Display module and electronic equipment

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a display module and electronic equipment comprising the display module. Relates to the technical field of display. The display module can improve the flattening rigidity, improve the bending performance, weaken light and shadow creases and the like. The display module comprises a display module body and a photosensitive module body. The display module body comprises a display screen and a supporting plate arranged on one side of the back face of the display screen. The photosensitive module is arranged on the side, away from the display screen, of the supporting plate. A light-transmitting mirror is arranged at the position, corresponding to the photosensitive module, of the supporting plate, and the light-transmitting mirror and the supporting plate are of an integrally-formed structure. By means of the supporting plate and the light transmitting mirror which are integrally formed, the strength of the area in the display module can be improved, and the impact resistance and the extrusion resistance are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display module and an electronic device including the display module. Background Art

[0002] With the development of human-computer interaction technology, display has become an important element of human-computer interaction. Therefore, foldable screen electronic devices have come into being, such as foldable mobile phones.

[0003] How to improve the performance of foldable electronic devices is the main problem currently faced. For example, they need to have better bendability when folded, higher flattening stiffness when flattened, and better impact resistance and extrusion resistance. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present application provides a display module and an electronic device including the display module, such as a foldable electronic device, for the purpose of improving the performance of the electronic device, such as improving the flattening rigidity and improving the bending performance.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of the present application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides a display module, which can be applied to a foldable electronic device, or can also be applied to a non-foldable straight-panel electronic device.

[0007] The display module includes a display screen, including a first display area and a second display area. The area under the screen corresponding to the first display area is used to set the functional module, and a groove is set below the first display area; the display module also includes a cover plate and an optical adhesive layer, and the cover plate is set on one side of the display surface of the display screen; the optical adhesive layer is used to fill the groove set below the first display area, the optical adhesive layer and the light-transmitting mirror are stacked, and the functional module is set below the light-transmitting mirror. The light-transmitting mirror and the support plate are an integrated structure, and the support plate is set below the display screen.

[0008] In the display module involved in the present application, external light can be received by the functional module through the cover plate, the optical adhesive layer and the light-transmitting mirror, or the light projected by the functional module can be transmitted to the outside through the light-transmitting mirror, the optical adhesive layer and the cover plate; in the display module, the light-transmitting mirror and the support plate are integrated into one design, which can improve the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the area and improve the performance of the entire display module.

[0009] In one practicable manner, the support plate and the light-transmitting mirror are manufactured by an injection molding process.

[0010] For example, it can be made by a two-color injection molding process.

[0011] In one practicable manner, the light-transmitting mirror includes a main body portion and an extension portion arranged along the periphery of the main body portion and connected to the main body portion, the main body portion is embedded in the support plate, and the extension portion is located on a side of the support plate away from the display screen.

[0012] Part of the light-transmitting mirror is embedded in the support plate, and the other part is arranged on one side of the support plate. In this way, the thickness of the light-transmitting mirror can be increased, and the impact resistance and extrusion resistance can be further improved.

[0013] In one practicable manner, the light-transmitting mirror further includes a plurality of protrusions, the plurality of protrusions are located on the extension portion, and the plurality of protrusions are arranged around the periphery of the extension portion; and the plurality of protrusions are embedded in the support plate.

[0014] The connection strength between the light-transmitting mirror and the support plate can be further enhanced by using a plurality of protrusions embedded in the support plate.

[0015] In one practicable manner, the light-transmitting mirror and the support plate are integrally formed injection-molded structural components.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the display screen includes a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, and the bending portion can be bent along a bending line so that the display screen can be switched between an expanded state and a closed state.

[0017] That is, the display screen is a foldable display screen.

[0018] In one achievable manner, the cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area and a second bending area, the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area, and both the first bending area and the second bending area can be bent along a bending line to switch between an expanded state and a closed state; the thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area.

[0019] Since the thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area in the cover plate, that is, the cover plate is designed as an unequal thickness structure. For example, in some scenarios, in order to improve the rigidity of the first non-bending area exposed in the closed state (to present the image to the user), when the thickness of the first non-bending area is increased, the unequal thickness design of the cover plate basically does not affect the bendability of the first bending area due to the increase in the thickness of the first non-bending area.

[0020] Therefore, the display module provided in the present application not only has a higher rigidity in the non-bending region, but also has a better bendability in the bending region.

[0021] In one achievable manner, the thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

[0022] So that in the cover plate, the thickness of the first non-bending area corresponding to the first non-bending portion is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending area corresponding to the second non-bending portion. That is, in the cover plate structure, the first non-bending area is a thick area, the second non-bending area is a thin area, and the first bending area connected between the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area is a thin-thick transition area.

[0023] In one achievable manner, the cover plate includes: a substrate and a first buffer layer, the first buffer layer being closer to the display screen than the substrate; the thickness of the substrate located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate located in the second non-bending area, and / or; the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

[0024] In some implementation structures, at least one of the substrate or the buffer layer in the cover plate may be designed to have unequal thickness.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the cover plate includes a second buffer layer, and the second buffer layer includes a first portion and a second portion;

[0026] The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

[0027] In order to further improve the bendability of the bending area, the second buffer layer may be designed to have a structure with unequal elastic moduli.

[0028] In one achievable manner, the light-transmitting mirror is disposed at a position corresponding to the first non-area.

[0029] In a second aspect, the present application provides an electronic device, which includes the display module in any of the above-mentioned implementation structures, and also includes a functional module, and the functional module is arranged in the under-screen area corresponding to the first display area.

[0030] In the electronic device provided in the present application, since it includes the display module in any of the above-mentioned implementation structures, the light-transmitting mirror and the support plate in the display module are an integrally formed structure, which can improve the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the display module.

[0031] In one achievable manner, the functional module includes: at least one of a camera module or a fingerprint recognition module.

[0032] In a third aspect, the present application provides a display module. The display module includes a display screen and a substrate disposed on one side of a display surface of the display screen, wherein the display screen includes a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, wherein the bending portion can be bent along a bending line so that the display screen can be switched between an unfolded state and a closed state; at least one groove is provided on a portion of the substrate corresponding to the bending portion, wherein a filler is provided in the groove, and the elastic modulus of the filler is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate.

[0033] In the display module provided in the present application, since a groove is provided in the substrate and a filler with a small elastic modulus is filled in the groove, the bendability of the bendable part can be improved. In order to improve the rigidity of the non-bending part, even if the thickness of the substrate is increased, the bending part can be guaranteed to have high flexibility, and the bendability will not be affected.

[0034] In one possible implementation, there are a plurality of grooves, and the plurality of grooves are arranged along a direction perpendicular to the bending line.

[0035] Arranging a plurality of grooves filled with fillers in a direction perpendicular to the bending line can further improve the bendability of the portion.

[0036] In one achievable manner, the substrate has a first surface and a second surface relative to each other, a groove is arranged on the first surface, and there is a spacing between the bottom surface of the groove and the second surface; the non-bending portion includes a first non-bending portion, a second non-bending portion, and a third non-bending portion, the bending portion includes a first bending portion and a second bending portion, the first bending portion connects the first non-bending portion and the second non-bending portion, and the second bending portion connects the second non-bending portion and the third non-bending portion; the substrate includes a first part and a second part, the first part of the substrate corresponds to the first bending portion, and the second part of the substrate corresponds to the second bending portion; when the display screen is in a closed state, the first surface of the first part is closer to the center of the arc structure formed by the display module than the second surface, and the first surface of the second part is farther away from the center of the arc structure formed by the display module than the second surface.

[0037] In an electronic device with an inner fold and an outer fold, in the inner fold part, a groove with a filler is arranged close to the center of the arc structure, so that the inner fold part can achieve a smaller bending radius.

[0038] In one achievable manner, the first part and the second part of the substrate respectively have a plurality of grooves; in the first part of the substrate, the spacing between two adjacent grooves is S1; in the second part of the substrate, the spacing between two adjacent grooves is S2, and S1 is smaller than S2.

[0039] The distance between two adjacent grooves of the inner folding part is smaller than the distance between two adjacent grooves of the outer folding part, so that the inner folding part has better bendability and the outer folding part has better rigidity.

[0040] In one achievable manner, the material of the substrate includes at least one of polyethylene terephthalate PET, polyimide PI, and transparent polyimide CPI; or the filler material includes at least one of optically transparent adhesive OCA and optically transparent resin OCR.

[0041] In one achievable manner, the display module further includes a flattening layer; the flattening layer is disposed on a side of the substrate away from the display screen, such that the flattening layer is an exposed surface layer of the display module; and / or the flattening layer is disposed between the substrate and the display screen.

[0042] The surface flatness of the display module can be further optimized by using the flattening layer.

[0043] In one implementation, the planarization layer material includes optically transparent resin (OCR).

[0044] In one achievable manner, the display module also includes a cover plate, which is arranged on one side of the display surface of the display screen, and the cover plate includes a substrate; the cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area and a second bending area, the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area; the first non-bending area corresponds to the first non-bending part, the second non-bending area corresponds to the second non-bending part, the third non-bending area corresponds to the third non-bending part, the first bending area corresponds to the first bending part, and the second bending area corresponds to the second bending part; the thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area.

[0045] The thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area, that is, the cover is designed as an unequal thickness structure. For example, in some scenarios, in order to improve the rigidity of the first non-bending area exposed in the closed state (which can present the picture to the user), when the thickness of the first non-bending area is increased, the unequal thickness design of the cover will basically not affect the bendability of the first bending area due to the increase in the thickness of the first non-bending area. The electronic device provided in this embodiment can not only reduce the light and shadow creases, but also improve the rigidity of the non-bending area and the bendability of the bending area.

[0046] In one achievable manner, the thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

[0047] So that in the cover plate, the thickness of the first non-bending area corresponding to the first non-bending portion is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending area corresponding to the second non-bending portion. That is, in the cover plate structure, the first non-bending area is a thick area, the second non-bending area is a thin area, and the first bending area connected between the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area is a thin-thick transition area.

[0048] In one achievable manner, the cover plate includes: a substrate and a first buffer layer, the first buffer layer being closer to the display screen than the substrate; the thickness of the substrate located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate located in the second non-bending area, and / or; the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

[0049] In some implementation structures, at least one of the substrate or the buffer layer in the cover plate may be designed to have unequal thickness.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the cover plate includes a second buffer layer, and the second buffer layer includes a first portion and a second portion;

[0051] The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

[0052] In order to further improve the bendability of the bending area, the second buffer layer may be designed to have a structure with unequal elastic moduli.

[0053] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides a method for preparing a display module, the method for preparing a display module comprising:

[0054] A substrate is arranged on one side of a display surface of the display screen, the display screen comprises a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, the bending portion can be bent along a bending line so that the display screen can be switched between an unfolded state and a closed state, and at least one groove is provided in a portion of the substrate corresponding to the bending portion;

[0055] A filler is arranged in the groove, and the elastic modulus of the filler is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate.

[0056] In the display module manufactured by the method of the present application, a groove is opened in the substrate and a filler with a small elastic modulus is filled in the groove. In this way, in order to improve the rigidity of the non-bending part, even if the thickness of the display cover plate and the protective layer is large, it will basically not affect the bendability of the bending part.

[0057] In one achievable manner, after the filler is arranged in the groove of the substrate, the preparation method further comprises: coating a liquid adhesive on a side of the substrate away from the display screen, and curing the liquid adhesive to form a flat layer on the surface of the display module.

[0058] By applying liquid adhesive on the surface and utilizing the tension of the liquid adhesive, the flatness of the display module surface can be improved and the "orange peel" phenomenon can be reduced.

[0059] In one achievable manner, before setting the substrate on the display surface side of the display screen, the preparation method further includes: forming a liquid adhesive on the display surface side of the display screen, and curing the liquid adhesive to form a flat layer on the display surface side of the display screen.

[0060] For example, by forming a liquid adhesive between the display screen and the display cover plate, and similarly utilizing the tension of the liquid adhesive, the surface flatness of the display module can be made higher.

[0061] In one implementation, the planarization layer material includes optically transparent resin (OCR).

[0062] In a fifth aspect, the present application provides a display module, which includes: a display screen, a display cover, a protective layer and a planarization layer, wherein the display cover is arranged on a display surface side of the display screen, the protective layer is arranged on a side of the display cover away from the display screen, a planarization layer is arranged on a side of the protective layer away from the display cover, and / or a planarization layer is arranged between the display cover and the display screen.

[0063] In the display module provided in the present application, by providing a flattening layer on the side of the protective layer away from the display cover plate, and / or providing a flattening layer on the display surface side of the display screen, the flattening layer can be used to optimize the surface flatness of the display module and reduce the "orange peel" phenomenon.

[0064] In one implementation, the planarization layer material includes optically transparent resin (OCR).

[0065] In the feasible process, the optically transparent resin OCR is in liquid state. The liquid optically transparent resin OCR has tension, which can be used to repair uneven surfaces and improve the surface flatness of the display module.

[0066] In one achievable manner, the display module further includes a polarizing plate, and the polarizing plate is disposed between the display cover plate and the display screen; a planarizing layer is disposed between the polarizing plate and the display cover plate.

[0067] In a sixth aspect, the present application provides a method for preparing a display module, the method for preparing a display module comprising:

[0068] A display cover is arranged on one side of the display surface of the display screen;

[0069] A protective layer is provided on a side of the display cover plate away from the display screen;

[0070] After the protective layer is provided, the preparation method further comprises:

[0071] forming a liquid adhesive on the side of the protective layer away from the display cover plate, and curing the liquid adhesive to form a flat layer on the display surface side of the display screen; or,

[0072] Before setting the display cover, the preparation method further includes:

[0073] Liquid adhesive is applied on one side of the display surface of the display screen, and the liquid adhesive is cured to form a flat layer on the one side of the display surface of the display screen.

[0074] In the preparation method of the display module provided in the present application, a liquid adhesive is formed on the surface of the protective layer or on the surface of the display screen, and then the liquid adhesive is solidified. The surface tension of the liquid adhesive can be used to repair the uneven surface structure, so that the surface flatness of the display module is improved.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the liquid adhesive includes optically transparent resin (OCR).

[0076] In the seventh aspect, the present application provides a display module, which includes a display screen and a support plate arranged on the side of the display screen away from the display surface, the display screen includes a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, the bending portion can be bent along a bending line so that the display screen can switch between an expanded state and a closed state; the support plate includes a first sub-support plate and a second sub-support plate that are stacked; the first sub-support plate includes a first bending section, and the second sub-support plate includes a second bending section, the first bending section corresponds to the bending portion, and the second bending section corresponds to the first bending section; the first bending section includes a plurality of first hollow areas, and the area between two adjacent first hollow areas forms a first non-hollow area; the second bending section includes a plurality of second hollow areas, and the area between two adjacent second hollow areas forms a second non-hollow area; when the display screen is in the expanded state, the first hollow area is stacked with at least part of the second non-hollow area, and at least part of the first non-hollow area is stacked with the second hollow area.

[0077] In the display module provided in the present application, the support plate for supporting the display screen includes a stacked first sub-support plate and a second sub-support plate, each of which has a hollow area, and when the display module is in a flattened state, the hollow areas and non-hollow areas of the two sub-support plates are stacked to support each other, thereby improving the supporting strength of the support plate to the display module, thereby improving the flattening stiffness of the display module.

[0078] In one achievable manner, the second sub-support plate is disposed away from the display screen relative to the first sub-support plate; when the display screen is in a closed state, at least a portion of the second non-hollowed-out area is separated from the first sub-support plate.

[0079] Because when the display screen is in a closed state, at least part of the non-hollowed area of ​​the second sub-support plate further away from the display screen is separated from the first sub-support plate, the display screen can have higher bendability, for example, a smaller bending radius can be achieved.

[0080] In one achievable manner, when the display screen is in a closed state, a portion of the second non-hollowed-out area close to the bottom end of the arc-shaped structure is separated from the first sub-support plate.

[0081] In one achievable method, the second bending section is provided with a plurality of first grooves parallel to the bending line, the area where the first grooves are located forms a second hollow area, and the area between two adjacent first grooves forms a first non-hollow area; along the extension direction of the first groove, the first groove includes a first segment and a second segment connected to each other, and the groove width of the first segment is not equal to the groove width of the second segment.

[0082] The slot is designed to have a structure with an inconstant slot width, so that the second sub-support plate can be easily partially separated from the first sub-support plate during bending.

[0083] In one achievable method, the groove width of the first section is greater than the groove width of the second section; the portion of the second non-hollow area close to the second section protrudes toward the second section compared to the portion close to the first section to form a protruding structure; when the display screen is in a closed state, the protruding structure is separated from the first sub-support plate.

[0084] If the slots are designed to have different slot widths, a protruding structure can be formed, and the protruding structure can be separated from the first sub-support plate when bent.

[0085] In one achievable manner, the groove width of the first section is greater than the groove width of the second section; and the first section is farther away from the edge of the second sub-support plate than the second section.

[0086] That is, the first section of the groove width is brought closer to the center of the second sub-support plate, so that the bendability of the second sub-support plate can be improved.

[0087] In one achievable manner, the first slot further includes a third section connected to the second section; the slot width of the third section and the slot width of the first section are both greater than the slot width of the second section.

[0088] In this way, at least two protruding structures can be formed, further improving the bendability of the display module.

[0089] In one achievable manner, the second sub-support plate has a first surface and a second surface relative to each other, and the first surface and the second surface are arranged in a direction parallel to the bending line; the second bending section is also provided with a plurality of second grooves parallel to the bending line; the first groove extends from the first surface to the second surface, and the second groove extends from the second surface to the first surface, and there is a second non-hollow area between the ends of the first groove and the second groove that are close to each other.

[0090] The hollow structure arranged on the second sub-support plate includes not only the first slot but also the second slot, thereby improving the bendability.

[0091] In one achievable manner, the first sub-support plate and the second sub-support plate are connected via a connection structure; the connection structure is disposed in the second non-hollow region between the ends of the first slot and the second slot that are close to each other.

[0092] In one achievable manner, the second hollow area further includes a third slot, the extension direction of the third slot is consistent with the extension direction of the first slot; and a second non-hollow area is provided between the end of the third slot and the edge of the second sub-support plate.

[0093] In one achievable manner, there are a plurality of first slots and a plurality of third slots; along a direction perpendicular to the bending line, the plurality of first slots and the plurality of third slots are alternately arranged.

[0094] By utilizing the multiple first slots and the multiple third slots that are arranged alternately, the bendability of the second sub-support plate can be further optimized.

[0095] In one achievable manner, the second sub-support plate is disposed farther away from the display screen than the first sub-support plate; the first non-hollowed-out area includes: a fourth slot parallel to the bending line, the length of the fourth slot being greater than the length of the first slot.

[0096] Since the first sub-support plate is closer to the display screen than the second sub-support plate, and the length of the slot on the first sub-support plate is greater than the length of the slot on the second sub-support plate, the first sub-support plate has a smaller bending radius.

[0097] In one achievable manner, the first sub-support plate further includes a first non-bending section, the first non-bending section corresponds to the non-bending portion; and the density of the material of the first non-bending section is less than the density of the material of the first bending section.

[0098] In this way, the weight of the entire supporting plate can be reduced.

