layer.

[0008] The flexible display module proposed in this invention forms a protective layer for the flexible display panel by directly attaching a polymer film layer to the bending area, the first flat plate area, and the geothermal flat plate area of ​​the flexible display panel. This replaces the existing method of forming the protective layer using dispensing molding. Furthermore, after attaching the polymer film layer, a first photoresist layer is sprayed, and the edge of the first photoresist layer is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer, avoiding the problem of the protective layer's initial position being too high due to the siphon effect in the prior art. Moreover, compared to the prior art's bonding process requiring a clearance between the protective layer and the photoresist layer or polarizer, the low-viscosity, self-flowing characteristics of the liquid optical adhesive material allow for a seamless connection between the edges of the first photoresist layer and the polymer film layer, avoiding gaps between them. Therefore, the width of the bezel can be effectively reduced.

[0009] In addition, the flexible display module according to the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, the flexible display module further includes: a second photoresist layer disposed on the side of the first photoresist layer opposite to the flexible display panel; and a cover plate attached to the surface of the second photoresist layer opposite to the first photoresist layer.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the thickness of the first photoresist layer is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer, and the edge region of the second photoresist layer near one end of the polymer film layer overlaps with one side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the thickness of the first photoresist layer is greater than the thickness of the polymer film layer. The first photoresist layer includes a first coating and a second coating. The first coating is connected to the first flat plate region. The thickness of the first coating is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer, and the edge of the first coating is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer. The second coating is applied to the side of the first coating away from the flexible display panel, and the edge region of the second coating near one end of the polymer film layer overlaps the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, the thickness of the first photoresist layer is smaller than the thickness of the polymer film layer, the second photoresist layer includes a third coating and a fourth coating, the third coating is connected to the first photoresist layer, the edge of the third coating is connected to the polymer film layer, and the sum of the thickness of the third coating and the thickness of the first photoresist layer is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer, the fourth coating is applied to the side of the third coating away from the first photoresist layer, and the edge region of the fourth coating near the end of the polymer film layer overlaps the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the material of the first photoresist layer is different from the material of the second photoresist layer.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the flexible display module further includes a polarizer disposed between the first photoresist layer and the second photoresist layer, wherein the opposite two sides of the polarizer are respectively bonded to the first photoresist layer and the second photoresist layer.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, the edge region of the polarizer near one end of the polymer film layer overlaps with one side of the polymer film layer opposite to the flexible display panel.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, the second photoresist layer includes a connected main body and an overlapping portion, the main body covering the polarizer, the overlapping portion being connected to the edge of the polarizer near the end of the polymer film layer, and the overlapping portion overlapping the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

[0018] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a display device and a method for fabricating a flexible display module are also provided. The method includes: providing a flexible display panel having a first flat area, a bending area, and a second flat area connected in sequence; the flexible display panel including a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other, wherein the portion of the first surface located in the first flat area is a light-emitting surface; providing a polymer film layer; attaching the polymer film layer to the first surface and at least covering the bending area, an edge region of the first flat area near the bending area, and an edge region of the second flat area near the bending area; and spraying a first photoresist layer onto the first surface located in the first flat area, such that the edge of the first photoresist layer is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present invention, the step of spraying a first photoresist layer on the first surface located in the first flat plate region includes: spraying a first photoresist layer with the same thickness as the polymer film layer on the first surface located in the first flat plate region.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present invention, after the step of spraying the first photoresist layer, the preparation method further includes:

[0021] A second photoadhesive layer is applied to the side of the first photoadhesive layer away from the flexible display panel by spraying or film bonding, and the edge region of the second photoadhesive layer near the end of the polymer film layer overlaps the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present invention, after the step of spraying the first photoresist layer, the preparation method further includes: providing a polarizer and attaching the polarizer to a side of the first photoresist layer away from the flexible display panel, and having the edge region of the polarizer near one end of the polymer film layer overlap the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel; and depositing a second photoresist layer on the side of the polarizer away from the flexible display panel by spraying or film bonding.

[0023] In some embodiments of the present invention, the step of spraying a first photoresist layer on the first surface located in the first flat plate area includes: spraying the first photoresist layer on the surface of the first surface corresponding to the first flat plate area, wherein the thickness of the first photoresist layer is smaller than the thickness of the polymer film layer; after the step of spraying the first photoresist layer, the preparation method further includes: spraying a second photoresist layer on the side of the first photoresist layer and a portion of the polymer film layer facing away from the flexible display panel, wherein the second photoresist layer includes a third coating layer and a fourth coating layer sprayed sequentially, wherein the thickness of the third coating layer is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer, and the edge of the third coating layer is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer, wherein the fourth coating layer is applied to the side of the third coating layer facing away from the flexible display panel, and the edge region of the fourth coating layer near one end of the polymer film layer overlaps the side of the polymer film layer facing away from the flexible display panel.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present invention, the preparation method further includes: providing a cover plate and attaching the cover plate to one side of the second photoresist layer away from the flexible display panel.

