Display device

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device. The display device includes: a first roller in which a cavity extending in a first direction is defined, and which includes an end surface and an opposing end surface facing each other at a cut extending in the first direction; a step adjusting portion provided in the cavity portion and adjusting a step between the end surface and the opposing end surface by a rotation action; and a display module connected to the first roller and wound around an outer circumferential surface of the first roller.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and all benefits arising from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0093771, filed on Jul. 19, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure described herein relate to a display device. Background Art

[0004] Electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smart phones, digital cameras, notebook computers, car navigation units, smart TVs, etc., include a display device for displaying images. The display device generates images and provides the images to users through a display screen.

[0005] As display device technology develops, various forms of display devices are being developed. For example, various flexible display devices that can be bent, folded, or rolled are being developed. Flexible display devices can be easily carried and can improve user convenience.

[0006] Among the flexible display devices, a rollable display device includes a display module, a roller around which the display module is rolled, and a housing that accommodates the display module and the roller. The display module can be drawn out of or inserted into the housing by the rotation of the roller. Summary of the invention

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a display device for preventing damage to a display module and adjusting a size of a step portion of a roller in various ways according to a thickness of the display module.

[0008] In an embodiment, a display device includes: a first roller, in which a cavity extending in a first direction is defined, and the first roller includes an end surface and a relative end surface facing each other at a cutout extending along the first direction; a step adjustment portion, which is disposed in the cavity and adjusts a step between the end surface and the relative end surface by a rotational action; and a display module, which is connected to the first roller and is wound around an outer circumferential surface of the first roller.

[0009] In an embodiment, a display device includes: a first roller, in which a cavity extending in a first direction is defined, and a cutting portion is formed in the first roller in the first direction; a second roller, which is arranged in the cavity and includes: a first arc having a curvature that can be changed; and a second arc extending from the first arc and defining a step portion together with the first arc, the second arc having a constant or changeable curvature; and a display module, which is connected to the first roller and is wound around the outer circumferential surface of the first roller. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The above and other objects and features of the present disclosure will become apparent by describing in detail embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the attached drawings.

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device according to the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 It is shown from Figure 1 A view of the display module pulled out of the housing is shown.

[0013] Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device according to the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 5 is shown to be accommodated in Figure 1 A view of the flat state of the display module in the housing is shown.

[0015] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 The view shown shows the rolled-up state of the display module.

[0016] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a display module is shown.

[0017] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A view of a support layer and support rods arranged therein is shown.

[0018] Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of components of an electronic panel is shown.

[0019] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of components of a display panel is shown.

[0020] Fig.11 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' is shown.

[0021] Fig.12 is a graph showing the Figure 1 A side view of the interior of the housing is shown.

[0022] Fig.13 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' is shown.

[0023] Fig.14 is a graph showing the Figure 2A side view of the interior of the housing is shown.

[0024] Fig.15 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' is shown.

[0025] Fig.16 yes Fig.14 A perspective view of the support portion is shown.

[0026] Fig.17 yes Fig.11 An exploded perspective view of the roller is shown.

[0027] Fig.18 It is shown Fig.17 An enlarged view of a cross section of the first and second rollers is shown.

[0028] Fig.19 It is shown Fig.18 A view of an arrangement showing a second roller inserted into a cavity of a first roller.

[0029] Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The second roller is shown to be arranged at Fig.19 Views of the configuration at different locations are shown.

[0030] Fig. 22 and Fig.23 is used to show that Fig. 20 and Fig.21 A view showing a method of calculating the second distance when an end portion of the second roller is spaced apart from one end surface of the first roller as shown.

[0031] Fig.24 is a view showing a display module connected to a single roller.

[0032] Figure 25 to Figure 27 are views illustrating embodiments of various processing states of the second roller according to the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.28 Is depicted when used Figure 25 to Figure 27 The second roller shown is a graph showing the second distance changing with the rotation of the second roller.

[0034] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 An enlarged view of a portion of the graph shown.

[0035] Fig.30 and Fig.31 are views showing an embodiment of components of a roller according to the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 32 to Figure 34 is a view illustrating a second roller according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] In this specification, when a component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is referred to as being "on", "connected to" or "coupled to" another component, this means that the component can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to another component, or a third component may be present therebetween.

[0038] The same reference numerals denote the same components. In addition, in the drawings, the thickness, ratio, and size of components are exaggerated for efficient description.

[0039] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes all of one or more combinations defined by the relevant parts.

[0040] Terms such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish one component from other components. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, a first component can be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component can also be referred to as a first component. Unless otherwise specified, terms in the singular may include plural forms.

[0041] In addition, terms such as "below", "under", "above", and "over" are used to describe the relationship of components shown in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions shown in the drawings.

[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical or scientific terms) have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. Those terms defined in commonly used dictionaries will be interpreted as having the same meaning as the contextual meaning in the relevant field, and should not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless clearly defined as having such a meaning in this application.

[0043] It should be understood that when used in this document, terms such as "includes," "comprising," and "having" specify the presence of stated features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is shown from Figure 1 A view of the display module pulled out of the housing is shown.

[0046] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the display device DD in the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing HS, a display module DM accommodated in the housing HS, a handle HND connected to the display module DM, and a support portion SUP adjacent to opposite sides of the display module DM.

[0047] The housing HS may have a hexahedral shape. However, the shape of the housing HS is not limited thereto. The first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be defined as directions crossing each other. The housing HS may extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2.

[0048] Hereinafter, a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as a third direction DR3. As used herein, the expression "when viewed from above a plane" may mean that it is viewed in the third direction DR3.

[0049] The opening OP may be defined on one side of the housing HS in the second direction DR2. The opening OP may be closer to the upper portion of the housing HS than to the lower portion of the housing HS.

[0050] The display module DM may be wound around a roller provided in the housing HS, and may be inserted into and pulled out of the housing HS through the opening OP. However, not limited thereto, the display module DM may be pulled out of the housing HS by sliding from the inside to the outside of the housing HS when the roller is not used. The structure in which the display module DM is wound around the roller will be described in detail below.

[0051] The handle HND may be disposed on the outer side of the housing HS and may be adjacent to the opening OP. The handle HND may be adjacent to the upper portion of the housing HS. The handle HND may extend in a first direction DR1 and may move in a second direction DR2 relative to the housing HS. When the handle HND moves away from the housing HS in the second direction DR2, the display module DM may be pulled out of the housing HS through the opening OP. The handle HND may be operated by a user.

[0052] like Figure 1 The state in which the display module DM is disposed in the housing HS and is not exposed to the outside may be defined as a closed mode. Figure 2 The operation in which the display module DM is exposed outside the housing HS as shown may be defined as an open mode. In the open mode, the exposed area of ​​the display module DM may be adjusted. In the open mode, the exposed portion of the display module DM may be enlarged.

[0053] The support portion SUP may be disposed on opposite sides of the display module DM facing away from each other in the first direction DR1, and may support the display module DM. This configuration will be described in detail below. The support portion SUP may include a first support portion SUP1 adjacent to one side of the display module DM and a second support portion SUP2 adjacent to the opposite side of the display module DM. One side of the display module DM and the opposite side of the display module DM may be opposite sides of the display module DM facing away from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0054] Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device according to the present disclosure.

