Display device and method of manufacturing same

Abstract

The invention provides a display device and a method of manufacturing the same. The display device includes: a display panel; a first cover plate covering an upper surface of the display panel and including a step portion disposed at an edge portion of the first cover plate; the second cover plate covers the lower surface of the display panel; a protruding portion disposed on an upper surface of the second cover plate and not overlapping the first cover plate; and a side surface covering member at least partially covering a side surface of the display panel exposed between the step portion and the protruding portion.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0117427 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 5, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] One or more embodiments relate to a display device and a method of manufacturing the display device, and more particularly, to a display device capable of preventing interference between a fastening member and a side surface covering member formed on a side surface of a display panel and a method of manufacturing the display device. Background Art

[0004] The display device is a device that receives an input of information about an image and displays the image. The display device is used as a display unit of a small product such as a mobile phone, and is also used as a display unit of a large product such as a television.

[0005] The display device includes pixels that receive electrical signals and emit light to display an image to the outside. Each of the pixels includes a light emitting diode. For example, an organic light emitting diode display device includes an organic light emitting diode (OLED) as a light emitting diode. Generally, in an organic light emitting display device, a thin film transistor and an organic light emitting diode are formed on a substrate, and the organic light emitting diode emits light autonomously.

[0006] Such a display device may include a side surface covering member formed on a side surface of the display panel, and the side surface covering member may interfere with the fastening member. Summary of the invention

[0007] One or more embodiments include a display device capable of preventing interference between a fastening member and a side surface covering member formed on a side surface of a display panel and a method of manufacturing the display device. However, the aforementioned objects are merely examples, and the scope of the embodiments is not limited thereto.

[0008] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed embodiments.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments, a display device may include: a display panel; a first cover plate covering an upper surface of the display panel and including a step portion disposed at an edge portion of the first cover plate; a second cover plate covering a lower surface of the display panel; a protrusion portion disposed on an upper surface of the second cover plate and not overlapping with the first cover plate when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel; and a side surface covering member at least partially covering a side surface of the display panel exposed between the step portion and the protrusion portion.

[0010] The step portion may have a step shape having a height decreasing from an inner side of the first cover plate toward an outer side of the first cover plate.

[0011] The covering area of ​​the side surface covering member may be partially defined by an inner surface of the step portion and an outer surface of the protruding portion.

[0012] The protrusion portion may protrude relative to an upper surface of the second cover plate, and may include a light blocking material.

[0013] The side surface covering member may also cover at least a portion of the inner surface of the step portion and a lower surface of the step portion.

[0014] The side surface covering member may also cover at least a portion of the upper surface of the second cover plate exposed between the display panel and the protrusion portion.

[0015] The display device may further include: an adhesive layer disposed between the second cover plate and the display panel.

[0016] The display apparatus may further include: a fastening member contacting the first cover plate and the second cover plate and not being interfered by the side surface covering member in a case where the fastening member contacts the first cover plate and the second cover plate.

[0017] In a case where the fastening member is fastened, the side surface covering member may be spaced apart from the fastening member by the step portion.

[0018] In a case where the fastening member is fastened, the side surface covering member may be spaced apart from the fastening member by the protrusion portion.

[0019] The second cover plate may include a transparent material, and light emitted from the display panel may be transmitted through the second cover plate and emitted to the outside.

[0020] The display device may further include: a light blocking material layer disposed between the protrusion portion and the second cover plate and including a light blocking material, and the protrusion portion may be disposed on the light blocking material layer.

[0021] When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel, an inner surface of the step portion may be disposed more inwardly than a side surface of the display panel.

[0022] An edge portion of the side surface cover member may contact at least a portion of an inner surface of the step portion.

[0023] The edge portion of the side surface covering member may have a shape corresponding to a shape of the inner surface of the step portion.

[0024] Another edge portion of the side surface covering member may contact at least a portion of an outer surface of the protruding portion.

[0025] The other edge portion of the side surface covering member may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer surface of the protruding portion.

[0026] According to one or more embodiments, a method for manufacturing a display device may include: attaching a first cover plate on an upper surface of a display panel; attaching a second cover plate on a lower surface of the display panel by using an adhesive layer; forming a step portion by removing a portion of an edge portion of the first cover plate; forming a protrusion portion on an upper surface of the second cover plate; and forming a side surface covering member by applying a strength reinforcing material to at least a portion of a side surface of the display panel exposed between the step portion and the protrusion portion.

[0027] The protrusion portion may be provided in a region where the first cover plate and the second cover plate do not overlap each other when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel.

[0028] A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the first cover plate may be limited by the step portion.

[0029] A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the second cover plate may be limited by the protruding portion.

[0030] The manufacturing method may further include: fastening the first cover plate and the second cover plate by a fastening member without interfering with the side surface covering member.

[0031] According to one or more embodiments, a display device may include: a display panel; a first cover plate covering an upper surface of the display panel; a second cover plate covering a lower surface of the display panel; and a side surface covering member covering at least a portion of a side surface of the display panel and at least a portion of an edge portion of an upper surface of the first cover plate, and including an edge portion having a step portion on an upper surface of the first cover plate.

[0032] The side surface cover member may cover a portion of the upper surface of the second cover plate, and another edge portion of the side surface cover member may have a step portion on the upper surface of the second cover plate.

[0033] The display device may further include: a light blocking material layer disposed between the other edge portion of the side surface covering member and the upper surface of the second cover plate.

[0034] According to one or more embodiments, a method for manufacturing a display device may include: attaching a first cover plate on the upper surface of a display panel; attaching a second cover plate on the lower surface of the display panel by using an adhesive layer; forming a step portion relative to the upper surface of the first cover plate by attaching a first protective layer on the upper surface of the first cover plate, the step portion and the first protective layer having the same thickness; forming a protrusion portion protruding relative to the upper surface of the second cover plate by attaching a second protective layer to an upwardly exposed portion of the upper surface of the second cover plate, the protrusion portion and the second protective layer having the same thickness; forming a side surface covering member by applying a strength reinforcing material to at least a portion of the side surface of the display panel exposed between the step portion and the protrusion portion; and removing the first protective layer or the second protective layer after forming the side surface covering member.

[0035] The protrusion portion may be provided in a region where the first cover plate and the second cover plate do not overlap each other when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel.

[0036] A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the first cover plate may be limited by the step portion.

[0037] A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the second cover plate may be limited by the protruding portion.

[0038] The method may further include: fastening the first cover plate and the second cover plate by a fastening member without interfering with the side surface covering member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view schematically showing a display panel of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0041] Figure 2 is included in Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an equivalent circuit of a pixel in a display panel shown in ;

[0042] Figure 3 It is schematically shown Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display panel shown in ;

[0043] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of a display device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of a display device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 6 It is schematically shown that Figure 5 The structure shown in the cross-sectional view is applicable to Figure 1 a schematic plan view of an example of a display panel shown only partially along a first axis;

[0046] Figure 7 It is schematically shown that Figure 5 The structure shown in the cross-sectional view is applicable to Figure 1 a schematic plan view of an example of a display panel shown only partially with a second axis shown in FIG.

[0047] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically illustrating some operations of the method of manufacturing the display device according to the first embodiment;

[0048] Fig. 9 It is schematically shown that Figure 8 The structure shown in the cross-sectional view is applicable to Figure 1 a schematic plan view of an example of a display panel shown only partially along a first axis;

[0049] Fig.10 It is schematically shown that Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to Figure 1 a schematic plan view of another example of a display panel shown only partially with a second axis shown in FIG.

[0050] Fig.11 and Fig.12 are cross-sectional views each schematically showing a part of the operation of the method of manufacturing the display device according to the second embodiment;

[0051] Fig.13 It is schematically shown that Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to Figure 1 a schematic plan view of an example of a display panel shown only partially along a first axis;

[0052] Fig.14 It is schematically shown that Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to Figure 1 a schematic plan view of another example of a display panel shown only partially with a second axis shown in FIG.

[0053] Fig.15 and Fig.16 are schematic cross-sectional views each schematically showing a portion of a display device according to a comparative example;

[0054] Fig.17is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a display device according to another comparative example;

[0055] Fig.18 and Fig.19 are schematic cross-sectional views each schematically showing a portion of a display device according to another comparative example;

[0056] Fig. 20 is a schematic rear view schematically showing the display device according to the first embodiment or the second embodiment; and

[0057] Fig.21 It shows that according to Fig. 20 The graph shown in FIG. 1 is a graph comparing the results of peel strength at the positions of the side surface covering members of the display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments or implementations of the present invention. As used herein, "embodiment" and "implementation" are interchangeable words, which are non-limiting examples of the device or method disclosed herein. However, it is apparent that various embodiments can be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. Here, various embodiments do not have to be exclusive and do not limit the present disclosure. For example, the specific shape, configuration and characteristics of an embodiment can be used or implemented in another embodiment.

[0059] Unless otherwise specified, the embodiments shown should be understood to provide features of the present invention. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects, etc. (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as "elements") of various embodiments may be combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged in other ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0060] The use of hatching and / or shading in the drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, unless specified, the presence or absence of hatching or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material property, size, ratio, commonality between the elements shown, and / or any other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc. of the elements. In addition, in the drawings, the size and relative size of the elements may be exaggerated for the purpose of clarity and / or description. When the embodiment can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in an order opposite to the described sequence. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0061] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, directly connected to or directly coupled to another element or layer, or there may be an intervening element or layer. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there is no intervening element or layer. For this reason, the term "connection" may refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection, and / or a fluid connection with or without an intervening element. The x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes on a rectangular coordinate system, and may be interpreted as including a broad meaning thereof. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis may be orthogonal to each other, but may also refer to different directions that are not orthogonal to each other. For the purposes of this disclosure, "at least one of A and B" may be understood to mean only A, only B, or any combination of A and B. Furthermore, “at least one of X, Y, and Z” and “at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z” may be interpreted as any combination of only X, only Y, only Z, or two or more of X, Y, and Z. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0062] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various types of elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another element. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element.