[0025] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a display device is also provided, the display device comprising the flexible display module described in any one of the technical solutions of the first aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module based on a related technical solution is shown;

[0028] Figure 2 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module based on another related technical solution is shown;

[0029] Figure 3 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0030] Figure 4 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0031] Figure 5 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0032] Figure 6 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0033] Figure 7 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0034] Figure 8 A cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0035] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the manufacturing process of a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0036] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a method for fabricating a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0037] Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating a method for fabricating a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0038] Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating a method for fabricating a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0039] Figure 13A flowchart illustrating a method for fabricating a flexible display module according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0040] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0041] 100' Display module; 10' Flexible display panel; 11' First flat panel area; 12' Bending area; 13' Second flat panel area; 20' Protective layer; 21' Starting position; 40' Photoresist layer; 50' Polarizing layer; 60' Cover plate; 1001' Clearance gap;

[0042] 100. Flexible display module;

[0043] 10. Flexible display panel; 11. First flat panel area; 12. Bending area; 13. Second flat panel area; 101. First surface; 102. Second surface;

[0044] 20. Polymer thin film layer; 21. First protection zone; 22. Second protection zone; 23. Third protection zone;

[0045] 30. First gloss adhesive layer; 31. First coating layer; 32. Second coating layer;

[0046] 40. Second gloss adhesive layer; 41. Third coating layer; 42. Fourth coating layer; 43. Main body; 44. Overlapping part;

[0047] 50. Polarizing film;

[0048] 60. Cover plate; 70. Buffer protection tape; 80. Area folding fixing tape. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0050] It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “described” as used herein may also include the plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not construed as requiring them to be performed in a particular order described or illustrated unless the order of performance is explicitly indicated. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be used.

[0051] Although terms such as first, second, third, etc., may be used in this document to describe multiple elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0052] For ease of description, spatial relative terms may be used in the text to describe the relationship of one element or feature relative to another element or feature, as shown in the figure. These relative terms include, for example, "inside," "outside," "middle," "outer," "below," "below," "above," "over," etc. Such spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as "below other elements or features" or "below other elements or features" would subsequently be oriented "above other elements or features" or "above other elements or features." Therefore, the example term "below" can include both upper and lower orientations.

[0053] In related technologies, such as Figure 1As shown, in a flexible straight-board mobile phone display module 100' solution, the flexible display panel 10' includes a first flat area 11', a bending area 12', and a second flat area 13'. A protective layer 20' is formed at the edge areas of the first and second flat areas and on the outer side of the bending area using a dispensing molding method. However, due to the siphon effect, the thickness of the protective layer 20' at its starting position 21' is too high, exceeding that of the polarizing layer 50', resulting in air bubbles when the optically clear adhesive layer 40' (OCA) is bonded. Due to the development of four-curved cover glass and the increasing performance requirements of terminals, the structure of the protective layer formed by dispensing molding also exposes many problems. For example, adhesion between the glass cover 50' and the protective layer 20' leads to bending cracks; the protective layer 20' uses a UV-curable protective adhesive (such as polyester polyurethane adhesive, Micro coating layer, or MCL), which is not resistant to grease and cannot meet the protection requirements.

[0054] Based on the shortcomings of the above-mentioned solutions, in some related solutions, such as Figure 2 As shown, a bonding tape (polymer film, abbreviated as Bending Film) is used to replace the dispensing-formed protective layer 20' to achieve waterproof and oil-proof protection. The bonding tape solution needs to consider the influence of bonding process tolerances. A clearance gap 1001' is set between the edge of the bonding tape starting position 21' and the polarizing layer 50' or the glossy adhesive layer 40' to prevent interference between the bonding tape and the polarizing layer 50' or the glossy adhesive layer 40'. However, the existence of the clearance gap 1001' will increase the width of the lower frame, which cannot meet the customer's narrow frame requirements. Furthermore, since the edge of the bonding tape starting position 21' is not connected, the risk of the bonding tape falling off at the starting position 21' is relatively high.

[0055] Based on the above considerations, such as Figure 3 As shown, the present invention provides a flexible display module 100, which includes a flexible display panel 10, a polymer film layer 20, a first photoresist layer 30, a buffer protective tape 70 (also known as a heat dissipation film, shield cushioning film, abbreviated as SCF) and a region folding fixing tape 80 (bending spacer).

[0056] The flexible display panel 10 has a first flat plate area 11, a bending area 12 and a second flat plate area 13 connected in sequence. The flexible display panel 10 includes a first surface 101 and a second surface 102 arranged in opposite directions. The portion of the first surface 101 located in the first flat plate area 11 is the light-emitting surface.