[0099] In one achievable manner, the non-bending portion includes a first non-bending portion, a second non-bending portion, and a third non-bending portion, the bending portion includes a first bending portion and a second bending portion, the first bending portion connects the first non-bending portion and the second non-bending portion, and the second bending portion connects the second non-bending portion and the third non-bending portion; the display module also includes a cover plate, which is arranged on one side of the display surface of the display screen; the cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area and a second bending area, the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area; the first non-bending area corresponds to the first non-bending portion, the second non-bending area corresponds to the second non-bending portion, the third non-bending area corresponds to the third non-bending portion, the first bending area corresponds to the first bending portion, and the second bending area corresponds to the second bending portion;

[0100] The thickness of the first non-bending region is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending region.

[0101] Since the thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area in the cover plate, that is, the cover plate is designed as an unequal thickness structure. For example, in some scenarios, in order to improve the rigidity of the first non-bending area exposed in the closed state (to present the image to the user), when the thickness of the first non-bending area is increased, the unequal thickness design of the cover plate basically does not affect the bendability of the first bending area due to the increase in the thickness of the first non-bending area.

[0102] The display module provided in the present application not only has higher rigidity in the non-bending region, but also has better bendability in the bending region.

[0103] In one achievable manner, the thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

[0104] So that in the cover plate, the thickness of the first non-bending area corresponding to the first non-bending portion is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending area corresponding to the second non-bending portion. That is, in the cover plate structure, the first non-bending area is a thick area, the second non-bending area is a thin area, and the first bending area connected between the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area is a thin-thick transition area.

[0105] In one achievable manner, the cover plate includes: a substrate and a first buffer layer, the first buffer layer being closer to the display screen than the substrate; the thickness of the substrate located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate located in the second non-bending area, and / or; the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

[0106] In some implementation structures, at least one of the substrate or the buffer layer in the cover plate may be designed to have unequal thickness.

[0107] In one possible implementation, the cover plate includes a second buffer layer, and the second buffer layer includes a first portion and a second portion;

[0108] The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

[0109] In order to further improve the bendability of the bending area, the second buffer layer may be designed to have a structure with unequal elastic moduli.

[0110] In an eighth aspect, the present application provides an electronic device, comprising a display module, and a hinge mechanism for driving the display module to switch between an expanded state and a closed state; wherein the hinge mechanism comprises a first door panel, a second door panel, an intermediate door panel and a telescopic support structure, the first door panel, the second door panel and the intermediate door panel are located on the same side of the display module, and the first door panel and the second door panel are relatively arranged on both sides of the intermediate door panel, the telescopic support structure is arranged on a side of the intermediate door panel facing the display module and is connected to the intermediate door panel, the telescopic support structure comprises an extended state and a compressed state; when the display module is in a flattened state, the telescopic support structure is in an extended state, and a portion of the telescopic support structure close to the display module rests against the display module; when the display module is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure is in a compressed state.

[0111] In the electronic device provided in the present application, a telescopic support structure is provided on the side of the middle door panel facing the display module. When the display module is in a flattened state, the telescopic support structure in an extended state can lean against the display module to support the display module. In this way, the display module in a flattened state can have sufficient flattening rigidity and flatness. In addition, when the display module is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure is compressed to make room for the bent display module to ensure the bendability of the display module.

[0112] In one achievable manner, when the display module is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure is in a compressed state, and a portion of the telescopic support structure close to the display module is separated from the display module.

[0113] When the telescopic support structure is in a compressed state, the telescopic support structure is separated from the display module and does not provide support force to the display module, thereby making the display module more bendable.

[0114] In one achievable method, the telescopic support structure includes a support member made of a memory material, which is connected to the middle door panel; when the support member is at a first temperature, the support member is in an extended state, and the end of the support member away from the middle door panel abuts against one side of the display module; when the support member is at a second temperature, the support member is in a compressed state, and the end of the support member away from the middle door panel is separated from the display module.

[0115] This embodiment adopts memory material to make a telescopic support structure, and utilizes the memory material to achieve elongation and contraction as the temperature changes.

[0116] In one achievable method, the telescopic support structure also includes at least one elastic member, which is connected to the middle door panel; when the temperature applied to the support member is switched from a first temperature to a second temperature, the elastic member in a stretched state causes the support member to switch to a compressed state; when the temperature applied to the support member is switched from the second temperature to the first temperature, the support member is elongated, causing the elastic member to be in a stretched state.

[0117] In one achievable manner, there are a plurality of elastic members, and the plurality of elastic members are arranged at intervals along the periphery of the support member.

[0118] Arranging a plurality of elastic members at intervals along the periphery of the supporting member can improve the stability of the lifting and lowering of the middle door panel.

[0119] In one achievable method, the telescopic support structure includes a piezoelectric layer, a first electrode, a second electrode, and a protective layer; the piezoelectric layer is stacked between the first electrode and the second electrode, the first electrode is closer to the middle door panel than the second electrode, and the protective layer is arranged on the side of the second electrode away from the piezoelectric layer; when the piezoelectric layer is at a first voltage, the piezoelectric layer is in an extended state, and the protective layer rests against one side of the display module; when the piezoelectric layer is at a second voltage, the piezoelectric layer is in a compressed state, and the protective layer is separated from the display module.

[0120] In this embodiment, a telescopic support structure is made of piezoelectric material, and the piezoelectric material is used to achieve extension and contraction under the control of voltage.

[0121] In one achievable method, the display module includes a display screen, a display cover plate and a support plate, the display cover plate is arranged on the display surface side of the display screen, and the support plate is arranged on the back side of the display screen; the support plate has a hollow structure at a position opposite to the middle door panel; the telescopic support structure is in an extended state, and the part of the telescopic support structure close to the display module rests on the part of the support plate with the hollow structure.

[0122] In one possible implementation, the display module includes a display screen and a cover plate arranged on one side of a display surface of the display screen, the cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area, and a second bending area, the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area; the first non-bending area corresponds to the first non-bending portion, the second non-bending area corresponds to the second non-bending portion, the third non-bending area corresponds to the third non-bending portion, the first bending area corresponds to the first bending portion, and the second bending area corresponds to the second bending portion;

[0123] The thickness of the first non-bending region is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending region.

[0124] Since the thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area in the cover plate, that is, the cover plate is designed as an unequal thickness structure. For example, in some scenarios, in order to improve the rigidity of the first non-bending area exposed in the closed state (to present the image to the user), when the thickness of the first non-bending area is increased, the unequal thickness design of the cover plate basically does not affect the bendability of the first bending area due to the increase in the thickness of the first non-bending area.

[0125] The display module provided in the present application not only has higher rigidity in the non-bending region, but also has better bendability in the bending region.

[0126] In one achievable manner, the thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

[0127] So that in the cover plate, the thickness of the first non-bending area corresponding to the first non-bending portion is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending area corresponding to the second non-bending portion. That is, in the cover plate structure, the first non-bending area is a thick area, the second non-bending area is a thin area, and the first bending area connected between the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area is a thin-thick transition area.

[0128] In one achievable manner, the cover plate includes: a substrate and a first buffer layer, the first buffer layer being closer to the display screen than the substrate; the thickness of the substrate located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate located in the second non-bending area, and / or; the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

[0129] In some implementation structures, at least one of the substrate or the buffer layer in the cover plate may be designed to have unequal thickness.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the cover plate includes a second buffer layer, and the second buffer layer includes a first portion and a second portion;

[0131] The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

[0132] In order to further improve the bendability of the bending area, the second buffer layer may be designed to have a structure with unequal elastic moduli.

[0133] Ninthly, the present application provides a hinge mechanism, which can drive the display module to switch between an expanded state and a closed state, and the hinge mechanism includes a first door panel, a second door panel, a middle door panel and a telescopic support structure, the first door panel, the second door panel and the middle door panel are located on the same side of the display module, and the first door panel and the second door panel are relatively arranged on both sides of the middle door panel, the telescopic support structure is arranged on the side of the middle door panel facing the display module, and is connected to the middle door panel, the telescopic support structure includes an extended state and a compressed state; when the display module is in a flattened state, the telescopic support structure is in an extended state, and the part of the telescopic support structure close to the display module rests on the display module; when the display module is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure is in a compressed state.

[0134] In the hinge mechanism provided in the present application, a telescopic support structure is provided on the side of the middle door panel facing the display module. When the display module is in a flattened state, the telescopic support structure in an extended state can lean against the display module to support the display module. In this way, the display module in a flattened state can have sufficient flattening rigidity and flatness. In addition, when the display module is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure is compressed to make room for the bent display module, thereby ensuring the bendability of the display module.

[0135] In one achievable method, the telescopic support structure includes a support member made of a memory material, which is connected to the middle door panel; when the support member is at a first temperature, the support member is in an extended state, and the end of the support member away from the middle door panel is used to abut against one side of the display module; when the support member is at a second temperature, the support member is in a compressed state, and the end of the support member away from the middle door panel is used to separate from the display module.

[0136] When the telescopic support structure is in a compressed state, the telescopic support structure is separated from the display module and does not provide support force to the display module, thereby making the display module more bendable.

[0137] In one achievable manner, the telescopic support structure also includes at least one elastic member, which is connected to the middle door panel; when the temperature applied to the support member is switched from a first temperature to a second temperature, the elastic member in a stretched state causes the support member to switch to a compressed state; when the temperature applied to the support member is switched from the second temperature to the first temperature, the support member stretches, causing the elastic member to be in a stretched state.

[0138] In one achievable manner, there are a plurality of elastic members, and the plurality of elastic members are arranged at intervals along the periphery of the support member.

[0139] In one achievable manner, the telescopic support structure includes a piezoelectric layer, a first electrode, a second electrode, and a protective layer; the piezoelectric layer is stacked between the first electrode and the second electrode, the first electrode is closer to the display module than the second electrode, and the protective layer is arranged on a side of the first electrode away from the piezoelectric layer; when the piezoelectric layer is at a first voltage, the piezoelectric layer is in an extended state, and the protective layer rests against one side of the display module; when the piezoelectric layer is at a second voltage, the piezoelectric layer is in a compressed state, and the protective layer is separated from the display module.

[0140] In a tenth aspect, the present application provides a display screen that can be used in a foldable electronic device, or can also be used in a non-foldable straight-panel electronic device.

[0141] The display screen comprises: a substrate, a driving array structure arranged on one side of the substrate, the driving array structure comprises a transistor, and the transistor comprises: a first electrode, a second electrode, a channel layer and a gate; the channel layer is located on one side of the substrate, the gate is located on a side of the channel layer away from the substrate, and the channel layer and the gate are electrically isolated by a gate dielectric layer, an interlayer dielectric layer is arranged on a side of the gate away from the channel layer, the first electrode and the second electrode respectively penetrate the interlayer dielectric layer and the gate dielectric layer, and are electrically connected to the channel layer; wherein the interlayer dielectric layer comprises: a stacked inorganic dielectric layer and a first organic dielectric layer; the stacking direction of the inorganic dielectric layer and the first organic dielectric layer is consistent with the stacking direction of the substrate and the driving array structure.

[0142] In the display screen provided in the present application, since the interlayer dielectric layer includes not only an inorganic dielectric layer but also an organic dielectric layer, the organic dielectric layer has elastic deformation ability compared to the inorganic dielectric layer. When the display screen is impacted or squeezed, the impact resistance and compression resistance can be improved, the risk of cracks and structural collapse in the interlayer dielectric can be reduced, and the risk of short circuit between the source, drain and gate can be reduced. In addition, even if cracks appear in the interlayer dielectric, the cracks may disappear due to the elastic deformation ability of the organic dielectric layer.

[0143] In one implementation, the gate is covered by a first organic dielectric layer.

[0144] Since the gate is covered by the organic dielectric layer, the risk of short circuit between the gate and the source and drain due to structural collapse can be further reduced.

[0145] In one achievable manner, the first organic medium layer includes an organic polymer, which is obtained by in-situ polymerization of at least one first organic compound and at least one second organic compound; and the organic polymer includes a polyimide structure.

[0146] In an achievable process, the organic dielectric layer may be prepared by using at least one first organic compound and at least one second organic compound.

[0147] In one achievable manner, the gate electrode is electrically isolated from the first electrode by a first organic dielectric layer.

[0148] In one possible implementation, the interlayer dielectric layer further includes: a second organic dielectric layer, and the inorganic dielectric layer is stacked between the first organic dielectric layer and the second organic dielectric layer.

[0149] If multiple organic medium layers and multiple inorganic medium layers are included, the multiple organic medium layers and the multiple inorganic medium layers are stacked alternately.

[0150] In one achievable manner, the thickness of the inorganic dielectric layer is less than or equal to the thickness of the first organic dielectric layer.

[0151] In this way, the elastic deformation capacity of the entire interlayer dielectric layer can be improved.

[0152] In one achievable manner, the display screen further comprises: a light emitting device layer, which is arranged on the side of the driving array structure away from the substrate; a pixel anode layer is arranged on the side of the interlayer dielectric layer away from the substrate, and the first electrode is electrically connected to the light emitting device layer through the pixel anode layer.

[0153] In an eleventh aspect, the present application provides a method for preparing a display screen, the method comprising:

[0154] forming a channel layer on one side of the substrate;

[0155] forming a gate dielectric layer and a gate in sequence on the channel layer away from the substrate, so that the gate dielectric layer electrically isolates the gate from the channel layer;

[0156] forming an interlayer dielectric layer on a side of the gate away from the channel layer, wherein the interlayer dielectric layer comprises a stacked inorganic dielectric layer and an organic dielectric layer;

[0157] The first electrode and the second electrode are formed so that the first electrode and the second electrode both penetrate the interlayer dielectric layer and the gate dielectric layer and are electrically connected to the channel layer.

[0158] In the display screen manufactured by the method provided in the present application, since the interlayer dielectric layer includes an organic dielectric layer and an inorganic dielectric layer, the elastic deformation ability of the organic dielectric layer can be used to improve the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the display screen, reduce the risk of cracks and structural collapse in the interlayer dielectric, and reduce the risk of short circuit between the source, drain and gate. In addition, even if cracks appear in the interlayer dielectric, the cracks may disappear due to the elastic deformation ability of the organic dielectric layer.

[0159] In one achievable manner, the preparation of the organic dielectric layer includes: adopting an evaporation process to prepare the organic dielectric layer.

[0160] The organic medium layer is produced by the evaporation process, and the display screen production process will not be complicated.

[0161] In one achievable manner, the preparation of the organic dielectric layer includes:

[0162] The first compound and the second compound are disposed on one side of the gate by using an evaporation process;

[0163] The first compound and the second compound are annealed to polymerize the first compound and the second compound in situ to form an organic polymer, wherein the organic polymer includes a polyimide structure.

[0164] In one achievable manner, forming an interlayer dielectric layer on a side of the gate away from the channel layer includes: forming an organic dielectric layer on a side of the gate away from the channel layer, so that the gate and the first electrode, and the gate and the second electrode are electrically isolated by the organic dielectric layer.

[0165] The source and drain electrodes are isolated from the gate electrode by using an organic dielectric layer, thus further reducing the risk of short circuit between the source and drain electrodes and the gate electrode.

[0166] In the twelfth aspect, the present application provides an electronic device, which includes a display module and a shell, the display module includes a display screen, the display screen includes a display area, an edge bending area located at the outer edge of the display area, and a lower frame area connected to the edge bending area, and the lower frame area is located on the back of the display area; the edge bending area has a suspended area formed after bending on one side of the center of the arc structure, and at least part of the suspended area is filled with a first filling layer.

[0167] In the electronic device involved in the present application, since the suspended area of ​​the edge bending area close to the center of the arc structure is filled with a first filling layer, the strength of the edge bending area can be improved, and the anti-extrusion and anti-impact performance can be improved.

[0168] In one achievable manner, the display module further includes a display cover plate, and a gap is provided between the display cover plate and an edge bending region of the display screen, and the gap is filled with a second filling layer.

[0169] By using the second filling layer, the strength of the edge bending area can be further improved, and the bending resistance and impact resistance of the edge bending area can be improved.

[0170] In one achievable manner, the elastic modulus of the first filling layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second filling layer.

[0171] This can ensure the bendability of the edge bending area. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0172] Figure 1 A structural diagram of a foldable electronic device;

[0173] Figure 2 A structural diagram of another foldable electronic device;

[0174] Figure 3 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0175] Figure 4 A structural diagram of a light-transmitting mirror provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0176] Figure 5 A structural diagram of a support plate with a light-transmitting mirror provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0177] Figure 6 Structural diagram of two light-transmitting mirrors provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0178] Figure 7 A structural diagram of a support plate with a light-transmitting mirror provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0179] Figure 8 A structural diagram of a display cover or protective layer in a display module;

[0180] Fig. 9 A structural diagram of a display module;

[0181] Fig.10 A structural diagram of a display cover or a protective layer in a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0182] Fig.11 A structural diagram of a substrate in a display cover or protective layer provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0183] Fig.12 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application when bent;

[0184] Fig.13A , Fig. 13B , Fig. 13CA structural diagram of a substrate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0185] Fig.14A , Fig. 14B , Fig. 14C A structural diagram of a substrate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0186] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B A structural diagram of a substrate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0187] Fig.16A , Fig. 16B , Fig. 16C and Fig.16D A structural diagram of a substrate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0188] Fig.17A , Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C A structural diagram of a substrate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0189] Fig.18A and Fig.18B A structural diagram of a substrate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0190] Fig.19 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application when bent;

[0191] Fig. 20A , Fig. 20B , Fig. 20C A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0192] Fig.21 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0193] Fig. 22 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0194] Fig.23 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0195] Fig.24 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0196] Fig.25 A flowchart of a process for preparing a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0197] FIG. 26A to FIG. 26D A cross-sectional view of the process structure corresponding to each step in a display module preparation method provided in an embodiment of the present application after completion;

[0198] Fig. 27 A structural diagram of a display module;

[0199] Fig.28 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0200] Fig.29 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application when bent;

[0201] Fig.30 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0202] Fig.31 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0203] Fig.32 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0204] Fig.33 A structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0205] Fig.34 A structural diagram of a support plate and a display screen provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0206] Fig.35 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0207] Fig.36 A three-dimensional structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0208] Fig.37 for Fig.35 LL profile of;

[0209] Fig.38 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0210] Fig.39 A three-dimensional structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0211] Fig.40 for Fig.38 TT profile;

[0212] Fig.41 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0213] Fig.42 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application when it is flattened and bent;

[0214] Fig.43 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0215] Fig.44 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0216] Fig.45 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0217] Fig.46 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0218] Fig.47 A structural diagram of a support plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0219] Fig.48 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module and a rotating shaft mechanism when the display module is flattened;

[0220] Fig.49 A schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between a display module and a rotating shaft mechanism when the display module is bent;

[0221] Fig.50 A structural diagram of a foldable electronic device;

[0222] Fig.51 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, a rotating shaft mechanism and a telescopic support structure when the display module is flattened;

[0223] Fig.52 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, a rotating shaft mechanism and a telescopic support structure when the display module is bent;

[0224] Fig.53 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, a rotating shaft mechanism and a telescopic support structure when the display module is bent;

[0225] Fig.54 A structural diagram of a telescopic support structure when a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application is flattened;

[0226] Fig.55 A structural diagram of a telescopic support structure when a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application is bent;

[0227] Fig.56 A structural diagram of a telescopic support structure when a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application is flattened;

[0228] Fig.57 A structural diagram of a telescopic support structure when a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application is flattened;

[0229] Fig.58A structural diagram of a telescopic support structure when a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application is bent;

[0230] Fig.59 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module and a telescopic support structure provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0231] Fig.60 A structural diagram of a support plate;

[0232] Fig.61 A structural diagram of a support plate;

[0233] Fig.62 A structural diagram of a display screen;

[0234] Fig.63 A structural diagram of a display screen;

[0235] Fig.64 A structural diagram of a display screen provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0236] Fig.65 A structural diagram of a display screen provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0237] Fig.66 This is a structural diagram of a display screen in the prior art;

[0238] Fig.67 A structural diagram of a display screen provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0239] FIG. 68A to FIG. 68I A cross-sectional view of the process structure corresponding to each step in a display screen manufacturing method provided in an embodiment of the present application after completion;

[0240] Fig.69 A structural diagram of a display screen in a display module when it is flattened;

[0241] Fig.70 A structural diagram of a display screen in a display module when it is bent;

[0242] Fig.71 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module and a housing provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0243] Fig.72 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module and a housing provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0244] Fig.73 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module and a housing provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0245] Fig.74 A schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a display module and a housing provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0246] Fig.75 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state;

[0247] Fig.76 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0248] Fig.77 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0249] Fig.78 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0250] Fig.79 A structural diagram of a multi-folding display module in a folded state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0251] Fig.80 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0252] Fig.81 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0253] Fig.82 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0254] Fig.83 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0255] Fig.84 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0256] Fig.85 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0257] Fig.86 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0258] Fig.87 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0259] Fig.88 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0260] Fig.89 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0261] Fig.90 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0262] Fig.91 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0263] Fig.92 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0264] Fig.93 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0265] Fig.94 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0266] Fig.95 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0267] Fig.96 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0268] Fig.97 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0269] Fig.98 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0270] Fig.99 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0271] Fig.100 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0272] The specific embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0273] An embodiment of the present application provides an electronic device, which may be a foldable electronic device.