[0055] In addition to the housing HS', Figure 3 and Figure 4 The display device DD_1 shown may have Figure 1 and Figure 2 The components of the display device DD shown are identical to those of the housing HS'. ​​Therefore, the following description will focus on the housing HS'.

[0056] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 A first opening OP1 for exposing a predetermined portion of the display module DM may be defined in the upper surface of the housing HS'. ​​The first opening OP1 may be adjacent to the handle HND. The first opening OP1 may be defined to be continuous with the opening OP through which the display module DM is inserted into and withdrawn from the housing HS'.

[0057] An image may be displayed through a portion of the display module DM exposed through the first opening OP1. Figure 1 In the display device DD shown, the display module DM is disposed in the housing HS and is not exposed to the outside. Figure 3 In the display device DD_1 shown, a portion of the display module DM may be exposed to the outside. When the handle HND moves away from the housing HS′ in the second direction DR2, the exposed portion of the display module DM may expand.

[0058] Figure 5 is shown to be accommodated in Figure 1 A view of the flat state of the display module in the housing is shown. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 The view shown shows the rolled-up state of the display module.

[0059] refer to Figure 5, the display module DM may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The display module DM may have a quadrilateral shape, for example, a rectangular shape having long sides extending in the second direction DR2 and short sides extending in the first direction DR1. However, not limited thereto, the display module DM may have various shapes such as a circular shape, another polygonal shape, etc.

[0060] An upper surface of the display module DM may be defined as a display surface DS, and may have a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. An image IM generated by the display module DM may be provided to a user through the display surface DS.

[0061] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image, while the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and may define a boundary of the display module DM printed in a predetermined color.

[0062] refer to Figure 6 The display module DM may be a flexible display module. The display module DM may be rolled or unfolded in the second direction DR2. The display module DM may be rolled so that the display surface DS faces outward. The state in which the display module DM is rolled inside the housing HS will be described in detail below.

[0063] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a display module is shown. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A view of a support layer and support rods arranged therein is shown.

[0064] exist Figure 7 , a cross section of the display module DM viewed in the second direction DR2 is shown.

[0065] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the display module DM may include an electronic panel EP, an impact absorbing layer ISL, a panel protection layer PPL, a window WIN, a window protection layer WP, a hard coating layer HC, a panel support layer PSP, and first to fifth adhesive layers AL1 to AL5.

[0066] The electronic panel EP may display an image. The electronic panel EP may include a display panel, an input sensing unit, and an anti-reflection layer, and will be referred to below. Fig. 9 Describe the components of the electronic panel EP.

[0067] The impact absorbing layer ISL may be disposed on the electronic panel EP. The impact absorbing layer ISL may protect the electronic panel EP by absorbing external impact applied from above the display device DD toward the electronic panel EP. The impact absorbing layer ISL may be manufactured in the form of a stretchable film.

[0068] The impact absorbing layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material. The flexible plastic material may be defined as a synthetic resin film. In an embodiment, for example, the impact absorbing layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide ("PI") or polyethylene terephthalate ("PET").

[0069] The window WIN may be disposed on the impact absorbing layer ISL. The window WIN may protect the electronic panel EP from external scratches. The window WIN may have an optically transparent property. The window WIN may include glass. However, not limited thereto, the window WIN may include a synthetic resin film.

[0070] The window protection layer WP may be disposed on the window WIN. The window protection layer WP may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. The hard coating layer HC may be disposed on an upper surface of the window protection layer WP.

[0071] The printing layer PIT may be disposed on the lower surface of the window protection layer WP. The color of the printing layer PIT may be black. However, the color of the printing layer PIT is not limited thereto. The printing layer PIT may be adjacent to the periphery of the window protection layer WP. The printing layer PIT may overlap the non-display area NDA.

[0072] The panel protection layer PPL may be disposed below the electronic panel EP. The panel protection layer PPL may protect the lower portion of the electronic panel EP. The panel protection layer PPL may include a flexible plastic material. In an embodiment, for example, the panel protection layer PPL may include polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0073] The panel support layer PSP may be disposed below the panel protection layer PPL. The panel support layer PSP may be used to support the electronic panel EP. The panel support layer (or, also referred to as the panel support portion) PSP may include a support layer SPL disposed below the panel protection layer PPL and a plurality of support rods SB disposed in the support layer SPL.

[0074] like Figure 8 As shown, the support bar SB may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be arranged in the second direction DR2. When viewed in the first direction DR1, the support bar SB may have a quadrilateral shape. However, the shape of the support bar SB is not limited thereto.

[0075] exist Figure 8, the support bars SB disposed in the support layer SPL are shown by dotted lines. The support bars SB may be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals in the second direction DR2. However, the intervals between the support bars SB are not limited thereto. The opposite ends of each support bar SB facing away from each other in the first direction DR1 may be exposed outside the support layer SPL without being disposed in the support layer SPL.

[0076] The support bar SB may be of a rigid type. In an embodiment, the support bar SB may include metal. For example, the support bar SB may include aluminum, stainless steel or invar.

[0077] The support layer SPL may include an elastomer having a predetermined elastic force. In an embodiment, for example, the support layer SPL may include at least one of thermoplastic polyurethane, silicone, thermoplastic rubber, elastic olefin, thermoplastic olefin, polyamide, polyether block amide, synthetic polyisoprene, polybutadiene, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, styrene-butadiene, epichlorohydrin rubber, polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber, fluorine-containing elastomer, and ethylene-vinyl acetate.

[0078] The support bar SB may have a modulus higher than that of the support layer SPL. The support layer SPL may have a modulus of 20 kilopascals (Kpa) to 20 megapascals (MPa). The support bar SB may have a modulus of 1 gigapascals (GPa) to 200 GPa.

[0079] A support bar SB having a modulus higher than that of the support layer SPL may be used to support the electronic panel EP. The support layer SPL may provide a flat upper surface on the support bar SB. When the support bar SB is disposed below the electronic panel EP without the support layer SPL, the electronic panel EP may have a corrugated surface due to the support bar SB and may be deformed. However, the support bar SB may be disposed in the support layer SPL, and the support layer SPL may provide a flat upper surface below the electronic panel EP. Therefore, deformation of the electronic panel EP may be prevented.

[0080] The first adhesive layer AL1 may be disposed between the window protection layer WP and the window WIN. The window protection layer WP and the window WIN may be bonded to each other through the first adhesive layer AL1. The first adhesive layer AL1 may cover the print layer PIT.

[0081] The second adhesive layer AL2 may be disposed between the window WIN and the shock absorbing layer ISL. The window WIN and the shock absorbing layer ISL may be bonded to each other by the second adhesive layer AL2.

[0082] The third adhesive layer AL3 may be disposed between the impact absorbing layer ISL and the electronic panel EP. The impact absorbing layer ISL and the electronic panel EP may be bonded to each other through the third adhesive layer AL3.

[0083] The fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be disposed between the electronic panel EP and the panel protection layer PPL. The electronic panel EP and the panel protection layer PPL may be bonded to each other through the fourth adhesive layer AL4.