[0057] The cushioning and protective tape 70 and the area folding and fixing tape 80 are attached between the first flat plate area 11 and the second flat plate area 13. The cushioning and protective tape 70 is connected to the second surface 102 located in the first flat plate area 11, and the opposite two sides of the area folding and fixing tape 80 are connected to the cushioning and protective tape 70 and the second surface 102 located in the second flat plate area 13, respectively.

[0058] The polymer film layer 20 is bonded to the first surface 101 by means of adhesive tape. Specifically, the polymer film layer 20 covers at least the bending area 12, the edge region of the first flat plate region 11 near the bending area 12, and the edge region of the second flat plate region 13 near the bending area 12.

[0059] The first photoresist layer 30 is formed by spraying OCR optical adhesive (Optical Clear Resin, OCR) onto the side of the first flat panel 11 away from the flexible display panel 10 using inkjet printing, and then directly spraying it onto the edge of the polymer film layer 20, so that the edge of the first photoresist layer 30 is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer 20.

[0060] According to the flexible display module 100 proposed in this invention, a protective layer of the flexible display panel 10 is formed by directly attaching a polymer film layer 20 to the bending area 12 and the first flat area 11 and the second flat area 13 of the flexible display panel 10, replacing the method of forming the protective layer by dispensing in the prior art. Furthermore, after attaching the polymer film layer 20, a first photoresist layer 30 is sprayed, connecting the edge of the first photoresist layer 30 to the edge of the polymer film layer 20, avoiding the problem of the protective layer's starting position being too high due to the siphon effect in the prior art. Moreover, compared to the prior art's bonding process requiring a clearance between the protective layer and the photoresist layer or polarizer 50, the low-viscosity self-flowing characteristics of the liquid optical adhesive material allow for a seamless connection between the edges of the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20, avoiding gaps between them and effectively reducing the width of the bezel.

[0061] Understandably, removing the gap between the polarizer and the polymer film layer can meet the current end-customer module narrow bezel requirements (less than 1.0mm).

[0062] In this invention, for ease of description and clearer explanation of the solution, the polymer film layer 20 is divided into a first protective zone 21, a second protective zone 22 and a third protective zone 23 connected in sequence. The first protective zone 21 covers the edge area of ​​the first flat plate area 11 near the bending area 12, the second protective zone 22 covers the bending area 12, and the third protective zone 23 covers the edge area of ​​the second flat plate area 13 near the bending area 12.

[0063] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0064] Example 1

[0065] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the flexible display module 100 also includes a second photoadhesive layer 40 and a cover glass 60 (CG).

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the thickness of the first photoresist layer 30 is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer 20. Specifically, during inkjet printing, when the thickness of the first photoresist layer 30 equals the thickness of the polymer film layer 20, the printing of the first photoresist layer 30 is stopped. After the first photoresist layer 30 solidifies, the side of the first photoresist layer 30 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 is flush with the side of the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. A second photoresist layer 40 is applied to the side of the first protective zone 21 of the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 using either a film lamination process or an inkjet printing process, so that the second photoresist layer 40 covers the first photoresist layer 30. Furthermore, the edge region of the second photoresist layer 40 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps with the side of the first protective zone 21 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. The cover plate 60 is attached to the side of the second photoresist layer 40 facing away from the first photoresist layer 30.

[0067] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first optical adhesive layer 30 is made of OCR optical adhesive, and the second optical adhesive layer 40 is made of OCA optical adhesive (Optically Clear Adhesive, abbreviated as OCA).

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, when the thickness of the polymer film layer 20 is ≤30μm, the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40 are made of the same material, that is, the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40 are both made of OCA optical adhesive, or the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40 are both made of OCR optical adhesive.

[0069] In this embodiment, by attaching the second photoresist layer 40 to the polymer film layer 20, the connection strength between the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40 is enhanced, which can effectively reduce the risk of detachment from the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and improve the reliability of the flexible display module 100.

[0070] In this embodiment, as Figure 3As shown, the overlap distance L between the second photoresist layer 40 and the polymer film layer 20 is ≥ 0.1 mm. For example, the overlap distance L between the second photoresist layer 40 and the polymer film layer 20 can be 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.18 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm, 1 mm, etc.

[0071] It should also be emphasized that the inkjet printing process allows the first photoresist layer 30 to better match the polymer film layer 20. In the thickness direction, the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20 are flush, meaning that the height difference between the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20 is within the allowable tolerance range. Compared with related technologies, this effectively reduces the impact of the height difference between the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20 on the thickness selection of the second photoresist layer 40, allowing the second photoresist layer 40 to have a smaller thickness (for example, in related technologies, if the second photoresist layer 40 is overlapped on the polymer film layer 20, the thickness of the second photoresist layer 40 needs to be increased). This solution, while taking into account the overlap of the second photoresist layer 40 with the polymer film layer 20, can reduce the thickness of the second photoresist layer 40 (OCA layer) as needed to match the customer's thinning requirements.