[0274] The electronic device may include a mobile phone, a tablet computer (pad), a smart wearable product (e.g., a smart watch, a smart bracelet), a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, and other electronic products with display functions. The embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on the specific form of the above-mentioned electronic devices with display functions.

[0275] For the convenience of explanation, the structure of the electronic device is described below by taking a mobile phone as an example.

[0276] Figure 1 A structural diagram of a folding screen mobile phone is shown, and the folding screen mobile phone of the example is a three-screen folding mobile phone. The three-folding screen mobile phone may include a first shell 100a, a second shell 100b and a third shell 100c, and a display module 11. The display module 11 may be continuously covered on the first shell 100a, the second shell 100b and the third shell 100c. The folding screen mobile phone may also include a first rotating shaft mechanism and a second rotating shaft mechanism.

[0277] The first shell 100a and the second shell 100b are arranged on both sides of the first hinge mechanism and are respectively connected to the first hinge mechanism. The first hinge mechanism can move so that the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b are relatively folded or relatively unfolded, thereby realizing the flattening and closing of the display module 11 arranged on the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b.

[0278] The second shell 100b and the third shell 100c are arranged on both sides of the second hinge mechanism and are respectively connected to the second hinge mechanism. The second hinge mechanism can move so that the second shell 100b and the third shell 100c are relatively folded or relatively unfolded, thereby realizing the flattening and closing of the display module 11 arranged on the second shell 100b and the third shell 100c.

[0279] Figure 2 The structure diagram of a dual-screen folding mobile phone is shown, and the folding mobile phone includes a first shell 100a, a second shell 100b, a display module 11 and a hinge mechanism. The display module 11 can be continuously covered on the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b, and the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b are arranged on both sides of the hinge mechanism and are respectively connected to the hinge mechanism. Under the action of the hinge mechanism, the display module 11 can also be flattened and closed.

[0280] A foldable electronic device can be unfolded to a flat state, or folded to a closed state, or in an intermediate state between the flat state and the closed state. A foldable electronic device has at least two states, namely, a flat state and a closed state. In some cases, a third state may be further included, which is an intermediate state between the flat state and the closed state. The intermediate state does not have only one state, and may be any one or more states between the flat state and the closed state of the electronic device.

[0281] Above Figure 1 and Figure 2 The examples are a three-screen and a dual-screen folding electronic device. The folding electronic device involved in the embodiments of the present application can also be a device with more screens, such as a four-screen folding electronic device, a five-screen folding electronic device, etc.

[0282] Whether Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the foldable electronic device shown, or in the non-foldable straight electronic device, some functional modules are arranged on the back of the display module. For example, a camera module is arranged on the back of the display module to realize functions such as taking photos and videos, and the camera module includes an image sensor; for another example, a fingerprint recognition module is arranged on the back of the display module to realize fingerprint recognition of the electronic device.

[0283] The picture clarity of the camera module is related to the light transmittance of the display module. In order to improve the light transmittance of the display module, the part of the display module corresponding to the camera module can be cut off to improve the picture clarity.

[0284] The fingerprint recognition module is used to transmit and receive ambient light, and has certain requirements for the light transmittance of the display module. Similarly, in order to improve the light transmittance of the display module, the part of the display module corresponding to the fingerprint recognition module can be cut off to improve the photosensitivity.

[0285] In the above examples, in order to improve the light transmittance of the display module, the cut-off method is adopted, which easily leads to the reduction of the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the camera area and the ambient light area of ​​the display module. For example, in some electronic devices, the impact resistance of these areas of the display module can only reach 1Kg, which is far from the required 4.5Kg, which will seriously affect the reliability of the entire display module.

[0286] like Figure 3 This is a structure of a display module given in an embodiment of the present application. In this display module, on the basis of ensuring that the camera area and the ambient light area have a high transmittance, the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of these areas can also be improved.

[0287] See Figure 3The display module 11 may include a support plate (bracket) 111, a display screen (panel) 112 and a cover plate 110. The support plate 111 and the cover plate 110 are arranged on opposite sides of the display screen 112. The support plate 111 is located on the back side of the display screen 112 and serves as a support structure for supporting the display screen 112. The cover plate 110 is located on the display surface side of the display screen 112 and is used to protect the display screen 112 and reduce the probability of the display screen 112 being damaged.

[0288] The display surface of the display screen 112 involved in the embodiment of the present application is a side of the display screen 112 used to display images to the user, and the back side of the display screen 112 refers to the side opposite to the display surface of the display screen 112.

[0289] The display screen 112 includes a first display area and a second display area. The under-screen area corresponding to the first display area is used to set a functional module, such as a camera module, or the functional module may be a fingerprint recognition module, or other types of photosensitive devices.

[0290] like Figure 3 A groove is arranged below the first display area of ​​the display screen 112 , and an optical adhesive layer 500 is arranged in the groove. The optical adhesive layer 500 and the light-transmitting mirror 400 are stacked, and the functional module 300 is arranged below the light-transmitting mirror 400 .

[0291] The light-transmitting mirror 400 and the supporting plate 111 are an integrated structure. For example, the light-transmitting mirror 400 and the supporting plate 111 can be manufactured in one piece by an insert module injection molding process.

[0292] The optical adhesive layer 500 and the light-transmitting mirror 400 can be used to sense external light to the functional module 300, or the light emitted by the functional module 300 can be transmitted to the outside through the light-transmitting mirror 400, the optical adhesive layer 500, and the cover plate 110. In addition, since the light-transmitting mirror 400 and the support plate 111 are an integrated structure, the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the area can be improved. For example, the impact resistance of these areas can reach more than 4.5Kg.

[0293] In some examples of this application, Figure 3 The optical adhesive layer 500 may be at least one of an optically transparent adhesive OCA and an optically transparent resin OCR.

[0294] In order to further improve the connection strength and bonding force between the light-transmitting mirror 400 and the support plate 111, as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, Figure 4 is a three-dimensional structure of a light-transmitting mirror 400 corresponding to a camera module shown in an embodiment of the present application, Figure 5Yes Figure 4 The structure diagram shows that the light-transmitting mirror 400 is installed in the supporting plate 111.

[0295] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 The light-transmitting mirror 400 includes a main body 401 and an extension part 402 integrated with the main body 401. The extension part 402 also has a plurality of protrusions 403. The plurality of protrusions 403 are arranged around the periphery of the extension part 402 and are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the extension part 402. The main body 401, the extension part 402 and the protrusions 403 are an integrated structural component.

[0296] See also Figure 5 The main body 401 and the protrusion 403 are arranged in the support plate 111, and the extension portion 402 is located on one side of the support plate 111. For example, the extension portion 402 is arranged on a side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112.

[0297] Above Figure 4 and Figure 5 The structure of the light-transmitting mirror 400 shown can not only enhance the fit between the support plate 111 and the light-transmitting mirror 400, but also increase the thickness of the light-transmitting mirror 400 by setting the extension portion 402 on the side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112, thereby further improving the anti-extrusion and anti-impact capabilities of the display module.

[0298] In an electronic device with a fingerprint recognition module, the fingerprint recognition module not only needs to receive light from the outside world, but also transmits light to the outside world. Figure 6 As shown, a first light-transmitting mirror 400A and a second light-transmitting mirror 400B are disposed on the support plate 111 , wherein the first light-transmitting mirror 400A may be a lens for receiving external light, and the second light-transmitting mirror 400B may be a lens for transmitting light to the outside.

[0299] The first light-transmitting mirror 400A and the second light-transmitting mirror 400B can adopt the above Figure 6 The light-transmitting mirror structure shown in the figure includes, for example, a main body 401 and an extension part 402 integrated with the main body 401 , wherein the extension part 402 further includes a plurality of protrusions 403 , and the plurality of protrusions 403 are arranged around the periphery of the extension part 402 .

[0300] See also Figure 7 , Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 The first light-transmitting mirror 400A and the second light-transmitting mirror 400B are shown as a structural diagram of being arranged in the support plate 111. The main body 401 and the protrusion 403 are embedded in the support plate 111, and the extension part 402 is located on a side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112.

[0301] The light-transmitting mirror of the example of the present application can not only enhance the adhesion between the support plate 111 and the light-transmitting mirror 400, but also increase the thickness of the light-transmitting mirror, further improve the anti-extrusion and anti-impact capabilities, and reduce the film printing problem in these areas.

[0302] In some examples, such as Figure 3 The cover plate 110 may include a display cover plate 113 and a protective layer 114. The display cover plate 113 is disposed on the display surface side of the display screen 112, and the protective layer 114 is disposed on the side of the display cover plate 113 away from the display screen 112. Both the display cover plate 113 and the protective layer 114 are light-transmissive. The light transmitted from the display surface of the display screen 112 can pass through the display cover plate 113 and the protective layer 114 and be received by the user.

[0303] In some usage scenarios, when the protective layer 114 is damaged or falls off, the display cover 113 can still protect the display screen 112 .

[0304] In some other examples, the cover plate 110 may further include other film layer structures, or the cover plate 110 includes one of a display cover plate 113 and a protective layer 114 .

[0305] In the embodiment of the present application, the display screen (panel) 112 may be a flexible display screen, and the cover plate 110 may be a flexible structure to meet folding requirements.

[0306] The display screen 112 may be, but is not limited to, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display screen, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode or an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display screen, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MID) display screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MID) display screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MID) display screen, a quantum dot light emitting diode (QLED) display screen, etc.

[0307] In some examples, in the display module 11, the display cover 113 and the protective layer 114 can be as follows: Figure 8As shown, it includes: a substrate 11D, a hard coating layer 11E and an adhesive layer 11F. The hard coating layer 11E is arranged on one side of the substrate 11D, and the film layer structure including the hard coating layer 11E and the substrate 11D can be bonded to other structures through the adhesive layer 11F.

[0308] like Fig. 9 The display cover plate 113 can be bonded to the display surface of the display screen 112 through the adhesive layer 11F in the display cover plate 113 , and the protective layer 114 can be bonded to the hardening layer 11E of the display cover plate 113 through the adhesive layer 11F in the protective layer 114 .

[0309] exist Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In the structure of the display cover plate 113 or the protective layer 114 shown, the elastic modulus of the substrate 11D is 1 GPa to 15 GPa, the thickness is 25 um to 75 um, and the thickness of the hardened layer 11E is 3 um to 10 um.

[0310] When the display module 11 is applied to a foldable electronic device, for example, Figure 1 of three folds, or, Figure 2 In the two-fold device, although the bendable performance of the bendable part can be met, the rigidity of the non-bendable part is low, resulting in poor reliability and scratch resistance of the display module. In addition, since the surface of each layer of material itself has a certain degree of roughness, it is difficult to cover the unevenness of the overall stacking of the display module, which will cause obvious uneven display of the display module when the screen is off, that is, the "orange peel" phenomenon.

[0311] In order to improve the rigidity of the non-bending part and alleviate the "orange peel" phenomenon, in some feasible structures, it is possible to increase Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The thickness of the substrate 11D and the hardening layer 11E in the structure shown may reduce the bendability of the bending portion, for example, may cause wrinkles and creases in the bending portion, thereby reducing the display effect of the display module.

[0312] The embodiments of the present application provide some display module structures, which can improve the rigidity of the non-bending part while maintaining the bendable performance of the bendable part, improve the reliability of the non-bending part of the folding screen and the scratch resistance of the surface protective film, improve the flatness, and improve the "orange peel" phenomenon.

[0313] like Fig.10 As shown, Fig.10 The embodiment of the present application shows a structural diagram of the display cover plate 113 or the protective layer 114 in the display module 11, and shows a structural diagram in a flattened state. Fig.11 The structure of the substrate 11D is shown. Fig.12 Yes Fig.10 The structure shown is a structural diagram of an electronic device in a folded state.

[0314] Fig.10 The display cover or protective layer shown can be applied to a double-folded electronic device, or can be applied to an electronic device that can be folded three or more times.

[0315] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 , the display cover 113 or the protective layer 114 includes a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, and the bending portion can be bent along a bending line so that the bending portion can be switched between an expanded state and a closed state.

[0316] like Fig.11 The bent portion of the substrate 11D is provided with a groove 11H. Fig.10 As shown, a filler 11G may be filled in the groove 11H. In some examples, the elastic modulus of the filler 11G is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate 11D.

[0317] Will Fig.10 The structure shown is applied in Fig.12 When the electronic device shown in Fig.12 The stacked support plate (bracket) 111, the display panel (panel) 112 and the display cover (cover) 113, and the protective layer 114, the display cover 113 adopts Fig.10 The adhesive layer 11F in the display cover plate 113 sets the display cover plate 113 on the display surface side of the display screen 112, the bending portion of the substrate 11D in the display cover plate 113 has a groove, and the groove is filled with a filler 11G with a small elastic modulus, and the substrate of the non-bending portion of the display cover plate 113 does not have a groove, and does not involve a filler.

[0318] In the embodiment of the present application, the bent portion of the substrate 11D in the cover plate 110 is filled with a filler 11G with a small elastic modulus. In order to improve the rigidity of the entire display module, even if the substrate 11D is thickened, the bendability of the bent portion can be guaranteed, and the rigidity of the non-bending portion can also be improved, thereby improving the reliability of the flat area of ​​the folding screen and the scratch resistance of the surface protective film.

[0319] It can also improve the flatness of the overall stacking of the display module and weaken the obvious display unevenness that can be observed when the display module is in the off state, namely the "orange peel" phenomenon.

[0320] In some examples, the elastic modulus of the substrate 11D may be 1 GPa to 15 GPa, for example, 1 GPa, 3 GPa, 5 GPa, 8 GPa, 10 GPa, 12 GPa, 15 GPa, etc.

[0321] In some examples, the elastic modulus of the filler 11G may be less than or equal to 5 GPa, for example, 1 GPa, 3 GPa, 5 GPa, etc.

[0322] The filler 11G with a small elastic modulus is used to improve the bendability of the bendable portion, and the substrate 11D with a large elastic modulus is used to maintain the rigidity of the non-bending portion.

[0323] The display cover plate 113 or the protective layer 114 filled with the filler 11G can be applied not only to the inner folding structure but also to the outer folding structure.

[0324] The substrate 11D has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The first surface is closer to the display screen 12 than the second surface. The groove 11H provided on the substrate 11D has a variety of structures that can be realized, and several examples are given below.

[0325] like Fig.13A and Fig.14A The groove 11H is opened on the first surface and is recessed from the first surface toward the second surface. There is a gap between the bottom surface of the groove 11H and the second surface, and the groove 11H does not penetrate the substrate 11D.

[0326] like Fig. 13B and Fig. 14B Not only is a groove 11H provided on the first surface, but a groove 11H is also provided on the second surface. The groove 11H provided on the first surface does not intersect with the groove 11H provided on the second surface.

[0327] like Fig. 13C and Fig. 14C The groove 11H is opened on the second surface and is recessed from the second surface toward the first surface. There is a gap between the bottom surface of the groove 11H and the first surface, and the groove 11H does not penetrate the substrate 11D.

[0328] The groove 11H formed on the substrate 11D has various shapes, and the present application provides several examples.

[0329] like FIG. 13A to FIG. 13C , the cross section of the groove 11H is a rectangular structure.

[0330] like FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C ,as well as Fig.15A , the cross section of the groove 11H is an arc-shaped structure.

[0331] like Fig. 15BThe cross section of the groove 11H is an irregular sawtooth structure.

[0332] In some other embodiments, the cross-section of the groove 11H may be other shapes, which are not listed in this application.

[0333] There are various arrangements of the grooves 11H formed on the substrate 11D.

[0334] In some examples, Fig.16A and Fig. 16B In the embodiment, each groove 11H is a strip-shaped structure, and the extending direction of the groove 11H is consistent with the extending direction of the bending line L of the bending portion. There may be a plurality of strip-shaped grooves, and the plurality of strip-shaped grooves 11H are arranged along a direction perpendicular to the bending line L. Fig.16A In the top view, the cross section of the groove 11H is a rectangle. Fig. 16B In the embodiment, the top-view cross-section of the groove 11H is an ellipse.

[0335] In other examples, such as Fig. 16C and Fig.16D , multiple grooves 11H are dispersed in the bending portion. For example, they can be dispersedly arranged in the bending portion in a rectangular shape. Fig. 16C In the top view, the cross section of the groove 11H is circular. Fig.16D In the figure, the top-view cross-section of the groove 11H is a triangle.

[0336] FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C Some layouts of the grooves 11H are also given. FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C When there are multiple grooves 11H, the multiple grooves 11H can be arranged at intervals in the substrate 11D, for example, they can be arranged at intervals along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the bending line L. The cross-sectional shape of these multiple grooves 11H can be as follows: Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The same as shown can also be Fig. 17C The cross-sectional shapes shown are inconsistent.

[0337] In some implementations, the depth of the plurality of grooves 11H may be as follows: Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The same as shown can also be Fig. 17C The depth shown is inconsistent.

[0338] FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C In the example of , there are a plurality of grooves 11H provided on the bent portion, and the plurality of grooves 11H are spaced apart and opened in the substrate 11D. Fig.18A and Fig.18B In the example shown, there is one groove 11H provided on the bent portion, and the groove 11H may be a structure with a uniform thickness or a structure with a non-uniform thickness.

[0339] In the example of the present application, there are a variety of materials that can be selected for the substrate 11D, for example, at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), and transparent polyimide (CPI) can be selected.

[0340] There are many materials that can be selected for the filler 11G, for example, optically clear adhesive (OCA), optically clear resin (OCR), acrylic resin, epoxy resin, etc.

[0341] The display cover plate 113 having the filler 11G can be applied to Fig.19 In the three-fold display module 11 including the inner folding portion A1 and the outer folding portion A2, Fig. 20A Shows Fig.19 The structural diagram of the inner folded part A1 in the unfolded state, Fig. 20B Shows Fig.19 Structural diagram when the outer folded part A2 is in the unfolded state.

