Display device

Abstract

The display device includes a display module and a support plate disposed under the display module, wherein: the support plate includes: a flat portion; a flexible portion extending from the flat portion and folded such that a portion thereof is disposed under the flat portion; and a plurality of protruding strips protruding from the flexible portion to the bottom portion; a plurality of grooves are limited on the upper surface of the flexible part; and the plurality of grooves can be overlapped with the plurality of protruding strips.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure described herein relate to a display device. Background Art

[0002] Generally, electronic devices such as smart phones, digital cameras, notebook computers, car navigation devices, smart TVs, etc. that provide images to users include a display device for displaying images. The display device generates images and provides the generated images to users through a display screen.

[0003] With the development of display device technology, various forms of display devices are being developed. For example, a flexible display device that can slide or roll to extend outside a housing is being developed. A flexible display device that can be deformed in various ways can be easy to carry and can improve user convenience.

[0004] A flexible display device includes a flexible display module. The display module is accommodated in a housing and is expanded by being drawn out of the housing to the outside as needed. A support portion for supporting the display module is provided below the display module. It is necessary to develop a support portion that easily supports the display module and has flexible characteristics together with the display module. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a display device including a support plate that is easily folded together with a display module and is lighter in weight.

[0007] Technical Solution

[0008] According to an embodiment, a display device includes a display module and a support plate disposed below the display module. The support plate includes: a flat portion; a flexible portion extending from the flat portion and folded so that a portion is disposed below the flat portion; and a plurality of protruding bars protruding downward from the flexible portion, and a plurality of grooves are defined on an upper surface of the flexible portion and overlapped with the plurality of protruding bars.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a display device includes a display module and a support plate disposed below the display module. The support plate includes: a flat portion; a flexible portion extending from the flat portion and folded around a rotation axis extending in one direction so that a portion is disposed below the flat portion; a plurality of protruding bars protruding downward from the flexible portion and extending in one direction; and a plurality of connecting rods disposed at opposite sides of the plurality of protruding bars that are opposite to each other in one direction.

[0010] According to an embodiment, a display device includes: a display module; a support plate disposed below the display module; and a plurality of protruding bars protruding downward from a portion of the support plate to overlap with a plurality of grooves defined on an upper surface of the portion of the support plate, and the plurality of grooves extending into the plurality of protruding bars.

[0011] Beneficial Effects

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a groove may be formed on the flexible portion of the support plate, and a protruding bar overlapping the groove may protrude downward from the flexible portion. The flexible portion may be easily folded together with the display module through the groove, and the display module may be easily supported by the protruding bar.

[0013] In addition, without using a separate support bar, a protruding bar corresponding to the support bar can be formed integrally with the flexible portion and can replace the function of the support bar. Therefore, the support bar can be omitted, and thus the support structure supporting the display module can be made lighter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 2 Is used to describe Figure 1 A view of an extended mode of the display device is shown in FIG.

[0016] Figure 3 is contained in Figure 1 A perspective view of a display module in a housing is shown in FIG.

[0017] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A view showing a collapsed state of the display module is shown in FIG.

[0018] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG.

[0019] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the construction of the electronic panel shown in FIG.

[0020] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the structure of the display panel shown in FIG.

[0021] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A plan view of the display panel shown in FIG.

[0022] Fig. 9 Is support Figure 3A perspective view of a support plate of a display module is shown in FIG.

[0023] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 A view of the bent state of the support plate shown in FIG.

[0024] Fig.11 It is shown Fig.10 A view of the rear side of the curved support plate shown in FIG.

[0025] Fig.12 It is along Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG.

[0026] Fig.13 It is along Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in FIG.

[0027] Fig.14 It shows that Figure 4 The display module shown in Fig.10 A view of a configuration in which the support plates are engaged with each other is shown in FIG.

[0028] Fig.15 is combined with Fig. 9 A perspective view of the connecting rods supporting the plate shown in FIG.

[0029] Fig.16 It shows that Fig.15 A view of a state in which the connecting rod is coupled to the supporting plate shown in FIG.

[0030] Fig.17 It is along Fig.16 A cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV' shown in FIG.

[0031] Fig.18 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the housing shown in FIG.

[0032] Fig.19 is used to describe Figures 15 to 17 A view of the construction in which the connecting rod is coupled to the guide rail is shown in FIG.

[0033] Fig. 20 It shows that Fig.19 sectional view of a state in which the connecting rod is coupled to the supporting plate and the guide rail.

[0034] Fig.21 It shows that Fig.10 The flat portion shown in FIG. Fig.18 A view of the state on the sub-support portion shown in .

[0035] Fig. 22 It is along Fig.18A cross-sectional view taken along line V-V' shown in FIG.

[0036] Fig.23a and Figure 23b It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI' shown in FIG.

[0037] Fig.24 It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII' shown in FIG.

[0038] Fig.25 It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' shown in Fig.25 Shows Figure 1 The default mode of the display device is shown in .

[0039] Fig.26 It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' shown in Fig.26 Shows Figure 2 The extended mode of the display device shown in .

[0040] Figure 27 to Figure 29 2 is a view for describing a method of manufacturing a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Fig.30a is a view showing the configuration of a comparative support plate including support bars.

[0042] Fig.30b is a microscope image of the display module taken from above the display module when a separate support bar is disposed below the display module.

[0043] Fig.30c is a microscope image of a display module taken from above the display module when the protruding strip of the support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed below the display module.

[0044] Fig.31a is a diagram depicting a deformed state of a display module when a separate support bar is disposed under the display module.

[0045] Fig.31b is a diagram depicting a deformed state of a display module when a protruding bar of a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed under the display module.

[0046] Fig.32a is a view showing a deformed state of a display module on a plane when a separate supporting bar is provided under the display module.

[0047] Figure 32bis a view showing a deformed state of a display module on a plane when a protruding bar of a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed under the display module.

[0048] Figures 33 to 38 2 is a view illustrating a support plate according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] 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 may be directly on, directly connected to or directly coupled to the other component or a third component may be present between the component and the other component.

[0050] The same reference numerals refer to the same components. In addition, in the drawings, the thickness, proportion and size of components are exaggerated for efficient description.

[0051] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes all of one or more combinations defined by the relevant components.

[0052] Terms such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but components should not be limited by the terms. 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.

[0053] In addition, terms such as "below," "under," "above," and "over" are used to describe the relationship of components shown in the drawings. The terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions shown in the drawings.

[0054] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical or scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. Terms (such as those defined in general dictionaries) will be interpreted as having the same meaning as in the context of the relevant art, and will not be interpreted as having an idealized or overly formal meaning unless clearly defined as having such a meaning in this application.

[0055] It should be understood that when terms such as “include,” “comprises,” and “has,” are used herein, they indicate the presence of the stated features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0056] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 Is used to describe Figure 1 A view of an extended mode of the display device is shown in FIG.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 , the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display module DM and a case CS in which the display module DM is accommodated. The display module DM may be exposed to the outside through an opening OP defined in an upper portion of the case CS.

[0059] The case CS may include a first case CS1 and a second case CS2 coupled to each other and accommodating the display module DM therein. The first case CS1 may be coupled to the second case CS2 to move in a first direction DR1.

[0060] Hereinafter, a direction crossing the first direction DR1 is defined as a second direction DR2. A direction crossing substantially perpendicularly 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 on a plane" may mean viewed in the third direction DR3.