[0072] In this embodiment, for the COE form (Color Filter on Encapsulation, or COE for short, without a polarizer), the traditional first photoresist layer 30 and second photoresist layer 40 are formed in two steps, which can simultaneously achieve the technical requirements of narrow bezel and thinning of the module.

[0073] Example 2

[0074] The differences between Example 2 and Example 1 will be described below. The similarities or similarities between Example 2 and Example 1 will not be repeated here.

[0075] like Figure 5 As shown, the difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that the flexible display module 100 further includes a polarizer 50, and the thickness of the first photoresist layer 30 is greater than the thickness of the polymer film layer 20.

[0076] The first photoresist layer 30 includes a first coating layer 31 and a second coating layer 32. The first coating layer 31 is connected to the first flat panel area 11, and the second coating layer 32 is applied to the side of the first coating layer 31 that is away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0077] Specifically, during the inkjet printing process, when the thickness of the first coating 31 is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer 20, the printing of the first coating 31 is stopped. After the first coating 31 solidifies, the side of the first coating 31 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 is flush with the side of the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. Then, the second coating 32 is printed on the side of the first protective zone 21 of the first coating 31 and the side facing away from the flexible display panel 10 using an inkjet printing process, so that the second coating 32 covers the first coating 31. Furthermore, the edge region of the second coating 32 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps with the side of the first protective zone 21 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. By overlapping the second coating 32 onto the polymer film layer 20, the connection strength between the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and the first photoresist layer 30 and the second coating 32 is enhanced, which can effectively reduce the risk of detachment from the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and improve the reliability of the flexible display module 100.

[0078] A polarizer 50 is disposed between the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40. The opposite two surfaces of the polarizer 50 are bonded to the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40, respectively. The edge of the polarizer 50 near the polymer film is flush with the edge of the second coating layer 32, so that the edge area of ​​the polarizer 50 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer 20 away from the flexible display panel 10 through the second coating layer 32. The polarizer 50 overlaps and adheres to the polymer film layer 20 without affecting the frame, thereby further reducing the risk of detachment from the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and improving the reliability of the flexible display module 100.

[0079] A second photoresist layer 40 is applied to the side of the polarizer 50 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 using a film bonding process or an inkjet printing process, so that the second photoresist layer 40 covers the polarizer 50, and a cover plate 60 is attached to the side of the second photoresist layer 40 facing away from the polarizer 50.

[0080] It should also be emphasized that the first photoresist layer between the flexible display panel and the polarizer is sprayed and formed, which does not have the phase difference problem of traditional polymer films, and is highly feasible.

[0081] It should also be noted that, in this embodiment, the first optical adhesive layer 30 and the second optical adhesive layer 40 can replace the adhesive provided with the polarizer 50, so that the polarizer 50 can be firmly attached between the first optical adhesive layer 30 and the second optical adhesive layer 40.

[0082] Example 3

[0083] The differences between Example 3 and Example 1 will be described below. The similarities or similarities between Example 3 and Example 1 will not be repeated here.

[0084] like Figure 6 As shown, the difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that the thickness of the first photoresist layer 30 is smaller than the thickness of the polymer film layer 20.

[0085] In this embodiment, the second photoresist layer 40 includes a third coating layer 41 and a fourth coating layer 42, with the fourth coating layer 42 applied to the side of the third coating layer 41 that is away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0086] Specifically, during the inkjet printing process, when the sum of the thickness dimensions of the third coating 41 and the first photoresist layer 30 equals the thickness dimension of the polymer film layer 20, the printing of the third coating 41 is stopped. This causes the side of the third coating 41 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 to be flush with the side of the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. The self-flowing nature of the third coating 41 ensures that its edge is tightly connected to the edge of the polymer film layer 20, and it fills the height difference between the polymer film layer 20 and the first photoresist layer 30. A fourth coating 42 is then printed on the side of the first protected area 21 of the third coating 41 and the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 using an inkjet printing process. This causes the fourth coating 42 to cover the third coating 41, and the edge region of the fourth coating 42 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps with the side of the first protected area 21 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. By attaching the fourth coating 42 to the polymer film layer 20, the connection strength between the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and the first photoresist layer 30 and the fourth coating 42 is enhanced, which can effectively reduce the risk of detachment from the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and improve the reliability of the flexible display module 100.

[0087] In this embodiment, for the COE form (without a polarizer), the traditional first photoresist layer 30 and second photoresist layer 40 are formed in two steps, which can simultaneously achieve the technical requirements of narrow bezel and thinning of the module.

[0088] In this embodiment, the cover plate 60 is attached to the side of the fourth coating layer 42 that is away from the first gloss adhesive layer 30.