[0063] For descriptive purposes, spatially relative terms such as "below," "below," "under," "down," "above," "up," "above," "higher," "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall"), etc. may be used herein, and thereby describe the relationship of one element to another element(s) as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientations depicted in the accompanying drawings, spatially relative terms are intended to also encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, an element described as being "below" or "below" other elements or features will then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" may encompass both above and below orientations. Additionally, the device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and therefore, the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0064] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, when used in this specification, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes" and / or "including" specify the existence of stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially", "about" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms and are not used as terms of degree, and therefore, are used to allow for the inherent deviations in the measured values, calculated values ​​and / or provided values ​​that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0065] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or exploded views as schematic diagrams of embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, variations in the shape of the figures due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be interpreted as being limited to the shapes of the specifically shown regions, but rather to include deviations in shapes, for example, caused by manufacturing. In this way, the regions shown in the drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of the regions of the device, and therefore, are not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0066] As is customary in the art, some embodiments are described and shown in the accompanying drawings for functional blocks, units and / or modules. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these blocks, units and / or modules are physically implemented by electrical circuits (or optical circuits) such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hard-wired circuits, memory elements, wiring connectors, etc., which can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing techniques or other manufacturing techniques. In the case where blocks, units and / or modules are implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, they can be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and they can be selectively driven by firmware and / or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit and / or module can be implemented by dedicated hardware, or can be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and processors (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuits) for performing other functions. In addition, without departing from the scope of the present invention, each block, unit and / or module of some embodiments can be physically separated into two or more interactive and discrete blocks, units and / or modules. Furthermore, the blocks, units and / or modules of some embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0067] Hereinafter, a display device according to an embodiment will be described as follows based on the above written description.

[0068] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view schematically showing a display panel 10 of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown in , a display device according to an embodiment may include a display panel 10. The display device may include any display device including the display panel 10. For example, the display device may include various types of devices such as a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a television, a billboard, etc. For example, a display device according to an embodiment may include a thin film transistor, a capacitor, etc. formed of a conductive layer and an insulating layer.

[0070] The display panel 10 may include a display area DA and a peripheral area PA positioned outside the display area DA. Figure 1 The display area DA is shown to have a rectangular shape. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The display area DA may have various shapes, for example, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a polygonal shape, or other graphic shapes.

[0071] The pixels PX may be arranged in a display area DA displaying an image. Each of the pixels PX may include a display device such as an organic light emitting diode. Each of the pixels PX may emit, for example, red light, green light, or blue light. The pixels PX may be connected to a pixel circuit including a thin film transistor (TFT), a storage capacitor, and the like. The pixel circuit may be connected to a scan line SL transmitting a scan signal, a data line DL crossing the scan line SL and transmitting a data signal, a drive voltage line PL providing a drive voltage, and the like. The scan line SL may extend in an x-axis direction (hereinafter, referred to as a second direction), and the data line DL and the drive voltage line PL may extend in a y-axis direction (hereinafter, referred to as a first direction).

[0072] The pixel PX may emit light of a brightness corresponding to an electrical signal transmitted from a pixel circuit electrically connected to the pixel PX. The display area DA may display an image by light emitted from the pixel PX. For reference, as described above, the pixel PX may be defined as an emission area from which red, green, and / or blue light is emitted.

[0073] The peripheral area PA in which the pixels PX are not arranged may include an area in which an image is not displayed. Power wiring and the like for driving the pixels PX may be positioned in the peripheral area PA. For example, in the peripheral area PA, a pad may be arranged, and a printed circuit board including a driving circuit unit or an integrated circuit device such as a driver integrated circuit (IC) may be electrically connected to the pad.

[0074] Since the display panel 10 includes the substrate 100 , it can be said that the substrate 100 has a display area DA and a peripheral area PA. Details about the substrate 100 will be described later.

[0075] The transistor may be arranged in the display area DA. Depending on the type (N-type or P-type) of the transistor and / or operating conditions, the first terminal of the transistor may include a source electrode or a drain electrode, and the second terminal of the transistor may include an electrode different from the electrode of the first terminal. For example, in the case where the first terminal includes a source electrode, the second terminal may include a drain electrode.

[0076] The transistor may include a drive transistor Td (see Figure 2 ), data write transistor Ts (see Figure 2 ), compensation transistor, initialization transistor, emission control transistor, etc. The driving transistor Td can be connected between the driving voltage line PL and the organic light emitting diode OLED (see Figure 2 ), and the data write transistor Ts may be connected to the data line DL and the drive transistor Td, and may perform a switching operation to provide a data signal Dm transmitted from the data line DL (see Figure 2 ).

[0077] The compensation transistor can be switched on in response to a scan signal Sn (see Figure 2 ) is turned on and the threshold voltage of the driving transistor Td is compensated by connecting the driving transistor Td and the organic light emitting diode OLED.

[0078] The initialization transistor may initialize the gate electrode of the driving transistor Td by being turned on in response to the scan signal Sn transmitted through the scan line SL and by supplying an initialization voltage to the gate electrode of the driving transistor Td. Another scan line may be connected to the initialization transistor and may be different from the scan line SL connected to the compensation transistor.

[0079] The emission control transistor may be turned on in response to an emission control signal transmitted through the emission control line. Thus, a driving current may flow through the organic light emitting diode OLED.

[0080] The organic light emitting diode OLED may include a pixel electrode (eg, an anode) 150 (see Figure 3 ) and a counter electrode (eg, cathode) 170 (see Figure 3 ), and the second power voltage ELVSS (see Figure 2 ) may be applied (or disposed) to the counter electrode 170. The organic light emitting diode OLED may display an image by receiving a driving current from the driving transistor Td and emitting light.

[0081] Hereinafter, an organic light-emitting display device will be described as an example of a display device according to an embodiment. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, a display device according to the present disclosure may include a display device such as an inorganic light-emitting display device or a quantum dot light-emitting display device. For example, an emission layer of a display device included in the display device may include an organic material or an inorganic material. For example, the display device may include an emission layer and quantum dots positioned on a path of light emitted from the emission layer.

[0082] In the plan view, a virtual axis dividing the display panel 10 may be shown. The first axis AX1 is a virtual line dividing the display panel 10 in the x-axis direction, and the display panel 10 may be symmetrical or nearly symmetrical with respect to the first axis AX1. For ease of explanation, the characteristics of the display panel 10 divided with reference to the first axis AX1 will be described.

[0083] The second axis AX2 is a virtual line dividing the display panel 10 in the y-axis direction, and the display panel 10 may be symmetrical or nearly symmetrical with respect to the second axis AX2. For convenience of explanation, characteristics of the display panel 10 divided with reference to the second axis AX2 will be described.

[0084] Figure 2 is included in Figure 1Schematic diagram of an equivalent circuit of one of the pixels PX in the display panel 10 shown in FIG.

[0085] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , each pixel PX may include a pixel circuit PC connected to a scan line SL and a data line DL and an organic light emitting diode OLED connected to the pixel circuit PC.

[0086] The pixel circuit PC may include a driving transistor Td, a switching transistor (also referred to as a data writing transistor) Ts, and a storage capacitor Cst. The switching transistor Ts may be connected to a scan line SL and a data line DL, and may provide a data signal Dm input through the data line DL to the driving transistor Td in response to a scan signal Sn input through the scan line SL.

[0087] The storage capacitor Cst may be connected to the switching transistor Ts and the driving voltage line PL, and may store a voltage corresponding to a difference between a voltage transmitted from the switching transistor Ts and the first power voltage ELVDD transmitted to the driving voltage line PL.

[0088] The second power voltage ELVSS may include a driving voltage having a voltage level relatively lower than that of the first power voltage ELVDD. The voltage level of the driving voltage supplied to each pixel PX may correspond to a difference between the voltage levels of the first power voltage ELVDD and the second power voltage ELVSS.

[0089] The driving transistor Td may be connected to the driving voltage line PL and the storage capacitor Cst, and may control a driving current flowing from the driving voltage line PL through the organic light emitting diode OLED in response to the level of the voltage stored in the storage capacitor Cst. The organic light emitting diode OLED may emit light of corresponding brightness due to the driving current.

[0090] although Figure 2 A case is shown in which the pixel circuit PC includes two thin film transistors and one storage capacitor, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The pixel circuit PC may also include two or more storage capacitors.

[0091] Figure 3 It is schematically shown Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display panel 10 shown in FIG.

[0092] As described above, the substrate 100 may include an area corresponding to the display area DA and the peripheral area PA outside the display area DA. The substrate 100 may include various materials that are flexible or bendable. For example, the substrate 100 may include glass, metal, or a polymer resin. For example, the substrate 100 may include a polymer resin such as polyethersulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polycarbonate, or cellulose acetate propionate. The substrate 100 may also be variously modified, for example, the substrate 100 may have a multilayer structure including two layers each including the aforementioned polymer resin and a barrier layer between the two layers. For example, the barrier layer may include inorganic materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and the like.