[0342] like Fig.19 The inner folding part A1 refers to the process in which the electronic device is transformed from the flat state to the closed state and the electronic device is in the closed state, and the display screen is on the inner side of the electronic device, that is, the display screen gradually becomes invisible to the user during the folding process, until the display module 11 is accommodated between the two shells and completely hidden in the closed state. The display surface side of the display module 11 is hidden and is invisible to the user.

[0343] like Fig.19 The outer folded portion A2 is a portion of the display module 11 that is visible to the user during the folding process and in the closed state, and the user can also perform some operations on the display module 11 in the closed state. It can also be understood that the display surface side of the display module 11 is visible to the user.

[0344] The substrate 11D has a first surface and a second surface relative to each other. In the inner folding portion A1, the first surface is closer to the center of the arc structure formed by the display module than the second surface. In the outer folding portion A2, the first surface is farther from the center of the arc structure formed by the display module than the second surface.

[0345] In both the inner folded portion A1 and the outer folded portion A2 , the groove 11H is opened on the first surface, and there is a gap between the bottom surface of the groove 11H and the second surface.

[0346] See also Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B ,exist Fig. 20A In the display cover plate 113 of the inner folded portion A1 shown in the figure, the spacing S1 between two adjacent grooves filled with fillers is less than Fig. 20B In the display cover plate 113 of the outer folded portion A2 shown, a distance S2 between two adjacent grooves is filled with fillers.

[0347] Compared with the inner folding part A1 and the outer folding part A2, the bending radius of the inner folding part A1 can be designed to be smaller, while the bending radius of the outer folding part A2 can be designed to be larger. In addition, the display module 11 of the outer folding part A2 is often outside the entire electronic device, that is, the strength requirement of the outer folding part A2 is higher. Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B When designing the inner folding part A1 and the outer folding part A2, in the inner folding part A1, by utilizing grooves with smaller spacing, the elastic modulus of the inner folding part A1 can be made smaller and easier to bend, while in the outer folding part A2, not only the bendability can be guaranteed, but also the rigidity will not be reduced.

[0348] In some embodiments, Fig.19 The number of grooves of the inner folding part A1 can be greater than the number of grooves of the outer folding part A2. In this way, the bendability of the inner folding part A1 can be further improved.

[0349] For other examples, see Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B ,exist Fig. 20A In the display cover 113 of the inner folded portion A1 shown in FIG. 1 , the depth h1 of the groove is greater than that in the Fig. 20B In the display cover 113 of the outer folding portion A2 shown, the depth of the groove is h2. More fillers with a smaller elastic modulus can be filled in the inner folding portion A1 to further improve the bendability of the inner folding portion A1.

[0350] In some other embodiments, in order to further improve the bendability of the inner folding portion A1, as Fig. 20C , grooves can be provided on opposite sides of the substrate 11D, and fillers 11G with a small elastic modulus can be filled in the grooves on both sides to improve the bendability, so that the inner folded portion A1 has a smaller bending radius.

[0351] Since the display cover plate 113 or the protective layer 114 with the filler 11G is arranged on the display surface side of the display screen 112, the display cover plate 113 and the protective layer 114 are both light-transmitting, and the transmitted light needs to be received by the user. In order to prevent the filler 11G from affecting the light-transmitting effect, in some examples, the refractive index λ1 of the filler 11G and the refractive index λ2 of the substrate 11D satisfy: 0.8≤λ1 / λ2≤1.2. For example, λ1 / λ2=0.8, or, λ1 / λ2=1, or, λ1 / λ2=1.2, etc.

[0352] In order to further improve the light transmittance of the display cover 113 or the protective layer 114, some nanoparticles may be doped into the filler 11G, and the nanoparticles may improve the light transmittance. For example, the nanoparticles may be ZrO2, TiO2, SiO2, Al2O3, SnO2, Nb2O5, etc.

[0353] In the embodiment of the present application, the groove 11H filled with the filler 11G is provided at the bending part, and on the basis of ensuring that the bending part has good bending performance, in order to prevent the filler 11G with a small elastic modulus from affecting the rigidity of the bending part. In some achievable structures, the depth h of the groove 11H and the thickness H of the substrate 11D without the groove satisfy: 0.2≤h / H≤0.8. For example, h / H=0.4, h / H=0.5, h / H=0.6, h / H=0.7, etc.

[0354] In order to prevent the filler 11G with a small elastic modulus from affecting the rigidity of the bent portion, in some other achievable structures, the area S1 occupied by the groove 11H and the area S2 of the substrate 11D of the bent portion without the groove satisfy: 0.3≤S1 / S2≤0.9. For example, S1 / S2=0.4, S1 / S2=0.5, S1 / S2=0.6, S1 / S2=0.7, S1 / S2=0.8, etc.

[0355] In some examples, the display cover 113 may not only adopt a structure with a groove and a filler with a small elastic modulus in the groove, but the protective layer 114 may also adopt this structure. Fig.21 In the display module shown, not only in the display cover 113 , a groove is opened in the substrate 11D and filled with filler 11G1 , but also in the protective layer 114 , a groove is opened in the substrate 11D and filled with filler 11G2 .

[0356] In order to improve the bendability of the entire display module, Fig.21The multiple grooves in the display cover plate 113 and the multiple grooves in the protective layer 114 are arranged at intervals along the direction perpendicular to the bending line, and there is a filler 11G2 between two adjacent fillers 11G1, and there is a filler 11G1 between two adjacent fillers 11G2. The flexibility of the bent portion of the display cover plate 113 and the protective layer 114 that can be stacked is more uniform.

[0357] The number of grooves in the display cover 113 may be smaller than the number of grooves in the protection layer 114 .

[0358] The distance between two adjacent grooves in the display cover 113 is greater than the distance between two adjacent grooves in the protection layer 114 .

[0359] The display module in the above example may also include other structures. For example, Fig. 22 , Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, Fig. 22 The structure diagram of the display module is shown in which the protective layer 114 has a filler 11G. Fig.23 The structure diagram of the display module is shown in which the display cover 113 has a filler 11G. Fig.24 The structure diagram of the display module is shown in which the protective layer 114 and the display cover plate 113 both have fillers 11G.

[0360] like Figure 22 to Figure 24 The display module further includes a back protection layer 116, which is disposed between the display screen 112 and the support plate 111. The back protection layer 116 is disposed on the support plate 111 via an adhesive layer 115, and the display screen 112 is disposed on the back protection layer 116 via an adhesive layer 117.

[0361] like Figure 22 to Figure 24 The display module also includes a polarizer (POL) 118 , which is disposed between the display screen 112 and the display cover 113 .

[0362] The polarizer 118 in this embodiment may be a P-type polarizer; or, may be an S-type polarizer, etc.

[0363] The present application also provides a method for preparing a display module including a bent portion. Fig.25 , Fig.25 The flowchart of a method for preparing the same is shown, wherein the method for preparing the same comprises:

[0364] S1: a display cover is arranged on one side of a display surface of a display screen, wherein the display screen comprises a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, and the bending portion can be bent along a bending line so that the display screen can be switched between an unfolded state and a closed state.

[0365] S2: Disposing a protective layer on the side of the display cover away from the display screen.

[0366] At least one of the display cover or the protective layer includes: a substrate and a hardening layer arranged on one side of the substrate, the substrate is closer to the display screen than the hardening layer; the substrate corresponding to the bent portion is provided with at least one groove, the groove has a filler, and the elastic modulus of the filler is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate.

[0367] A groove is formed in the display cover plate to fill the filler, or a groove is formed in the protective layer to fill the filler, and the following methods can be used. FIG. 26A to FIG. 26D The examples given were prepared.

[0368] like Fig.26A , accurate raw materials, wherein the raw materials include Fig.26A The substrate 11D is shown.

[0369] Among the selectable materials, the substrate 11D may be made of at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), and transparent polyimide (CPI).

[0370] like Fig.26B A groove 11H is formed in the region of the substrate 11D located at the bent portion.

[0371] For example, the substrate 11D may be processed by injection molding, laser cutting, or etching to form the groove 11H.

[0372] like Fig.26C The groove 11H may be filled with fillers by coating, spraying or inkjet printing until the thickness of the position is consistent with the thickness of other areas that have not been processed, so that the overall thickness is uniform.

[0373] The filler may be an optically clear adhesive (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), or the like.

[0374] The elastic modulus of the filler 11G is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate 11D.

[0375] like Fig.26D The filler 11G filled above is cured, and the curing method may include but is not limited to light curing, heat curing, radiation curing, etc.

[0376] In the different display module structures shown in the above-mentioned application, by changing the structure of at least one of the display cover plate and the protective layer, a groove is opened in the substrate and filled with a filler with a small elastic modulus, so that the bending part of the entire display module has a higher bendability, and the non-bending part has sufficiently high strength and rigidity. In addition, the "orange peel" phenomenon on the surface of the display module can also be improved.

[0377] Fig. 27 The "orange peel" phenomenon is shown, where the "orange peel" phenomenon can be understood as the uneven surface of the display module, for example, Fig. 27 In the embodiment, the surface of the protective layer 114 on the outer layer of the display module is uneven, which causes light to be diffusely reflected on its surface, making it look like orange peel, which is called the "orange peel" phenomenon. The "orange peel" phenomenon reduces the user experience.

[0378] In order to improve the surface flatness of the display module and reduce the "orange peel" phenomenon, the embodiments of the present application also provide some structures of the display modules, as described below.

[0379] Fig.28 It is a structural diagram of a display module given in an embodiment of the present application. The display module includes a multi-layer stacked film structure. For example, in addition to a support plate (bracket) 111, a display screen (panel) 112, a display cover (cover) 113 and a protective layer 114, it can also include a flattening layer 119.

[0380] The planarization layer 119 is disposed on a side of the protection layer 114 away from the display cover plate 113. For example, the planarization layer 119 can be made of optically clear resin (OCR).

[0381] During the preparation of the display module, Fig.28 After the support plate 111, display screen 112, display cover plate 113 and protective layer 114 are stacked, liquid optically clear resin (OCR) can be coated on the surface of the protective layer 114 away from the display cover plate 113. The optically clear resin OCR has high fluidity. The surface tension of the flowing optically clear resin OCR is used to fill the uneven structure on the surface of the protective layer 114, so that the surface achieves a high degree of flatness, eliminates the surface unevenness caused by the stacking of the multi-layer film structure, and reduces the "orange peel" phenomenon.

[0382] In some examples, such as Fig.28The protective layer 114 may include a substrate 11D and a hardening layer 11E disposed on a side of the substrate 11D away from the display cover 113, and the substrate 11D is disposed on the display cover 113 via an adhesive layer 11F. The flattening layer 119 is disposed on a side of the hardening layer 11E away from the substrate 11D, serving as the outer surface of the entire display module.

[0383] Fig.29 Yes Fig.28 The structure shown is used in a foldable electronic device, and is a structural diagram when in a folded state. A flat layer 119 is provided on the side of the protective layer 114 away from the display cover 113 on both the bent portion and the non-bent portion. The flat layer 119 exposed on the surface of the display module can suppress the "orange peel" phenomenon of the bent portion and the non-bent portion, avoiding the obvious uneven display of the screen under the light, so as to improve the user experience.

[0384] Fig.30 This is a structural diagram of another display module given in an embodiment of the present application. A flattening layer 119 is provided on the side of the protective layer 114 away from the display cover plate 113. In the substrate 11D of the protective layer 114, a groove is formed in the area located at the bending part, and a filler 11G with a small elastic modulus is filled in the groove. The display module of this embodiment not only has greater rigidity in the non-bending part, but also has higher bendability in the bending part. In addition, by providing a flattening layer 119 on the surface, the surface unevenness caused by the stacking of multi-layer film structures can also be eliminated, and the "orange peel" phenomenon can be reduced to further enhance the experience of the display module.

[0385] The following also exemplifies the preparation Fig.28 The manufacturing method of the display module shown may include:

[0386] The support plate 111 , the display screen 112 , the display cover plate 113 and the protection layer 114 are laminated.

[0387] Liquid UV glue is sprayed or spin-coated on the surface of the stacked modules. After a certain period of time, the liquid UV glue is leveled and then UV curing is performed.

[0388] In some manufacturing processes, liquid UV glue may be sprayed or spin-coated on the surface of the stacked modules, and then a glass plate may be placed on the module. After a certain period of time, the gap between the glass plate and the module surface is filled with liquid UV glue, and then UV curing is performed. By using the glass plate to make the module surface flat, the surface flatness of the glass plate will be transferred to the module surface.

[0389] In some other preparation processes, liquid UV glue may be sprayed or spin-coated on the surface of the stacked modules, and then the module surface may be flattened by a scraper or a glue scraping process, and then UV curing may be performed.

[0390] Above Fig.28 In the exemplary display module, during the manufacturing process, a liquid adhesive layer is covered on the module surface, and after solidification, a flat layer 119 is formed to improve the surface flatness and reduce the "orange peel" phenomenon.

[0391] Fig.31 This is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. The display module of this example can also improve the flatness of the module surface.

[0392] exist Fig.31 The exemplary structure also includes a planarization layer 119. Fig.28 In the embodiment, the flattening layer 119 is disposed on the side of the protective layer 114 away from the display cover plate 113, and the flattening layer 119 serves as the surface layer structure of the entire display module. Fig.31 In the structure shown, the planarization layer 119 is disposed between the functional layer 120 and the display cover plate 113 .

[0393] exist Fig.31 In the exemplary display module, the support plate 111, the display screen 112, the functional layer 120, the display cover plate 113 and the protective layer 114 are adhered together by adhesive layers, and each film layer surface has a different degree of corrugation (or flatness). Finally, the stacking of the layers will form an uneven surface on the display module. Fig.31 During the preparation of the display module, a liquid adhesive is coated on the side of the functional layer 120 away from the display screen 112. For example, the adhesive can be made of optically clear resin (OCR), and then cured to form a flat layer 119, so that the surface of the display module achieves a mirror effect.

[0394] Fig.31 In the example, the surface tension of the flowing optically transparent resin OCR is used to fill the uneven structure on the surface of the protective layer 114, so that the surface achieves a high degree of flatness, eliminates the surface unevenness caused by the stacking of multi-layer film structures, and reduces the "orange peel" phenomenon.

[0395] In some examples, the viscosity of the liquid optical adhesive is 5 to 50 mPa.s, the surface tension is 25-50 nN / m, the curing shrinkage is ≤15%, the low temperature modulus is ≤300 KPa, the room temperature modulus is ≤50 KPa, the high temperature is ≥5 KPa, Tg is ≤-10°C, etc.

[0396] In preparation Fig.31When the structure shown is used, the following methods can be used:

[0397] The support plate 111 , the display screen 112 and the functional layer 120 are laminated.

[0398] Liquid UV glue may be sprayed or spin-coated on the surface of the stacked layer structure for a certain period of time, and after the liquid UV glue is leveled, UV curing treatment is performed to form a flat layer 119; alternatively, liquid UV glue may be sprayed or spin-coated on the surface of the stacked layer structure, and then a glass plate may be placed on the module. After a certain period of time, the liquid UV glue may fill the gap between the glass plate and the module surface, and then UV curing treatment is performed to form a flat layer 119; alternatively, liquid UV glue may be sprayed or spin-coated on the surface of the stacked layer structure, and then the module surface may be flattened by a scraper or a scraping process, and then UV curing treatment is performed to form a flat layer 119.

[0399] A display cover plate 113 and a protective layer 114 are then disposed on a side of the planarization layer 119 away from the functional layer 120 .

[0400] Fig.32 This is a structural diagram of another display module given in an embodiment of the present application. A flattening layer 119 is provided between the display cover 113 and the functional layer 120. In the substrate 11D of the protective layer 114, a groove is formed in the area located at the bending part, and a filler with a small elastic modulus is filled in the groove. The display module of this embodiment not only has greater rigidity in the non-bending part, but also has higher bendability in the bending part. In addition, by providing a flattening layer 119 on the surface, the surface unevenness caused by the stacking of multi-layer film structures can also be eliminated, and the "orange peel" phenomenon can be reduced to further enhance the experience of the display module.

[0401] Fig.33 1 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this example, a flattening layer 119 is provided between the display cover plate 113 and the functional layer 120, and a flattening layer 119 can also be provided on the side of the protective layer 114 away from the display cover plate 113. In this way, by applying the liquid adhesive layer multiple times, the surface tension of the liquid optical adhesive can be fully utilized, so that the display module has a higher surface flatness and achieves a mirror effect.

[0402] During the use of electronic devices containing display modules, the flexible display screen is subjected to cyclic bending stress, which is very likely to cause undesirable phenomena such as creep and local horizontal lines. In order to reduce these phenomena, as mentioned above, a support plate 111 is provided on the back side of the display screen 112, and the bendable support plate 111 is used to compensate for the bending defects of the display screen 112.

[0403] The support plate is designed to be divided into a non-bending area and a bending area. The non-bending area has a higher rigidity, which can ensure the flatness and reliability of the screen; the bending area has a lower rigidity, which can not only ensure the bending characteristics, but also provide a part of the screen support capacity. However, under long-term, high-frequency, and harsh working conditions, the flattening rigidity of the bending area is usually insufficient, and the display module is prone to defects such as creases, horizontal lines, and dents, which affects the display module's anti-extrusion and anti-impact performance.

[0404] The embodiments of the present application provide some novel support plate structures, which not only have high bendability but also can improve flattening stiffness.

[0405] like Fig.34 , Fig.34 The positional relationship between the support plate 111 and the display screen 112 is shown in FIG. The support plate 111 is disposed on the back side of the display screen 112. Since the display screen 112 involved in the embodiment of the present application is a bendable screen structure, the support plate 111 also includes a bendable section and a non-bendable section connected to the bendable section. Fig.34 In the example, a bending section and two non-bending sections located on opposite sides of the bending section are shown. In some examples, more bending sections and non-bending sections may be included, for example, it can be applied to electronic devices that can be folded three or more times.

[0406] See also Fig.35 The support plate 111 in the embodiment of the present application includes a stacked first sub-support plate 1111 and a second sub-support plate 1112. In some other examples, a third sub-support plate or more sub-support plates may also be included. The present application is described by taking two stacked sub-support plates as an example.

[0407] like Fig.35 and Fig.36 , Fig.35 is a top view of the first sub-support plate 1111, Fig.36 yes Fig.35 A three-dimensional view of a partial structure of the first sub-support plate 1111 in FIG. Fig.35 and Fig.36 In the bending section of the first sub-support plate 1111 shown (which can be called the first bending section), a plurality of first hollow structures 1111A are opened, and the area where the first hollow structure 1111A is located forms a hollow area, and then forms a plurality of first hollow areas, and the area between two adjacent first hollow areas in the first bending section can be called the first non-hollow area.

[0408] The first hollow structure 1111A in the bent section of the first sub-support plate 1111 may be: Fig.37 As shown, Fig.37 It is along Fig.35As shown in the cross-sectional view after cutting along line LL, the first sub-support plate 1111 has an M1 surface and an M2 surface that are opposite to each other. In the first bending section of the first sub-support plate 1111, the first hollow structure 1111A penetrates from the M1 surface to the M2 surface.