[0089] Example 4

[0090] The differences between Example 4 and Example 1 will be described below. The similarities or similarities between Example 4 and Example 1 will not be repeated here.

[0091] like Figure 7As shown, the difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the flexible display module 100 further includes a polarizer 50, which is disposed between the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40, and the opposite two sides of the polarizer 50 are bonded to the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40 respectively.

[0092] Specifically, a polarizer 50 is attached to the side of the first protective zone 21 of the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10, so that the polarizer 50 covers the first photoresist layer 30, and the edge region of the polarizer 50 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps with the side of the first protective zone 21 of the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. By overlapping the polarizer 50 with the polymer film layer 20, the connection strength between the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and the first photoresist layer 30 and the polarizer 50 is enhanced, which can effectively reduce the risk of detachment from the starting position of the polymer film layer 20 and improve the reliability of the flexible display module 100. It should also be noted that by utilizing the low-viscosity self-flowing characteristics of the first photoresist layer 30 during the inkjet printing process, the liquid first photoresist layer 30 can be seamlessly contacted with the polymer film layer 20, and the side of the first photoresist layer 30 facing the polarizer 50 can be smoothly connected with the side of the polymer film layer 20 facing the polarizer 50. This can effectively reduce the risk of air bubbles being generated when the polarizer 50 is bonded to the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20.

[0093] In this embodiment, as Figure 7 As shown, the overlap distance B between the polarizer 50 and the polymer film layer 20 is ≥ 0.1 mm. For example, the overlap distance B between the second photoresist layer 40 and the polymer film layer 20 can be 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.18 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm, 1 mm, etc.

[0094] Example 5

[0095] The differences between Example 5 and Example 4 will be described below. The similarities or similarities between Example 5 and Example 4 will not be repeated here.

[0096] like Figure 8 As shown, the difference between this embodiment and embodiment 4 is that the edge of the polarizer 50 near the polymer film layer 20 is flush with the edge of the first photoresist layer 30 near the polymer film layer 20, or the edge of the polarizer 50 near the polymer film layer 20 is located on the side of the edge of the first photoresist layer 30 near the polymer film layer 20 that is away from the first protection zone 21 of the polymer film layer 20, that is, the edge of the polarizer 50 does not exceed the edge of the first photoresist layer 30.

[0097] In this embodiment, the second photoresist layer 40 includes a main body 43 and an overlapping portion 44 connected together. The main body 43 covers one side of the polarizer 50 away from the first photoresist layer 30. The overlapping portion 44 is connected to the edge of the polarizer 50 near the polymer film layer 20, and the overlapping portion 44 overlaps on the side of the first protected area 21 of the polymer film layer 20 away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0098] In this embodiment, the second photoresist layer 40 fills the height difference between the polymer film layer 20 and the polarizer 50 by self-flowing, so as to achieve contact and overlap between the overlapping part 44 and the polymer film layer 20, thereby solving the problem of the polymer film layer 20 falling off when the stress at the connection position between the polymer film layer 20 and the first flat plate area 11 is too large.

[0099] The overlap distance L between the overlapping portion 44 and the polymer film layer 20 can be set according to product requirements. Specifically, L ≥ 0.1 mm. For example, the overlap distance L between the second photoresist layer 40 and the polymer film layer 20 can be 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.18 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm, 1 mm, etc.

[0100] It should be noted that the flexible display module 100 proposed in this invention can effectively solve the problem of enlarged bezels caused by reserved gaps in existing designs compared to existing solutions. The bezel width reduction of the flexible display module 100 in this invention can exceed 0.3mm, and the calculation method is as follows:

[0101] Please combine Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, the result can be obtained from the calculation based on RSS (Statistical Squared Tolerance).

[0102]

[0103]

[0104] Therefore, Border0 = A + B = 0.55 mm.

[0105] This disclosure document proposes: (Due to the overlapping design of the polarizer 50 and the polymer film layer 20, the actual verification result of L1 can be 0.1 mm smaller than L0.)

[0106] Therefore, Border1 = A + B = 0.25 mm.

[0107] In summary, compared to the traditional solution, the Border gain is: Border0 - Border1 = 0.3mm

[0108] Wherein, Film is the abbreviation for polymer film layer 20; POL is the abbreviation for polarizer 50; A- indicates the reserved distance between polarizer 50 and polymer film layer 20; B- indicates the distance from the bending start point when polymer film layer 20 is not overlapping; L0 refers to the distance in the existing scheme ( Figure 2 (As shown) The safe distance between the polymer film layer 20 and the first flat area 11 of the flexible display panel 10, without considering installation tolerances; as Figure 7 As shown, L1 refers to the safe distance between the polymer film layer 20 and the first flat area 11 of the flexible display panel 10 in the solution of the present invention without considering installation tolerances; Border0 refers to the width of the border in the prior art; Border1 refers to the width of the border in the solution of the present invention.