[0084] The fifth adhesive layer AL5 may be disposed between the panel protection layer PPL and the panel support layer PSP. The panel protection layer PPL and the panel support layer PSP may be bonded to each other through the fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0085] The first to fifth adhesive layers AL1 to AL5 may include a pressure sensitive adhesive (“PSA”) or an optically clear adhesive (“OCA”), but are not limited thereto.

[0086] Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of components of an electronic panel is shown.

[0087] exist Fig. 9 , a cross section of the electronic panel EP viewed in the second direction DR2 is shown.

[0088] refer to Fig. 9 The electronic panel EP may include a display panel DP, an input sensing unit ISP disposed on the display panel DP, and an anti-reflection layer RPL disposed on the input sensing unit ISP. The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. In an embodiment, for example, the display panel DP may include a flexible substrate and a plurality of elements disposed on the flexible substrate.

[0089] The display panel DP in the embodiment of the present disclosure may be an emissive display panel, but is not particularly limited. In an embodiment, for example, the display panel DP may be an organic light-emitting display panel or an inorganic light-emitting display panel. The emission layer of the organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The emission layer of the inorganic light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots, quantum rods, etc. In the following, it will be illustrated that the display panel DP is an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0090] The input sensing unit ISP may include a plurality of sensing parts (not shown) for sensing external input. In an embodiment, for example, the input sensing unit ISP may sense the external input in a capacitive type. However, the sensing method of the input sensing unit ISP is not limited thereto. When manufacturing the electronic panel EP, the input sensing unit ISP may be directly formed on the display panel DP.

[0091] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be provided on the input sensing unit ISP. When manufacturing the electronic panel EP, the anti-reflection layer RPL may be directly formed on the input sensing unit ISP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be defined as a film for preventing reflection of external light. The anti-reflection layer RPL may reduce the reflectivity of external light incident from the display device DD to the display panel DP.

[0092] When external light traveling toward the display panel DP is reflected from the display panel DP and provided back to the user, the user may visually recognize the external light as in a mirror. To prevent this phenomenon, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a plurality of color filters that present the same color as the color of the pixels of the display panel DP.

[0093] The color filter may filter the external light into the same color as the color of the pixel. In this case, the external light may not be visible to the user. However, not limited thereto, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a phase retarder and / or a polarizer to reduce the reflectivity of the external light.

[0094] In an embodiment, for example, the input sensing unit ISP may be directly formed on the display panel DP, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be directly formed on the input sensing unit ISP. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. In an embodiment, for example, the input sensing unit ISP may be manufactured separately and may be attached to the display panel DP through an adhesive layer, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be manufactured separately and may be attached to the input sensing unit ISP through an adhesive layer.

[0095] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of components of a display panel is shown.

[0096] exist Fig.10 , a cross section of the display panel DP observed in the second direction DR2 is shown.

[0097] refer to Fig.10 The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the substrate SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0098] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide. The display element layer DP-OLED may be disposed throughout the display area DA.

[0099] A plurality of pixels may be provided in the display area DA. Each of the pixels may include a light emitting element connected to a transistor provided in the circuit element layer DP-CL and provided in the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0100] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL to cover the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include an inorganic layer and an organic layer between the inorganic layers. The inorganic layer may protect the pixel from moisture / oxygen. The organic layer may protect the pixel from foreign matter such as dust particles.

[0101] Fig.11 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' is shown. Fig.12 is a graph showing the Figure 1 A side view of the interior of the housing is shown.

[0102] For ease of description, Fig.12 The housing HS is omitted.

[0103] refer to Fig.11 and Fig.12 , the display device DD may include a housing HS, a display module DM, a roll ROL, a support portion SUP, and a handle HND. The display module DM, the roll ROL, and the support portion SUP may be accommodated in the housing HS.

[0104] In the housing HS, the roller ROL may be adjacent to an opposite side of the housing HS, which is away from a side of the housing HS defining the opening OP. When viewed in the first direction DR1, the outer circumferential surface of the roller ROL may have a curved surface. A first step portion ST1 may be defined on the outer circumferential surface of the roller ROL.

[0105] The roller ROL may include a first roller ROL1 and a second roller ROL2 disposed inside the first roller ROL1. The first step portion ST1 described above may be defined on the outer circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1. The second step portion ST2 may be defined on the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2. The first step portion ST1 and the second step portion ST2 may be defined as a step shape having a height difference. The first step portion ST1 may be formed by the second step portion ST2, and this configuration will be described in detail below.

[0106] The roller ROL may rotate about a rotation axis RX extending in the first direction DR1. The roller ROL may rotate about the rotation axis RX in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Although not shown, the display device DD may further include an actuator for rotating the roller ROL.

[0107] One end of the display module DM may be connected to the roller ROL. One end of the display module DM may be connected to the side surface of the first step portion ST1. An opposite end of the display module DM facing away from one end of the display module DM may be connected to the handle HND. The opposite end of the display module DM may be adjacent to the opening OP.

[0108] The display module DM may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be rolled around the roll ROL. A portion of the display module DM may be rolled around the roll ROL, and another portion of the display module DM may overlap the support portion SUP without being rolled around the roll ROL.

[0109] The display module DM can be inserted into and withdrawn from the housing HS through the opening OP. One end of the support portion SUP can be connected to the handle HND. The support portion SUP can extend in the second direction DR2 like an antenna. This configuration will be described in detail below.

[0110] A guide groove GG may be defined on the support portion SUP. The display module DM may be disposed in the guide groove GG and may move in the second direction DR2 along the guide groove GG. Basically, the support portion SUP may be used to support the display module DM.

[0111] Fig.13 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' is shown. Fig.14 is a graph showing the Figure 2 A side view of the interior of the housing is shown.

[0112] For ease of description, Fig.14 The housing HS is omitted.

[0113] refer to Fig.13 and Fig.14 , the handle HND may move away from the housing HS in the second direction DR2. According to the movement of the handle HND, the display module DM connected to the handle HND may move in the second direction DR2.

[0114] The display module DM may be loosened from the roller ROL, and the loosened display module DM may be pulled out of the housing HS through the opening OP. Therefore, the exposed portion of the display module DM may be enlarged.

[0115] When the display module DM is pulled out of the housing HS according to the movement of the handle HND, the support portion SUP connected to the handle HND can be extended outside the housing HS through the opening OP. The support portion SUP extended outside the housing HS can support the display module DM outside the housing HS. The display module DM moved to the outside of the housing HS can be supported by the support portion SUP.

[0116] The support portion SUP may include a first extension portion EX1, a second extension portion EX2, and a third extension portion EX3 so as to extend outside the housing HS. The second extension portion EX2 may be provided between the first extension portion EX1 and the third extension portion EX3.

[0117] In order to realize a structure that can be extended like an antenna, the second extension part EX2 can be inserted into and pulled out of the first extension part EX1, and the third extension part EX3 can be inserted into and pulled out of the second extension part EX2. The first extension part EX1 can be set in the housing HS, and the second extension part EX2 and the third extension part EX3 can be moved outside the housing HS. The third extension part EX3 can be connected to the handle HND.