[0093] The buffer layer 101 may be disposed on the substrate 100. The buffer layer 101 may prevent diffusion of impurity ions and penetration of moisture and / or external air, and may be used as a barrier layer and / or a barrier layer for planarizing the surface of the substrate 100. The buffer layer 101 may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and / or silicon oxynitride. For example, during a crystallization process for forming the semiconductor layer 110, the buffer layer 101 may adjust a rate of providing heat so that the semiconductor layer 110 is uniformly crystallized.

[0094] The semiconductor layer 110 may be disposed on the buffer layer 101. The semiconductor layer 110 may include polycrystalline silicon, and may include a channel region that is not doped with impurities, and a source region and a drain region that are formed by doping with impurities and disposed at sides (e.g., opposite sides) of the channel region. For example, the impurities may vary depending on the type of the thin film transistor, and may include N-type impurities (or N-type dopants) or P-type impurities (P-type dopants).

[0095] The gate insulating layer (or gate insulating film) 102 may be disposed on the semiconductor layer 110. The gate insulating layer 102 may be a configuration that ensures insulation between the semiconductor layer 110 and the first gate layer 120a. The gate insulating layer 102 may include an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride and / or silicon oxynitride, and may be disposed between the semiconductor layer 110 and the first gate layer 120a. For example, the gate insulating layer 102 may have a form / shape corresponding to the entire surface of the substrate 100, and may also have a structure in which contact holes are formed in certain portions. For example, the insulating layer including an inorganic material may be formed by a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process or an atomic layer deposition (ALD) process. For convenience of description, the same description will be applied to the following embodiments and modifications thereof.

[0096] The first gate layer 120a may be disposed on the gate insulating layer 102. The first gate layer 120a may be disposed to overlap (e.g., vertically overlap) the semiconductor layer 110, and may include at least one metal selected from molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and copper (Cu).

[0097] The first interlayer insulating layer (or first interlayer insulating film) 103a may be disposed on the first gate layer 120a. The first interlayer insulating layer 103a may cover the first gate layer 120a. The first interlayer insulating layer 103a may include an inorganic material. For example, the first interlayer insulating layer 103a may include a metal oxide and / or a metal nitride. For example, the inorganic material may include silicon oxide (SiO 2 ), silicon nitride (SiN x ), silicon oxynitride, aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ), titanium oxide (TiO 2 ), Tantalum Oxide (Ta 2 O 5 ), hafnium oxide (HfO 2 ), zinc oxide (ZnO x ) or the like. Zinc oxide (ZnO x ) may be ZnO and / or ZnO 2 In some embodiments, the first interlayer insulating layer 103a may have a SiO x / SiN y or SiN x / SiO y Double-layer structure.

[0098] The second gate layer 120b may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer 103a. The second gate layer 120b may be disposed to overlap (e.g., vertically overlap) the first gate layer 120a, and may include at least one metal selected from Mo, Al, Pt, Pd, Ag, Mg, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, Ti, W, and Cu.

[0099] The second gate layer 120b and the first gate layer 120a may form the above reference Figure 2 The first gate layer 120a may include one electrode of the storage capacitor Cst, and the second gate layer 120b may include the other electrode of the storage capacitor Cst.

[0100] When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, the area (or size) of the second gate layer 120b may be greater than the area (or size) of the first gate layer 120a. For example, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, the second gate layer 120b may cover (e.g., completely cover) the first gate layer 120a.

[0101] The second interlayer insulating layer (or second interlayer insulating film) 103b may be disposed on the second gate layer 120b. The second interlayer insulating layer 103b may cover the second gate layer 120b. The second interlayer insulating layer 103b may include an inorganic material. For example, the second interlayer insulating layer 103b may include a metal oxide or a metal nitride. For example, the inorganic material may include SiO 2 、SiN x 、SiON、Al 2 O 3 、TiO 2 、 2 O 5 , HfO 2 、ZnO x Or the like. ZnO x It can be ZnO and / or ZnO 2 In some embodiments, the second interlayer insulating layer 103b may have a SiO x / SiN y or SiN x / SiO y Double-layer structure.

[0102] The first conductive layer 130 may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer 103b. The first conductive layer 130 may be used as an electrode of the source / drain region of the semiconductor layer 110 through a through hole included in the second interlayer insulating layer 103b. The first conductive layer 130 may include one or more metals selected from Al, Pt, Pd, Ag, Mg, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, Mo, Ti, W, and Cu. For example, the first conductive layer 130 may include a Ti layer, an Al layer, and / or a Cu layer.

[0103] The first organic insulating layer 104 may be disposed on the first conductive layer 130. The first organic insulating layer 104 may cover the upper surface of the first conductive layer 130, may have a substantially flat top surface (or upper surface), and may serve as a planarization layer. The first organic insulating layer 104 may include an organic insulating layer. The first organic insulating layer 104 may include an organic material such as acryl, benzocyclobutene (BCB), or hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO). The first organic insulating layer 104 may be variously changed, for example, may be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers.

[0104] The second conductive layer 140 may be disposed on the first organic insulating layer 104. The second conductive layer 140 may serve as an electrode connected to a source / drain region of the semiconductor layer 110 through a through hole included in the first organic insulating layer 104. The second conductive layer 140 may include one or more metals selected from Al, Pt, Pd, Ag, Mg, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, Mo, Ti, W, and Cu. For example, the second conductive layer 140 may include a Ti layer, an Al layer, and / or a Cu layer.

[0105] The second organic insulating layer 105 may be disposed on the second conductive layer 140. The second organic insulating layer 105 may cover the upper surface of the second conductive layer 140, may have a substantially flat top surface (or upper surface), and may serve as a planarization layer. The second organic insulating layer 105 may include an organic insulating layer. The second organic insulating layer 105 may include an organic material such as acryl, BCB, or HMDSO. The second organic insulating layer 105 may be variously changed and may be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers.

[0106] For example, an additional conductive layer and an additional insulating layer may be disposed between the conductive layer and the pixel electrode, and may be applied as various embodiments. For example, the additional conductive layer and the conductive layer may include the same material and may have the same layer structure. The additional insulating layer and the organic insulating layer may include the same material and may have the same layer structure.

[0107] The pixel electrode 150 may be disposed on the second organic insulating layer 105. The pixel electrode 150 may be connected to the second conductive layer 140 through a contact hole formed in the second organic insulating layer 105. A display device may be disposed on the pixel electrode 150. An organic light emitting diode OLED may be used as a display device. For example, the organic light emitting diode OLED may be, for example, on the pixel electrode 150. The pixel electrode 150 may include a material including, for example, ITO, In 2 O 3 The pixel electrode 150 may include a light-transmitting conductive layer of a light-transmitting conductive oxide such as ITO or IZO and a reflective layer including a metal such as Al or Ag. For example, the pixel electrode 150 may include a triple-layer structure including ITO / Ag / ITO.

[0108] The pixel defining layer 106 may be disposed on the second organic insulating layer 105, and may be disposed to cover an edge portion of the pixel electrode 150. For example, the pixel defining layer 106 may cover an edge portion of the pixel electrode 150. The pixel defining layer 106 may include an opening corresponding to the pixel PX, and the opening may be formed to expose at least a central portion of the pixel electrode 150. The pixel defining layer 106 may include an organic material such as polyimide or HMDSO. For example, the spacer 80 may be disposed on the pixel defining layer 106.

[0109] Although the spacer 80 is shown as being disposed in the peripheral area PA, the spacer 80 may also be disposed in the display area DA. The spacer 80 may prevent the organic light emitting diode OLED from being damaged due to sagging (or bending) of the mask during a manufacturing process using the mask. The spacer 80 may include an organic insulating material and may be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers.

[0110] The intermediate layer 160 and the counter electrode 170 may be disposed in the opening of the pixel defining layer 106. The intermediate layer 160 may include a low molecular weight material or a high molecular weight material. In the case where the intermediate layer 160 includes a low molecular weight material, the intermediate layer 160 may include a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an emission layer, an electron transport layer and / or an electron injection layer. In the case where the intermediate layer 160 includes a high molecular weight material, the intermediate layer 160 may generally have a structure including a hole transport layer and an emission layer.

[0111] The counter electrode 170 may include a material such as ITO, In 2 O 3 The pixel electrode 150 may be used as an anode, and the counter electrode 170 may be used as a cathode. The polarities of the pixel electrode 150 and the counter electrode 170 may be applied oppositely.

[0112] The intermediate layer 160 is not limited to the aforementioned structure and may have various structures. For example, at least one of the layers of the intermediate layer 160 may be integrally formed like the counter electrode 170. In another embodiment, the intermediate layer 160 may include layers patterned to correspond to the plurality of pixel electrodes 150, respectively.

[0113] The counter electrode 170 disposed in the display area DA may be disposed throughout the display area DA. For example, the counter electrode 170 may be integrally formed to cover the pixel electrode 150. The counter electrode 170 may electrically contact a common power line disposed in the peripheral area PA. In an embodiment, the counter electrode 170 may extend to the barrier wall 200. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may overlap the entire portion of the display area DA, and may be arranged to extend to the peripheral area PA and overlap at least a portion of the peripheral area PA.

[0114] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may extend to the outside of the common power line. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330, and an organic encapsulation layer 320 disposed between the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may include one or more inorganic materials selected from aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride.

[0115] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may each include a single layer or a plurality of layers including the aforementioned materials. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may include the same material or different materials. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may have different thicknesses. The thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 may be greater than the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330. In another example, the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be greater than the thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, or the thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be substantially the same as each other.

[0116] The organic encapsulation layer 320 may include a monomer-based material or a polymer-based material. The polymer-based material may include an acryl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, polyimide, polyethylene, or the like. In an implementation, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may include acrylate.