[0109] Meanwhile, the first photoresist layer 30 can replace the self-adhesive layer of the polarizer 50 to achieve bonding with the flexible display panel 10, so that the overall module thickness will not increase.

[0110] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a flexible display module 100 is also provided, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the preparation method includes the following steps:

[0111] Step S1: Provide a flexible display panel 10. The flexible display panel 10 has a first flat area 11, a bending area 12 and a second flat area 13 connected in sequence. The flexible display panel 10 includes a first surface 101 and a second surface 102 arranged in opposite directions. The portion of the first surface 101 located in the first flat area 11 is the light-emitting surface.

[0112] Step S2: Provide a polymer film layer 20 and attach the polymer film layer 20 to the first surface 101 of the bending region 12, the edge region of the first flat plate region 11 near the bending region 12, and the edge region of the second flat plate region 13 near the bending region 12.

[0113] Step S3: Spray the first adhesive layer 30 onto the surface of the first surface 101 corresponding to the first flat plate area 11, so that the edge of the first adhesive layer 30 is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer 20.

[0114] In this embodiment, the flexible display panel 10 in step S1 is obtained by bending the second flat area 13 of the flexible display panel 10 toward the backlight side of the flexible display panel 10. In step S2, the polymer film layer 20 is attached to the first surface 101 of the flexible display panel 10 using a bonding process. In step S3, the first photoresist layer 30 is sprayed into the first flat area 11 of the first surface 101 using an inkjet printing process. Utilizing the low-viscosity self-flowing characteristics of the first photoresist layer 30 during the inkjet printing process, the liquid first photoresist layer 30 can seamlessly contact the polymer film layer 20, thereby connecting the edge of the first photoresist layer 30 with the edge of the polymer film layer 20 after the first photoresist layer 30 solidifies.

[0115] In this embodiment, the process of first attaching the polymer film layer 20 and then using inkjet printing to spray the liquid first photoresist layer 30 onto the flexible display panel 10 utilizes the self-flowing properties of the first photoresist layer 30 in liquid state. This allows the edges of the first photoresist layer 30 to contact the polymer film layer 20 more closely, and its low viscosity reduces the influence of the siphon effect. This reduces the height difference between the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20, making the connection position on the side away from the flexible display panel 10 smoother. This reduces the degree and probability of one edge being higher than the other, thereby effectively reducing the probability of air bubbles being generated when attaching the polarizer 50 or other photoresist layers on the first photoresist layer 30 and the polymer film layer 20.

[0116] Please combine Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 11 As shown, based on the technical solution of Embodiment 1, the fabrication method of the flexible display module 100 includes the following steps:

[0117] Step S101: Provide a flexible display panel 10;

[0118] Step S102: Provide a polymer film layer 20, attach the polymer film layer 20 to the first surface 101, and at least cover the bending area 12, the edge area of ​​the first flat area 11 near the bending area 12, and the edge area of ​​the second flat area 13 near the bending area 12.

[0119] Step S103: Spray a first photoresist layer 30 with the same thickness as the polymer film layer 20 onto the first surface 101 located in the first flat plate area 11, and connect the edge of the first photoresist layer 30 with the edge of the polymer film layer 20.

[0120] Step S104: The second photoresist layer 40 is applied to the side of the first photoresist layer 30 away from the flexible display panel 10 by spraying or film bonding, and the edge area of ​​the second photoresist layer 40 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps the side of the polymer film layer 20 away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0121] Step S105: Provide a cover plate 60 and attach the cover plate 60 to one side of the second photoresist layer 40 away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0122] In this embodiment, step S101 is the same as step S1, step S102 is the same as step S2, and step S103 is the same as step S3, and will not be described again here.

[0123] In step S104, spraying refers to the inkjet printing process, in which the second adhesive layer 40 is sprayed onto the first adhesive layer 30 in a liquid state. Adhesive film bonding refers to the process by which the second adhesive layer 40, in the form of a solid adhesive film, is adhered to the first adhesive layer 30 using a bonding process.

[0124] In this embodiment, the first optical adhesive layer 30 and the second optical adhesive layer 40 may be made of the same or different materials. For example, the first optical adhesive layer 30 may be made of OCR optical adhesive and the second optical adhesive layer 40 may be made of OCA optical adhesive; or, the first optical adhesive layer 30 may be made of OCA optical adhesive and the second optical adhesive layer 40 may be made of OCR optical adhesive; or, both the first optical adhesive layer 30 and the second optical adhesive layer 40 may be made of OCR optical adhesive; or, both the first optical adhesive layer 30 and the second optical adhesive layer 40 may be made of OCA optical adhesive.

[0125] In step S105, the cover plate 60 is bonded to the second adhesive layer 40 using an adhesive bonding process.