[0118] The guide groove GG may be defined on the first extension part EX1, the second extension part EX2, and the third extension part EX3. The guide groove GG defined on the first extension part EX1, the second extension part EX2, and the third extension part EX3 may be defined as a continuous space overlapping each other in the first direction DR1. The display module DM may be disposed in the guide groove GG.

[0119] When the handle HND moves toward the housing HS in the second direction DR2, the handle HND may be disposed on the outer side of the housing HS so as to be adjacent to the opening OP, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 and Fig.12 According to the movement of the handle HND, the support portion SUP may be contracted in the second direction DR2 and disposed in the housing HS, and the display module DM may be inserted into the housing HS.

[0120] Fig.15 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' is shown. Fig.16 yes Fig.14 A perspective view of the support portion is shown.

[0121] For ease of description, Fig.15 4 shows the display module DM disposed on the first supporting portion SUP1 and the second supporting portion SUP2 and portions of the housing HS adjacent to the first supporting portion SUP1 and the second supporting portion SUP2, and other components are omitted.

[0122] refer to Fig.15 and Fig.16 , the support portion SUP may include a first support portion SUP1 and a second support portion SUP2 extending in the second direction DR2 and spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The first support portion SUP1 and the second support portion SUP2 may be accommodated in the housing HS.

[0123] The display module DM may be disposed between the first supporting portion SUP1 and the second supporting portion SUP2. The first supporting portion SUP1 and the second supporting portion SUP2 may support opposite sides of the display module DM facing away from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0124] The opposite side of the display module DM can be inserted into and disposed in the guide groove GG defined on the inner surface of the first support part SUP1 and the inner surface of the second support part SUP2 facing each other. The display module DM can move in the second direction DR2 along the guide groove GG defined on the first support part SUP1 and the second support part SUP2.

[0125] Each of the first support portion SUP1 and the second support portion SUP2 may include a first extension portion EX1, a second extension portion EX2, and a third extension portion EX3 having a guide groove GG defined thereon. The configurations of the first extension portion EX1, the second extension portion EX2, and the third extension portion EX3 have been described in detail above, and thus descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0126] One end of the first support portion SUP1 and one end of the second support portion SUP2 (they are defined as one end of the support portion SUP) may be connected to the handle HND. Specifically, the third extensions EX3 of the first support portion SUP1 and the second support portion SUP2 may be connected to the handle HND.

[0127] The first extension EX1 may be connected to the housing HS. In an embodiment, for example, the first extension EX1 may be fixedly connected to inner surfaces of the housing HS facing each other. In the open mode, the first extension EX1 may be disposed in the housing HS, and the second extension EX2 and the third extension EX3 may be movable outside the housing HS. Therefore, in the open mode, the first support portion SUP1 and the second support portion SUP2 may be extended outside the housing HS.

[0128] Fig.17 yes Fig.11 An exploded perspective view of the roller is shown.

[0129] refer to Fig.17 The roller ROL may include a first roller ROL1 extending in the first direction DR1 and a second roller ROL2 extending in the first direction DR1. The first roller ROL1 and the second roller ROL2 may include or consist of metal or plastic.

[0130] The first roller ROL1 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1. The first roller ROL1 may have a tube structure. A cavity TN extending in the first direction DR1 may be defined inside the first roller ROL1, and opposite ends of the first roller ROL1 in the first direction DR1 may be opened toward the outside.

[0131] The inner circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1 surrounding the cavity portion TN may have a curved surface. The outer circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1 that is away from the inner circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1 and faces outward (eg, reference Fig.18 The OCS1 in the first roller ROL1 may have a curved surface. A cutting portion may be formed in the first roller ROL1 in the first direction DR1. The cutting portion formed in the first roller ROL1 may be defined as an incision ICP. The incision ICP may extend in the first direction DR1. The first roller ROL1 may include an end surface OES1 and an opposite end surface OES2 facing each other at the incision ICP. According to this structure, when viewed in the first direction DR1, the first roller ROL1 may have an annular shape with a cutting portion formed in a portion.

[0132] The second roller ROL2 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1. Fig.18 The second roller ROL2 may have a curved surface. The second roller ROL2 may have a step portion ST. The step portion ST may be the second step portion ST2 described above. A portion of the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2 may protrude outward to form the step portion ST of the second roller ROL2. When viewed in the first direction DR1, the step portion ST may have a step shape (a portion shown by a dotted line) on the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2.

[0133] A plurality of protrusions PRT may be provided at opposite ends of the second roller ROL2 facing away from each other in the first direction DR1. The protrusions PRT may protrude outward from the opposite ends of the second roller ROL2. The protrusions PRT may be connected to the inner surface of the housing HS described above. The protrusions PRT may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1 so as to be rotatably coupled to the housing HS.

[0134] A rotation axis RX extending in the first direction DR1 may be defined in the second roller ROL2. The rotation axis RX may pass through the center of the protrusion PRT. A center point CP may be defined by the rotation axis RX at the center of the protrusion PRT. The center point CP may also be defined as the center point of the second roller ROL2. The second roller ROL2 may rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around the rotation axis RX.

[0135] The second roller ROL2 may be inserted into the cavity TN defined in the first roller ROL1. When the second roller ROL2 is disposed in the cavity TN of the first roller ROL1, Fig.11 The first step portion ST1 of the first roller ROL1 is shown. Fig.19 This configuration is described in more detail.

[0136] Fig.18 It is shown Fig.17 An enlarged view of a cross section of the first and second rollers is shown.

[0137] exist Fig.18 , a cross section of the first roll ROL1 and the second roll ROL2 viewed in the first direction DR1 is shown.

[0138] refer to Fig.17 and Fig.18 , when the first step portion ST1 is not formed on the first roller ROL1, the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2 may entirely cover each other. In an embodiment, for example, the upper end of the one end surface OES1 and the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 may overlap each other. In addition, the lower end of the one end surface OES1 and the lower end of the opposite end surface OES2 may overlap each other.

[0139] When the first step portion ST1 is not formed on the first roller ROL1, a center point CP may be defined in the cavity TN of the first roller ROL1. When the second roller ROL2 is disposed in the first roller ROL1, the center point CP may be the center point CP of the second roller ROL2. The center point CP of the first roller ROL1 and the center point CP of the second roller ROL2 may correspond to the rotation axis RX described above. The center point CP of the first roller ROL1 and the center point CP of the second roller ROL2 may be points through which the rotation axis RX described above passes. When viewed in the first direction DR1, the inner circumferential surface IS of the first roller ROL1 may have a circular shape having a first radius R1 relative to the center point CP.

[0140] The second roller ROL2 may include a first arc CA1 and a second arc CA2. An outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2 may include the first arc CA1 and the second arc CA2. A step portion ST may be defined by the first arc CA1 and the second arc CA2.

[0141] The first arc CA1 may be defined as a curve from 0 degrees to a reference angle θr relative to the center point CP. The second arc CA2 may extend from the first arc CA1 and may be defined as a curve from the reference angle θr to 360 degrees relative to the center point CP. Fig.18In the third direction DR3, 0 degrees and 360 degrees may be defined based on the upward direction of the third direction DR3. The reference angle θr may be set to one of angles greater than 90 degrees and less than 360 degrees.