[0117] The barrier wall 200 may be disposed in the peripheral area PA of the substrate 100. In an embodiment, the barrier wall 200 may include a portion of the first organic insulating layer 104, a portion 230 of the second organic insulating layer 105, a portion 220 of the pixel defining layer 106, and a portion 210 of the spacer 80, but embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0118] In another example, the barrier wall 200 may include only a portion 230 of the second organic insulating layer 105 and a portion 220 of the pixel defining layer 106. The barrier wall 200 may be arranged to surround the display area DA, and may prevent the organic encapsulation layer 320 of the thin film encapsulation layer TFE from overflowing outside the substrate 100. Therefore, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may contact the inner surface of the barrier wall 200 facing the display area DA. For example, the description that the organic encapsulation layer 320 contacts the inner surface of the barrier wall 200 may be understood as a description that the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 is between the organic encapsulation layer 320 and the barrier wall 200 and the organic encapsulation layer 320 contacts the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310.

[0119] The first and second inorganic encapsulating layers 310 and 330 may be disposed on (or overlap with) the barrier wall 200 and may extend toward edge portions of the substrate 100 to cover upper and side surfaces of the barrier wall 200. In another example, the barrier wall 200 may be provided in plural.

[0120] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the display device according to the first embodiment, and Figure 5 It is also a schematic cross-sectional view of a part of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0121] From reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the description of the display device, for the convenience of description, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted.

[0122] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the upward direction may be the negative z-axis direction shown in the figure, and the downward direction may be the positive z-axis direction shown in the figure.

[0123] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the display device according to the first embodiment may include a display panel 10, a first cover plate P1, a second cover plate P2, and a side surface covering member 20. For example, the display panel 10 may include a reference Figures 1 to 3 The display panel 10 is described.

[0124] The first cover plate P1 may cover the top surface (or upper surface) of the display panel 10, and may include a step portion SP disposed on at least a portion of an edge portion of the first cover plate P1. The step portion SP may have a step shape whose height decreases from the inside of the first cover plate P1 toward the outside of the first cover plate P1.

[0125] The first cover plate P1 can prevent foreign matter from penetrating into the display panel 10, and can also protect the display panel 10 from external impact. The first cover plate P1 may include transparent glass, plastic, or a metal material. For example, in the case where light generated from the display panel 10 is emitted in a downward direction (e.g., a positive z-axis direction), the first cover plate P1 may include a metal material such as Ag and Al to reflect the light.

[0126] The first cover P1 may include the display area DA and the peripheral area PA described above. The display area DA of the first cover P1 may correspond to the display area DA of the display panel 10 , and the peripheral area PA of the first cover P1 may correspond to the peripheral area PA of the display panel 10 .

[0127] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in , the step portion SP may include an inner surface b1-1 and a bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2. The inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP may extend in a substantially vertical direction relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1. In a plan view, or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP may be arranged inside the side surface of the display panel 10.

[0128] For example, a side closer to the central portion of the display panel 10 may be defined as the inner side, and a side closer to the edge portion or the side surface of the display panel 10 may be defined as the outer side. For example, in a plan view, or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, it may also be described that the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP is arranged more inward than the side surface of the display panel 10, and the side surface of the display panel 10 is arranged more outward than the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP. For example, in a plan view, or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP may be arranged in the overlapping area CA.

[0129] The bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP. The bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1. However, this is merely an example, and in another example, the inner surface b1-1 and the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP may form a curved surface together, and thus may not be physically distinguished from each other.

[0130] In a plan view, or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP may be arranged in an overlapping area CA to be described later. In a plan view, or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, it may be described that the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP is arranged inside the side surface of the display panel 10, and the side surface of the display panel 10 is arranged outside the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP.

[0131] The second cover plate P2 may cover the bottom surface (or lower surface) of the display panel 10. The second cover plate P2 may include a transparent material. For example, the second cover plate P2 may include ultra-thin glass (UTG) as a glass layer. The second cover plate P2 may prevent foreign matter from penetrating into the display panel 10, and may also protect the display panel 10 from external impacts. For example, in the case where light generated from the display panel 10 is emitted in a downward direction (e.g., a positive z-axis direction), the second cover plate P2 may be formed of a transparent glass such as UTG to transmit light.

[0132] In a plan view, or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the second cover plate P2 and the first cover plate P1 may have an overlapping area CA in which the second cover plate P2 and the first cover plate P1 partially overlap each other. In a plan view, or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the second cover plate P2 and the first cover plate P1 may have a non-overlapping area NCA in which the second cover plate P2 and the first cover plate P1 do not partially overlap each other. For example, in a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the area (or size) of the first cover plate P1 may be smaller than the area (or size) of the second cover plate P2.

[0133] The protrusion portion PP may be provided on the second cover plate P2. The protrusion portion PP may be provided in a region of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 that does not overlap with the first cover plate P1 when viewed in a plan view or in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10. The protrusion portion PP may be spaced a certain distance from an edge portion of the first cover plate P1 when viewed in a plan view or in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10.

[0134] The side surface covering member 20 may at least partially cover the side surface of the display panel 10 exposed between the step portion SP and the protrusion portion PP. The side surface covering member 20 may at least partially cover the side surface of the display panel 10 exposed between the first cover plate P1 and the second cover plate P2. For example, the side surface covering member 20 may be defined as a configuration (e.g., a structure or layer) that covers the side surface of the display panel 10 exposed between the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP and the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP. As a result, the side surface covering member 20 may cover or contact at least a portion of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP, the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP, a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and at least a portion of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP.

[0135] The side surface covering member 20 may include a conductive ink composition. For example, the conductive ink composition may include nanoparticles of one or more metals and / or alloys thereof selected from a group including Ag, Au, Cu, Ni, Pd, and Pt. In addition, for example, for nanoparticles of one or more metals, the conductive ink composition may also include a resin. In the case where the side surface covering member 20 includes a conductive ink composition, the display panel 10 may be protected from static electricity caused by the user's touch. The conductive ink composition included in the side surface covering member 20 may be liquid at room temperature. As a result, in the coating process, the conductive ink composition may be coated at or near a specific location. For example, the method of forming the side surface covering member 20 on the side surface of the display panel 10 may include a liquid application method.

[0136] The conductive ink composition included in the side surface covering member 20 may include a UV curable material. The curing conditions of the UV curable material may include: (1) UV dose ≤ 6 (J / cm 2 ); and (2) a thickness of less than 300 μm. For example, the conductive ink composition may have a thixotropic index of 2.0 to 2.6, a 5 (Ω / sq) or less sheet resistance and 1 (GPa) or less shear modulus.

[0137] In another example, the side surface covering member 20 may have a sealing material such as a resin or a corner sealant. In the case of using a side surface covering member 20 including a sealing material, the force (or strength) between the first cover plate P1 and the second cover plate P2 against panel resistance, external impact, etc. can be enhanced. The sealing material such as a corner sealant included in the side surface covering member 20 can be in a liquid state at room temperature. As a result, in an application, the conductive ink composition can be applied at or near a specific location. For example, a method of forming a side surface covering member 20 on the side surface of the display panel 10 may include a liquid application method.

[0138] The sealing material such as the corner sealant included in the side surface covering member 20 may include a UV curable material. The curing conditions of the UV curable material may include: (1) UV dose ≤ 6 (J / cm 2 ); and (2) a thickness of less than 400 μm. For example, the sealing material may have a shear modulus of 10 (MPa) or greater, a shear modulus of 600 (N / cm 2 ) or greater tensile strength and 500(N / cm 2 ) or greater shear strength.

[0139] As a result, the side surface covering member 20 can be applied (or formed) on at least a portion of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP, the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP, at least a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and at least a portion of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP.

[0140] For example, the application area (or covering area) where the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed) on another component can be the area between the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP and the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP, and therefore, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 can be partially defined by the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP and the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP.

[0141] For example, the side surface covering member 20 may also cover at least a portion of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP and the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP. In another example, the side surface covering member 20 may cover at least a portion of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP. For example, the side surface covering member 20 may also cover a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 that is exposed between the display panel 10 and the protrusion portion PP.

[0142] The edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may contact at least a portion of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP, and may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP. For example, the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may be an end portion of the side surface covering member 20 that contacts the step portion SP or is arranged around the step portion SP. The edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may be applied (or formed) on the step portion SP, and thus may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the step portion SP.

[0143] For example, in the case where the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP is a plane, the surface of the edge portion 21 that contacts the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP may also be a plane. For example, in the case where the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP is curved, the surface of the edge portion 21 that contacts the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP may also be curved.

[0144] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in , the protrusion portion PP may protrude relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2. For example, the protrusion portion PP may be arranged on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 in the non-overlap area NCA, and may protrude in the vertical direction from the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2. In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the protrusion portion PP may not overlap with the first cover plate P1.

[0145] The light blocking material layer BM may be disposed on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover substrate P2. In order to prevent light of the display panel 10 from leaking through the non-overlapping area NCA, or to provide an aesthetic effect when the display panel 10 is observed from the outside, the light blocking material layer BM may be disposed on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover substrate P2 in the non-overlapping area NCA.

[0146] In another example, the protrusion portion PP may include a light blocking material. In another example, the protrusion portion PP may include a portion of the light blocking material layer BM, and may protrude in a vertical direction relative to the light blocking material layer BM in addition to the top surface (or upper surface) relative to the second cover substrate P2.

[0147] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in , the protrusion portion PP may include an outer surface b2-1 and a top surface (or upper surface). The outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2. In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP may be arranged outside the side surface of the display panel 10.