[0061] The following will refer to Fig.18 The exploded perspective view of the case CS shown in FIG. 1 describes in detail a more detailed configuration of the first case CS1 and the second case CS2.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first housing CS1 may move toward or away from the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1. When the first housing CS1 moves in the first direction DR1, the area of ​​the exposed surface of the display module DM may be adjusted according to the movement of the first housing CS1.

[0063] The display module DM may be a flexible display module, and may be provided with a support plate ( Fig. 9 The SPT) support shown in FIG. Fig. 9 Describe the detailed structure of the support plate in detail.

[0064] The display module DM and the support plate can be accommodated in the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2. The display module DM and the support plate can be connected to the second shell CS2, and when the first shell CS1 moves from the second shell CS2 in the first direction DR1, the display module DM and the support plate can also move in the first direction DR1.

[0065] Although not shown, in addition to a portion of the display module DM exposed through the opening OP, a portion of the display module DM not exposed to the outside may be disposed in the first case CS1.

[0066] Reference Figure 2 , the first housing CS1 may be moved away from the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1. The display module DM may be moved in the first direction DR1 according to the movement of the first housing CS1, so the exposed surface of the display module DM may be expanded. When the exposed surface of the display module DM is expanded, the user may visually recognize an image through a wider screen. The state of the display device DD in which the exposed surface of the display module DM is expanded may be defined as an expanded mode.

[0067] Reference Figure 1 , the first housing CS1 can move toward the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1. When the first housing CS1 moves to the maximum toward the second housing CS2, the exposed surface of the display module DM can be set to the minimum. This state of the display device DD can be defined as a default mode. Both the default mode and the extended mode of the display device DD can be implemented according to the movement of the first housing CS1.

[0068] Figure 3 is contained in Figure 1 A perspective view of a display module in a housing is shown in FIG. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A view showing a collapsed state of the display module is shown in FIG.

[0069] Reference Figure 3 , the display module DM may have a rectangular shape having long sides extending in the first direction DR1 and short sides extending in the second direction DR2. However, not limited thereto, the display module DM may have various shapes such as a circular shape, other polygonal shapes, and the like.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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, and 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.

[0072] The display module DM may sense an input applied from the outside. For example, the display module DM may sense a user's touch as an external input and may display an image corresponding to the sensed signal.

[0073] The display module DM may include an accommodating portion AMP adjacent to the display area DA. The accommodating portion AMP may be adjacent to one side of the display module DM in the first direction DR1. The accommodating portion AMP may be substantially a non-display area NDA. The accommodating portion AMP may be defined as a non-display area NDA adjacent to one side of the display module DM.

[0074] The accommodating portion AMP may have a larger area than the non-display area NDA adjacent to opposite sides of the display module DM opposing each other in the second direction DR2 and the non-display area NDA adjacent to opposite sides of the display module DM in the first direction DR1 .

[0075] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 4 The display module DM may be a flexible display module. The display module DM may be folded and accommodated in the housing CS. The display area DA of the display module DM may be exposed to the outside. The area of ​​the display area DA exposed to the outside may be adjusted according to the movement of the second housing CS2.

[0076] When the display module DM is folded, the receiving portion AMP may be disposed under the display area DA. The receiving portion AMP may be accommodated in the case CS and may not be exposed to the outside. A driver for driving elements of the display module DM may be disposed on the receiving portion AMP.

[0077] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG.

[0078] Reference Figure 5 , the display module DM may include an electronic panel EP, an impact absorbing layer ISL, a panel protective layer PPL, a window WIN, a window protective layer WP, a hard coating layer HC, and first to fourth adhesive layers AL1 to AL4.

[0079] The electronic panel EP may display an image. The electronic panel EP may include a display panel, an input sensing portion, and an anti-reflection layer, and will be described below with reference to Figure 6 The construction of the electronic panel EP is described.

[0080] 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.

[0081] The impact absorbing layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material. The flexible plastic material may be defined as a synthetic resin film. For example, the impact absorbing layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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, but 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.

[0085] The panel protection layer PPL may be disposed under 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. For example, the panel protection layer PPL may include polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0086] 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 printed layer PIT.

[0087] The second adhesive layer AL2 may be disposed between the window WIN and the impact absorbing layer ISL. The window WIN and the impact absorbing layer ISL may be bonded to each other through the second adhesive layer AL2.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] The first to fourth adhesive layers AL1 to AL4 may include a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA). However, the type of adhesive is not limited thereto.

[0091] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the construction of the electronic panel shown in FIG.

[0092] exist Figure 6 , a cross section of the electronic panel EP viewed in the first direction DR1 is shown.

[0093] Reference Figure 6 The electronic panel EP may include a display panel DP, an input sensing portion ISP disposed on the display panel DP, and an anti-reflection layer RPL disposed on the input sensing portion ISP. The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. For example, the display panel DP may include a flexible substrate and a plurality of elements disposed on the flexible substrate.

[0094] The display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be an emissive display panel, but is not particularly limited. 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, the display panel DP will be exemplified as an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0095] The input sensing part ISP may include a plurality of sensors (not shown) for sensing external input. For example, the input sensing part ISP may sense external input in a capacitive manner. However, the sensing method of the input sensing part ISP is not limited thereto. The input sensing part ISP may be directly formed on the display panel DP when manufacturing the electronic panel EP.

[0096] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the input sensing part ISP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be directly formed on the input sensing part ISP when manufacturing the electronic panel EP. 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 above the display device DD toward the display panel DP.

[0097] 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 like a mirror. To prevent such a phenomenon, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a plurality of color filters displaying the same color as the color of the pixels of the display panel DP.

[0098] 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.

[0099] For example, the input sensing part ISP may be directly formed on the display panel DP, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be directly formed on the input sensing part ISP. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the input sensing part 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 part ISP through an adhesive layer.

[0100] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the structure of the display panel shown in FIG.

[0101] exist Figure 7 , a cross section of the display panel DP viewed in the first direction DR1 is shown.

[0102] Reference Figure 7 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.

[0103] 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 on the display area DA.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A plan view of the display panel shown in FIG.

[0107] Reference Figure 8 The display device DD may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, a light emitting driver EDV and a plurality of pads (also called “pads” or “pads”) PD.

[0108] The display panel DP may have a rectangular shape having long sides extending in the first direction DR1 and short sides extending in the second direction DR2. However, the shape of the display panel DP is not limited thereto. The display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA.

[0109] The display panel DP may include a plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines SL1 to SLm, a plurality of data lines DL1 to DLn, a plurality of emission lines EL1 to ELm, first and second control lines CSL1 and CSL2, first and second power lines PL1 and PL2, and a plurality of connection lines CNL. "m" and "n" are natural numbers.

[0110] The pixel PX may be disposed in the display area DA. The scanning driver SDV and the light emitting driver EDV may be disposed in the non-display area NDA adjacent to the long sides of the display panel DP, respectively. The data driver DDV may be disposed in the non-display area NDA adjacent to one of the short sides of the display panel DP. When viewed on a plane, the data driver DDV may be adjacent to the lower end of the display panel DP.

[0111] exist Figure 8 In the receiving portion AMP, the receiving portion AMP may be defined as a non-display area NDA adjacent to a lower end of the display panel DP. The data driver DDV may be disposed in the receiving portion AMP.

[0112] The scan lines SL1 to SLm may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the pixels PX and the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be connected to the pixels PX and the data driver DDV. The emission lines EL1 to ELm may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the pixels PX and the emission driver EDV.