[0142] A point of the first arc CA1 corresponding to 0 degrees may be defined as a first point P1. A point of the second arc CA2 corresponding to 360 degrees may be defined as a second point P2. A point corresponding to the reference angle θr may be defined as an overlap point OVP.

[0143] The first arc CA1 and the second arc CA2 may overlap each other at an overlap point OVP corresponding to the reference angle θr. When viewed in the third direction DR3 , the first arc CA1 and the second arc CA2 may overlap each other at a first point P1 and a second point P2 .

[0144] The starting point of the first arc CA1 may be defined as the first point P1, and the ending point of the first arc CA1 may be defined as the overlap point OVP. The starting point of the second arc CA2 may be defined as the overlap point OVP, and the ending point of the second arc CA2 may be defined as the second point P2.

[0145] On the first arc CA1, the first point P1 may have a first radius R1 relative to the center point CP. The first arc CA1 may have a variable radius relative to the center point CP. In an embodiment, for example, from 0 degrees, as the radius approaches the reference angle θr, the radius of the first arc CA1 relative to the center point CP may gradually increase from the first radius R1 to a second radius R2 greater than the first radius R1. Because the radius is variable, the first arc CA1 may have a variable curvature.

[0146] The second arc CA2 may have a constant radius relative to the center point CP. In an embodiment, for example, the second arc CA2 may have a second radius R2 from a reference angle θr to 360 degrees relative to the center point CP. Since the radius is constant, the second arc CA2 may have a constant curvature.

[0147] Fig.18 The first arc CA1 and the second arc CA2 are defined in the clockwise direction from 0 degrees. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. In an embodiment, for example, the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2 may be divided based on the counterclockwise direction. Specifically, based on the counterclockwise direction, the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2 may be divided into the first arc and the second arc relative to the overlapping point OVP. According to the division criteria, the first arc may correspond to Fig.18 The second arc CA2 shown in FIG. 1 and the second arc may correspond to Fig.18The first arc CA1 is shown. Thus, based on the counterclockwise direction, the radius of the first arc may be constant and the radius of the second arc may be variable (eg, decreasing).

[0148] A distance between the first point P1 and the second point P2 may be defined as a first distance DT1. The second radius R2 may be set to a value obtained by adding the first distance DT1 and the first radius R1.

[0149] The first point P1 and the second point P2 may be spaced apart from each other, and the second point P2 may be disposed outside the first point P1 and may be connected to the first point P1. The portion connecting the first point P1 and the second point P2 may be defined as the end portion EN of the second roller ROL2. The end portion EN may define a height difference of the step portion ST. That is, the first distance DT1 may define a height difference of the step portion ST. Therefore, the end portion EN, a portion of the first arc CA1 adjacent to the end portion EN, and a portion of the second arc CA2 adjacent to the end portion EN may define the step portion ST.

[0150] In an embodiment, for example, a tangent line at the first point P1 and a tangent line at the second point P2 may be parallel to each other, and the end portion EN may extend in a direction perpendicular to the tangent lines at the first point P1 and the second point P2. Fig.18 The extending direction of the end portion EN in the middle may be the third direction DR3.

[0151] Fig.18 The curve shown by the middle dotted line together with the second arc CA2 can form a circle having a second radius R2. Basically, the first arc CA1 can be formed by processing a portion corresponding to the dotted line.

[0152] Fig.19 It is shown Fig.18 A view of an arrangement showing a second roller inserted into a cavity of a first roller.

[0153] refer to Fig.18 and Fig.19 , the second roller ROL2 may be disposed in the cavity TN and may be correspondingly inserted into the first roller ROL1. When the second roller ROL2 is disposed in the cavity TN, the step portion ST of the second roller ROL2 may be adjacent to a boundary between one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2 of the first roller ROL1.

[0154] The end portion EN may overlap with a boundary between one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2. Therefore, the second point P2 may overlap with a boundary between one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2. In this case, the end portion EN may face the opposite end surface OES2. The end portion EN may face a lower portion of the opposite end surface OES2 and may contact a lower portion of the opposite end surface OES2.

[0155] The portion of the first arc CA1 adjacent to the end portion EN may be disposed below the opposite end surface OES2, and the portion of the second arc CA2 adjacent to the end portion EN may be disposed below the one end surface OES1. The step portion ST may cause the upper end of the one end surface OES1 to protrude outwardly beyond the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2. In an embodiment, the portion of the second arc CA2 adjacent to the end portion EN may cause the one end surface OES1 to move upward. Therefore, for example, the upper portion of the one end surface OES1 may be exposed to the outside without facing the opposite end surface OES2.

[0156] The step portion ST may push the upper end of the one end surface OES1 outward from the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 to form a first step portion ST1 on the first roller ROL1. The height difference of the first step portion ST1 may be defined by a portion of the one end surface OES1 disposed above the opposite end surface OES2. Therefore, the step portion ST of the second roller ROL2 may cause a step between the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2.

[0157] The display module DM may be connected to the cutout of the first roller ROL1. The first step portion ST1 may be defined by the step portion ST at the cutout of the first roller ROL1, and the display module DM may be connected to the first step portion ST1. In an embodiment, for example, one side surface of the display module DM may face a partial surface of one end surface OES1 disposed above the opposite end surface OES2, and may be connected to a partial surface of one end surface OES1 disposed above the opposite end surface OES2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and a lower portion of one side surface of the display module DM may be connected to an upper portion of the opposite end surface OES2. A partial surface of one end surface OES1 disposed above the opposite end surface OES2 may be defined as a side surface of the first step portion ST1.

[0158] The distance between the upper end of the one end surface OES1 and the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 may be defined as a second distance DT2. The second distance DT2 may be variously adjusted according to the thickness of the display module DM. This configuration will be described in detail below.

[0159] When the end portion EN (or the second point P2) overlaps with the boundary between one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2, the first distance DT1 may be equal to the second distance DT2. The second distance DT2 may correspond to the thickness of the display module DM. In an embodiment, the difference between the second distance DT2 and the thickness of the display module DM (expressed as a difference in absolute value) may be set to 5% or less of the second distance DT2. Ideally, for example, the thickness of the display module DM may be equal to the second distance DT2.

[0160] Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The second roller is shown to be arranged at Fig.19 Views of the configuration at different locations are shown.

[0161] The following description will focus on Fig.19 The parts shown are Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The differences between the parts shown.

[0162] refer to Fig. 20 , display modules with various thicknesses can be used in various display devices. In an embodiment, for example, the thickness of the display module DM-1 can be less than Fig.19 The thickness of the display module DM is shown.

[0163] The end portion EN of the second roller ROL2 may be disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1 adjacent to the one end surface OES1 so as to be spaced apart from the one end surface OES1. In an embodiment, for example, the second point P2 may be disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1 so as to be spaced apart from the one end surface OES1. Fig.19 The illustrated position is rotated by a first angle θ′ in a counterclockwise direction, and the end portion EN may be spaced apart from the one end surface OES1. Therefore, a space may be defined between the end portion EN and the opposite end surface OES2.