[0148] For example, it may be described that the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP is arranged outside the side surface of the display panel 10, and the side surface of the display panel 10 is arranged inside the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP when viewed in a plan view or in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100. For example, the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP may be arranged in the non-overlap area NCA when viewed in a plan view or in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100.

[0149] The top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP. The top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2. However, this is merely an example, and in another example, the outer surface b2-1 and the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP may form a curved surface together, and thus may not be physically distinguished from each other.

[0150] The top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP may be arranged in the non-overlap area NCA in a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100. In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, it may be described that the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP is arranged outside the side surface of the display panel 10, and the side surface of the display panel 10 is arranged inside the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP.

[0151] Another edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 may contact at least a portion of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP and may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP. For example, another edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 may be an end portion of the side surface covering member 20 that contacts the protrusion part PP or is arranged near the protrusion part PP. Another edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 may be applied (or formed) on at least a portion of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP and may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP.

[0152] For example, in the case where the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP is a plane, the surface of the other edge part 22 that contacts the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP may also be a plane. For example, in the case where the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP is curved, the surface of the other edge part 22 that contacts the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion part PP may also be curved.

[0153] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in , the display device according to the first embodiment may further include a polarization layer Pol. The polarization layer Pol may be disposed under the display panel 10. The polarization layer Pol may be disposed between the display panel 10 and the second cover plate P2.

[0154] Among the light emitted from the display panel 10, the polarization layer Pol may transmit only the light vibrating in the same direction as the vibration direction of the polarization axis, but may absorb or reflect the light vibrating in other directions. The polarization layer Pol may include a phase difference layer and a polarizer layer. The phase difference layer may provide a λ / 4 phase difference to two polarization components perpendicular to each other to convert linear polarization into circular polarization or convert circular polarization into linear polarization. The polarizer layer may align the direction of the light transmitted through the phase difference layer, may divide the light into two polarization components orthogonal to each other, and may transmit only one of the components and interrupt or scatter the other of the components. In another example, the polarization layer Pol may be omitted.

[0155] In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the area (or size) of the polarization layer Pol may be smaller than the area (or size) of the first cover plate P1. In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the area (or size) of the polarization layer Pol may be smaller than the area (or size) of the display panel 10. In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the area (or size) of the polarization layer Pol may be smaller than the area (or size) of the second cover plate P2.

[0156] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in , the display device according to the first embodiment may further include an adhesive layer 40. The adhesive layer 40 may be disposed under the display panel 10 and may be disposed between the display panel 10 and the second cover plate P2. For example, the adhesive layer 40 may be disposed under the polarizing layer Pol and may be disposed between the polarizing layer Pol and the second cover plate P2. The adhesive layer 40 may include at least one of an optically clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), a heat-sensitive adhesive, a common adhesive, and a double-sided tape.

[0157] In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the area (or size) of the adhesive layer 40 may be smaller than the area (or size) of the first cover plate P1. In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the area (or size) of the adhesive layer 40 may be smaller than the area (or size) of the display panel 10. In a plan view or when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10, the area (or size) of the adhesive layer 40 may be smaller than the area (or size) of the second cover plate P2.

[0158] like Figure 5 As shown in , the display device may further include a fastening member 30 that contacts or is fastened to the first cover plate P1 and / or the second cover plate P2. In the case of contacting or being fastened to the first cover plate P1 and / or the second cover plate P2, the fastening member 30 may not be interfered with by the side surface covering member 20. For example, in the case of the fastening member 30 contacting or being fastened to the first cover plate P1 and / or the second cover plate P2, the fastening member 30 may be spaced apart from the side surface covering member 20 without contacting.

[0159] For example, in the case where the fastening member 30 is fastened, the side surface covering member 20 may be spaced apart from the fastening member 30 due to the step portion SP. Since the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 is limited by the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP, the side surface covering member 20 may not cover the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1. As a result, the fastening member 30 contacting or fastened to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1 may not be interfered with by the side surface covering member 20.

[0160] For example, in the case where the fastening member 30 is fastened, the side surface covering member 20 may be spaced apart from the fastening member 30 by the protrusion portion PP. Since the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 is limited by the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion portion PP, the side surface covering member 20 may not cover the area outside the protrusion portion PP or the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2. As a result, the fastening member 30 contacting or fastened to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 may not be interfered with by the side surface covering member 20.

[0161] The fastening member 30 may include a first fastening portion 31 contacting or fastened to the first cover plate P1 and a second fastening portion 32 contacting or fastened to the second cover plate P2. The first fastening portion 31 may contact the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1, and the second fastening portion 32 may contact the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP.

[0162] Figure 5The first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 shown in FIG. 3 are shown only as a part of the fastening member 30, and this is only an example for understanding the present invention. For example, the fastening member 30 may also include a configuration other than the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32, and in another example, one of the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may be omitted.

[0163] For example, the fastening member 30 may fasten a housing of the display device, and the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may include portions of the fastening member 30 to fasten the first cover plate P1 , the second cover plate P2 , and the housing.

[0164] like Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the light blocking material layer BM can be arranged on the second cover plate P2. The light blocking material layer BM can be arranged in the non-overlapping area NCA. The light blocking material layer BM as a black matrix can include various materials that can absorb at least a portion of light. For example, the light blocking material layer BM can include at least one of carbon black, graphite, chromium-based materials, dyes, metal-based reflective layers and light absorbing layers. The light blocking material layer BM arranged on the second cover plate P2 in the non-overlapping area NCA can form an edge portion of the display device that is observed as black when the display device is observed from the outside.

[0165] The protrusion portion PP may be included in the light blocking material layer BM (or disposed on the light blocking material layer BM), and may protrude to form the top surface (or upper surface) of the light blocking material layer BM. In another example, the protrusion portion PP may include the same light blocking material as the light blocking material of the light blocking material layer BM. For example, as a part of the light blocking material layer BM, the protrusion portion PP may also be formed simultaneously with the light blocking material layer BM.

[0166] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in , the height of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP may be 0.02 mm or more, but not more than 0.05 mm. The height of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP may be determined to ensure a minimum thickness for conduction and sufficient peel strength, and may be 0.02 mm or more, but not more than 0.05 mm, so as to ensure a minimum height for limiting the application area (or covering area) in which the side surface covering member 20 is coated. The height of the first cover plate P1 including the step portion SP may be 0.07 mm or more.

[0167] The height of the protrusion PP or the height of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion PP may be 0.02 mm or more, but not more than 0.05 mm. In addition to ensuring a minimum height for limiting the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20, the height of the protrusion PP or the height of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion PP may be determined so as to minimize the possibility of interference with the display panel 10.

[0168] The width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP may be 0.1 mm or more, but not more than 0.5 mm. In addition to minimizing interference with the fastening member 30, the width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP may be determined so as to ensure a minimum width for conduction and sufficient peel strength.

[0169] The width of the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protruding portion PP may be 0.3 mm or more, but not more than 1.2 mm. In addition to ensuring stable fastening of the fastening member 30, the width of the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protruding portion PP may be determined so as to form a thin frame.

[0170] Figure 6 It is schematically shown that Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to the schematic plan view of an example of the display panel 10 partially shown with reference to the first axis AX1.

[0171] Figure 7 It is schematically shown that Figure 5 The structure in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to a schematic plan view of another example of the display panel 10 partially shown with reference to the second axis AX2.

[0172] From reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the description of , for the sake of convenience, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted. Figure 6 The cross section taken along the line AA' shown in FIG. 1 may have Figure 5 The structure shown in Figure 7 The cross section taken along the line AA' shown in FIG. 1 may also have Figure 5 The structure shown in .

[0173] like Figure 6As shown in , in the case where the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are fastened, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be interfered with by the side surface covering member 20. The side surface covering member 20 may cover the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP, and may be applied (or formed) to have a first width L1. The first width L1 may be the width of the side surface covering member 20 measured along the y-axis in a plan view. For example, the first width L1 may be substantially the same or similar to the width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP measured along the y-axis in a plan view.

[0174] For example, the first width L1 may be 3 mm or more, but not greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10 on which the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed). In the case where the first width L1 is less than 3 mm, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be firmly fastened to the display panel 10. In the case where the first width L1 is greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are required to be designed to be larger than the display panel 10, which results in unnecessary consumption of space and materials.

[0175] The side surface covering member 20 may be coated to have a width along the y-axis that is the same as or similar to the width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP in a plan view. In another example, there may be a difference due to an error in the application process. In other areas (e.g., the upper edge portion and the lower edge portion of the display device in the y-axis direction), the light blocking material layer BM can be observed in a plan view, and the side surface covering member 20 may be mainly coated in an area corresponding to the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 (e.g., the central edge portion of the display device in the y-axis direction).

[0176] Although an example of a portion of the display panel 10 is shown with reference to the first axis AX1, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may also be applied to other omitted parts. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view may be applied only to one side with reference to the first axis AX1. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may be applicable to two sides with reference to the first axis AX1. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view can be applied to all four sides.

[0177] like Figure 7As shown in , in the case where the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are fastened, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be interfered with by the side surface covering member 20. The side surface covering member 20 may cover the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP, and may be formed to have a first width L1'. The first width L1' may be the width of the side surface covering member 20 measured along the x-axis in a plan view. For example, the first width L1' may be substantially the same as or similar to the width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP measured along the x-axis in a plan view.

[0178] For example, the first width L1' may be 3 mm or more, but not greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10 on which the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed). In the case where the first width L1' is less than 3 mm, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be firmly fastened to the display panel 10. In the case where the first width L1' is greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are required to be designed to be greater than the display panel 10, which results in unnecessary consumption of space and materials.