[0113] The first power line PL1 may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be disposed in the non-display area NDA. The first power line PL1 may be disposed between the display area DA and the light emitting driver EDV.

[0114] The connection line CNL may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and connected to the first power line PL1 and the pixel PX. The first voltage may be applied to the pixel PX through the first power line PL1 and the connection line CNL connected to each other.

[0115] The second power line PL2 may be disposed in the non-display area NDA and may extend along the long side of the display panel DP and another short side of the display panel DP where the data driver DDV is not disposed. The second power line PL2 may be disposed outside the scan driver SDV and the light emitting driver EDV.

[0116] Although not shown, the second power line PL2 may extend toward the display area DA and may be connected to the pixel PX. A second voltage having a level lower than that of the first voltage may be applied to the pixel PX through the second power line PL2.

[0117] The first control line CSL1 may be connected to the scan driver SDV and may extend toward the lower end of the display panel DP. The second control line CSL2 may be connected to the light emitting driver EDV and may extend toward the lower end of the display panel DP. The data driver DDV may be disposed between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0118] The pad PD may be disposed in the non-display area NDA adjacent to the lower end of the display panel DP and may be closer to the lower end of the display panel DP than the data driver DDV. The data driver DDV, the first power line PL1, the second power line PL2, the first control line CSL1, and the second control line CSL2 may be connected to the pad PD. The data lines DL1 to DLn may be connected to the data driver DDV, and the data driver DDV may be connected to the pad PD corresponding to the data lines DL1 to DLn.

[0119] Although not shown, the display device DD may further include a timing controller for controlling operations of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the light emitting driver EDV, and a voltage generator for generating first and second voltages. The timing controller and the voltage generator may be connected to the pad PD through a printed circuit board.

[0120] The scan driver SDV may generate a plurality of scan signals, which may be applied to the pixels PX through the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The data driver DDV may generate a plurality of data voltages, which may be applied to the pixels PX through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The light emitting driver EDV may generate a plurality of light emitting signals, which may be applied to the pixels PX through the light emitting lines EL1 to ELm.

[0121] The pixel PX may receive a data voltage in response to the scan signal, and may display an image by emitting light having brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to the light emission signal.

[0122] Fig. 9 Is support Figure 3 A perspective view of a support plate of a display module is shown in FIG. Fig.10It is shown Fig. 9 A view of the bent state of the support plate shown in FIG. Fig.11 It is shown Fig.10 A view of the rear side of the curved support plate shown in FIG.

[0123] Reference Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 , the support plate SPT can be set on Figure 3 The display module DM shown in FIG. 1 is shown below and can support the display module DM. Fig.14 The support plate SPT may include metal. For example, the support plate SPT may include a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0124] A plurality of grooves GV may be defined on the upper surface of a portion of the support plate SPT, and a plurality of protruding bars PRB may protrude downward from a portion of the support plate SPT overlapping the grooves GV. Specifically, the support plate SPT may include a flat portion PLT, a flexible portion FLP in which the grooves GV are defined, and a plurality of protruding bars PRB protruding downward from the flexible portion FLP.

[0125] The flat portion PLT may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The flat portion PLT may remain flat. The flat portion PLT may have a higher elastic modulus than the flexible portion FLP.

[0126] The flexible portion FLP may extend from the flat portion PLT in the first direction DR1. The flexible portion FLP may be folded so that a portion of the flexible portion FLP is disposed below the flat portion PLT. The flexible portion FLP may be folded around a rotation axis RX extending in one direction. For example, the one direction may be defined as a second direction DR2.

[0127] The rotation axis RX may be a rotation axis of a gear to be described below, and the configuration will be described in detail below. When the flexible portion FLP is folded, a portion of the flexible portion FLP may be in a bent state, and another portion of the flexible portion FLP may be disposed under the flat portion PLT.

[0128] The groove GV may be defined on the upper surface of the flexible part FLP. The upper surface of the flexible part FLP may be defined as a surface facing the display module DM. The groove GV may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The groove GV may be spaced apart from opposite sides of the flexible part FLP that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. That is, the groove GV may not extend to the opposite sides of the flexible part FLP.

[0129] Since the groove GV is defined on the flexible portion FLP, the flexible portion FLP may be more flexible than the flat portion PLT. That is, the flexible portion FLP may have a lower elastic modulus than the flat portion PLT. Since the groove GV is defined on the flexible portion FLP, the flexible portion FLP may be more easily bent.

[0130] The protruding bar PRB may protrude downward from the flexible part FLP. The protruding bar PRB may have a bar shape. The protruding bar PRB may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The protruding bar PRB may be spaced apart from opposite sides of the flexible part FLP that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. That is, the protruding bar PRB may not extend to the opposite side of the flexible part FLP. The protruding bar PRB may overlap with the groove GV.

[0131] Fig.12 It is along Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG. Fig.13 It is along Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in FIG.

[0132] Reference Fig.12 , the groove GV may be defined by being recessed from the upper surface of the flexible part FLP toward the lower surface. The groove GV may be defined to overlap with the protruding bar PRB. Basically, the groove GV and the protruding bar PRB may be formed by a compression molding process using a mold, and the process will be described in detail below.

[0133] The grooves GV may extend toward the protrusion bars PRB in the third direction DR3. The grooves GV may extend into the protrusion bars PRB to overlap with the protrusion bars PRB. The grooves GV may overlap with central portions of the protrusion bars PRB, respectively.

[0134] In the third direction DR3 , the flexible portion FLP may have a first thickness TH1 , and each of the protruding bars PRB may have a second thickness TH2 . The flat portion PLT may have a first thickness TH1 in the third direction DR3 .

[0135] The second thickness TH2 may be defined as a distance between the lower surface of the flexible portion FLP and the lower surface of the protruding bar PRB in the third direction DR3. The second thickness TH2 may be greater than the first thickness TH1. For example, the first thickness TH1 may be 80 micrometers (μm), and the second thickness TH2 may be 100 micrometers (μm).

[0136] A depth DH of each of the grooves GV in the third direction DR3 may be equal to the second thickness TH2. A first distance DT1 between the bottom of the groove GV and the lower surface of the protrusion bar PRB in the third direction DR3 may be equal to the first thickness TH1.

[0137] The width WT of the protruding bars PRB in the first direction DR1 may be smaller than the second distance DT2 between adjacent protruding bars PRB. For example, the width WT of each of the protruding bars PRB may be 1.2 mm, and the second distance DT2 between adjacent protruding bars PRB may be 2.3 mm.

[0138] Reference Fig.13 The groove GV may be defined in the protruding bar PRB by being recessed downward from the upper surface of the flexible part FLP. The groove GV and the protruding bar PRB may extend in the second direction DR2 but may be spaced apart from the opposite side of the flexible part FLP without extending to the opposite side of the flexible part FLP.

[0139] Fig.14 It shows that Figure 4 The display module shown in Fig.10 A view of a configuration in which the support plates are engaged with each other is shown in FIG.

[0140] exist Fig.14 , side surfaces of the display module DM and the support plate SPT viewed in the second direction DR2 are shown.

[0141] Reference Fig.14 The support plate SPT may be disposed under the display module DM and may be attached to the display module DM. The support plate SPT may be attached to a rear surface of the display module DM that faces away from a front surface (eg, a display surface) of the display module DM.

[0142] Adhesive layers ADH1 and ADH2 may be disposed between the support plate SPT and the display module DM. The support plate SPT and the display module DM may be bonded to each other through the adhesive layers ADH1 and ADH2. For example, the adhesive layers ADH1 and ADH2 may be pressure-sensitive adhesive layers.