[0126] Please combine Figure 6 and Figure 12 As shown, based on the technical solution of Embodiment 3, the preparation method of the flexible display module 100 includes the following steps:

[0127] Step S201: Provide a flexible display panel 10;

[0128] Step S202: Provide a polymer film layer 20, attach the polymer film layer 20 to the first surface 101, and at least cover the bending area 12, the edge area of ​​the first flat area 11 near the bending area 12, and the edge area of ​​the second flat area 13 near the bending area 12.

[0129] Step S203: Spray a first gloss adhesive layer 30 onto the surface of the first surface 101 corresponding to the first flat plate area 11, and the thickness of the first gloss adhesive layer 30 is smaller than the thickness of the polymer film layer 20, and connect the edge of the first gloss adhesive layer 30 with the edge of the polymer film layer 20.

[0130] Step S204: Spray a second photoresist layer 40 onto the side of the first photoresist layer 30 and a portion of the polymer film layer 20 that is away from the flexible display panel 10. The second photoresist layer 40 includes a third coating layer 41 and a fourth coating layer 42 that are sprayed sequentially. The sum of the thickness of the third coating layer 41 and the thickness of the first photoresist layer 30 is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer 20. The edge of the third coating layer 41 is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer 20. The fourth coating layer 42 is adhered to the side of the third coating layer 41 that is away from the polymer film layer 20. The edge region of the fourth coating layer 42 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer 20 that is away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0131] Step S205: Provide a cover plate 60 and attach the cover plate 60 to one side of the second photoresist layer 40 away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0132] In this embodiment, step S201 is the same as step S1, and step S202 is the same as step S2, so they will not be described again here.

[0133] In step S203, the coating thickness of the first photoresist layer 30 must be smaller than the thickness of the polymer film layer 20.

[0134] In step S204, during the spraying process of the second photoresist layer 40, the third coating layer 41 is sprayed first, followed by the fourth coating layer 42. Specifically, during the inkjet printing process, when the sum of the thickness of the third coating layer 41 and the thickness of the first photoresist layer 30 equals the thickness of the polymer film layer 20, the spraying of the third coating layer 41 is stopped, so that the side of the third coating layer 41 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 is flush with the side of the polymer film layer 20 facing away from the flexible display panel 10. The self-flowing nature of the third coating layer 41 makes the edge of the third coating layer 41 tightly connected to the edge of the polymer film layer 20, and the third coating layer 41 fills the height difference between the polymer film layer 20 and the first photoresist layer 30. A fourth coating 42 is applied by inkjet printing to the side of the first protected area 21 of the third coating 41 and the polymer film layer 20 away from the flexible display panel 10, so that the fourth coating 42 covers the third coating 41, and the edge area of ​​the fourth coating 42 near the polymer film layer 20 overlaps with the side of the first protected area 21 away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0135] In step S205, the cover plate 60 is bonded to the second adhesive layer 40 using an bonding process.

[0136] Please combine Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 13As shown, based on the technical solution of Embodiment 4, the preparation method of the flexible display module 100 includes the following steps:

[0137] Step S301: Provide a flexible display panel 10;

[0138] Step S302: Provide a polymer film layer 20, attach the polymer film layer 20 to the first surface 101, and at least cover the bending area 12, the edge area of ​​the first flat area 11 near the bending area 12, and the edge area of ​​the second flat area 13 near the bending area 12.

[0139] Step S303: Spray a first photoresist layer 30 of the same thickness as the polymer film layer 20 onto the first surface 101 located in the first flat plate area 11, and connect the edge of the first photoresist layer 30 with the edge of the polymer film layer 20.

[0140] Step S304: Provide a polarizer 50 and attach the polarizer 50 to the side of the first photoresist layer 30 away from the flexible display panel 10, and make the edge area of ​​the polarizer 50 near the polymer film layer 20 overlap with the side of the polymer film layer 20 away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0141] Step S305: Apply a second photoadhesive layer 40 to the side of the polarizer 50 facing away from the flexible display panel 10 by spraying or film bonding.

[0142] Step S306: Provide a cover plate 60 and attach the cover plate 60 to one side of the second photoresist layer 40 away from the flexible display panel 10.

[0143] Step S301 is the same as step S1, step S302 is the same as step S2, step S303 is the same as step S103, and step S306 is the same as step S105, so they will not be repeated here.

[0144] In steps S304 and S305, the polarizer 50 is bonded to the first photoresist layer 30 using a bonding process. The first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40 can replace the adhesive on the polarizer 50 itself, so that the polarizer 50 can be firmly and directly bonded between the first photoresist layer 30 and the second photoresist layer 40, so that the overall module thickness will not increase.

[0145] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display device is also provided, which includes the aforementioned flexible display module 100. The display device is any device with display function. Examples of display devices include smart wearable devices, mobile phones, tablet computers, navigators, etc.