[0164] According to the restoring force of the first roller ROL1, one end surface OES1 may be relative to Fig.19 Therefore, the distance between the upper end of one end surface OES1 and the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 may be less than Fig.19 The distance in.

[0165] The first distance DT1 may be greater than the second distance DT2-1, which is defined as the distance between the upper end of one end surface OES1 and the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2. The thickness of the display module DM-1 may correspond to the second distance DT2-1. As described above, the difference between the second distance DT2-1 and the thickness of the display module DM-1 (expressed as the difference in absolute value) may be set to 5% or less of the second distance DT2-1. Ideally, the thickness of the display module DM-1 may be equal to the second distance DT2-1. When a display module DM-1 thinner than the display module DM is used, the second distance DT2-1 may be set to a value corresponding to the thickness of the display module DM-1 by adjusting the position of the step portion ST.

[0166] refer to Fig.21 , the thickness of the display module DM-2 can be less than Fig. 20 The thickness of the display module DM-1 is shown.

[0167] The end portion EN of the second roller ROL2 may be disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1 adjacent to the one end surface OES1 so as to be spaced apart from the one end surface OES1. Fig.19 The illustrated position is rotated in the counterclockwise direction by a second angle θ″ greater than the first angle θ′, and the end portion EN may be spaced apart from the one end surface OES1. A space may be defined between the end portion EN and the opposite end surface OES2.

[0168] According to the restoring force of the first roller ROL1, one end surface OES1 may be relative to Fig. 20 Therefore, the distance between the upper end of one end surface OES1 and the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 may be less than Fig. 20 The distance in.

[0169] The first distance DT1 may be greater than the second distance DT2-2, which is defined as the distance between the upper end of one end surface OES1 and the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2. The thickness of the display module DM-2 may correspond to the second distance DT2-2. As described above, the difference between the second distance DT2-2 and the thickness of the display module DM-2 (the difference expressed as an absolute value) may be set to 5% or less of the second distance DT2-2. Ideally, the thickness of the display module DM-2 may be equal to the second distance DT2-2. That is, when a display module DM-2 that is thinner than the display module DM-1 is used, the second distance DT2-2 may be set to a value corresponding to the thickness of the display module DM-2 by adjusting the position of the step portion ST. Reference Fig.19 , Fig. 20 and Fig.21, the step between the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2 may be adjusted according to the rotational motion of the second roller ROL 2. Therefore, the second roller ROL 2 may be defined as a step adjustment portion.

[0170] As the end portion EN moves away from one end surface OES1 in a counterclockwise direction, the second distance may gradually decrease. In an embodiment, for example, as the second point P2 moves away from one end surface OES1 in a counterclockwise direction, the second distance may gradually decrease. Therefore, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second distance may be adjusted in various ways so that the first step portion ST1 is formed into various sizes. Therefore, when using display modules DM, DM-1 and DM-2 with different thicknesses, by adjusting the position of the second roller ROL2, each of the display modules DM, DM-1 and DM-2 may be easily connected to the roller ROL. Each of the display modules DM, DM-1 and DM-2 may be connected to the first roller ROL1 and may be wound around the outer circumferential surface of the first roller ROL1.

[0171] When display modules DM, DM-1, and DM-2 having different thicknesses are used, a plurality of rollers having step portions corresponding to the display modules DM, DM-1, and DM-2 must be separately manufactured. However, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the display modules DM, DM-1, and DM-2 having various thicknesses can be easily connected to the roller ROL by adjusting the position of the second roller ROL2. Therefore, it is not necessary to separately manufacture rollers having different step portions.

[0172] Fig. 22 and Fig.23 is used to show that Fig. 20 and Fig.21 A view showing a method of calculating the second distance when an end portion of the second roller is spaced apart from one end surface of the first roller as shown.

[0173] refer to Fig. 22 , when the end portion EN of the second roller ROL2 is spaced apart from the one end surface OES1 of the first roller ROL1 and a space is defined between the end portion EN and the opposite end surface OES2, the one end surface OES1 may move inwardly.

[0174] The point of the first arc CA1 overlapping with the lower end of the opposite end surface OES2 may be defined as a third point P3. The point on the inner circumferential surface IS of the first roller ROL1 overlapping with the second point P2 (which is the upper end of the end portion EN) may be defined as a fourth point P4. The fourth point P4 may be defined as an inner point. The inner circumferential surface IS of the first roller ROL1 from the lower end of one end surface OES1 to the fourth point P4 may be defined as a sub-curved surface SC.

[0175] According to the restoring force of the first roller ROL1, the curvature of the sub-curved surface SC can be returned to Fig.18 The curvature of the first roller ROL1 is shown. Fig.18 In the state of the first roller ROL1 shown, the curvature of the sub-curved surface SC can be substantially the same as the curvature of the inner circumferential surface IS of the first roller ROL1. Therefore, the sub-curved surface SC can have a first radius R1 relative to the sub-center point SCP. The sub-center point SCP can be defined as a point having the first radius R1 relative to the sub-curved surface SC.

[0176] The sub-center point SCP may be spaced apart from the center point CP and may be disposed on a radius line connecting the center point CP and the first point P1. A distance between the sub-center point SCP and the center point CP may be a first distance DT1.

[0177] An angle defined by the fourth point P4 and the lower end of one end surface OES1 with respect to the center point CP may be defined as a first angle θ1. An angle defined by the fourth point P4 and the lower end of one end surface OES1 with respect to the sub center point SCP may be defined as a second angle θ2.

[0178] The second distance DT2-3 may correspond to a value obtained by subtracting a fourth distance DT4 between the center point CP and the third point P3 from a third distance DT3 between the center point CP and the lower end of one end surface OES1. That is, the second distance DT2-3 may be substantially the same as a value obtained by subtracting the fourth distance DT4 from the third distance DT3. Therefore, the second distance DT2-3 may be represented by the following formula 1.

[0179] [Formula 1]

[0180] DT2-3(θ1)=DT3-DT4

[0181] In Formula 1, DT2-3(θ1) may represent a second distance DT2-3 when the end portion EN (or the second point P2) moves by the first angle θ1. The third distance DT3 may be defined as an inner distance.

[0182] refer to Fig.23 , the following Equations 2 and 3 may be obtained using trigonometric functions for the third distance DT3, the first radius R1, the first distance DT1, the first angle θ1, and the second angle θ2.

[0183] [Formula 2]

[0184] R1sinθ2=DT3sinθ1

[0185] [Formula 3]

[0186] R1cosθ2=DT3cosθ1-DT1

[0187] The following Formula 4 may be obtained by adding the square of Formula 2 and the square of Formula 3. The third distance DT3 for the first angle θ1 may be determined by the following Formula 4.

[0188] [Formula 4]

[0189]

[0190] In Formula 4, DT3 may represent the third distance DT3, θ1 may represent the first angle θ1, DT3(θ1) may represent the third distance DT3 for the first angle θ1, R1 may represent the first radius R1, and DT1 may represent the first distance DT1.

[0191] Fig.24 is a view showing a display module connected to a single roller.