[0143] The adhesive layers ADH1 and ADH2 may include a first adhesive layer ADH1 disposed between the display module DM and the flat portion PLT and a second adhesive layer ADH2 disposed between the display module DM and the flexible portion FLP. The first adhesive layer ADH1 may be disposed under a portion of the display module DM overlapping the flat portion PLT, and the second adhesive layer ADH2 may be disposed under a portion of the display module DM overlapping the flexible portion FLP.

[0144] The flat portion PLT may be attached to the display module DM by a first adhesive layer ADH1, and the flexible portion FLP may be attached to the display module DM by a second adhesive layer ADH2. The flexible portion FLP and a portion of the display module DM overlapping the flexible portion FLP may be folded so that the support plate SPT and the display module DM are accommodated in the case CS.

[0145] The second adhesive layer ADH2 may have a modulus different from that of the first adhesive layer ADH1. For example, the second adhesive layer ADH2 may have a lower storage modulus than the first adhesive layer ADH1. That is, the second adhesive layer ADH2 may be more flexible than the first adhesive layer ADH1.

[0146] The flexible portion FLP, which is more flexible than the flat portion PLT, can be folded together with the display module DM. The second adhesive layer ADH2 attached to the flexible portion FLP can have a lower storage modulus than the flexible portion FLP, so that the flexible portion FLP is easily folded together with the display module DM. Since the flat portion PLT remains flat, the first adhesive layer ADH1 having a higher storage modulus than the flat portion PLT can be attached to the flat portion PLT, so that the flat portion PLT is not easily bent.

[0147] Fig.15 is combined with Fig. 9 A perspective view of the connecting rods supporting the plate shown in FIG. Fig.16 It shows that Fig.15 A view of a state in which the connecting rod is coupled to the supporting plate shown in FIG. Fig.17 It is along Fig.16 A cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV' shown in FIG.

[0148] exist Fig.16 , a portion of the flexible portion FLP is shown.

[0149] Reference Fig.15 , the display device DD may include a connecting rod LKB. The insertion groove IGV may be defined at one side of the connecting rod LKB.

[0150] The connecting rod LKB may include a first extension portion EX1, a second extension portion EX2, and a third extension portion EX3. The first extension portion EX1 may extend in the second direction DR2. The second extension portion EX2 may extend downward from a portion of the first extension portion EX1. The third extension portion EX3 may extend from a lower end of the second extension portion EX2 in the second direction DR2 and may face the first extension portion EX1 in the third direction DR3.

[0151] The space between the first extension portion EX1, the second extension portion EX2, and the third extension portion EX3 may be defined as an insertion groove IGV. According to this structure, the insertion groove IGV may be defined at one side of the connecting rod LKB. The connecting rod LKB may include a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0152] Reference Fig.16 and Fig.17, the connecting rod LKB may be disposed on the support plate SPT. The connecting rod LKB may protrude outward from the flexible portion FLP. The connecting rod LKB may be coupled to the support plate SPT. The connecting rod LKB may be coupled to the side surface of a corresponding protruding bar PRB in the protruding bars PRB. The connecting rod LKB may be connected to the protruding bar PRB by a welding process.

[0153] Despite Fig.16 One link LKB is shown in FIG. 1 , but a plurality of link LKBs may be basically respectively coupled to the protruding bars PRB.

[0154] The end of the first extension EX1 facing the support plate SPT and in which the insertion groove IGV is not defined may be connected to the protruding bar PRB. The first extension EX1 may be connected to the side surface of the protruding bar PRB and the lower surface of the flexible portion FLP. The insertion groove IGV may be defined on the side of the connecting rod LKB facing the outside.

[0155] Fig.18 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the housing shown in FIG.

[0156] Reference Fig.18 , the case CS may include a first case CS1 and a second case CS2 disposed in the first direction DR1. The first case CS1 and the second case CS2 may be coupled to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0157] The first case CS1 may include a first bottom BP1, a plurality of first side walls SW1, a plurality of first covers CV1, a rear BCV, a plurality of protrusions RPT, and a plurality of guide rails GRA. The display device DD may further include a gear GIR disposed in the first case CS1.

[0158] The first bottom portion BP1 may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The first side wall SW1 may extend from opposite sides of the first bottom portion BP1 that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2 (e.g., in an upper direction based on the third direction DR3). The first side wall SW1 may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. The first side wall SW1 may extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the third direction DR3.

[0159] One side of each of the first side walls SW1 in the first direction DR1 may have a curved shape convex toward the outside. An opposite side of the first side wall SW1 in the first direction DR1 may have a straight line shape extending in the third direction DR3.

[0160] The first cover CV1 may be disposed on the first side wall SW1. The first cover CV1 may be connected to an upper surface of the first side wall SW1. The first cover CV1 may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The first cover CV1 may extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2.

[0161] The back portion BCV may be disposed at one side of the first bottom BP1 in the first direction DR1 and one side of the first sidewall SW1 in the first direction DR1. The back portion BCV may be connected to one side of the first bottom BP1 and one side of the first sidewall SW1. One side of the first sidewall SW1 may be adjacent to one side of the first bottom BP1.

[0162] The rear portion BCV may have a shape convex toward the outside to correspond to the curved shape of one side of the first side wall SW1. For example, when viewed in the second direction DR2, an outer surface of the rear portion BCV facing the outside may have a curved shape convex toward the outside.

[0163] Surfaces of the first side wall SW1 facing each other in the second direction DR2 may be defined as a first inner surface IS1. A surface of the first side wall SW1 opposite to the first inner surface IS1 may be defined as an outer surface OS. The first inner surface IS1 may define inner surfaces of the shell CS facing each other in the second direction DR2. Specifically, the first inner surface IS1 may define inner surfaces of the first shell CS1 facing each other in the second direction DR2.

[0164] The protrusions PRT may be respectively disposed on the outer surface OS. The protrusions PRT may extend in the first direction DR1. The protrusions PRT may protrude from the outer surface OS.

[0165] The guide rail GRA may be disposed on the first inner surface IS1. The guide rail GRA may be adjacent to the rear portion BCV. The guide rail GRA may be connected to the first inner surface IS1.

[0166] Each of the guide rails GRA may include a first rail RA1, a second rail RA2, and a curved rail CRA. The first rail RA1 may extend in a first direction DR1. The second rail RA2 may be disposed below the first rail RA1 and may extend in the first direction DR1. The second rail RA2 may be longer than the first rail RA1.

[0167] The curved track CRA may extend from one side of the first track RA1 to one side of the second track RA2. One side of the first track RA1 and one side of the second track RA2 may be adjacent to the rear BCV. The curved track CRA may have a curved shape adjacent to the rear BCV and convexly extending toward the rear BCV.

[0168] The second case CS2 may include a second bottom BP2, a front FCV, a plurality of second sidewalls SW2, a plurality of second covers CV2, and a plurality of sub-supports SSP. The second bottom BP2 may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0169] The second side wall SW2 may extend upward from opposite sides of the second bottom portion BP2 opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The second side wall SW2 may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. The second side wall SW2 may extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the third direction DR3.

[0170] The second bottom portion BP2 may be disposed under the first bottom portion BP1. The second sidewall SW2 may be disposed at an outer side of the first sidewall SW1. That is, the second sidewall SW2 may be disposed on the outer surface OS of the first sidewall SW1.