[0409] like Fig.38 and Fig.39 , Fig.38 is a top view of the second sub-support plate 1112, Fig.39 yes Fig.38 A three-dimensional view of a partial structure of the second sub-support plate 1112 in FIG. Fig.38 and Fig.39 In the bending section of the second sub-support plate 1112 shown (which can be called the second bending section), a plurality of second hollow structures 1112A are opened, and the area where the second hollow structure 1112A is located forms a hollow area, forming a plurality of second hollow areas. Similarly, the area between two adjacent second hollow areas in the second bending section can be called a second non-hollow area.

[0410] The second hollow structure 1112A in the second bending section of the second sub-support plate 1112 may be: Fig.40 As shown, Fig.40 It is along Fig.38 As shown in the cross-sectional view after cutting along line TT, the second sub-support plate 1112 has opposite M3 and M4 surfaces. In the bending section of the second sub-support plate 1112, the second hollow structure 1112A penetrates from the M3 surface to the M4 surface.

[0411] Fig.41 The first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112 are stacked in a structural diagram, and are structural schematic diagrams in a flattened state. The first hollow area is overlapped with at least part of the second non-hollow area, and the second hollow area is overlapped with at least part of the first non-hollow area.

[0412] In some examples given in the present application, the first hollow area and the second non-hollow area are at least partially overlapped, and the second hollow area and the first non-hollow area are at least partially overlapped. The first hollow structure 1111A and the second hollow structure 1112A are basically arranged alternately.

[0413] Alternatively, the orthographic projection of the first hollow area on the first surface may at least partially overlap with the orthographic projection of the second non-hollow area on the first surface, and the orthographic projection of the second hollow area on the first surface may at least partially overlap with the orthographic projection of the first non-hollow area on the first surface. The first surface is a surface parallel to the surface of the first sub-support plate or the surface of the second sub-support plate.

[0414] Alternatively, the stacking direction of the first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112 may be: Fig.41 P direction), the orthographic projection of the first hollow structure 111A on the second sub-support plate 1112 covers at least part of the non-hollow area of ​​the second sub-support plate 1112, and the orthographic projection of the second hollow structure 1112A on the first sub-support plate 1111 covers at least part of the non-hollow area of ​​the first sub-support plate 1111.

[0415] The first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112 both have a hollow structure, and when flattened, the first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112 support each other and are connected to form an integral structure, which can improve the flattening rigidity and strength of the display module, and greatly improve the anti-extrusion, anti-impact and anti-crease capabilities of the display module.

[0416] Fig.42 The structure diagram of the stacking of the first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112 is shown. In order to clearly show the difference in structure between the support plates in the flattened state and the closed state, Fig.42 A shows the partial structure of the support plate when it is flattened. Fig.42 B shows a partial structure of the support plate when it is bent.

[0417] See Fig.42 In this example, the second sub-support plate 1112 is disposed farther away from the display module 11 than the first sub-support plate 1111 , and a bending radius of the second sub-support plate 1112 is greater than a bending radius of the first sub-support plate 1111 .

[0418] When the support plate 111 is in the closed state, at least a portion of the second sub-support plate 1112 is separated from the first sub-support plate 1111. Fig.42 When the support plate is in a flattened state, (1) and (2) of the second non-hollow region of the second sub-support plate 1112 adjacent to the second hollow structure 1112A are both in contact with the first sub-support plate 1111 located thereon. Fig.42 When B is in the closed state, the (1) and (2) parts of the second non-hollow area will bend and separate from the first sub-support plate 1111. For example, the parts of (1) and (2) of the second non-hollow area close to the bottom end of the arc structure may be separated from the first sub-support plate 1111.

[0419] Since the stacked first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112 are partially separated in the support plate 111 in the closed state, it can be ensured that the support plate 111 has good bending performance.

[0420] The embodiment of the present application provides a sub-support plate structure comprising at least two stacked layers, and a hollow structure is provided on each sub-support plate. When the display module is flattened, the hollow structures on the two opposite sub-support plates support each other, thereby improving the flattening stiffness of the bending part. When the display module is closed, the two opposite sub-support plates are partially separated, thereby ensuring the bending performance.

[0421] The first hollow structure 1111A of the bending area of ​​the first sub-support plate 1111 has a variety of structures that can be realized. Fig.35 and Fig.36 In the embodiment, the first hollow structure 1111A includes a plurality of strip-shaped slots, and the extending direction of each slot is parallel to the bending line L of the bending area.

[0422] like Fig.36 The first sub-support plate 1111 has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, and the layout direction of the first surface and the second surface is parallel to the bending line L of the bending area. The slots include slots A1, slots A2, and slots A3, and the extension directions of slots A1, slots A2, and slots A3 are all parallel to the bending line L of the bending area.

[0423] The slot A1 is opened from the first surface to the second surface, and the slot A1 does not penetrate to the second surface. The slot A2 is opened from the second surface to the first surface, and the slot A2 does not penetrate to the first surface. There is a spacing S between the end of the slot A1 close to the slot A2 and the end of the slot A2 close to the slot A1, that is, there is a non-hollow area between the slot A1 and the slot A2. There is a spacing between one end of the slot A3 and the first surface, and there is also a spacing between the other end and the second surface, that is, there is a non-hollow area between the two opposite ends of the slot A3 and the outer edge of the first sub-support plate 1111.

[0424] The plurality of slots A1 and the plurality of slots A3 are alternately arranged along a direction perpendicular to the bending line L, and the plurality of slots A2 and the plurality of slots A3 are also alternately arranged along a direction perpendicular to the bending line L.

[0425] exist Fig.36 The slots A1, A2, and A3 of the example have constant widths along the extending directions of the slots. In some achievable structures, the slot widths of the slots A1, A2, and A3 may be equal or unequal.

[0426] The second hollow structure 1112A in the bending area of ​​the second sub-support plate 1112 has a variety of structures that can be realized. Fig.38 and Fig.39 In the embodiment, the second hollow structure 1112A includes a plurality of strip-shaped slots, and the extending direction of each slot is parallel to the bending line L of the bending area.

[0427] See also Fig.39 The second sub-support plate 1112 has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, and the layout direction of the first surface and the second surface is parallel to the bending line L of the bending area. The slots include slots B1, slots B2, and slots B3, and the extension directions of the slots B1, slots B2, and slots B3 are all parallel to the bending line L of the bending area.

[0428] The slot B1 is opened from the first surface to the second surface, and the slot B1 does not penetrate the second surface. The slot B2 is opened from the second surface to the first surface, and the slot B2 does not penetrate the first surface. There is a gap between one end of the third slot B3 and the first surface, and there is also a gap between the other end and the second surface.

[0429] The plurality of slots B1 and the plurality of slots B3 are alternately arranged along a direction perpendicular to the bending line L, and the plurality of slots B2 and the plurality of slots B3 are also alternately arranged along a direction perpendicular to the bending line L.

[0430] Fig.43 A portion of the structure of the second sub-support plate 1112 is captured. Fig.44 Shown Fig.43 Detailed view of the slot B1 or slot B2.

[0431] like Fig.43 and Fig.44 , along the extension direction of these grooves, the groove width of the groove B3 is a constant value, and the groove widths of the grooves B1 and B2 are variable. For example, in the groove B1, from the first surface to the second surface, the groove B1 is first a constant value, then increases, then decreases, and then increases again. The portion with a smaller groove width will form a protruding structure protruding into the groove B1 compared to the portion with a larger groove width; and in the groove B2, from the second surface to the first surface, the groove B2 is first a constant value, then increases, then decreases, and then increases again. Like the groove B1, the portion with a smaller groove width will form a protruding structure protruding into the groove B2 compared to the portion with a larger groove width. As Fig.44 , along the extension direction of the slot B1, the slot B1 includes a first section and a second section connected to each other, the slot width of the first section is not equal to the slot width of the second section, and the slot width of the first section is greater than the slot width of the second section. The portion of the second non-hollowed area of ​​the second sub-support plate 1112 close to the second section protrudes toward the second section compared to the portion close to the first section to form a protruding structure. In some examples, when the display screen is in a closed state, the protruding structure is separated from the first sub-support plate 1111.

[0432] exist Fig.44In the embodiment, the slot B1 further includes a third section, which is connected to the second section, and the slot width of the third section and the slot width of the first section are both greater than the slot width of the second section. It also includes a fourth section connected to the third section, and the slot width of the fourth section is less than the slot width of the third section, so that two protruding structures can be formed.

[0433] In order to further improve the bendability of the support plate bending area, such as Fig.44 The first section with a larger groove width is farther away from the edge of the second sub-support plate 1112 than the second section with a smaller groove width.

[0434] In the embodiment given in the present application, since the first sub-support plate 1111 is closer to the display screen than the second sub-support plate 1112, when the display screen is bent, the first sub-support plate 1111 has a smaller bending radius than the second sub-support plate 1112. In order to improve the bendability of the first sub-support plate 1111, the length dimensions of the grooves A1 and A2 opened on the first sub-support plate 1111 can be greater than the length dimensions of the grooves B1 and B2 opened on the second sub-support plate 1112.

[0435] Since a protruding structure protruding toward the inside of the groove is formed in the groove B1 and the groove B2, when the support plate is in Fig.42 In the closed state shown in B, the protruding structure is easily separated from the first sub-support plate 1111, so that the multi-layer stacked support plate is easy to bend, thereby improving the bending performance of the support plate.

[0436] Fig.45 1 is another structural diagram of the second sub-support plate 1112 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.38 The structures of the second sub-support plates 1112 of the examples are the same in that they all include a slot B1 , a slot B2 , and a slot B3 , and the extending directions of the slots B1 , B2 , and B3 are all parallel to the bending line L of the bending area.

[0437] and the above Fig.38 The second sub-support plate 1112 of the example has a different structure: Fig.46 The structures of slot B1 and slot B2 are similar to Fig.38 The structures of slots B1 and B2 are different. Fig.46 In the embodiment, the slot B1 or the slot B2 includes a protruding structure protruding into the slot, and in the above Fig.38 In the groove B1 or the groove B2, two protruding structures are included.

[0438] In some other examples, the groove B1 or the groove B2 may further include more protruding structures.

[0439] In the slots B1 or B2 of different structures shown above, the portion with a larger slot width is substantially away from the outer edge of the second sub-support plate 1112. This can further improve the flexibility of the second sub-support plate 1112 and improve its bendability.

[0440] There are many ways to connect the first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112. For example, they can be connected by welding, magnetic attraction, mechanical connector connection, bonding, etc.

[0441] Fig.47 This is a structural diagram of the embodiment of the present application when an adhesive layer is used for connection. Fig.47 The black area in the figure represents the position of the adhesive layer. Since the slots A1 and A2 on the first sub-support plate 1111 are not connected, a non-hollow area is formed at the position where the slots A1 and A2 are close to each other; and the slots B1 and B2 on the second sub-support plate 1112 are not connected, and a non-hollow area is formed at the position where the slots B1 and B2 are close to each other. In the process that can be realized, Fig.47 The two stacked non-hollow areas can be bonded together using an adhesive layer.

[0442] In order to further improve the connection strength between the first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112, as shown in FIG. Fig.47 An adhesive layer may also be used to bond the non-bending region of the first sub-support plate 1111 adjacent to the bending region to the non-bending region of the second sub-support plate 1112 adjacent to the bending region.

[0443] The multi-layer stacked support plate provided in the embodiment of the present application, when flattened, achieves force transmission from the bending area to the non-bending area through the alternating arrangement of the hollow structure in the upper and lower layers, thereby achieving a significant increase in the flattening stiffness of the display module; when bent, the lower sub-support plate portion away from the display screen is separated from the upper sub-support plate, thereby ensuring that the stiffness of the display module when bent is at a relatively low level; when bent and stretched, since each layer of the sub-support plate includes a hollow structure, the layers do not hinder each other during stretching, and each layer of the sub-support plate has good tensile properties.

[0444] The above embodiments all show the structure of the bending section of the support plate in the display module. The support plate also includes a non-bending area corresponding to the display screen, such as Fig.34 The support plate 111 also includes two non-bending sections located on both sides of the bending section.

[0445] In some feasible structures, the bending section and the non-bending section of the support plate can be made of different materials. For example, the bending section can be made of stainless steel or titanium alloy with higher density and better mechanical properties, and the non-bending section can be made of thin carbon fiber. In this way, while ensuring that the support plate has the characteristics of being flat and rigid, flexible and easy to stretch, the weight of the entire support plate can be reduced to achieve lightness and thinness.

[0446] In the foldable electronic device involved in the embodiment of the present application, the shells located on both sides of the hinge mechanism can be flattened and closed under the drive of the hinge mechanism.

[0447] Fig.48 and Fig.49 A simplified schematic diagram is shown when the rotating shaft mechanism 200 is in two different states. Fig.48 The figure shows the state of the display module 11 and the hinge mechanism 200 when the electronic device is in a flat state. Fig.49 It shows the state diagram of the display module 11 and the hinge mechanism 200 when the electronic device is in a closed state.

[0448] Reference Fig.48 and Fig.49 The hinge mechanism 200 includes a first door panel 202 , a second door panel 203 and a middle door panel 201 . The first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 are arranged between two opposite sides of the middle door panel 201 .

[0449] The rotating shaft mechanism 200 further includes a main shaft 204, and the first door panel 202, the middle door panel 201 and the second door panel 203 are located on the same side of the main shaft 204. Fig.49 The display module 11 is supported on one side of the first door panel 202 , the middle door panel 201 and the second door panel 203 , and the main shaft 204 is located on the other side of the first door panel 202 , the middle door panel 201 and the second door panel 203 .

[0450] In the hinge mechanism 200 , the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 can move toward or away from each other to achieve the flattening or closing of the display module.

[0451] During the rotation of the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 , the middle door panel 201 can move toward a direction close to the main axis 204 , or move toward a direction away from the main axis 204 .

[0452] like Fig.48 When the electronic device is in a flattened state, the first door panel 202, the middle door panel 201 and the second door panel 203 are in the same plane and are used to support the flattened display module 11. When the electronic device changes from the flattened state to the closed state, such as Figure 48 to Figure 49As shown, the first door panel 202 rotates in the rotation direction P1 relative to the main shaft 204, and the second door panel 203 rotates in the P2 direction opposite to the P1 direction relative to the main shaft 204. The ends of the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 away from the main shaft 204 are close to each other, and the ends of the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 close to the main shaft 204 are away from each other, so that the display module 11 is bent between the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203. In the process of the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 approaching each other relative to the main shaft 204, the middle door panel 201 is moved along the Fig.49 The P3 direction shown is close to the main axis 204. For example, the distance between the middle door panel 201 and the main axis 204 can be Fig.48 D1 is reduced to Fig.50 The first door panel 202, the middle door panel 201 and the second door panel 203 form a nearly triangular accommodating cavity, and the display module 11 is accommodated in the triangular accommodating cavity and may be in a water drop shape.

[0453] When the electronic device changes from a closed state to a flat state, such as Figure 49 to Figure 48 As shown, the first door panel 202 rotates in the direction opposite to the rotation direction P1 relative to the main shaft 204, and the second door panel 203 rotates in the direction opposite to the rotation direction P2 relative to the main shaft 204. That is, the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 move away from each other, so that the display module 11 is unfolded.

[0454] like Fig.50 , the display module 11 can be continuously covered on the first shell 100a, the hinge mechanism 200 and the second shell 100b of the foldable electronic device. Among them, area A corresponds to the second shell 100b and can be fixedly connected to the second shell 100b, and area E corresponds to the second shell 100b and can be fixedly connected to the second shell 100b. Area B is fixedly connected to the first door plate 202 of the hinge mechanism, area D is fixedly connected to the second door plate 203 of the hinge mechanism, and area C is opposite to the middle door plate 201, and area C can move relative to the middle door plate 201.

[0455] exist Figures 48 to 50 In the exemplary electronic device, when the electronic device is in a flat state, the bending area (eg Fig.50 Area B, area C and area D in the display module 11 need other structures to provide sufficient support for it so that it has sufficient rigidity and strength, as well as flatness; when the electronic device is in a closed state, the bending area of ​​the display module 11 (such as Fig.50 Regions B, C and D) in the structure need to have sufficient bendability.

[0456] The embodiments of the present application provide some feasible structures, so that the bending area of ​​the display module 11 can not only ensure the flattening rigidity and flatness when flattened, but also have sufficient bendability.

[0457] like Fig.51 and Fig.52 As shown, Fig.51 is a structural diagram of the display module 11 in a flattened state according to an embodiment of the present application. Fig.52 It is a structural diagram of the display module 11 in a closed state given in an embodiment of the present application.

[0458] In this example, a telescopic support structure 205 is further included. The telescopic support structure 205 is disposed on a side of the middle door panel 201 facing the display module 11 and is fixedly connected to the middle door panel 201 .

[0459] In the embodiment of the present application, since the telescopic support structure 205 is fixedly connected to the middle door panel 201, the telescopic support structure 205 can move synchronously with the middle door panel 201. For example, when the display module 11 switches from the flat state to the closed state, the middle door panel 201 provided with the telescopic support structure 205 moves in a direction away from the display module 11, so as to make more accommodation space for the bent display module 11.

[0460] Fig.51 and Fig.52 In the example, the telescopic support structure 205 includes an extended state and a compressed state. When the display module 11 is in the flattened state, the telescopic support structure 205 is in the extended state, and the portion of the telescopic support structure 205 close to the display module 11 rests on the display module 11; when the display module 11 is in the closed state, the telescopic support structure 205 switches to the compressed state.

[0461] When the display module 11 is in a flattened state, the telescopic support structure 205 abuts against the display module 11 to support the flattened display module 11 , thereby improving the flattening rigidity and flatness of the display module.

[0462] When the display module 11 is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure 205 contracts to provide sufficient avoidance space, thereby ensuring that the bending portion of the display module 11 has a high bendability, thereby reducing stress and lowering the possibility of creases on the display module.

[0463] In some possible structures, such as Fig.52 When the display module 11 is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure 205 switches to a compressed state, and the portion of the telescopic support structure 205 close to the display module 11 is separated from the display module 11 and does not contact the display module 11.

[0464] In other possible structures, such as Fig.53 When the display module 11 is in the closed state, the telescopic support structure 205 switches to the compressed state, and the portion of the telescopic support structure 205 close to the display module 11 contacts the display module 11. In order to ensure the bendability of the display module 11, the telescopic support structure 205 basically does not apply a supporting force to the display module 11.

[0465] The telescopic support structure 205 has a variety of structures that can be realized, such as a support member made of memory material, a support member made of piezoelectric material, a piston structure, a truss structure, etc. Some of the structures that can be realized are given as examples below.

[0466] like Fig.54 and Fig.55 As shown, the telescopic support structure 205 may include a support member 2051 made of memory material. When the temperature reaches a certain value, the crystal structure inside the memory material will change, resulting in a change in shape, thereby achieving elongation and contraction.

[0467] In this example, the support member 2051 made of memory material can be electrically connected to the controller, and the controller is used to adjust the temperature of the support member 2051. For example, when the display module 11 is in a flat state, the temperature applied to the support member 2051 is a first temperature, such as Fig.55 The support member 2051 shown is extended, and the end of the extended support member 2051 abuts against the back of the display module 11, providing support force to the display module 11. For another example, when the display module 11 is in a closed state, the temperature applied to the support member 2051 is a second temperature, such as Fig.55 The support member 2051 shown is contracted, and the contracted support member 2051 is separated from the display module 11 , providing enough avoidance space for the bent display module 11 .