[0192] refer to Fig.24 , when the display module DM is connected to the outer circumferential surface of the roller ROL', one end of the display module DM may be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the roller ROL' with a step. One end of the display module DM disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the roller ROL' with a step may be defined as a step portion ST'. In this case, when the display module DM is rolled around the roller ROL', the display module DM disposed on the step portion ST' may be damaged by the step portion ST'.

[0193] However, reference Fig.11 In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display module DM may be adjacent to the side surface of the first step portion ST1 of the roller ROL. In this case, the display module DM may be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the roller ROL without a step. Fig.24 Different, damage to the display module DM can be prevented.

[0194] Figure 25 to Figure 27 are views illustrating embodiments of various processing states of the second roller according to the present disclosure.

[0195] refer to Fig.25 , the second roller ROL2-1 may include a first arc CA1-1 and a second arc CA2-1. The first arc CA1-1 may be formed from 0 degrees to 90 degrees relative to the center point CP. The first arc CA1-1 may be formed by processing a portion indicated by a dotted line.

[0196] refer to Fig.26, the second roller ROL2-2 may include a first arc CA1-2 and a second arc CA2-2. The first arc CA1-2 may be formed from 0 degrees to 180 degrees relative to the center point CP. The first arc CA1-2 may be formed by processing a portion indicated by a dotted line.

[0197] refer to Fig. 27 , the second roller ROL2-3 may include a first arc CA1-3 and a second arc CA2-3. The first arc CA1-3 may be formed from 0 degrees to 360 degrees relative to the center point CP. The first arc CA1-3 may be formed by processing the portion shown by the dotted line. When the first arc CA1-3 is formed to 360 degrees, the second arc CA2-3 may be omitted.

[0198] refer to Fig.25 and Fig. 27 , a step portion ST may be formed on the processed second rollers ROL2 - 1 , ROL2 - 2 , and ROL2 - 3 .

[0199] Fig.28 Is depicted when used Figure 25 to Figure 27 The second roller shown is a graph showing the second distance changing with the rotation of the second roller. Fig.29 yes Fig.28 An enlarged view of a portion of the graph shown.

[0200] exist Fig.28 and Fig.29 In FIG. 1 , the vertical axis represents the second distance described above, and the horizontal axis represents the rotation angle of the second rollers ROL2-1, ROL2-2, and ROL2-3 in the counterclockwise direction. In addition, “d” represents the rotation angle of the second rollers ROL2-1, ROL2-2, and ROL2-3 in the counterclockwise direction. Fig.19 The second distance shown is when the step portion ST of the second rollers ROL2-1, ROL2-2, and ROL2-3 overlaps the boundary between the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2. "d" may be a maximum value of the second distance.

[0201] refer to Fig.28 and Fig.29 , when the step portion ST of the second rollers ROL2-1, ROL2-2, and ROL2-3 overlaps the boundary between the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2, the second distance may be maximized. As each of the second rollers ROL2-1, ROL2-2, and ROL2-3 rotates in the first roller ROL1 in a counterclockwise direction, the second distance may gradually decrease so that the step portion ST moves away from the one end surface OES1.

[0202] When the step portion ST moves away from the one end surface OES1 in the counterclockwise direction, the second distance may gradually decrease and then may become zero. When the second distance is zero, the point where the step portion ST is set may be defined as a limit point. In an embodiment, for example, when the second distance is zero, the point where the end portion EN is set may be defined as a limit point. The angle of the limit point may be defined as the angle of the point where the end portion EN is set relative to 0 degrees.

[0203] When the second distance is zero, Fig.19 An upper end of the illustrated one end surface OES1 and an upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 may overlap each other. Fig.29 The illustrated 53°, 67°, and 77° may represent angles of the limit points of the second rollers ROL2 - 1 , ROL2 - 2 , and ROL2 - 3 .

[0204] exist Figure 25 to Figure 27 The processing angle of the second roller ROL2-3 may be greater than the processing angle of the second roller ROL2-2, and the processing angle of the second roller ROL2-2 may be greater than the processing angle of the second roller ROL2-1. The angle of the limit point may increase as the processing angles of the second rollers ROL2-1, ROL2-2, and ROL2-3 increase.

[0205] Fig.30 and Fig.31 are views showing an embodiment of components of a roller according to the present disclosure.

[0206] The following description will focus on Fig.18 and Fig.19 The parts shown are Fig.30 and Fig.31 The differences between the parts shown.

[0207] refer to Fig.30 and Fig.31 , the roll ROL may include a first roll ROL1 and a screw SRW disposed in a cavity TN of the first roll ROL1. The screw SRW may extend in a third direction DR3.

[0208] The screw SRW may be connected to a first portion PT1 of the first roller ROL1 adjacent to a boundary between the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2 and a second portion PT2 of the first roller ROL1 facing the first portion PT1 in the cavity TN.

[0209] exist Fig.30 In the embodiment, the first portion PT1 may be defined as a portion of the first roller ROL1 adjacent to one end surface OES1. Fig.31 , the first portion PT1 may be defined as a portion of the first roller ROL1 adjacent to the opposite end surface OES2.

[0210] One end of the screw SRW may be rotatably coupled to the first portion PT1, and the opposite end of the screw SRW may be rotatably coupled to the second portion PT2. One end of the screw SRW may be rotatably coupled to a first groove GV1 defined on an inner circumferential surface IS of the first portion PT1. The opposite end of the screw SRW may be rotatably coupled to a second groove GV2 defined on an inner circumferential surface IS of the second portion PT2. The second groove GV2 may extend in a third direction DR3.

[0211] The screw SRW may be defined as a bolt shape, and the second groove GV2 may be defined as a nut shape. Therefore, when the screw SRW rotates, the screw SRW may move in the third direction DR3 which is the extending direction of the second groove GV2.

[0212] Hereinafter, a state in which the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2 face and overlap each other with no height difference between the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2 is defined as an initial state.

[0213] refer to Fig.30 , in the initial state of the first roller ROL1, the opposite end of the screw SRW may contact the bottom of the second groove GV2. When the screw SRW rotates and moves upward, the upper end of one end surface OES1 may protrude outwardly beyond the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 through the screw SRW. Therefore, a first step portion ST1 may be formed on the first roller ROL1, and similarly Fig.19 As shown, the display module DM may be connected to a partial surface of one end surface OES1 disposed above the opposite end surface OES2.

[0214] refer to Fig.31 , in the initial state of the first roller ROL1, the opposite end of the screw SRW may be spaced apart from the bottom of the second groove GV2. When the screw SRW rotates and moves downward, the upper end of the opposite end surface OES2 may move inwardly from the upper end of the one end surface OES1 by the screw SRW. Therefore, a first step portion ST1 may be formed on the first roller ROL1, and similarly Fig.19 As shown, the display module DM may be connected to a partial surface of one end surface OES1 disposed above the opposite end surface OES2.

[0215] According to the above description, the screw SRW may adjust the step between the one end surface OES1 and the opposite end surface OES2 by a rotational action. The screw SRW together with the second roller ROL2 described above may be defined as a step adjustment portion.

[0216] Figure 32 to Figure 34is a view illustrating a second roller according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0217] Figure 32 to Figure 34 Shown with Fig.18 The following description will focus on Fig.18 The second roller ROL2 is shown with Figure 32 to Figure 34 The differences between the second rollers ROL2-4, ROL2-5 and ROL2-6 are shown.