[0171] The front FCV may face the rear BCV. The front FCV may be disposed at one side of the second bottom BP2 in the first direction DR1. One side of the second bottom BP2 may be defined as a portion of the second bottom BP2 farthest from the rear BCV. The front FCV may be connected to one side of the second bottom BP2 and may extend upward.

[0172] The front FCV may have a plane defined by the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR3. The front FCV may extend longer in the second direction DR2 than in the third direction DR3.

[0173] Surfaces of the second side wall SW2 facing each other in the second direction DR2 may be defined as a second inner surface IS2. The slide groove SGV may be defined on the second inner surface IS2. The slide groove SGV may extend in the first direction DR1. When the second shell CS2 is coupled to the first shell CS1 and the second side wall SW2 is disposed on the outer surface OS of the first side wall SW1, the protrusion PRT may be inserted into the slide groove SGV. This construction will be described in detail below.

[0174] The gear GIR may have a cylindrical shape extending in the second direction DR2. A plurality of protrusions extending in the second direction DR2 and arranged in a circular shape on the outer circumferential surface of the gear GIR may be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the gear GIR. The protrusions of the gear GIR may be spaced apart from the first side wall SW1.

[0175] The gear GIR may be connected to the first side wall SW1. Opposite sides of the gear GIR that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2 may be connected to the first side wall SW1. The gear GIR may rotate around a rotation axis RX extending in the second direction DR2. The gear GIR may be disposed between the first track RA1 and the second track RA2. The gear GIR may be adjacent to the curved track CRA.

[0176] The second cover CV2 may be disposed on the second side wall SW2. The second cover CV2 may be connected to the upper surface of the second side wall SW2. The second cover CV2 may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The second cover CV2 may extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2. When the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2 are combined with each other, the second cover CV2 may be respectively disposed on the first cover CV1.

[0177] The sub-support portion SSP may be disposed on the second inner surface IS2. The sub-support portion SSP may have a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The sub-support portion SSP may extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2. The sub-support portion SSP may be adjacent to the front portion FCV. The sub-support portion SSP may be connected to the second inner surface IS2. The sub-support portion SSP may be disposed above the sliding groove SGV.

[0178] The guide openings GOP may be defined in the first side wall SW1. Each of the guide openings GOP may be defined in the first side wall SW1 by extending in the first direction DR1 from opposite sides of the first side wall SW1. The guide openings GOP may be defined above the guide rail GRA. For example, the guide openings GOP may be defined above the first track RA1.

[0179] The guide opening GOP may overlap the first track RA1. The guide opening GOP may extend to be adjacent to the curved track CRA. The first track RA1 may extend to be closer to the opposite side of the first side wall SW1 than the second track RA2.

[0180] The first rail RA1 may extend under a portion of the guide opening GOP. When the first case CS1 and the second case CS2 are coupled to each other, the sub-support portion SSP may be disposed in the guide opening GOP.

[0181] Fig.19 is used to describe Figures 15 to 17 A view of the construction in which the connecting rod is coupled to the guide rail is shown in FIG. Fig. 20 It shows that Fig.19 sectional view of a state in which the connecting rod is coupled to the supporting plate and the guide rail.

[0182] exist Fig.19In FIG. 1 , some connecting rods LKB are shown which are coupled to the left guide rail GRA. Fig. 20 Shown with Fig.17 The cross section of the connecting rod LKB and the flexible part FLP shown in FIG. Fig. 20 , a cross section of the link LKB coupled to the guide rails GRA provided on the left and right sides is shown to clearly describe the connection of the link LKB.

[0183] Reference Fig.19 and Fig. 20 , the guide rail GRA may be connected to the first side wall SW1. The connecting rod LKB may be coupled to the guide rail GRA. For example, the guide rail GRA may be disposed in an insertion groove IGV defined on a side of the connecting rod LKB. The guide rail GRA may be inserted into the insertion groove IGV and may be disposed in the insertion groove IGV.

[0184] The connecting rod LKB can move along the guide rail GRA. The connecting rod LKB can move in the extension direction of the guide rail GRA through the insertion groove IGV. The flexible portion FLP of the support plate SPT can be coupled to the guide rail GRA through the connecting rod LKB. When the connecting rod LKB moves, the flexible portion FLP can move in the extension direction of the guide rail.

[0185] Fig.21 It shows that Fig.10 The flat portion shown in FIG. Fig.18 A view of the state on the sub-support portion shown in .

[0186] exist Fig.21 , a portion of the second side wall SW2, a portion of the second bottom portion BP2, a portion of the flat portion PLT, and the sub-support portion SSP are shown, and the support plate SPT is shown by a dotted line.

[0187] Reference Fig.21 The flexible portion FLP of the support plate SPT can be connected by the connecting rod LKB (refer to Fig.19 and Fig. 20 ) is coupled to the guide rail GRA (refer to Fig.19 and Fig. 20 ). However, the flat portion PLT may not be coupled to the guide rail GRA. Therefore, a structure for supporting the flat portion PLT is required. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a sub-support portion SSP may be disposed under the flat portion PLT and may support the flat portion PLT.

[0188] Fig. 22 It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line V-V' shown in FIG. Fig.23a and Figure 23b It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI' shown in FIG.

[0189] exist Fig. 22 , assuming that the first case CS1 and the second case CS2 are combined with each other, the first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 are shown together. Fig.23a and Figure 23b A state in which the protrusion PRT is disposed in the slide groove SGV is shown.

[0190] Reference Fig.18 and Fig. 22 , when the first shell CS1 and the second shell CS2 are combined with each other, the second bottom BP2 may be disposed below the first bottom BP1. The second bottom BP2 may contact the lower surface of the first bottom BP1. The second side wall SW2 may be disposed outside the first side wall SW1. The second side wall SW2 may contact the outer surface OS of the first side wall SW1.

[0191] The protrusion PRT may protrude from the first side wall SW1. When the first case CS1 and the second case CS2 are coupled to each other, the protrusion PRT may be disposed in the slide groove SGV defined in the second side wall SW2.

[0192] The sub-support portion SSP may be connected to the second side wall SW2. The sub-support portion SSP may be disposed in a guide opening GOP defined in the first side wall SW1. When the first and second shells CS1 and CS2 move relative to each other in the first direction DR1, the sub-support portion SSP may move along the guide opening GOP in the first direction DR1.

[0193] Reference Figure 1 , Fig.18 , Fig. 22 and Fig.23a In the default mode, the protrusion PRT may be disposed on one side of the sliding groove SGV. One side of the sliding groove SGV may be adjacent to the front FCV in the first direction DR1. When the second housing CS2 moves to the maximum toward the first housing CS1, the protrusion PRT may be disposed on one side of the sliding groove SGV.

[0194] Reference Figure 2 , Fig.18 , Fig. 22 and Figure 23b In the extended mode, the first housing CS1 may move away from the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1. For example, when the first housing CS1 moves in the first direction DR1, the protrusion PRT may move along the sliding groove SGV in the first direction DR1. When the protrusion PRT moves along the sliding groove SGV and is disposed on the opposite side of the sliding groove SGV, the protrusion PRT may stop.

[0195] The opposite side of the sliding groove SGV may be a portion of the sliding groove SGV farthest from the front FCV. The one side and the opposite side of the sliding groove SGV may be disposed opposite to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0196] When the first shell CS1 continuously moves away from the second shell CS2, the first shell CS1 may be separated from the second shell CS2. However, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first shell CS1 may stop as the protrusion PRT moving in the first direction DR1 is disposed on the opposite side of the sliding groove SGV. The movement amount of the first shell CS1 may be controlled according to the length of the protrusion PRT and the sliding groove SGV in the first direction DR1.