[0468] The memory material involved in the embodiment of the present application may include at least one of nickel and titanium. Of course, other types of memory materials may also be selected.

[0469] In other examples, such as Fig.54 and Fig.55 In the embodiment, the telescopic support structure 205 may further include an elastic member 2052 , one end of which is relatively fixed to the middle door panel 201 .

[0470] When the display module 11 is in Fig.55 In the closed state shown, the elastic member 2052 is in a free state, the support member 2051 is compressed, and the entire telescopic support structure 205 is in a compressed state and separated from the display module 11 .

[0471] When the display module 11 is in Fig.54In the flattened state shown, high temperature is applied to the support member 2051, and the support member 2051 stretches under the stimulation of the high temperature, and drives the elastic member 2052 to stretch, so that the telescopic support structure 205 is in an extended state and abuts against the display module 11, providing the display module 11 with sufficient supporting force.

[0472] exist Fig.54 and Fig.55 In the structure shown, the elastic member 2052 may be a spring, a spring sheet, or the like.

[0473] In some practicable structures, there may be one or more elastic members 2052. When there are multiple elastic members 2052, the multiple elastic members 2052 may be arranged at intervals along the periphery of the support member 2051. The forces applied by the multiple elastic members 2052 are relatively symmetrical and uniform, so that the middle door panel 201 can move smoothly and reduce the probability of tilting during movement.

[0474] In order to further improve the telescopic stability of the telescopic support structure 205 so that the telescopic support structure 205 can be telescoped along a straight line, the telescopic support structure 205 can also include a guide structure. Fig.56 The guide structure may be a guide column 2058, the extension direction of the guide column 2058 is consistent with the moving direction of the middle door panel 201, and the elastic member 2052 passes through the guide column 2058. When the elastic member 2052 is stretched and compressed, it will be extended along the extension direction of the guide column 2058, so that the relatively fixed middle door panel 201 and the telescopic support structure can move along a straight line together.

[0475] In some examples, the elastic member 2052 can be made of an elastic resistance wire, and the elastic member 2052 is connected to the support member 2051 through a heat-conducting structure. In addition, the elastic resistance wire is electrically connected to a controller, and the elastic member 2052 is heated by the controller, and the elastic member 2052 transfers heat to the support member 2051 through the heat-conducting structure, causing the support member 2051 to deform.

[0476] For example, the elastic member 2052 and the support member 2051 may be arranged in a housing, and a heat-conducting medium may be filled in the housing, and the heat-conducting medium may be used as a heat-conducting structure to conduct the heat of the elastic resistance wire to the support member 2051. For another example, a heat-conducting rod may be used to connect the elastic resistance wire and the support member 2051, that is, the heat-conducting rod may be used as a heat-conducting structure to achieve heat conduction between the elastic member 2052 and the support member 2051.

[0477] Fig.57 and Fig.58This is another structure of a telescopic support structure 205 provided in an embodiment of the present application. The telescopic support structure 205 includes a substrate 2053, a first electrode 2054 disposed on one side of the substrate 2053, a piezoelectric layer 2055, and a second electrode 2056, wherein the piezoelectric layer 2055 is disposed between the first electrode 2054 and the second electrode 2056, and the first electrode 2054 is closer to the middle door panel 201 than the second electrode 2056; the telescopic support structure 205 also includes a protective layer 2057, which is disposed on a side of the second electrode 2056 away from the piezoelectric layer 2055.

[0478] The first electrode 2054 and the second electrode 2056 are used to apply voltage to the voltage layer 2055 so that the piezoelectric layer 2055 is deformed.

[0479] For example, when the piezoelectric layer 2055 is at a first voltage, Fig.57 , the piezoelectric layer 2055 is in an extended state, and the protective layer 2057 is against one side of the display module 11; when the piezoelectric layer 2055 is at a second voltage, such as Fig.58 , the piezoelectric layer 2055 is in a compressed state, and the protective layer 2057 is separated from the display module 11.

[0480] like Fig.59 , Fig.59 The structure that can be realized by the display module 11 is shown. The display module 11 includes a support plate 111 , a display screen 112 , a functional layer 120 and a display cover plate 113 .

[0481] The support plate 111 and the display cover plate 113 are arranged on opposite sides of the display screen 112. The support plate 111 is located on the back of the display screen 112 and serves as a support structure for supporting the display screen 112. The display cover plate 113 is arranged on the display surface side of the display screen 112. The display cover plate 113 is light-transmissive, and the light transmitted by the display surface of the display screen 112 can be received by the user through the display cover plate 113. In addition, the functional layer 120 is stacked between the display screen 112 and the display cover plate 113. For example, the functional layer 120 can be a polarizer.

[0482] When the display module 11 is in the flattened state, the portion of the telescopic support structure 205 in the extended state close to the display module 11 abuts against the support plate 111 .

[0483] Fig.59 The structure of the support plate 111 can be Fig.60 and Fig.61 The structure of the example.

[0484] exist Fig.60In the figure, a hollow structure 111A is provided in the area of ​​the support plate 111 opposite to the middle door plate 201, and the hollow structure 111A is utilized to reduce the strength of the area, improve the bendability of the area, and improve the crease phenomenon.

[0485] like Fig.59 and Fig.60 The portion of the telescopic supporting structure 205 close to the display module 11 rests against the portion of the supporting plate 111 having the hollow structure 111A.

[0486] By utilizing the hollow structure 111A of the support plate 111 and cooperating with the telescopic support structure 205, when the display module 11 is in a flattened state, the portion of the support plate 111 having the hollow structure 111A also has sufficient rigidity and strength, so that the portion has a higher degree of flatness, thereby improving the reliability of the display module 11, improving its anti-extrusion and anti-impact performance, and reducing the probability of creases, horizontal lines, and depressions.

[0487] Fig.61 2 is a structural diagram of another support plate 111 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this support plate 111, no hollow structure is provided at a position opposite to the middle door plate 201.

[0488] In the display module of a foldable electronic device, the display screen (also called a display panel) is the core functional structure, which is used to display information and provide an interactive interface for users. For example, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display screen, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display screen, etc. can be selected.

[0489] Fig.62 The figure shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a display screen 112. The display screen 112 includes a substrate 1121, a driving array layer 1122, a light emitting device layer 1123 and a packaging layer 1124 which are sequentially stacked on the substrate 1121.

[0490] The substrate 1121 is used as a supporting structure to support other film structures thereon. The material of the substrate 1121 can be selected from at least one of polyethylene terephthalate PET, polyimide PI, and polyimide CPI, which are flexible materials, so that the display screen has bendability.

[0491] The driving array layer 1122 is used to drive the light emitting device layer 1123. The driving array layer 1122 includes a plurality of transistors, for example, thin film transistors (TFTs), which may be arranged in an array.

[0492] The light emitting device layer 1123 includes a plurality of pixels, and the plurality of pixels may also be arranged in an array. In some examples, a plurality of thin film transistors may be electrically connected to a plurality of pixels in a one-to-one manner, and each thin film transistor drives a corresponding pixel to emit light to realize a display function.

[0493] The encapsulation layer 1124 is used to encapsulate the light-emitting device layer 1123, protect the light-emitting device layer 1123, and prevent external water vapor from entering the light-emitting device layer 1123 to affect the device performance.

[0494] Fig.63 The structure of the driving array layer 1122 in the display screen 112 is shown. The transistor in the driving array layer 1122 for driving the light-emitting device layer 1123 includes: a first electrode 1122B, a second electrode 1122C, a channel layer 1122A, and a gate electrode 1122D. The driving array layer 1122 also includes a gate dielectric layer 1122F for electrically isolating the gate electrode 1122D from the channel layer 1122A, and also includes an interlayer dielectric layer 1122E. The interlayer dielectric layer 1122E is used to electrically isolate the first electrode 1122B from the gate electrode 1122D, and to electrically isolate the second electrode 1122C from the gate electrode 1122D.

[0495] One of the first electrode 1122B and the second electrode 1122C involved in the embodiment of the present application is a source electrode, and the other electrode is a drain electrode.

[0496] The channel layer 1122A is disposed on one side of the substrate 1121 , the gate 1122D is disposed on the side of the channel layer 1122A away from the substrate 1121 , and the channel layer 1122A and the gate 1122D are electrically isolated by a gate dielectric layer 1122F disposed between the channel layer 1122A and the gate 1122D.

[0497] like Fig.63 An interlayer dielectric layer 1122E is provided on the side of the gate 1122D away from the gate dielectric layer 1122F, and the first electrode 1122B and the second electrode 1122C penetrate the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E and the gate dielectric layer 1122F, and make ohmic contact with the channel layer 1122A to achieve electrical connection. The gate 1122D and the first electrode 1122B, and the gate 1122D and the second electrode 1122C are electrically isolated by the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E, so that the transistor has a switching function.

[0498] Fig.63 In the example given, the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E plays a vital role in the performance of the device. The interlayer dielectric layer 1122E can be made of inorganic materials such as SiO2 or SiN, and the thickness of the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E is about 0.6 microns.

[0499] Inorganic materials such as SiO2 or SiN have poor bending and impact resistance, as well as poor mechanical stability. As a result, when the surface of the electronic device is impacted or squeezed during use, the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E at the stress point is prone to cracks and structural collapse, causing a short circuit between the gate 1122D and the first electrode 1122B, or between the gate 1122D and the second electrode 1122C, causing the transistor to lose its switching characteristics and causing the screen display to have bright spots.

[0500] The interlayer dielectric layer 1122E is subjected to stress and cracks, and the structure collapses, which is permanent damage and cannot be repaired. SiO2 or SiN are transparent materials and cannot absorb ultraviolet light, which will cause the negative bias thermal illumination stress (NBTIS) of the transistor device to be unstable, resulting in a shortened service life of the display.

[0501] In order to suppress the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E from being subjected to stress and causing cracks, structural collapse and permanent damage, the embodiments of the present application provide some display screen structures, which can be used not only in double-fold electronic devices, but also in more foldable electronic devices. The specific structure of the display screen is as follows.

[0502] Fig.64 is a structural diagram of a display screen provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.63 The differences of the exemplary display screen 112 include: Fig.63 In the embodiment, the interlayer dielectric layer (ILD) 1122E includes only a dielectric layer made of an inorganic material; Fig.64 In the embodiment, the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E includes a stacked inorganic dielectric layer 1122E1 and an organic dielectric layer 1122E2, and the stacking direction of the inorganic dielectric layer 1122E1 and the organic dielectric layer 1122E2 is Fig.64 The H direction is Fig.62 The stacking direction of the substrate 1121, the driving array layer 1122, the light emitting device layer 1123 and the encapsulation layer 1124 in FIG.

[0503] Since the interlayer dielectric layer in the example of the present application includes not only an inorganic dielectric layer but also an organic dielectric layer, the organic dielectric layer has elastic deformation capability, thus improving the bending and impact resistance of the display screen, reducing the risk of cracks and structural collapse in the interlayer dielectric layer, and reducing the probability of short circuit between the first electrode and / or the second electrode and the gate.

[0504] Even if the interlayer dielectric layer of the display screen is cracked due to the impact of external force, the organic dielectric layer has elastic deformation ability, which makes it have self-repair function, which will insulate the first electrode from the gate, and the second electrode from the gate, thereby ensuring the electrical insulation between the source, drain and gate.

[0505] The interlayer dielectric layer 1122E provided in the embodiment of the present application may be a double-layer structure including an inorganic dielectric layer and an organic dielectric layer, or a three-layer, four-layer, or even more-layer structure. Fig.64 What is shown is a double-layer structure including an inorganic dielectric layer and an organic dielectric layer. Fig.65 Shown is a three-layer structure including an inorganic dielectric layer and an organic dielectric layer.

[0506] exist Fig.65 In the embodiment, the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E includes an inorganic dielectric layer 1122E1 and an organic dielectric layer 1122E2 which are stacked, and an inorganic dielectric layer 1122E3, and the organic dielectric layer 1122E2 is stacked between the inorganic dielectric layer 1122E1 and the inorganic dielectric layer 1122E3.

[0507] In some examples, along a direction away from the substrate, the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E may include an organic dielectric layer, an inorganic dielectric layer, and an organic dielectric layer, or an organic dielectric layer, an inorganic dielectric layer, an organic dielectric layer, and an inorganic dielectric layer.

[0508] When the interlayer dielectric layer includes a plurality of organic dielectric layers and a plurality of inorganic dielectric layers, the organic dielectric layers and the inorganic dielectric layers may be stacked alternately.

[0509] In the implementation of the present application, since the organic dielectric layer has elastic deformation capability, it has a self-repairing function, so that the source, drain and gate electrodes that are electrically connected together can be electrically isolated through the elastic deformation of the organic dielectric layer.

[0510] In order to reduce the risk of cracks in the interlayer dielectric layer and structural collapse and improve the repair efficiency, such as Fig.64 , the gate electrode 1122D and the first electrode 1122B, as well as the gate electrode 1122D and the second electrode 1122C can be electrically isolated by the organic dielectric layer 1122E2.

[0511] See also Fig.65The structure framed by dotted lines, including the channel layer 1122A, the first electrode 1122B, the second electrode 1122C and the gate 1122D, belongs to the core structure of the transistor.

[0512] exist Fig.65 A light emitting device layer 1123 is provided on the side of the driving array layer 1122 away from the substrate 1121, and light from the light emitting device layer 1123 can be projected to the driving array layer 1122. Fig.65 The side of the film structure framed by the dotted lines away from the substrate 1121 forms an organic dielectric layer 1122E2, and the organic dielectric layer 1122E2 can absorb light in the ultraviolet band to protect the transistor device and improve the negative bias thermal illumination stress (NBTiS) stability of the device.

[0513] Fig.66 It is a partial structural diagram of the display screen 112 in the prior art. In order to prevent the light from the self-luminous device layer 1123 from being projected onto the drive array layer 1122 and affecting the working performance of the transistor, the display screen further includes a light shielding layer, and the orthographic projection of the light shielding layer on the channel layer 1122A at least covers the channel layer 1122A to prevent the influence of light on the electron migration of the channel layer 1122A.

[0514] In order to enable the electronic device to have a touch screen unlocking function, such as Fig.66 An under-screen fingerprint recognition structure may be provided on a side of the substrate 1121 away from the transistor. If a light shielding layer is provided in this structure, it will affect light waves other than ultraviolet light transmitted to the under-screen fingerprint recognition structure, thereby weakening the sensitivity of fingerprint recognition.

[0515] In the embodiments of the present application, Fig.65 Since an organic dielectric layer is stacked in the interlayer dielectric layer 1122E, the Fig.66 The light shielding layer shown in the figure uses an organic dielectric layer to absorb light in the ultraviolet band. It will not affect the light in other bands entering the fingerprint recognition structure under the screen, thereby improving the light transmittance of the screen and the sensitivity of fingerprint recognition.

[0516] In the embodiment of the present application, the material of the inorganic dielectric layer involved can be selected from at least one of SiOx and SiNx. Fig.65 In the embodiment, the inorganic dielectric layer 1122E1 is made of SiNx, and the inorganic dielectric layer 1122E3 is made of SiOx.

[0517] In the embodiments of the present application, the organic medium layer is an organic polymer C prepared by in-situ polymerization of at least one organic compound A and at least one organic compound B.

[0518] The organic compound A involved in the embodiments of the present application may be at least one of the following compounds:

[0519]

[0520] The organic compound B may be at least one of the following compounds:

[0521]

[0522] For example, when organic compound A (also called monomer A) is selected as the following compound, and organic compound B (also called monomer B) is selected as the following compound, the in-situ polymerization reaction principle is as follows:

[0523]

[0524] In the above three reaction formulas, the first reaction formula uses an organic compound A and an organic compound B for in-situ polymerization; the second reaction formula uses two organic compounds A (including organic compound A1 and organic compound A2) and an organic compound B for in-situ polymerization; the third reaction formula uses two organic compounds B (including organic compound B1 and organic compound B2) and an organic compound A for in-situ polymerization. The obtained organic polymer includes polyimide structure

[0525] In some optional process steps, at least one organic compound A and at least one organic compound B can be co-evaporated onto the substrate surface by using an evaporation process, and a uniform and dense polymer film can be formed on the substrate surface by using the principle of in-situ polymerization. The organic dielectric layer prepared by this method has bidirectional bending resistance, strong stretching ability, and high temperature resistance to meet the temperature requirements of the back-end process. The specific preparation method of the display screen will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0526] See also Fig.67 The display screen provided in the embodiment of the present application further includes a buffer layer 1125. The buffer layer 1125 may include a one-layer structure, or a film layer structure of two or more layers. For example, it may include a stacked SiNx layer and a SiOx layer.

[0527] By providing a buffer layer 1125 between the substrate 1121 and the driving array layer 1122 , the buffer layer 1125 can be used to protect the working performance of the transistors in the driving array layer 1122 and inhibit the migration of impurity ions in the substrate 1121 into the channel layer of the transistor.

[0528] like Fig.67 , and may further include a planarization layer (PLN) 1122G, which is disposed on a side of the interlayer dielectric layer 1122 away from the buffer layer 1125, and covers the first electrode 1122B and the second electrode 1122C. It may further include a pixel anode layer 1122H. For example, when the first electrode 1122B in this example is an anode, the pixel anode layer 1122H is in contact and electrically connected with the first electrode 1122B via a conductive through hole penetrating the planarization layer 1122G.

[0529] The pixel anode layer 1122H can be electrically connected to the pixels of the light emitting device layer 1123 located on the driving array layer 1122 to achieve control of the pixels by transistors.

[0530] Among the processes that can be selected, such as Fig.67 , and also includes a pixel definition layer (Pixel define layer, PDL) 1122I. In the display screen, multiple array-arranged Fig.67 Correspondingly, in the light-emitting device layer 1123, a plurality of pixels arranged in an array are also integrated, and the pixel definition layer 1122I can isolate adjacent pixels.

[0531] A method for preparing a display screen is exemplarily given below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0532] like Fig.68A , clean the surface of the substrate 1121 to remove surface particles, and then deposit SiNx, SiOx and a-Si in sequence on the surface of the substrate 1121, and the stacked SiNx and SiOx form a buffer layer.

[0533] In some examples, the thickness of SiNx may be 100 nm, the thickness of SiOx may be 300 nm, and the thickness of a-Si may be 45 nm.

[0534] Each film structure may be deposited by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), or by chemical deposition or physical deposition.

[0535] The a-Si can be converted into Poly-Si by using an Excimer Laser Annealing (ELA) process.

[0536] like Fig.68B, the Poly-Si is patterned using an etching process to form a channel layer 1122A of the transistor.

[0537] The surface of the channel layer 1122A may be cleaned to remove surface particles.

[0538] like Fig.68C A gate dielectric layer 1122F is formed on one side of the channel layer 1122A by a deposition process, so that the channel layer 1122A is covered by the gate dielectric layer 1122F. The gate dielectric layer 1122F may be made of SiOx material.

[0539] The gate dielectric layer 1122F is cleaned to remove surface particles.

[0540] like Fig.68D A metal layer is deposited on the gate dielectric layer 1122F by sputtering. For example, a metal Mo with a thickness of 300 nm may be deposited.

[0541] like Fig.68E , an etching process is used to pattern the metal layer to form a gate 1122D.

[0542] The gate 1122D is cleaned to remove surface particles.

[0543] like Fig.68F , an inorganic dielectric layer 1122E2 is deposited on the surface of the gate 1122D. The material of the inorganic dielectric layer 1122E2 may be SiOx, and the thickness may be 100 nm.