[0218] refer to Fig.32 , the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2-4 may include a first arc CA1-4 set from the first point P1 to the overlapping point OVP and a second arc CA2-4 set from the overlapping point OVP to the second point P2. The first arc CA1-4 may have a constant first radius R1-1 relative to the center point CP. The radius of the second arc CA2-4 relative to the center point CP may gradually increase from the first radius R1-1 to the second radius R2-1. Therefore, the first arc CA1-4 may have a constant curvature, and the second arc CA2-4 may have a variable curvature.

[0219] refer to Fig.33 , the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2-5 may include a first arc CA1-5 set from the first point P1 to the overlapping point OVP and a second arc CA2-5 set from the overlapping point OVP to the second point P2. The radius of the first arc CA1-5 relative to the center point CP may gradually decrease from the first radius R1-2, and then gradually increase to the first radius R1-2. The radius of the second arc CA2-5 relative to the center point CP may gradually increase from the first radius R1-2 to the second radius R2-2. That is, from 0 degrees as it approaches 360 degrees, the radius of the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2-5 relative to the center point CP may decrease and then increase.

[0220] refer to Fig.34 , the outer circumferential surface of the second roller ROL2-6 may include a first arc CA1-6 set from the first point P1 to the overlap point OVP and a second arc CA2-6 set from the overlap point OVP to the second point P2. The radius of the first arc CA1-6 relative to the center point CP may gradually increase from the first radius R1-3 to the second radius R2-3. The radius of the second arc CA2-6 relative to the center point CP may gradually increase from the second radius R2-3 to the third radius R3.

[0221] By an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cavity extending in a first direction may be defined inside the first roller. The first roller may include an end surface and an opposite end surface, the end surface and the opposite end surface being formed by a cut formed in the first roller in the first direction, and a second roller having a step portion may be disposed in the cavity. The step portion may enable the upper end of one end surface to protrude upward beyond the upper end of the opposite end surface. The display module may be connected to a partial surface of one end surface disposed above the opposite end surface, and may be wound around the first roller and unwound from the first roller.

[0222] Due to this structure, the display module can be arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the first roller without a step, and thus damage to the display module can be prevented. In addition, the size of the step portion of the first roller can be adjusted in various ways according to the rotation of the second roller. Therefore, the size of the step portion of the first roller can be adjusted to be suitable for the thickness of the display module.

[0223] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that various changes and modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A first roller, in which a cavity extending in a first direction is defined, the first roller comprising: end surface; and an opposite end surface facing the end surface at a cutout extending along the first direction; a step adjustment portion which is disposed in the cavity and adjusts a step between the end surface and the opposite end surface by a rotational action; and A display module is connected to the first roller and is wound around an outer circumferential surface of the first roller.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The step adjustment portion includes a second roller including a step portion by which the step between the end surface and the opposite end surface is set, and The upper end of the end surface protrudes outwardly beyond the upper end of the opposite end surface through the step portion.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: One side of the display module faces a partial surface of the end surface disposed above the opposite end surface.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: A difference between a distance between the upper end of the end surface and the upper end of the opposite end surface and a thickness of the display module is 5% or less of the distance.

5. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The outer circumferential surface of the second roller comprises: a first arc defined as a curve from 0 degrees to a reference angle relative to the rotation axis, the first arc having a variable radius relative to the rotation axis; and A second circular arc is defined as a curve from the reference angle to 360 degrees relative to the rotation axis, and the second circular arc has a constant or variable radius relative to the rotation axis.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: As the radius of the first circular arc relative to the rotation axis gradually increases from a first radius to a second radius larger than the first radius as it approaches the reference angle from 0 degrees, and Wherein, from the reference angle to 360 degrees, the second arc has the second radius relative to the rotation axis.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The second radius has a value obtained by adding the first radius to a distance between a point of the first arc corresponding to 0 degrees and a point of the second arc corresponding to 360 degrees.

8. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: When the upper end of the end surface and the upper end of the opposing end surface overlap each other, an inner circumferential surface of the first roller defining the cavity has the first radius with respect to the rotation axis.

9. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The reference angle is set to one of angles greater than 90 degrees and less than 360 degrees.

10. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: A first point of the first arc corresponding to 0 degrees and a second point of the second arc corresponding to 360 degrees are spaced apart from each other, the second point is disposed outside the first point, and a first distance between the first point and the second point defines a height difference of the step portion.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The tangent line at the first point and the tangent line at the second point are parallel to each other.

12. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: When the second point overlaps with a boundary between the end surface and the opposite end surface, the first distance is equal to a second distance between the upper end of the end surface and the upper end of the opposite end surface.

13. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: When the second point is spaced apart from the end surface and disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the first roller, the first distance is greater than a second distance between the upper end of the end surface and the upper end of the opposite end surface.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: As the second point moves away from the end surface, the second distance gradually decreases.

15. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The second distance corresponds to a value obtained by subtracting a fourth distance from a third distance, wherein the third distance is the distance between the rotation axis and the lower end of the end surface, and the fourth distance is the distance between the rotation axis and a third point of the first arc overlapping with the lower end of the opposite end surface.

16. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: A first point of the first circular arc corresponding to 0 degrees and a second point of the second circular arc corresponding to 360 degrees are defined, and the second point is spaced apart from the end surface and disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the first roller, wherein an inner circumferential surface of the first roller disposed from a lower end of the end surface to an inner point of the inner circumferential surface of the first roller overlapping with the second point is defined as a sub-curved surface, and the sub-curved surface has a first radius relative to a sub-center point, wherein the sub-center point is spaced apart from the rotation axis and is disposed on a radius line connecting the rotation axis and the first point, and a distance between the sub-center point and the rotation axis is equal to a first distance between the first point and the second point, and wherein an angle defined by the inner point and the lower end of the end surface relative to the rotation axis is defined as a first angle, and an inner distance between the rotation axis and the lower end of the end surface for the first angle is determined by the following formula: Mode Here, DT3 represents the inner distance, θ1 represents the first angle, DT3(θ1) represents the inner distance for the first angle, R1 represents the first radius, and DT1 represents the first distance.

17. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The step adjustment portion includes a screw rotatably connected to a first portion of the first roller adjacent to a boundary between the end surface and the opposite end surface, and a second portion of the first roller facing the first portion.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: The first portion is defined as a portion of the first roller adjacent to the end surface, and an upper end of the end surface protrudes outwardly beyond an upper end of the opposite end surface by the screw.

19. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: The first portion is defined as a portion of the first roller adjacent to the opposite end surface, and an upper end of the opposite end surface is recessed inwardly from the upper end of the end surface by the screw.

20. A display device comprising: a first roller in which a cavity extending in a first direction is defined and in which a cutting portion is formed in the first direction; A second roller is disposed in the cavity, wherein the second roller comprises: a first arc having a variable curvature; and a second arc extending from the first arc and defining a step portion together with the first arc, the second arc having a constant or variable curvature; and A display module is connected to the first roller and is wound around an outer circumferential surface of the first roller.

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