[0197] exist Figure 1 The default mode shown in Figure 2 In the extended mode shown in FIG. 1 , the movement amount of the first housing CS1 relative to the second housing CS2 can be determined by the movement of the protrusion PRT along the slide groove SGV in the first direction DR1 .

[0198] Fig.24 It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII' shown in FIG.

[0199] exist Fig.24 , the support plate SPT and the display module DM accommodated in the first case CS1 are shown together with the first case CS1, and the first case CS1 and the second case CS2 are shown in a combined state.

[0200] Reference Fig.14 , Fig.18 and Fig.24 , the guide rails GRA disposed on the first inner surface IS1 may face each other in the second direction DR2. The sub-support parts SSP connected to the second inner surface IS2 may face each other in the second direction DR2.

[0201] The link LKB may be disposed at opposite sides of the protruding bar PRB facing away from each other in the second direction DR2 and may be coupled to the guide rail GRA. The flat portion PLT may be disposed on a sub-support portion SSP connected to the second side wall SW2 and the sub-support portion SSP may support the flat portion PLT.

[0202] The support plate SPT may be disposed on the rear surface of the display module DM. Fig.24 In the embodiment, the first adhesive layer ADH1 and the second adhesive layer ADH2 are omitted. Since the flexible part FLP is coupled to the guide rail GRA through the link LKB and the flat part PLT is supported by the sub-support part SSP, the support plate SPT can easily support the display module DM.

[0203] The first cover CV1 may be disposed on the first side wall SW1. The first cover CV1 may extend in the second direction DR2 on the first side wall SW1. When viewed on a plane, the first cover CV1 may overlap the connecting rod LKB protruding outward from the support plate SPT. When the first cover CV1 covers the connecting rod LKB, the connecting rod LKB may not be visible from the outside.

[0204] The second cover CV2 may be disposed on the second side wall SW2 and the first cover CV1. When viewed on a plane, the second cover CV2 may overlap the connecting rod LKB. When the second cover CV2 covers the connecting rod LKB, the connecting rod LKB may not be visible from the outside.

[0205] The display module DM may be exposed to the outside through an opening OP defined between the first cover CV1 and the second cover CV2.

[0206] Fig.25 It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' shown in Fig.25 Shows Figure 1 The default mode of the display device is shown in . Fig.26 It is along Fig.18 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' shown in Fig.26 Shows Figure 2 The extended mode of the display device shown in .

[0207] exist Fig.25 and Fig.26 , the display module DM and the support plate SPT accommodated in the housing CS are shown together with the housing CS. Fig.25 and Fig.26 The first adhesive layer ADH1 and the second adhesive layer ADH2 are omitted.

[0208] Reference Figure 1 and Fig.25 , the display module DM may be disposed on the support plate SPT. The support plate SPT may be folded and accommodated in the case CS. The flat portion PLT may support the display module DM. The flexible portion FLP may be easily bent together with the display module DM.

[0209] The flat portion PLT may be disposed on the sub-support portion SSP, and the flexible portion FLP may be folded and coupled to the guide rail GRA. Since the link LKB is arranged in the shape of the guide rail GRA and coupled to the guide rail GRA, the flexible portion FLP may also be disposed in the shape of the guide rail GRA.

[0210] The flexible portion FLP, which is more flexible than the flat portion PLT, can be bent more easily and is disposed along the guide rail GRA. Since the groove GV is defined on the flexible portion FLP as described above, the flexible portion FLP can be easily bent. The folded portion of the flexible portion FLP can be defined as a bent portion BNP.

[0211] The gear GIR may be adjacent to the bend BNP. The gear GIR may engage with a protruding bar PRB protruding from the bend BNP. For example, a protrusion of the gear GIR may be disposed between the protruding bars PRB protruding from the bend BNP. The gear GIR may rotate about the rotation axis RX to move the protruding bars PRB. Although not shown, an actuator for rotating the gear GIR may be disposed in the housing CS.

[0212] The distance between the lower portions of the protruding bars PRB arranged in a bent shape along the bent portion BNP may be smaller than the distance between the lower portions of the protruding bars PRB arranged in the first direction DR1. When the protruding bars PRB are disposed too close to each other, an interference phenomenon may occur in which the lower portions of the protruding bars PRB arranged in a bent shape contact each other. In order to prevent this phenomenon, as shown in FIG. Fig.12 As described, the gap between the protruding bars PRB may be larger than the width of the protruding bars PRB.

[0213] The display module DM and the support plate SPT may be accommodated in the first housing CS1 and may be connected to the second housing CS2. For example, one side of the display module DM and one side of the support plate SPT may be connected to the front FCV. The display module DM and the support plate SPT may be connected and fixed to the front FCV. Therefore, the display module DM and the support plate SPT connected to the front FCV may move as the front FCV moves.

[0214] The receiving portion AMP of the display module DM described above may be disposed adjacent to the opposite side of the support plate SPT to the side facing away from the support plate SPT. Therefore, the receiving portion AMP may be disposed in the first case CS1 and may not be exposed to the outside.

[0215] In the default mode, the sub-support portion SSP may be disposed in the guide opening GOP. An end of the first track RA1 may be disposed below the sub-support portion SSP. One end of the sub-support portion SSP may be adjacent to the protruding bar PRB and the link LKB first disposed in the first track RA1.

[0216] Reference Figure 2 and Fig.26 In the extended mode, the first housing CS1 may move away from the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1. Therefore, the display module DM and the support plate SPT may extend to the outside. In the extended mode, the gear GIR may rotate around the rotation axis RX in a counterclockwise direction.

[0217] The link LKB may move along the guide rail GRA. The flexible portion FLP may move along the guide rail GRA according to the movement of the link LKB. As the flexible portion FLP moves in the first direction DR1, a portion of the flexible portion FLP may be disposed flat.

[0218] The sub-support portion SSP may be movable relative to the first housing CS1 in the first direction DR1. The sub-support portion SSP may be disposed in the guide opening GOP and may be movable along the guide opening GOP in the first direction DR1. An end of the first rail RA1 may be disposed below the guide opening GOP. Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.26 , in the extended mode, the sub-support portion SSP can support the flat portion PLT and the display module DM disposed on the flat portion PLT. In addition, in the extended mode, the display module DM on the flatly disposed flexible portion FLP can be supported by the protrusion bars PRB horizontally arranged in the first direction DR1. Therefore, in the extended mode, the display module DM can be easily supported by the sub-support portion SSP and the protrusion bars PRB adjacent to each other.

[0219] The protruding bars PRB may extend in the second direction DR2 and may support the display module DM on the flexible part FLP disposed flatly. That is, even if the flexible part FLP is disposed flatly, the protruding bars PRB extending in the second direction DR2 may easily support the display module DM disposed flatly on the flexible part FLP. In the extended mode, some of the protruding bars PRB may overlap the guide openings GOP.

[0220] As the area of ​​the display module DM exposed to the outside in the extended mode expands, the area of ​​the display surface DS exposed to the outside may expand. Fig.26 The front FCV and the first housing CS1 shown in FIG. 1 move toward each other in the first direction DR1. Thus, it is possible to perform Fig.25 In the default mode, the gear GIR can rotate in the clockwise direction about the rotation axis RX.