[0544] like Figure 68G , diaminodiphenyl ether and pyromellitic anhydride are co-evaporated on the inorganic dielectric layer 1122E2 by an evaporation process, and the evaporation is performed according to the amount of the substance 1:1. For example, the evaporation rate can be 2A / s and the thickness can be 620nm.

[0545] The evaporated material may be subjected to high temperature annealing treatment, for example, the annealing temperature may be 362° C. and the annealing time may be 30 min, so that the two organic compounds of diaminodiphenyl ether and pyromellitic anhydride undergo in-situ condensation polymerization reaction to form an organic dielectric layer 1122E1.

[0546] The surface of the organic dielectric layer 1122E1 is cleaned to remove surface particles.

[0547] like Figure 68H , etching a through hole to the channel layer, and filling the through hole with a conductive material to form a first electrode 1122B and a second electrode 1122C.

[0548] Metal Ti, Al, and Ti are sputtered and deposited by a sputtering process to form a source and drain metal layer.

[0549] In this process, the thickness of metal Ti can be 62 nm, and the thickness of metal Al can be 600 nm.

[0550] The source and drain metal layers are patterned using an etching process to form source and drain wiring.

[0551] Clean the surface of the source and drain wiring to remove surface particles.

[0552] like Figure 68I , a flat layer 1122G is deposited on the surface of the source and drain wiring, and an anode contact hole is formed.

[0553] ITO, Ag, and ITO are sputter-deposited on the surface of the planar layer 1122G by a sputtering process to form a pixel anode layer 1122H.

[0554] In this process, the thickness of ITO can be 62nm, and the thickness of metal Ag can be 100nm.

[0555] The surface of the pixel anode layer 1122H is cleaned to remove surface particles.

[0556] A pixel definition layer 1122I is formed on the surface of the pixel anode layer 1122H by a deposition process. Figure 68I The structure shown.

[0557] The interlayer dielectric layer prepared by the process method includes a stacked organic dielectric layer and an inorganic dielectric layer. In other processes, it is possible to adjust Figure 68G and Figure 68H The interlayer dielectric layers of different structures can be prepared by the process shown in the figure. For example, an inorganic dielectric layer can be prepared first, and then an organic dielectric layer can be prepared by evaporation process, and then an inorganic dielectric layer can be prepared on the organic dielectric layer. Fig.65 The structure shown.

[0558] In the display module, the display driver integrated circuit (DDIC) and the touch panel integrated circuit (TPIC) are very important components of the display touch imaging system. They integrate resistors, regulators, power transistors and other components, and are responsible for driving the display panel and controlling the driving current and other functions.

[0559] Fig.69 and Fig.70 One of the packaging structures of the display driver chip DDIC is shown. Fig.70 It is along Fig.69This is a cross-sectional view taken along the MM direction. This packaging structure can be called a chip on panel (COP) packaging.

[0560] like Fig.69 and Fig.70 The edge portion of the display screen 112 is bent so that the display screen 112 forms a display area AA and a lower frame area CC, and an edge bending area BB connecting the display area AA and the lower frame area CC.

[0561] Fig.69 and Fig.70 The display area AA in the embodiment includes: the bending part involved in the above embodiment and the non-bending part connected to the bending part. The bending part and the non-bending part connected to the bending part are both used as display parts for displaying pictures to users. Fig.69 and Fig.70 The edge bending area BB and the lower frame area CC are both used as non-display parts.

[0562] The display driver chip 13 is arranged on the lower frame area CC, and other electronic devices 14, such as a touch chip (TPIC), capacitors, resistors, etc. are arranged on a circuit board 12 electrically connected to the main circuit board, such as a flexible printed circuit (FPC). The circuit board 12 extends in a direction parallel to the lower frame area CC, and the circuit board 12 is connected to the lower frame area CC through a bonding structure 16 to realize signal interconnection between the electronic devices 14 on the circuit board 12 and the display driver chip 13.

[0563] like Fig.71 After the edge bending area BB is bent, in order to improve the strength of the area between the display area AA and the lower frame area CC, some film layer structures are also arranged in the area between the display area AA and the lower frame area CC. Fig.71 The membrane structure includes a support plate 111 and a screen support layer 123 . The screen support layer 123 is connected to the display area AA of the display screen 112 through the filling layer 121 . The support plate 111 is connected to the lower frame area CC of the display screen 112 through the filling layer 122 .

[0564] Fig.71 In the figure, the film layer structure stacked in the area between the display area AA and the lower frame area CC is only an example, and some film layer structures may be added or removed.

[0565] In some examples, such as Fig.71The edge bending area BB of the display screen 112 is suspended in the air, and the entire edge bending area BB is in a naturally bent state. In order to prevent interference and collision between structural parts, it is necessary to reserve sufficient avoidance space between the display module and the shell 100. As the bending radius of the edge bending area BB becomes smaller and smaller, the impact and extrusion resistance of the edge bending area BB becomes worse and worse.

[0566] In order to improve the impact resistance and compression resistance of the edge bending area BB, the embodiments of the present application provide some achievable structures, see the following examples.

[0567] like Fig.72 As shown, Fig.72 1 is a partial structural diagram of a display module according to an embodiment of the present application. The display screen 112 of the display module includes a display area AA and a lower frame area CC, and an edge bending area BB connecting the display area AA and the lower frame area CC.

[0568] See Fig.72 , the side of the edge bending area BB close to the center of the arc structure is filled with the first filling layer 171. In an example, at least part of the suspended area of ​​the edge bending area BB close to the center of the arc structure may be filled with the first filling layer 171, for example, the suspended area may be filled with the first filling layer 171.

[0569] exist Fig.72 In the example shown, since the suspended area of ​​the edge bending area BB close to the center of the arc structure is filled with the first filling layer 171, the strength of the edge bending area BB can be improved, and the anti-extrusion and anti-impact performance can be improved.

[0570] Fig.73 FIG. 1 is a partial structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.73 In the embodiment, the display cover 113 disposed on the display surface side of the display screen 112 is provided to protect other layer structures in the display module, such as the display screen 112 and the polarizer as the functional layer 120. The edge of the display cover 113 may extend beyond the edge of other layer structures. Fig.73 The display cover 113 needs to be close to the housing 100 and relatively fixed to the housing 100, so that the entire display module is relatively fixed to the housing.

[0571] In order to give the edge bending area BB of the flexible display screen 112 a certain amount of bending freedom, such as Fig.73 , there is a gap between the display cover 113 and the edge bending area BB. In order to improve the anti-extrusion and anti-impact capabilities of the edge bending area BB, as Fig.73 As shown, the second filling layer 172 may be filled in the gap between the display cover plate 113 and the edge bending area BB.

[0572] Fig.74 FIG. 1 is a partial structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.74 In the embodiment, not only the second filling layer 172 is filled in the gap between the display cover plate 113 and the edge bending area BB, but also the side of the edge bending area BB close to the center of the arc structure is filled with the first filling layer 171. The strength of the edge bending area BB can be further improved, and the anti-bending and anti-impact performance of the edge bending area BB can be improved.

[0573] In some examples, the elastic modulus of the first filling layer 171 and the second filling layer 172 is relatively small, for example, the elastic modulus may be ≥ 5 MPa.

[0574] use Fig.74 In the illustrated example, the elastic modulus of the first filling layer 171 may be greater than the elastic modulus of the second filling layer 172 .

[0575] There are many materials that can be selected for the first filling layer 171 and the second filling layer 172, such as silica gel, moisture curing glue, etc.

[0576] In the feasible process, after the various layers of the display module are stacked, glue is dispensed in the flattened state of the edge bending area BB (the amount of glue dispensed is precisely controlled by calculation, and the overflow space is reserved to ensure that the glue can be filled after bending); after UV irradiation pre-curing, the surface of the glue is shaped but still retains fluidity, and the corresponding area can be filled according to the shape of the bending area. The bending process is carried out in this state. Finally, thermal curing (for example, the curing temperature is less than or equal to 65°C) is used to final cure the glue to achieve the designed performance and improve the reliability of the edge bending area BB.

[0577] Among foldable electronic devices, multi-folding is increasingly favored by users, such as tri-fold electronic devices. When the electronic device is in a closed state, the non-bending area of ​​the display module is exposed. In order to enhance the ability of the exposed non-bending area to resist external force damage, the thickness of the non-bending area can be increased to enhance rigidity and strength.

[0578] like Fig.75As shown, since the various film layer structures in the display module 11 are connected together and are in the form of a sheet-like integrated structure. For example, the protective layer 114 in the cover plate 110 is a continuous integrated structure in each non-bending area and each bending area, and the thickness of each area is the same. The display cover plate 113 in the cover plate 110 is similar, and the thickness of each area is the same. When it is necessary to increase the thickness of the non-bending area B1 in the display module, the thickness of other areas (such as the bending area A1, the non-bending area B2, the bending area A2 and the non-bending area B3) will also increase accordingly, resulting in a larger thickness of the entire machine when it is folded.

[0579] Even if the stiffness of the non-bending area B1 is improved by increasing the thickness of the display module 11, the thicker screen will affect the bending performance of the bending area A1 and the bending area A2, increase the rebound force of the bending area A1 and the bending area A2, and reduce the user experience.

[0580] The present application provides some display module embodiments, which can not only improve the rigidity of the exposed non-bending area, but also will not weaken the bendability of the bending area.

[0581] Fig.76 This is a structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. The display screen 112 in the display module 11 includes: a first non-bending portion, a second non-bending portion, a third non-bending portion, a first bending portion, and a second bending portion; the first bending portion connects the first non-bending portion and the second non-bending portion, and the second bending portion connects the second non-bending portion and the third non-bending portion.

[0582] The cover plate 110 in the display module 11 includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area and a third non-bending area, a first bending area connecting the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and a second bending area connecting the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area.

[0583] The first non-bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the first non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, the first bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the first bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, the second non-bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the second non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, the second bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the second bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, and the third non-bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110.

[0584] The first bending region, the first bending portion, the second bending region and the second bending portion can all be bent along the bending line to switch between an expanded state and a closed state.

[0585] Fig.76 Take the three-screen folding as an example. In other examples, you can Fig.76 Based on the structure shown, more bending areas and non-bending areas are added to form electronic devices such as four-screen folding and five-screen folding.

[0586] like Fig.76 The thickness of the first non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is d1, and the thickness of the second non-bending area is d2. The thickness d1 is not equal to the thickness d2. For example, the thickness d1 may be greater than the thickness d2.

[0587] Fig.77 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.76 Similarly, the thickness of the first non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is d1, and the thickness of the second non-bending area is d2. The thickness d1 is not equal to the thickness d2, and the thickness d1 is greater than the thickness d2.

[0588] Fig.78 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.76 and Fig.77 Similarly, in the cover plate 110 , the thickness d1 of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness d2 of the second non-bending area, and the thickness d1 is greater than the thickness d2 .

[0589] The thickness dimension involved in the embodiment of the present application refers to: Fig.76 The dimension along the stacking direction (P direction) of multiple film layers.

[0590] Fig.76 , Fig.77 and Fig.78 In the three different examples of the display module 11 shown, the thickness d4 of the first bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is not constant, but gradually decreases along the direction away from the first non-bending area, or from the first non-bending area to the second non-bending area, so that the thickness d2 is smaller than the thickness d1.

[0591] like Figure 76 to Figure 78 In the cover plate 110, the first non-bending area is a thick area, the second non-bending area is a thin area, and the first bending area connected between the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area is a thin-to-thick transition area.

[0592] Fig.76 , Fig.77 and Fig.78 The three different examples of the display module 11 shown have the following differences:

[0593] Fig.76In the cover plate 110, the thickness of the second bending area is d5, the thickness of the third non-bending area is d3, and the thickness d2, the thickness d5 and the thickness d3 are equal. The first non-bending area is a thick area, the first bending area is a thick-thin transition area, and the second non-bending area, the second bending area and the third non-bending area are thin areas with equal thickness.

[0594] and the above Fig.76 compared to, Fig.77 In the example shown, not only the thickness d4 of the first bending area is not a constant value, but also the thickness d2 of the second non-bending area is not a constant value. In some examples, the thickness of the first bending area and the second non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 gradually decreases in the direction away from the first non-bending area, which can cover up the visual effect of the uneven thickness of the entire display module.

[0595] exist Fig.77 In the embodiment, the thickness of the second bending area and the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 are equal, that is, the thickness d5 is equal to the thickness d3.

[0596] exist Fig.77 In the embodiment, the first non-bending region is a thick region, the first bending region and the second non-bending region are thick-thin transition regions, and the second bending region and the third non-bending region are thin regions with equal thickness.

[0597] and the above Fig.76 and Fig.77 In comparison, Fig.78 In the embodiment, not only the thickness of the first bending area and the second non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is not constant, but also the thickness of the second bending area and the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is not constant. Along the direction away from the first non-bending area, the thickness of the first bending area, the second non-bending area, the second bending area and the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 gradually decreases. This can further cover up the visual effect of the uneven thickness of the entire display module.

[0598] Fig.79 Yes Fig.76 The structural diagram of the display module 11 after bending given in the embodiment of the present application. The thickness of the first non-bending area that is exposed (visible to the user when folded) is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending area that is not exposed (invisible to the user when folded). The first bending area connected to the exposed first non-bending area is designed to be an unequal thickness structure. Even if the thickness of the first non-bending area is increased in order to improve the rigidity and strength of the first non-bending area, the bendability of the bending area will not be affected. The thickness of other areas will not be increased, and when the whole machine is in a folded state, the thickness of the folded state will not be significantly increased.

[0599] In some examples, the above Figure 76 to Figure 78The bending area of ​​the example may form an inner bending area, or may form an outer bending area. Fig.79 In the folded state shown, the first bending area forms an outer bending area, and the second bending area forms an inner bending area. The first non-bending area is exposed and visible to the user, and the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area are opposite and invisible to the user.

[0600] like Fig.80 , Fig.80 This is a structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. The thickness of the display cover plate 113 located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness located in the second non-bending area, and the thickness of the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending area gradually decreases in the direction away from the first non-bending area.

[0601] exist Fig.80 In the embodiment, the thickness of the protection layer 114 in each bending region and each non-bending region is equal.

[0602] Fig.81 This is another structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this structure, the thickness of the protective layer 114 located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness located in the second non-bending area, and the thickness of the protective layer 114 located in the first bending area gradually decreases in the direction away from the first non-bending area.

[0603] exist Fig.81 In the figure, the thickness of the cover plate 113 in each bending area and each non-bending area is equal.

[0604] Fig.82 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.81 In comparison, in this structure, along the direction away from the first non-bending area, the thickness of the first bending area and the thickness of the second non-bending area in the protective layer 114 gradually decrease, thereby widening the width of the thin-to-thick transition zone of the protective layer 114.

[0605] Fig.83 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.81 and Fig.82 In contrast, in this example, in the protective layer 114, the thickness of the first bending region, the thickness of the second non-bending region, the thickness of the second bending region, and the thickness of the third non-bending region gradually decrease in the direction away from the first non-bending region, further widening the width of the thin-thick transition zone of the protective layer 114.

[0606] Above Figure 81 to Figure 83In the embodiment, the protective layer 114 is designed as a structure with uneven thickness. In other examples, the uneven thickness transition zone can be set in other film layer structures, for example, in the display cover plate 113, Figure 81 to Figure 83 The structure shown.

[0607] In some examples provided in this application, Fig.84 , the display cover 113 or the protective layer 114 may include: a substrate 11D and a buffer layer 11B.

[0608] The substrate 11D and the buffer layer 11B may be connected via an adhesive layer 11C, and the adhesive layer 11A connects the stacked film layer structures to other layer structures. Fig.84 When the protective layer 114 is shown, the structure including the substrate 11D, the adhesive layer 11C and the buffer layer 11B can be connected to the display cover 113 by using the adhesive layer 11A.

[0609] Among some selectable materials, the substrate 11D may be selected from at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), and transparent polyimide (CPI).

[0610] In some examples, the buffer layer 11B is an elastomeric film material, and the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate 11D. The buffer layer 11B can be made of at least one of elastomeric film materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer TPU and thermoplastic polyamide elastomer TPAE.

[0611] The adhesive layer 11A and the adhesive layer 11C may be made of at least one of an optically clear adhesive (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, and the like.

[0612] See also Fig.84 In this embodiment, the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region is designed as a structure of unequal thickness. Along the direction away from the first non-bending region, the thickness of the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region gradually decreases, so that the protective layer 114 or the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending region is a thick-thin transition zone.

[0613] exist Fig.84 In the embodiment, the thickness of the substrate 11D may be 25 μm to 75 μm, and the thickness of the adhesive layer 11A and the adhesive layer 11C may be 25 μm to 50 μm.

[0614] The thickness of the buffer layer 11B located in the first non-bending region is 75 μm to 150 μm, and the thickness of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region, the second bending region and the third non-bending region is 25 μm to 75 μm.

[0615] Fig.85 This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this example, the substrate 11D located in the first bending region is designed to have a structure of unequal thickness. Along the direction away from the first non-bending region, the thickness of the substrate 11D located in the first bending region gradually decreases, so that the protective layer 114 or the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending region is a thick-thin transition zone.

[0616] Fig.86 1 is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.85 In comparison, not only the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending area is designed as a structure with unequal thickness, but also the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending area is designed as a structure with unequal thickness, so as to weaken the visual effect of uneven thickness of the entire display module.

[0617] Fig.87 1 is a structural diagram of another display cover plate 113 or protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In some examples, the thickness of the buffer layer 11B is relatively large, for example, the thickness reaches 100 μm. Due to the thick buffer layer, the strain generated on the upper and lower surfaces of the film material when the display module is bent is easy to enter the plastic deformation stage.

[0618] When the display module is bent, in order to weaken the strain generated on the upper and lower surfaces of the display module, the plastic deformation stage is entered to improve the bendability. In some examples, such as Fig.87 The buffer layer 11B includes a first buffer layer 11B1 and a second buffer layer 11B2. The first buffer layer 11B is of equal thickness, and the second buffer layer 11B2 located in the first bending region is designed to be of unequal thickness. The second buffer layer 11B2 of uneven thickness is farther away from the display screen than the first buffer layer 11B1 of uniform thickness, that is, closer to the interface visible to the user; in other examples, the first buffer layer 11B1 of uniform thickness can also be closer to the interface visible to the user than the second buffer layer 11B2 of uneven thickness.

[0619] See also Fig.87 The first buffer layer 11B1 is connected to the second buffer layer 11B2 via an adhesive layer 11E, and the second buffer layer 11B2 is connected to the substrate 11D via an adhesive layer 11C.

[0620] Fig.88This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In some optional processes, a coating process can be used to bond the buffer layer 11B to the substrate 11D. The adhesive layer used to connect the buffer layer 11B and the substrate 11D can be removed to reduce the thickness of the entire display module without weakening the rigidity of the non-bending area and the bendability of the bending area.

[0621] Fig.88 The material of the buffer layer 11B in the example can be selected from at least one of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, silicone gel, and shear thickening material.

[0622] See also Fig.88 In this example, the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region is designed to have an unequal thickness structure, and the thickness of each region of the substrate 11D is equal.

[0623] Fig.89 This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In some optional processes, a coating process can also be used to bond the buffer layer 11B to the substrate 11D. The buffer layer 11B in this example can be made of a sticky material, such as an optically transparent adhesive OCA. The buffer layer 11B is not only an elastic film material, but also has a connecting function, so the adhesive layer 11A may not be required. The thickness of the display module can be further compressed.