[0179] The side surface covering member 20 may be formed to have a width along the x-axis that is the same as or similar to the width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP in a plan view. In another example, there may be a difference due to an error in the application process. In other areas (e.g., the left edge portion and the right edge portion of the display device in the x-axis direction), the light blocking material layer BM may be observed in a plan view, and the side surface covering member 20 may be mainly applied (or formed) in an area corresponding to the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 (e.g., the central portion of the display device in the x-axis direction).

[0180] Although an example of a portion of the display panel 10 is shown with reference to the second axis AX2, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may also be applied to other omitted parts. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view may be applied only to one side with reference to the second axis AX2. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may be applicable to two sides with reference to the second axis AX2. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 5 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view can be applied to all four sides.

[0181] Figure 8is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating some operations of the method for manufacturing a display device according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 In the description of the display device, for the convenience of description, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted.

[0182] like Figure 8 As shown in , a portion of the edge portion of the first cover plate P1 may be removed by a laser process or the like. When a portion of the edge portion of the first cover plate P1 is removed, a step portion SP may be formed at the edge portion of the first cover plate P1. The step portion SP formed at the edge portion of the first cover plate P1 may be formed in a step shape in a direction from the inside of the first cover plate P1 toward the outside of the first cover plate P1. For example, the step portion SP may have a step shape whose height decreases toward the outside of the first cover plate P1.

[0183] For example, a method of manufacturing a display device (hereinafter, a manufacturing method) may be as follows.

[0184] The manufacturing method may include: attaching a first cover plate P1 to a top surface (or upper surface) of the display panel 10; attaching a second cover plate P2 on a bottom surface (or lower surface) of the display panel 10 using an adhesive layer 40; and forming a step portion SP by removing a portion of an edge portion of the first cover plate P1. In another example, the manufacturing method may further include forming a polarization layer Pol between the display panel 10 and the adhesive layer 40.

[0185] The forming of the step portion SP by removing a portion of the edge portion of the first cover plate P1 may include forming the step portion SP by applying a laser process, etc., at a specific position of the edge portion of the first cover plate P1.

[0186] The manufacturing method may further include forming a protrusion portion PP on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2. For example, the protrusion portion PP may be arranged in an area where the first cover plate P1 and the second cover plate P2 do not overlap each other when viewed in a plan view or in a direction perpendicular to the display panel 10.

[0187] Forming the protrusion PP on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover substrate P2 may include forming the protrusion PP including the same material as that of the light blocking material layer BM and protruding relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the light blocking material layer BM. In another example, forming the protrusion PP on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover substrate P2 may include attaching the additional curing member AP or curing after attaching the additional curing member AP to the top surface (or upper surface) of the light blocking material layer BM.

[0188] Attachment of the additional curing member AP or curing after attaching the additional curing member AP may be performed on the top surface (or upper surface) b2-2 of the protrusion portion PP. In the case where the height of the protrusion portion PP including the same material as the light blocking material layer BM is insufficient, the additional curing member AP may be used.

[0189] In another example, the additional curing member AP may be adhered (eg, directly adhered) to the top surface (or upper surface) of the light blocking material layer BM, or may be cured after being adhered. For example, the additional curing member AP may correspond to the protrusion portion PP, or may serve as the protrusion portion PP.

[0190] The manufacturing method may further include forming a side surface covering member 20 by applying a strength reinforcing material on at least a portion of the side surface of the display panel 10 exposed between the step portion SP and the protrusion portion PP. For example, the application area (or covering area) of the side surface covering member 20 relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1 may be limited by the step portion SP. The application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 may be limited by the protrusion portion PP.

[0191] The manufacturing method may further include fastening the first cover plate P1 and the second cover plate P2 by the fastening member 30 without interfering with the side surface cover member 20 .

[0192] The step portion SP may limit or define an application area of ​​the side surface cover member 20 so that when the side surface cover member 20 is formed or applied, the side surface cover member 20 may not exceed a certain range of the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1.

[0193] In the case of applying or forming the side surface covering member 20, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be limited or defined by the step portion SP. Therefore, the shape of the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may correspond to the shape of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP. For example, the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may be disposed on the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1. Since the shape of the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 corresponds to the shape of the inner surface b1-1 of the step portion SP, the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may have a step portion relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1.

[0194] The protrusion portion PP may limit or define the application area of ​​the side surface cover member 20 so that when the side surface cover member 20 is formed or applied, the side surface cover member 20 may not exceed a certain range of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2.

[0195] In the case of applying or forming the side surface covering member 20, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 can be limited or defined by the protrusion PP. Therefore, the shape of the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can correspond to the shape of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion PP. For example, the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can be set on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and can be arranged in the non-overlapping area NCA. Since the shape of the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 corresponds to the shape of the outer surface b2-1 of the protrusion PP, the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can have a step portion relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 or the top surface (or upper surface) of the light blocking material layer BM. In another example, the light blocking material layer BM can be set between the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 and the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can be set on the light blocking material layer BM.

[0196] For example, the side surface covering member 20 may cover a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and another edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 may have a stepped portion relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2.

[0197] Fig. 9 It is schematically shown that Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to reference Figure 1 A schematic plan view of an example of a display panel 10 partially shown along a first axis AX1 shown in FIG. 1 , and Fig.10 It is schematically shown that Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to reference Figure 1 1 is a schematic plan view of another example of the display panel 10 partially shown along the second axis AX2 shown in FIG.

[0198] From reference Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the description of , for the sake of convenience, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted. Fig. 9 The cross section taken along the line BB' shown in FIG. 1 may have Figure 8 The structure shown in Fig.10 The cross section taken along the line BB' shown in FIG. 1 may also have Figure 8 The structure shown in .

[0199] like Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , after a portion of the edge portion of the first cover plate P1 is removed by a laser process or the like, a bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP is observed in a plan view. Figure 8 Similarly, for convenience of explanation, the side surface covering member 20 is omitted.

[0200] Although an example of a portion of the display panel 10 is shown with reference to the first axis AX1, Figure 8 The structure of the schematic cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 1 may also be applied to other omitted parts. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view may be applicable only to one side with reference to the first axis AX1. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 8 The structure shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may be applicable to two sides with reference to the first axis AX1. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view can be applied to all four sides.

[0201] Although the side surface covering member 20 is omitted for ease of explanation, the side surface covering member 20 may cover the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP and may be formed to have a second width L2. The second width L2 may be a width of the side surface covering member 20 measured along the y-axis in a plan view. For example, the second width L2 may be substantially the same as or similar to a width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP measured along the y-axis in a plan view. Based on reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 From the description, the application characteristics of the side surface covering member 20 can be clearly understood.

[0202] For example, the second width L2 may be 3 mm or more, but not greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10 on which the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed). In the case where the second width L2 is less than 3 mm, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be firmly fastened to the display panel 10. In the case where the second width L2 is greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are required to be designed to be greater than the display panel 10, which results in unnecessary consumption of space and materials.

[0203] The side surface covering member 20 may be coated to have the same or similar width along the y-axis as the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP in a plan view, and in another example, there may be a difference due to an error in the application process. In other areas, the light blocking material layer BM can be observed in a plan view. Although the description of the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 is omitted for ease of explanation, based on reference Figure 6 and Figure 7The description of the first fastening part 31 and the second fastening part 32 can be clearly understood. Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the side surface covering member 20 may still be mainly applied (or formed) in the regions corresponding to the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 .

[0204] like Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , after a portion of the edge portion of the first cover plate P1 is removed by a laser process or the like, a bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP is observed in a plan view. Figure 8 Similarly, for convenience of explanation, the side surface covering member 20 is omitted.

[0205] Although an example of a portion of the display panel 10 is shown with reference to the second axis AX2, Figure 8 The structure of the schematic cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 1 may also be applied to other omitted parts. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view may be applied only to one side with reference to the second axis AX2. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may be applicable to two sides with reference to the second axis AX2. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Figure 8 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view can be applied to all four sides.

[0206] Although the side surface covering member 20 is omitted for ease of explanation, the side surface covering member 20 may cover the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP and may be formed to have a second width L2'. The second width L2' may be a width of the side surface covering member 20 measured along the x-axis in a plan view. For example, the second width L2' may be substantially the same as or similar to a width of the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP measured along the x-axis in a plan view. Based on reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 From the description, the application characteristics of the side surface covering member 20 can be clearly understood.

[0207] For example, the second width L2' may be 3 mm or more, but not greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10 on which the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed). In the case where the second width L2' is less than 3 mm, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be firmly fastened to the display panel 10. In the case where the second width L2' is greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are required to be designed to be greater than the display panel 10, which results in unnecessary consumption of space and materials.

[0208] The side surface covering member 20 may be formed to have the same or similar width along the x-axis as the bottom surface (or lower surface) b1-2 of the step portion SP in a plan view. In another example, there may be a difference due to an error in the application process. In other areas, the light blocking material layer BM may be observed in a plan view. Although the description of the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 is omitted for ease of explanation, based on reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The description of the first fastening part 31 and the second fastening part 32 can be clearly understood. Fig.10 In the embodiment, the side surface covering member 20 may still be mainly applied (or formed) in the regions corresponding to the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 .

[0209] Fig.11 and Fig.12 are cross-sectional views each schematically illustrating an operation of a method of manufacturing a display device according to a second embodiment.

[0210] From reference Fig.11 and Fig.12 In the description of the display device, for the convenience of description, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted.