[0221] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a groove GV may be formed on the flexible portion FLP of the support plate SPT, and a protruding bar PRB overlapping the groove GV may protrude downward from the flexible portion FLP and may extend in the second direction DR2. The flexible portion FLP may be easily folded together with the display module DM by the groove GV, and the display module DM may be easily supported by the protruding bar PRB.

[0222] In addition, without using a separate support bar under the support plate SPT, the protruding bar PRB corresponding to the support bar can be formed integrally with the flexible part FLP and can replace the function of the support bar. Therefore, since the support bar is omitted, the support structure supporting the display module DM can be made lighter.

[0223] Figure 27 to Figure 29 2 is a view for describing a method of manufacturing a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0224] exist Figure 27 to Figure 29 , a cross section of the support plate SPT viewed in the second direction DR2 is shown.

[0225] Reference Fig. 27 , the support plate SPT may include a flat portion PLT and a flexible portion FLP. However, since the flexible portion FLP is in a state before the protruding strips PRB are formed, the flexible portion FLP may be in a flat state together with the flat portion PLT.

[0226] A mold MM may be provided on the support plate SPT. A mold MM may be provided on the flexible portion FLP. The mold MM may include a flat portion PLT1 and a plurality of protruding bars PRB1 protruding downward from the flat portion PLT1. The protruding bars PRB1 may have a shape corresponding to the above-mentioned groove GV. The protruding bars PRB1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and may extend in the second direction DR2.

[0227] Reference Fig.28 , the mold MM may move toward the flexible part FLP and may press the flexible part FLP. The protruding bar PRB1 may press the flexible part FLP. As the protruding bar PRB1 presses the flexible part FLP, a groove GV may be formed on the upper surface of the flexible part FLP.

[0228] When the protruding bar PRB1 presses the flexible part FLP, a portion of the flexible part FLP may protrude downward. Therefore, while the groove GV is formed, a portion of the flexible part FLP overlapping the groove GV may protrude downward, and thus the protruding bar PRB may be formed.

[0229] Reference Fig.29 , the mold MM may move upward and may be separated from the flexible part FLP. According to the process, the support plate SPT may include a flat part PLT having a flat plate shape, a flexible part FLP having a groove GV defined therein, and a protruding bar PRB protruding downward from the flexible part FLP.

[0230] exist Fig.30a In FIG. 1 , a construction of a comparative support plate SPT′ including support strips SB is shown, and in FIG. Fig.30b , Fig.30c , Fig.31a , Fig.31b , Fig.32a and Figure 32b , the deformation state of the portion of the display module DM overlapping with one support bar SB and one protruding bar PRB and the portion of the display module DM around one support bar SB and one protruding bar PRB are shown. Fig.30b , Fig.30c , Fig.31a , Fig.31b , Fig.32a and Figure 32b , reference numeral SB and reference numeral PRB may indicate positions where the support bar SB and the protrusion bar PRB are provided.

[0231] Fig.30a is a view showing the configuration of a comparative support plate including support bars.

[0232] Reference Fig.30a , the contrast support plate SPT' may include a flat portion PLT and a curved portion CVP extending and folded from the flat portion PLT. The curved portion CVP may correspond to the above-mentioned flexible portion FLP. The display module DM may be disposed on the contrast support plate SPT', and an adhesive layer ADH may be disposed between the display module DM and the contrast support plate SPT'. The display module DM and the contrast support plate SPT' may be bonded to each other through the adhesive layer ADH.

[0233] A plurality of support bars SB may be provided on the rear surface of the curved portion CVP. The support bars SB may be manufactured separately and may be connected to the curved portion CVP. For example, the support bars SB may be formed of a metal such as stainless steel and may be connected to the curved portion CVP by a welding process. The support bars SB may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0234] Fig.30b is a microscope image of the display module taken from above the display module when a separate support bar is provided below the display module. Fig.30c is a microscope image of a display module taken from above the display module when the protruding strip of the support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed below the display module.

[0235] Reference Fig.30b and Fig.30c , it is possible to more visually identify the support bar SB disposed under the display module DM. When the protrusion bar PRB formed integrally with the flexible part FLP is disposed under the display module DM, the protrusion bar PRB may be less visible than the support bar SB.

[0236] Therefore, when a separate support bar SB is disposed under the display module DM and the display module DM is viewed from above the display module DM, the support bar SB may be more visually recognized in a corrugated shape. When a protruding bar PRB integrally formed with the flexible portion FLP is disposed under the display module DM and the display module DM is viewed from above the display module DM, the protruding bar PRB may be invisible to the user in a corrugated shape.

[0237] Fig.31a is a diagram depicting a deformed state of a display module when a separate support bar is disposed under the display module. Fig.31b is a diagram depicting a deformed state of a display module when a protruding bar of a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed under the display module.

[0238] Fig.31a and Fig.31b is a graph depicting a deformed state of the display module DM measured after the above-described default mode and extended mode are repeated 100,000 times.

[0239] Reference Fig.31a and Fig.31b , the maximum deformation MAX may indicate a state in which a portion of the display module DM is deformed upward to the maximum extent based on the flat state. The minimum deformation MIN may indicate a state in which the portion of the display module DM is deformed downward to the maximum extent based on the flat state. The flat state may be represented as a value of 0 (zero), the maximum deformation MAX may be represented as a micrometer value greater than 0 (zero), and the minimum deformation MIN may be represented as a micrometer value less than 0 (zero).

[0240] As the difference between the maximum deformation MAX and the minimum deformation MIN increases, the deformation amount of the display module DM may increase. The difference between the maximum deformation MAX and the minimum deformation MIN of the display module DM according to the supporting bar SB may be greater than the difference between the maximum deformation MAX and the minimum deformation MIN of the display module DM according to the protruding bar PRB.

[0241] The maximum deformation MAX and the minimum deformation MIN of the display module DM according to the supporting bar SB were measured to be 43.79 μm and -29.61 μm, respectively. The maximum deformation MAX and the minimum deformation MIN of the display module DM according to the protruding bar PRB were measured to be 33.79 μm and -16.61 μm, respectively.

[0242] A difference between a maximum deformation MAX and a minimum deformation MIN of the display module DM according to the supporting bar SB may be 73.4 micrometers (μm). A difference between a maximum deformation MAX and a minimum deformation MIN of the display module DM according to the protruding bar PRB may be 50.4 micrometers (μm).

[0243] Therefore, when the protruding bar PRB formed integrally with the flexible portion FLP is disposed under the display module DM, the amount of deformation of the display module DM may be smaller than when a separate support bar SB is disposed under the display module DM.

[0244] Fig.32a is a view showing a deformed state of a display module on a plane when a separate supporting bar is provided under the display module. Figure 32b is a view showing a deformed state of a display module on a plane when a protruding bar of a support plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed under the display module.

[0245] Fig.32a and Figure 32b Shown in Fig.31a and Fig.31b The experimental conditions in the experiment are different from those in the experiment performed under different experimental conditions. For example, Fig.32a and Figure 32b 1 is a view obtained by measuring a deformation state of the display module DM after the display module having the support bar SB disposed thereon and the display module DM having the protrusion bar PRB disposed thereon are exposed in an environment of -5 degrees Celsius (° C.) for 250 hours.

[0246] exist Fig.32a and Figure 32b , reference numerals R, G, and B represent colors. Red R, blue B, and green G represent deformation amounts of the display module DM. The deformation amounts may be in the order of red R>blue B>green G.