[0146] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A flexible display module, characterized in that, The flexible display module includes: A flexible display panel includes a first flat plate area, a bending area, and a second flat plate area connected in sequence. The flexible display panel has a first surface and a second surface arranged in opposite directions. The portion of the first surface located in the first flat plate area is the light-emitting surface. A polymer film layer is attached to the first surface, and the polymer film layer at least covers the bending area, the edge area of ​​the first flat plate area near the bending area, and the edge area of ​​the second flat plate area near the bending area. A first photoresist layer is coated on the surface of the first surface corresponding to the first flat plate area, and the edge of the first photoresist layer is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer. The first optical adhesive layer is formed by spraying OCR optical adhesive onto the side of the first flat panel area away from the flexible display panel using inkjet printing, and then directly spraying it onto the edge of the polymer film layer, so that the edge of the first optical adhesive layer is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer. The flexible display module also includes: The second photoresist layer is disposed on the side of the first photoresist layer that is away from the flexible display panel; A cover plate is attached to the surface of the second adhesive layer on the side opposite to the first adhesive layer. The flexible display module also includes a polarizer, which is disposed between the first photoresist layer and the second photoresist layer, and the opposite two sides of the polarizer are respectively bonded to the first photoresist layer and the second photoresist layer. Wherein, the edge region of the polarizer near one end of the polymer film layer overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel; or, the second photoresist layer includes a connected main body and an overlapping part, the main body covers the polarizer, the overlapping part is connected to the edge of the polarizer near one end of the polymer film layer, and the overlapping part overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

2. The flexible display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the first photoresist layer is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer, and the edge region of the second photoresist layer near one end of the polymer film layer overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

3. The flexible display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the first photoresist layer is greater than the thickness of the polymer film layer. The first photoresist layer includes a first coating and a second coating. The first coating is connected to the first flat panel area. The thickness of the first coating is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer, and the edge of the first coating is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer. The second coating is applied to the side of the first coating away from the flexible display panel. The edge region of the second coating near the end of the polymer film layer overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

4. The flexible display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the first photoresist layer is smaller than the thickness of the polymer film layer. The second photoresist layer includes a third coating and a fourth coating. The third coating is connected to the first photoresist layer, and the edge of the third coating is connected to the polymer film layer. The sum of the thickness of the third coating and the thickness of the first photoresist layer is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer. The fourth coating is applied to the side of the third coating away from the first photoresist layer, and the edge region of the fourth coating near the polymer film layer overlaps the side of the polymer film layer away from the flexible display panel.

5. The flexible display module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The material of the first photoresist layer is different from that of the second photoresist layer.

6. A method for manufacturing a flexible display module, characterized in that, The preparation method includes: A flexible display panel is provided, the flexible display panel having a first flat plate area, a bending area and a second flat plate area connected in sequence, the flexible display panel including a first surface and a second surface arranged in opposite directions, the portion of the first surface located in the first flat plate area being a light-emitting surface; A polymer film layer is provided, the polymer film layer is adhered to the first surface, and at least covers the bending area, the edge region of the first flat plate region near the bending area, and the edge region of the second flat plate region near the bending area. A first photoresist layer is sprayed onto the first surface located in the first flat plate area, so that the edge of the first photoresist layer is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer. The step of spraying a first photoresist layer on the first surface located in the first flat plate area includes: spraying a first photoresist layer with the same thickness as the polymer film layer on the first surface located in the first flat plate area; A polarizer is provided and the polarizer is attached to one side of the first photoresist layer away from the flexible display panel; A second photoadhesive layer is applied to the side of the polarizer facing away from the flexible display panel by spraying or film bonding; a cover plate is provided and the cover plate is bonded to the side of the second photoadhesive layer facing away from the flexible display panel. Specifically, the edge region of the polarizer near the end of the polymer film layer overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer opposite to the flexible display panel; or, the edge region of the second photoresist layer near the end of the polymer film layer overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer opposite to the flexible display panel.

7. The method for preparing a flexible display module according to claim 6, characterized in that, The step of spraying a first photoresist layer on the first surface located in the first flat plate area includes: spraying the first photoresist layer on the surface of the first surface corresponding to the first flat plate area, wherein the thickness of the first photoresist layer is smaller than the thickness of the polymer film layer. After the step of spraying the first photoresist layer, the preparation method further includes: A second photoresist layer is sprayed onto the side of the first photoresist layer and a portion of the polymer film layer facing away from the flexible display panel. The second photoresist layer includes a third coating layer and a fourth coating layer sprayed sequentially. The thickness of the third coating layer is equal to the thickness of the polymer film layer, and the edge of the third coating layer is connected to the edge of the polymer film layer. The fourth coating layer is applied to the side of the third coating layer facing away from the flexible display panel, and the edge region of the fourth coating layer near one end of the polymer film layer overlaps with the side of the polymer film layer facing away from the flexible display panel.

8. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the flexible display module according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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