[0211] like Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown in, the manufacturing method of the display device according to the second embodiment may include: attaching a first cover plate P1 to the top surface (or upper surface) of the display panel 10; attaching a second cover plate P2 to the bottom surface (or lower surface) of the display panel 10 using an adhesive layer 40; forming a step portion SP having a thickness (also referred to as a height) the same as the thickness of the first protective layer PL1 relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1 by attaching a first protective layer PL1 to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1; forming a protrusion portion PP protruding at the same height as the thickness of the second protective layer PL2 relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 by attaching a second protective layer PL2 to an upwardly exposed portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2; forming a side surface covering member 20 by applying a strength reinforcing material to at least a portion of the side surface of the display panel 10 exposed between the step portion SP and the protrusion portion PP; and removing the first protective layer PL1 or the second protective layer PL2 after forming the side surface covering member 20.

[0212] The manufacturing method may further include fastening the first cover plate P1 and the second cover plate P2 by the fastening member 30 without interfering with the side surface covering member 20. Since the application area (or the covering area) of the side surface covering member 20 is restricted or defined by the removed first protective layer PL1 and the second protective layer PL2, the first protective layer PL1 may be attached to the first cover plate P1 and may be removed in consideration of the position of the first cover plate P1 to which the fastening member 30 is fastened, and the second protective layer PL2 may be attached to the second cover plate P2 or the light blocking material layer BM and may be removed in consideration of the position of the second cover plate P2 to which the fastening member 30 is fastened.

[0213] In the second embodiment, the step portion SP as a step structure formed between the first protection layer PL1 and the first cover plate P1 may have a step having the same height as the thickness of the first protection layer PL1. The application area of ​​the side surface cover member 20 may be limited or defined by the step portion SP.

[0214] In the second embodiment, the protrusion portion PP as a step structure formed between the second protective layer PL2 and the second cover plate P2 may have a step portion having the same height as the thickness of the second protective layer PL2. The area in which the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed) may be limited or defined by the protrusion portion PP.

[0215] The first protective layer PL1 may be attached to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1. The first protective layer PL1 may protect at least a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1 from foreign matter, external impact, and the like. The first protective layer PL1 may be removed during the manufacturing process. The first protective layer PL1 may be removed after the side surface covering member 20 is applied, before the first cover plate P1 and the fastening member 30 are fastened to each other.

[0216] For example, the first protection layer PL1 may include at least one from among a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), an optically clear adhesive (OCA), and an optically clear resin (OCR), and may include a pressure sensitive adhesive having weak adhesion.

[0217] A second protective layer PL2 may be disposed on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2. For example, the second protective layer PL2 may be disposed in the non-overlapping area NCA. Therefore, the second protective layer PL2 may be disposed on the light blocking material layer BM disposed in the non-overlapping area NCA. The second protective layer PL2 may protect at least a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 from foreign matter, external impact, and the like. The second protective layer PL2 may be removed during the manufacturing process. Before the second cover plate P2 and the fastening member 30 are fastened to each other, the second protective layer PL2 may be removed after the side surface covering member 20 is applied.

[0218] The first protective layer PL1 may be used as the step portion SP in the first embodiment described above. The first protective layer PL1 may limit or define the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 so that when the side surface covering member 20 is formed or applied, the side surface covering member 20 may not exceed a specific range of the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1.

[0219] In the case of applying or forming the side surface covering member 20, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be limited or defined by the first protective layer PL1, and therefore, the shape of the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may correspond to the shape of the side surface of the first protective layer PL1. For example, the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may be provided on the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1. Since the shape of the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 corresponds to the shape of the side surface of the first protective layer PL1, after removing the first protective layer PL1, the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may have a stepped portion relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1.

[0220] The second protective layer PL2 can be used as the protruding portion PP in the first embodiment described above. The second protective layer PL2 can limit or define the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20, so that when the side surface covering member 20 is formed or applied, the side surface covering member 20 may not exceed a specific range of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2.

[0221] In the case of applying or forming the side surface covering member 20, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 can be limited or defined by the second protective layer PL2, and therefore, the shape of the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can correspond to the shape of the side surface of the second protective layer PL2. For example, the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can be set on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and can be arranged in the non-overlapping area NCA. Since the shape of the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 corresponds to the shape of the side surface of the second protective layer PL2, after removing the second protective layer PL2, the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can have a step portion relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 or the top surface (or upper surface) of the light blocking material layer BM. In another example, the light blocking material layer BM can be arranged between the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 and the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 can be set on the light blocking material layer BM.

[0222] For example, the side surface covering member 20 may cover a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, and another edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 may have a stepped portion relative to the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2.

[0223] Fig.13 It is schematically shown that Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to reference Figure 1 A schematic plan view of an example of a display panel 10 in which the first axis AX1 shown in FIG. 1 is only partially shown, and Fig.14 It is schematically shown that Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view is applicable to reference Figure 1 Schematic plan view of another example of a display panel 10 in which the second axis AX2 shown in FIG. 1 is only partially shown.

[0224] From reference Fig.13 and Fig.14 In the description of , for the sake of convenience, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted. Fig.13 The cross section taken along the line CC' shown in FIG. 1 may have Fig.11 The structure shown in Fig.14 The cross section taken along the line CC' shown in FIG. 1 may also have Fig.11 The structure shown in .

[0225] like Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first protective layer PL1 and the second protective layer PL2 which restrict or define the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 are viewed in a plan view.

[0226] Although an example of a portion of the display panel 10 is shown with reference to the first axis AX1, Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may also be applied to other omitted parts. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view may be applicable only to one side with reference to the first axis AX1. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may be applied to two sides of the display panel 10 with reference to the first axis AX1. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view can be applied to all four sides.

[0227] The side surface covering member 20 may cover a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1, and the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be limited or defined by the first protective layer PL1. In a plan view, in the x-axis direction, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be limited or defined by the first protective layer PL1 and the second protective layer PL2. In a plan view, in the y-axis direction, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may have a third width L3. The third width L3 may be the width of the side surface covering member 20 measured along the y-axis in the plan view. For example, the third width L3 may be substantially the same as or similar to the width of the recessed area of ​​the first protective layer PL1 measured along the y-axis in the plan view. Based on reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 From the description, the application characteristics of the side surface covering member 20 can be clearly understood.

[0228] For example, the third width L3 may be 3 mm or more, but not greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10 on which the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed). In the case where the third width L3 is less than 3 mm, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be firmly fastened to the display panel 10. In the case where the third width L3 is greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are required to be designed to be larger than the display panel 10, which results in unnecessary consumption of space and materials.

[0229] The side surface covering member 20 may be formed to have the same width as the width of the recessed area of ​​the first protective layer PL1 along the y-axis, and in another example, there may be a difference due to an error in the application process. In other areas, the light blocking material layer BM can be observed in a plan view. Although the description of the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 is omitted for ease of explanation, based on reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The description of the first fastening part 31 and the second fastening part 32 can be clearly understood. Fig.13 In the embodiment, the side surface covering member 20 may still be mainly applied (or formed) in the regions corresponding to the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 .

[0230] like Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first protective layer PL1 and the second protective layer PL2 which restrict or define the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 are viewed in a plan view.

[0231] Although an example of a portion of the display panel 10 is shown with reference to the second axis AX2, Fig.11The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may also be applied to other omitted parts. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view may be applied only to one side with reference to the second axis AX2. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 may be applied to two sides of the display panel 10 with reference to the second axis AX2. For example, in the case where the display panel 10 has a square shape including four sides, Fig.11 The structure shown in the schematic cross-sectional view can be applied to all four sides.

[0232] The side surface covering member 20 may cover a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1, and the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be limited or defined by the first protective layer PL1. In a plan view, in the y-axis direction, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be limited or defined by the first protective layer PL1 and the second protective layer PL2. In a plan view, in the x-axis direction, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may have a third width L3'. The third width L3' may be the width of the side surface covering member 20 measured along the x-axis in the plan view. For example, the third width L3' may be substantially the same as or similar to the width of the recessed area of ​​the first protective layer PL1 measured along the x-axis in the plan view. Based on reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 From the description, the application characteristics of the side surface covering member 20 can be clearly understood.

[0233] For example, the third width L3' may be 3 mm or more, but not greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10 on which the side surface covering member 20 is applied (or formed). In the case where the third width L3' is less than 3 mm, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 may not be firmly fastened to the display panel 10. In the case where the third width L3' is greater than the length of the side of the display panel 10, the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 are required to be designed to be greater than the display panel 10, which results in unnecessary consumption of space and materials.

[0234] The side surface covering member 20 may be formed to have the same width as the width of the recessed area of ​​the first protective layer PL1 along the x-axis, and in another example, there may be a difference due to an error in the application process. In other areas, the light blocking material layer BM can be observed in a plan view. Although the description of the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 is omitted for ease of explanation, based on the reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The description of the first fastening part 31 and the second fastening part 32 can be clearly understood. Fig.14 In the embodiment, the side surface covering member 20 may still be mainly applied (or formed) in the regions corresponding to the first fastening portion 31 and the second fastening portion 32 .

[0235] Fig.15 and Fig.16 are cross-sectional views each schematically showing a portion of a display device according to a comparative example. Fig.15 and Fig.16 In the description of the display device, for the convenience of description, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted.

[0236] like Fig.15 As shown in , the side surface covering member 20 of the display device according to the comparative example can be applied (or formed) on the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1. The application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 formed on the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1 is not limited by the step portion or the like, and therefore, the side surface covering member 20 may be widely applied (or formed) along the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1.