[0247] When the support bar SB is disposed under the display module DM, the display module DM above the support bar SB is represented by red R, and the display module DM around the support bar SB is represented by blue B. When the protruding bar PRB is disposed under the display module DM, the display module DM above the protruding bar PRB is represented by blue B, and the display module DM around the protruding bar PRB is represented by green G.

[0248] Therefore, when the protruding bar PRB formed integrally with the flexible portion FLP is disposed under the display module DM, the amount of deformation of the display module DM may be smaller than when a separate support bar SB is disposed under the display module DM.

[0249] exist Fig.32a and Figure 32b In the experimental results, the deformation amount of the display module DM according to the support bar SB was measured to be 1.5 millimeters (mm), and the deformation amount of the display module DM according to the protrusion bar PRB was measured to be 0.45 millimeters (mm). Fig.32a and Figure 32b The deformation in can be as follows Fig.31a and Fig.31bThe difference between the maximum and minimum deformation in .

[0250] Figures 33 to 38 2 is a view illustrating a support plate according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0251] Fig.33 and Fig.34 Shown with Fig.12 The corresponding cross section, Figures 35 to 38 Shown with Fig.10 or Fig.11 The corresponding perspective view.

[0252] In the following, Figure 33 to Figure 3 The description of the construction of the support plates SPT-1 to SPT-6 shown in FIG. 9 will focus on components different from those of the support plate SPT described above.

[0253] Reference Fig.33 , the groove GV-1 may be defined on the upper surface of the flexible portion FLP of the support plate SPT-1. The support plate SPT-1 may include a protruding bar PRB-1 protruding downward from the flexible portion FLP. The groove GV-1 may have a concave curved shape, and the protruding bar PRB-1 may have a convex curved shape.

[0254] Reference Fig.34 , the groove GV-2 may be defined on the upper surface of the flexible portion FLP of the support plate SPT-2, and the support plate SPT-2 may include a protruding bar PRB-2 protruding downward from the flexible portion FLP. The groove GV-2 may have a shape corresponding to two sides of an inverted triangle facing downward. The protruding bar PRB-2 may have an inclined surface and may have a shape corresponding to two sides of an inverted triangle facing downward.

[0255] Reference Fig.35 , the groove GV may be defined in the flexible portion FLP of the support plate SPT- 3 , and the flexible portion FLP may include a plurality of first portions PT1 overlapped with the protruding bar PRB and a plurality of second portions PT2 between the first portions PT1 .

[0256] A plurality of openings OP-1 may be defined in the second portion PT2. The openings OP-1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The openings OP-1 disposed in the hth column and the openings OP-1 disposed in the (h+1)th column may be staggered relative to each other. "h" is a natural number. Since the openings OP-1 are additionally defined in the flexible portion FLP, the flexible portion FLP may be more flexible.

[0257] Reference Fig.36, similarly to the support plate SPT-3, the support plate SPT-4 may include a first portion PT1 and a second portion PT2 between the first portions PT1. A plurality of openings OP-2 may be defined in the second portion PT2. The openings OP-2 may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0258] Reference Fig.37 , a plurality of grooves GV-3 defined on the flexible portion FLP of the support plate SPT-5 may be arranged in the second direction DR2. Although two grooves GV-3 are arranged in the second direction DR2, more grooves GV-3 may be arranged in the second direction DR2. According to the arrangement of the grooves GV-3, a plurality of protruding bars PRB-3 protruding from the flexible portion FLP may also be arranged in the second direction DR2.

[0259] Reference Fig.38 , unlike the above-mentioned support plate SPT, the groove GV-4 defined on the flexible part FLP of the support plate SPT-6 and the protruding bar PRB-4 protruding from the flexible part FLP may extend to opposite sides of the flexible part FLP opposite to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0260] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled 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 claims.

[0261] Industrial Applicability

[0262] Since a separate support bar is not used and the protruding bar corresponding to the support bar is formed integrally with the flexible portion, the function of the support bar can be replaced. Therefore, since the support bar is omitted, the support structure supporting the display module can be made lightweight. Since the support structure is made lightweight, a display device with reduced weight can be provided to the user, so the present invention has high industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display module; as well as A support plate is arranged below the display module. The support plate includes: a flat portion; a flexible portion extending from the flat portion and folded, a portion of the flexible portion being disposed below the flat portion; and a plurality of protruding strips protruding downward from the flexible portion. Wherein, a plurality of grooves are defined on the upper surface of the flexible portion and overlap the plurality of protruding bars.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The flexible portion is more flexible than the flat portion.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of protruding strips are arranged in a first direction and extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the flexible portion is folded around a rotation axis extending in the second direction.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: The plurality of protruding strips are spaced apart from opposite sides of the flexible portion that are opposite to each other in the second direction.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: In the first direction, each of the plurality of protrusion bars has a width smaller than a distance between protrusion bars adjacent to each other.

6. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: Each of the plurality of protruding strips has a thickness greater than a thickness of the flexible portion in a third direction perpendicular to a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: In the third direction, each of the plurality of grooves has a depth equal to the thickness of each of the plurality of protruding strips.

8. The display device according to claim 3, further comprising: A gear is adjacent to a bent portion of the flexible portion defined as a folded portion and is engaged with a protruding strip protruding from the bent portion among the plurality of protruding strips, and the gear rotates around the rotation axis.

9. The display device according to claim 3, further comprising: A plurality of connecting rods are disposed on opposite sides of the plurality of protruding bars that are opposite to each other in the second direction.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein: The plurality of links protrude outwardly from the flexible portion.

11. The display device according to claim 10, further comprising: A first housing, accommodating the display module and the support plate; a guide rail disposed on an inner surface of the first housing, the inner surfaces facing each other in the second direction; as well as a second housing connected to the display module and the support plate and coupled to the first housing, The first housing moves toward or away from the second housing in the first direction, and the plurality of connecting rods are coupled to the guide rail and move along the guide rail.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: An insertion groove is defined at a side of the plurality of links facing outward, and the guide rail is disposed in the insertion groove.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: Each of the rails comprises: a first track extending in the first direction; a second rail extending in the first direction and disposed below the first rail; and A curved track extends from one side of the first track to one side of the second track.

14. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A first adhesive layer is disposed between the display module and the flat portion; as well as A second adhesive layer is disposed between the display module and the flexible portion, and the second adhesive layer has a modulus different from that of the first adhesive layer.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The second adhesive layer has a modulus lower than a modulus of the first adhesive layer.

16. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of grooves extend into the plurality of protruding bars.

17. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The flexible portion comprises: a plurality of first portions, the plurality of grooves being defined in the plurality of first portions, the plurality of first portions overlapping the plurality of protruding bars; and a plurality of second portions between the plurality of first portions, and Wherein, the openings are defined in the plurality of second portions.

18. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of grooves and the plurality of protruding strips extend to opposite sides of the flexible portion.

19. A display device, comprising: Display module; as well as A support plate is arranged below the display module. Wherein, the support plate includes: a flat portion; a flexible portion extending from the flat portion and folded around a rotation axis extending in one direction, and a portion of the flexible portion is arranged under the flat portion; a plurality of protruding bars protruding downward from the flexible portion and extending in the one direction; and a plurality of connecting rods arranged on opposite sides of the plurality of protruding bars relative to each other in the one direction.

20. A display device, comprising: Display module; A support plate, arranged below the display module; as well as a plurality of protruding bars protruding downward from a portion of the support plate and overlapping a plurality of grooves defined on an upper surface of the portion of the support plate, Wherein, the plurality of grooves extend into the plurality of protruding strips.

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