[0624] See also Fig.89 In this example, the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region is designed to have an unequal thickness structure, and the thickness of each region of the substrate 11D is equal.

[0625] In order to improve the rigidity of the exposed non-bending area without weakening the bendability of the bending area, the present application also provides some structures that can be implemented, as follows:

[0626] Fig.90 1 is a structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In the cover plate 110 of the display module 11, the elastic modulus in the first non-bending area is greater than the elastic modulus in the first bending area. The cover plate 110 includes a hard area with a larger elastic modulus and a soft area with a smaller elastic modulus.

[0627] In some examples, when the cover plate 110 includes a display cover plate or a protective layer, the hard area and the soft area can be set in at least one of the display cover plate and the protective layer. Fig.91 1 is a structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application, including a substrate 11D and a buffer layer 11B, wherein the substrate 11D and the buffer layer 11B are connected via an adhesive layer 11C.

[0628] like Fig.91 The buffer layer 11B includes a hard region 11B01 (also called the first part) and a soft region 11B02 (also called the second part), and the elastic modulus of the hard region 11B01 is greater than the elastic modulus of the soft region 11B02. The hard region 11B01 is located in the first non-bending region, and the soft region 11B02 can be located in at least one of the first bending region and the second bending region.

[0629] exist Fig.91 In the embodiment, the hard region 11B01 and the soft region 11B02 are connected together as an integral structure. In some optional process steps, the buffer layer material can be first coated on the substrate, and then cured by UV (ultraviolet light) in different regions to obtain buffer materials with different hardness; in other optional process steps, the buffer layer material can be heated in different regions to obtain parts with different elastic moduli to obtain hard regions and soft regions.

[0630] The buffer layer 11B is divided into a hard area 11B01 and a soft area 11B02 with different elastic moduli. The hard area 11B01 is located in the first non-bending area to improve the stiffness of the first non-bending area. The soft area 11B02 with a smaller elastic modulus is located in the bending area to ensure that the bending area has better bendability.

[0631] exist Fig.91 In the embodiment, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B (which may be called the third part) located in the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area may be smaller than the elastic modulus of the hard area 11B01 and larger than the elastic modulus of the soft area 11B02.

[0632] In some examples, in order to improve the stiffness of the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region may be equal to the elastic modulus of the hard region 11B01.

[0633] When the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area is smaller than the elastic modulus of the hard area 11B01 and larger than the elastic modulus of the soft area 11B02, the buffer material can be first coated, at which time its modulus is lower, and then cross-linked by local UV curing or heating, and a lower modulus part and a higher modulus part can be obtained by controlling the UV energy or heating temperature.

[0634] Fig.92 It is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application, including a substrate 11D and a buffer layer 11B, wherein the substrate 11D and the buffer layer 11B are connected via an adhesive layer 11C.

[0635] In this example, the buffer layer 11B includes a hard part 11B11 with a larger elastic modulus and a soft part 11B12 with a smaller elastic modulus, which are spliced ​​together. The hard part 11B11 is located in the first non-bending area, and the soft part 11B12 is located in at least one of the first bending area and the second bending area.

[0636] In some examples, such as Fig.92 , the hard part 11B11 and the soft part 11B12 can be spliced ​​together by using the adhesive layer 11B13. For example, when the adhesive layer 11C located on one side of the buffer layer 11B is coated, the colloid can overflow into the gap between the hard part and the soft part, thereby bonding the hard part and the soft part together.

[0637] See also Fig.92 In order to improve the rigidity of the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region may be equal to the elastic modulus of the hard part.

[0638] In some other examples, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region may be smaller than the elastic modulus of the hard portion and larger than the elastic modulus of the soft portion.

[0639] exist Fig.92 In the example, the material that can be selected for the hard part 11B11 includes at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), transparent polyimide (CPI), etc. The material that can be selected for the soft part 11B12 includes at least one of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer TPU, thermoplastic polyamide elastomer TPAE, etc.

[0640] Fig.93 This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. The buffer layer 11B includes a first buffer layer 11B1 and a second buffer layer 11B2. The first buffer layer 11B1 includes a hard region 11B01 with a larger elastic modulus and a soft region 11B02 with a smaller elastic modulus. In the second buffer layer 11B2, the thickness of the portion located in the first bending region is designed to be an unequal thickness structure. This embodiment combines the unequal thickness design of the buffer layer with the unequal elastic modulus design.

[0641] When the display module is in a folded state and the first non-bending area is exposed, the first bending area connecting the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area needs to have sufficient resistance to external impact. For example, when the folded electronic device falls, the first bending area may be damaged by the impact of the hinge mechanism on one side and the ground.

[0642] The embodiments of the present application provide some novel display modules 11, such as Fig.94 A buffer pad 127 is provided on a side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112 , and the buffer pad 127 is provided at a position of the support plate 111 opposite to the first bending area.

[0643] In some examples, in order to improve the bendability of the support plate 111, a hollow structure 111a (which may be called a bamboo book) is provided in a portion opposite to the first bending area, and a buffer pad 127 is provided at a position opposite to the hollow structure 111a.

[0644] The buffer pad 127 may be a one-layer film structure, or a multi-layer film structure.

[0645] For example, the buffer pad 127 can be made of at least one of stainless steel SUS, thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer TPU elastomer, porous foam Foam material, PET film material and the like.

[0646] Fig.95 1 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment, the buffer pad 127 is disposed in the support plate 111. For example, a groove may be provided in the support plate 111, and the buffer pad 127 may be disposed in the groove, and the groove is located at a position opposite to the first bending area.

[0647] Fig.96 1 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment, the buffer pad 127 is arranged on the rotating shaft mechanism 200 located on one side of the display module.

[0648] like Figures 94 to 96 Since the buffer pad 127 is included, when the first bending area is impacted by external force, the buffering effect of the buffer pad 127 can reduce the degree of damage to the display module.

[0649] Fig.97 1 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this structure, not only is the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending area designed to be a structure of unequal thickness, but a buffer pad 127 is also provided on the side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112. This can not only improve the rigidity of the exposed non-bending part, but also will not weaken the bendability of the bending part, and can also reduce the degree of damage to the bending part of the display module, thereby improving the performance of the display module.

[0650] In some other examples, various regions of the protection layer 114 may be designed to have structures of unequal thickness.

[0651] like Fig.98As shown, the cover plate (e.g., display cover plate, protective layer) located on the display surface side of the display screen 112 is designed as a structure with unequal elastic modulus. Also, the buffer pad 127 is arranged at a position of the support plate 111 opposite to the first bending area. This not only optimizes the bendability of the display module bending portion, but also improves the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the bending portion.

[0652] In the above-described design of the cover plate 110 as a structure of unequal thickness or unequal modulus, as shown in FIG. Fig.99 As shown, a functional module 300 can be provided on a side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112, and the cover plate 110 is a structure of unequal thickness. In order to improve the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the display module 11, the light-transmitting mirror 400 provided in the support plate 111 can be designed as an integrally formed structure with the support plate 111, or a groove can be provided at a position of the display screen 112 corresponding to the light-transmitting mirror 400, and an optical adhesive layer 500 can be provided in the groove.

[0653] In other examples, you can also Fig.99 The cover plate 110 shown is designed as a unequal modulus structure.

[0654] Fig.99 The cover plate 110 has an unequal thickness structure or an unequal modulus structure, which will not be described in detail here, and the above structure description may be referred to.

[0655] In the above-described design of the cover plate 110 as a structure of unequal thickness or unequal modulus, as shown in FIG. Fig.100 As shown, the support plate 111 can be designed to include a first sub-support plate 1111 and a second sub-support plate 1112. A hollow structure is provided on each sub-support plate. When the display module is flattened, the hollow structures on the two opposite sub-support plates support each other, thereby improving the flattening stiffness of the bending part. When the display module is bent, the two opposite sub-support plates are partially separated, thereby ensuring the bending performance.

[0656] The structures that can be implemented by the first sub-support plate 1111 and the second sub-support plate 1112 can refer to the above structures.

[0657] The cover plate 110 shown above is designed as a structure of unequal thickness or unequal modulus, and a telescopic support structure 205 may also be provided on a side of the hinge mechanism 200 away from the display module.

[0658] The telescopic support structure 205 includes an extended state and a compressed state. When the display module 11 is in the flattened state, the telescopic support structure 205 is in the extended state, and the portion of the telescopic support structure 205 close to the display module 11 rests on the display module 11; when the display module 11 is in the closed state, the telescopic support structure 205 switches to the compressed state.

[0659] When the display module 11 is in a flattened state, the telescopic support structure 205 abuts against the display module 11 to support the flattened display module 11 , thereby improving the flattening rigidity and flatness of the display module.

[0660] When the display module 11 is in a closed state, the telescopic support structure 205 contracts to provide sufficient avoidance space, thereby ensuring that the bending portion of the display module 11 has a high bendability, thereby reducing stress and lowering the possibility of creases on the display module.

[0661] The structure that the telescopic support structure 205 can realize can refer to the above.

[0662] The display screen structure of the display module 11 mentioned above, for example, the interlayer dielectric layer in the display screen includes not only an inorganic dielectric layer but also an organic dielectric layer. The display screen of this structure can also be applied to display modules with unequal thickness structures or unequal modulus structures. The specific display screen structure can refer to the above structure description.

[0663] When the cover plate 110 is designed as a structure of unequal thickness or unequal modulus as shown above, in order to improve the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the edge bending area BB, a filling layer can be filled on the side of the edge bending area BB close to the arc center, or a filling layer can be filled in the gap between the cover plate and the edge bending area BB. The structure of these filling layers and the materials that can be selected will not be described in detail here, and can refer to the above introduction.

[0664] In some examples, when the cover plate 110 is designed as a structure of unequal thickness or unequal modulus as shown above, a groove can be opened at the position of the corresponding bent portion of the substrate of the cover plate, and a filling material with a smaller elastic modulus can be filled in the groove. The structure of the groove can refer to the above example.

[0665] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials or characteristics may be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0666] The above is only a specific implementation of the present application, but the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art who is familiar with the present technical field can easily think of changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present application, which should be included in the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application should be based on the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A display module, characterized in that: include: A display screen, comprising a first display area and a second display area, wherein a lower screen area corresponding to the first display area is used to set a functional module, and a groove is set below the first display area; A cover plate, arranged on one side of the display surface of the display screen; The optical adhesive layer is used to fill the groove set below the first display area. The optical adhesive layer and the light-transmitting mirror are stacked. The functional module is set below the light-transmitting mirror. The light-transmitting mirror and the support plate are an integrated structure. The support plate is set below the display screen.

2. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light-transmitting mirror comprises: Body part; An extension portion disposed along the periphery of the main body portion and connected to the main body portion; The main body is arranged in the support plate, and the extension portion is located at a side of the support plate away from the display screen.

3. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that: The light-transmitting mirror further comprises a plurality of protrusions, the plurality of protrusions are located on the extension portion, and the plurality of protrusions are arranged around the periphery of the extension portion; The plurality of protrusions are disposed in the support plate.

4. The display module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The light-transmitting mirror and the support plate are integrally formed injection-molded structural parts.

5. The display module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area, and a second bending area, wherein the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area, and both the first bending area and the second bending area can be bent along a bending line to switch between an expanded state and a closed state; The thickness of the first non-bending region is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending region.

6. The display module according to claim 5, characterized in that: The thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

7. The display module according to claim 6, characterized in that: The cover plate comprises: A substrate and a first buffer layer, wherein the first buffer layer is closer to the display screen than the substrate; The thickness of the substrate in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate in the second non-bending area, and / or; The thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

8. The display module according to claim 7, characterized in that: From the first non-bending area to the second non-bending area, the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first bending area gradually decreases.

9. The display module according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The cover plate comprises: a second buffer layer, the second buffer layer comprising a first portion and a second portion; The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that: include: The display module according to any one of claims 1 to 9; A functional module is arranged in an under-screen area corresponding to the first display area.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, characterized in that: The functional module includes a camera module.

12. A display module, characterized in that: include: A display screen, the display screen comprising a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, the bending portion being capable of bending along a bending line so that the display screen can be switched between an unfolded state and a closed state; The substrate is arranged on the display surface side of the display screen, and at least one groove is opened on the portion of the substrate corresponding to the bent portion. The groove has a filler, and the elastic modulus of the filler is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate.

13. The display module according to claim 12, characterized in that: There are a plurality of grooves, and the plurality of grooves are arranged at intervals along a direction perpendicular to the bending line.

14. The display module according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that: The substrate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, the groove is arranged on the first surface, and there is a distance between the bottom surface of the groove and the second surface; The non-bending portion includes a first non-bending portion, a second non-bending portion, and a third non-bending portion, and the bending portion includes a first bending portion and a second bending portion, the first bending portion connects the first non-bending portion and the second non-bending portion, and the second bending portion connects the second non-bending portion and the third non-bending portion; The substrate comprises a first portion and a second portion, the first portion of the substrate corresponds to the first bending portion, and the second portion of the substrate corresponds to the second bending portion; When the display screen is in the closed state, the first surface of the first part is closer to the center of the arc structure formed by the display module than the second surface, and the first surface of the second part is farther from the center of the arc structure formed by the display module than the second surface.

15. The display module according to claim 14, characterized in that: The first part and the second part of the substrate respectively have a plurality of the grooves; In the first part of the substrate, the distance between two adjacent grooves is S1; In the second part of the substrate, the distance between two adjacent grooves is S2, and S1 is smaller than S2.

16. The display module according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that: The display module also includes: A cover plate, the cover plate is arranged on a display surface side of the display screen, and the cover plate includes the substrate; The cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area and a second bending area, the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area; The first non-bending region corresponds to the first non-bending portion, the second non-bending region corresponds to the second non-bending portion, the third non-bending region corresponds to the third non-bending portion, the first bending region corresponds to the first bending portion, and the second bending region corresponds to the second bending portion; The thickness of the first non-bending region is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending region.

17. The display module according to claim 16, characterized in that: The thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

18. The display module according to claim 17, characterized in that: The cover plate also includes: a first buffer layer, wherein the first buffer layer is closer to the display screen than the substrate; The thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

19. The display module according to claim 18, characterized in that: From the first non-bending area to the second non-bending area, the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first bending area gradually decreases.

20. The display module according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that: The cover plate also includes: a second buffer layer, the second buffer layer comprising a first portion and a second portion; The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

21. The display module according to any one of claims 12 to 20, characterized in that: The material of the substrate includes at least one of polyethylene terephthalate PET, polyimide PI, and transparent polyimide CPI; or, The material of the filler includes at least one of optically transparent adhesive (OCA) and optically transparent resin (OCR).

22. The display module according to any one of claims 12 to 21, characterized in that: The display module also includes a flattening layer; The flattening layer is disposed on a side of the substrate away from the display screen, so that the flattening layer is a surface layer of the display module; and / or, The flattening layer is arranged between the substrate and the display screen.

23. The display module according to claim 22, characterized in that: The material of the planarization layer includes optically transparent resin (OCR).

24. A display module, characterized in that: include: A display screen, the display screen comprising a bending portion and a non-bending portion connected to the bending portion, the bending portion being capable of bending along a bending line so that the display screen can be switched between an unfolded state and a closed state; A support plate, arranged on a side of the display screen away from the display surface; The support plate comprises a first sub-support plate and a second sub-support plate which are stacked; The first sub-support plate includes a first bending section, the second sub-support plate includes a second bending section, the first bending section corresponds to the bending portion, and the second bending section corresponds to the first bending section; The first bending section includes a plurality of first hollow areas, and the area between two adjacent first hollow areas forms a first non-hollow area; The second bending section includes a plurality of second hollow areas, and the area between two adjacent second hollow areas forms a second non-hollow area; When the display screen is in the unfolded state, the first hollow area overlaps at least partially with the second non-hollow area, and the second hollow area overlaps at least partially with the first non-hollow area.

25. The display module according to claim 24, characterized in that: The second sub-support plate is arranged relative to the first sub-support plate and away from the display screen; When the display screen is in the closed state, at least a portion of the second non-hollow area is separated from the first sub-support plate.

26. The display module according to claim 25, characterized in that: When the display screen is in the closed state, a portion of the second non-hollowed-out area close to the bottom end of the arc-shaped structure is separated from the first sub-support plate.

27. The display module according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that: The second bending section is provided with a plurality of first slots parallel to the bending line, the area where the first slots are located forms the second hollow area, and the area between two adjacent first slots forms the first non-hollow area; Along the extension direction of the first slot, the first slot includes a first section and a second section connected to each other, and the slot width of the first section is unequal to the slot width of the second section.

28. The display module according to claim 27, characterized in that: The groove width of the first section is greater than the groove width of the second section, and the first section is farther away from the edge of the second sub-support plate than the second section; A portion of the second non-hollow region close to the second segment protrudes toward the second segment compared to a portion close to the first segment to form a protruding structure; When the display screen is in the closed state, the protruding structure is separated from the first sub-support plate.

29. The display module according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that: The first slot also includes a third section connected to the second section; The groove width of the third section and the groove width of the first section are both greater than the groove width of the second section.

30. The display module according to any one of claims 27 to 29, characterized in that: The second sub-support plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, and the first surface and the second surface are arranged in a direction parallel to the bending line; The second bending section is also provided with a plurality of second slots parallel to the bending line; The first slot extends from the first surface to the second surface, the second slot extends from the second surface to the first surface, and the area between the ends of the first slot and the second slot close to each other forms the second non-hollow area.

31. The display module according to claim 30, characterized in that: The first sub-support plate and the second sub-support plate are connected via a connecting structure; The connecting structure is disposed in the second non-hollow region between the ends of the first slot and the second slot that are close to each other.

32. The display module according to any one of claims 24 to 31, characterized in that: The first sub-support plate further includes a first non-bending section, and the first non-bending section corresponds to the non-bending portion; The density of the material of the first non-bending section is lower than the density of the material of the first bending section.

33. The display module according to any one of claims 24 to 32, characterized in that: The non-bending portion includes a first non-bending portion, a second non-bending portion, and a third non-bending portion, and the bending portion includes a first bending portion and a second bending portion, the first bending portion connects the first non-bending portion and the second non-bending portion, and the second bending portion connects the second non-bending portion and the third non-bending portion; The display module also includes: A cover plate, the cover plate being arranged on a display surface side of the display screen; The cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area and a second bending area, the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area; The first non-bending region corresponds to the first non-bending portion, the second non-bending region corresponds to the second non-bending portion, the third non-bending region corresponds to the third non-bending portion, the first bending region corresponds to the first bending portion, and the second bending region corresponds to the second bending portion; The thickness of the first non-bending region is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending region.

34. The display module according to claim 33, characterized in that: The thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

35. The display module according to claim 34, characterized in that: The cover plate comprises: A substrate and a first buffer layer, wherein the first buffer layer is closer to the display screen than the substrate; The thickness of the substrate in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate in the second non-bending area, and / or; The thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

36. The display module according to claim 35, characterized in that: From the first non-bending area to the second non-bending area, the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first bending area gradually decreases.

37. The display module according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that: The cover plate comprises: a second buffer layer, the second buffer layer comprising a first portion and a second portion; The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

38. An electronic device, characterized in that: include: case; The display module according to any one of claims 12 to 37; The display module is arranged on the housing.

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