[0237] like Fig.15 As shown in , the side surface covering member 20 of the display device according to the comparative example may be applied (or formed) on a portion of the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2, or applied (or formed) on the light blocking material layer BM provided on the second cover plate P2. Since the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 formed on the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 or on the light blocking material layer BM may not be limited by a step portion or the like, and therefore, the side surface covering member 20 may be widely applied (or formed) along the top surface (or upper surface) of the second cover plate P2 or the top surface (or upper surface) of the light blocking material layer BM.

[0238] like Fig.16 As shown in , the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 of the display device according to the comparative example may be disposed on the first cover plate P1, and may interfere with the fastening member 30 when fastened with the fastening member 30. For example, the first fastening portion 31 of the fastening member 30 fastened to the first cover plate P1 and the edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 may interfere with each other.

[0239] like Fig.16As shown in , the other edge portion 22 of the side surface cover member 20 of the display device according to the comparative example may be disposed on the second cover plate P2, and in a case where the other edge portion 22 of the side surface cover member 20 of the display device is fastened to the fastening member 30, may interfere with the fastening member 30. For example, the second fastening portion 32 of the fastening member 30 fastened to the second cover plate P2 and the other edge portion 22 of the side surface cover member 20 may interfere with each other.

[0240] Due to interference, the fastening member 30 may not be properly fastened to the display panel 10. In order to solve the aforementioned problem, the position for fastening the fastening member 30 or the position of the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be changed. However, in the case where the position for fastening the fastening member 30 or the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 is changed, the side surface covering member 20 may not be applied (or formed) at the most suitable position. Therefore, the stability and reliability of the display device may be deteriorated. Therefore, it is important to apply or form the side surface covering member 20 by a method by which interference is prevented.

[0241] Fig.17 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a display device according to another comparative example. Fig.17 In the description of the display device, for the convenience of description, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted.

[0242] In order to minimize the Fig.15 and Fig.16 The interference caused by the side surface covering member 20 shown in Fig.17 As shown in , it is possible to reduce the amount of material included in the side surface covering member 20. As a result, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 can be reduced.

[0243] like Fig.17 As shown in , in the case where a small amount of material is applied to apply or form the side surface covering member 20, the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 covering the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1 can be reduced. However, due to the reduction in the thickness of the side surface covering member 20, the display panel 10 may not be effectively protected. In another example, a portion of the side surface of the display panel 10 or the side surface of the first cover plate P1 may be exposed to the outside. Therefore, it is necessary to use a sufficient amount of material to form the side surface covering member 20, but limit or define the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20.

[0244] Fig.18 and Fig.19 are cross-sectional views each schematically showing a portion of a display device according to another comparative example. Fig.18 and Fig.19In the description of the display device, for the convenience of description, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted.

[0245] like Fig.18 As shown in , the side surface covering member 20 of the display device according to another embodiment may not reach (or cover) the top surface (or upper surface) of the first cover plate P1, and may cover only at least a portion of the side surface of the display panel 10. For example, the side surface covering member 20 may be used as a corner sealing portion by using a resin or the like.

[0246] like Fig.19 As shown in FIG. 1 , an edge portion 21 of the side surface covering member 20 of the display device according to another comparative example may contact the side surface of the display panel 10, and another edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 of the display device according to another comparative example may be disposed on the second cover plate P2. In the case where the fastening member 30 is fastened, the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 may interfere with the fastening member 30. For example, the second fastening portion 32 of the fastening member 30 fastened to the second cover plate P2 and the other edge portion 22 of the side surface covering member 20 may interfere with each other.

[0247] Due to interference, the fastening member 30 may not be properly fastened to the display panel 10. In order to solve the aforementioned problem, the position for fastening the fastening member 30 or the position of the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 may be changed. However, in the case where the position for fastening the fastening member 30 or the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 is changed, the side surface covering member 20 may not be applied (or formed) at the most suitable position. Therefore, the stability and reliability of the display device may be deteriorated. Therefore, it is important to apply or form the side surface covering member 20 by a method by which interference is prevented.

[0248] Fig. 20 is a schematic rear view schematically showing the display device according to the first embodiment or the second embodiment. Fig. 20 In the description of the display device, for the convenience of description, the same or repeated descriptions as those written above may be omitted.

[0249] like Fig. 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , the most suitable position of the side surface covering member 20 and the position for fastening the fastening member 30 may overlap each other. For example, interference may occur between the fastening member 30 and the side surface covering member 20 .

[0250] Therefore, in order to prevent interference, the position for fastening the fastening member 30 or the position for applying the side surface covering member 20 may be changed. However, for example, the fastening member 30 may not be fastened at or the side surface covering member 20 may not be arranged at the most suitable position. For example, in order to improve the aesthetics, it may be necessary to fasten the fastening member 30 to a specific position. In another example, it may be necessary to fasten the fastening member 30 to a specific position to meet the requirements of the client company. Therefore, generally, the position for applying the side surface covering member 20 may be changed to prevent interference.

[0251] Fig.21 It shows that according to Fig. 20 4 is a graph showing the results of comparing the peel strength at the positions of the side surface covering members 20 of the display device.

[0252] like Fig.21 As shown in , the difference in peel strength according to the position of the side surface covering member 20 is recognized. For example, the side surface covering member 20 may be applied (or formed) at four positions, and the four positions may be divided into upper left, lower left, upper right, and lower right. It is to be recognized that in Fig. 20 The peel strength at the most suitable position of the side surface covering member 20 shown in FIG. 1 is much greater than that at Fig. 20 The peel strength at the changed position of the side surface covering member 20 shown in FIG.

[0253] Therefore, it is necessary to restrict or limit the application area of ​​the side surface covering member 20 to avoid interference in a case where the most suitable position of the side surface covering member 20 and the position for fastening the fastening member 30 overlap each other.

[0254] According to one or more embodiments, a display device capable of preventing interference between the side surface covering member 20 and the fastening member 30 applied (or formed) to the side surface of the display panel 10 and a method of manufacturing the display device may be implemented. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0255] At the end of the detailed description, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing substantially from the principles and spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments are used in a general and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display panel; a first cover plate covering an upper surface of the display panel and comprising a step portion provided at an edge portion of the first cover plate; a second cover plate, covering the lower surface of the display panel; a protrusion portion disposed on an upper surface of the second cover plate and not overlapping the first cover plate when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel; as well as A side surface covering member at least partially covers a side surface of the display panel exposed between the step portion and the protrusion portion.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The step portion has a step shape having a height decreasing from the inside of the first cover plate toward the outside of the first cover plate.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member is partially defined by an inner surface of the step portion and an outer surface of the protruding portion.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The protrusion portion protrudes relative to the upper surface of the second cover plate and includes a light blocking material.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The side surface covering member also covers at least a portion of an inner surface of the step portion and a lower surface of the step portion.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The side surface covering member also covers a portion of the upper surface of the second cover plate that is exposed between the display panel and the protruding portion.

7. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: An adhesive layer is disposed between the second cover plate and the display panel.

8. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A fastening member contacts the first cover plate and the second cover plate and is not interfered by the side surface covering member in a case where the fastening member contacts the first cover plate and the second cover plate.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: In a state where the fastening member is fastened, the side surface covering member is spaced apart from the fastening member by the step portion.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein: In a state where the fastening member is fastened, the side surface covering member is spaced apart from the fastening member by the protruding portion.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The second cover plate comprises a transparent material, and Light emitted from the display panel is transmitted through the second cover plate and emitted to the outside.

12. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a light blocking material layer disposed between the protruding portion and the second cover plate and comprising a light blocking material, Wherein, the protruding portion is arranged on the light blocking material layer.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: When viewed in the direction perpendicular to the display panel, an inner surface of the step portion is disposed more inward than the side surface of the display panel.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: An edge portion of the side surface cover member contacts at least a portion of an inner surface of the step portion.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The edge portion of the side surface covering member has a shape corresponding to a shape of the inner surface of the step portion.

16. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The other edge portion of the side surface covering member contacts at least a portion of an outer surface of the protruding portion.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein: The other edge portion of the side surface covering member has a shape corresponding to a shape of the outer surface of the protruding portion.

18. A method for manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: attaching a first cover plate on an upper surface of the display panel; attaching a second cover plate on a lower surface of the display panel by using an adhesive layer; forming a step portion by removing a portion of an edge portion of the first cover plate; forming a protrusion on the upper surface of the second cover plate; as well as The side surface covering member is formed by applying a strength reinforcing material on at least a portion of a side surface of the display panel exposed between the step portion and the protrusion portion.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The protrusion portion is disposed in a region where the first cover plate and the second cover plate do not overlap each other when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel.

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein: A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the first cover plate is limited by the step portion.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein: A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the second cover plate is limited by the protruding portion.

22. The method of claim 18, further comprising: The first cover plate and the second cover plate are fastened by a fastening member without interfering with the side surface covering member.

23. A display device comprising: Display panel; A first cover plate, covering an upper surface of the display panel; a second cover plate, covering the lower surface of the display panel; as well as A side surface covering member covers at least a portion of a side surface of the display panel and at least a portion of an edge portion of an upper surface of the first cover plate, and includes an edge portion having a step portion on the upper surface of the first cover plate.

24. The display device according to claim 23, wherein: The side surface covering member covers a portion of the upper surface of the second cover plate, and The other edge portion of the side surface cover member has a step portion on the upper surface of the second cover plate.

25. The display device according to claim 24, further comprising: A light blocking material layer is provided between the other edge portion of the side surface covering member and the upper surface of the second cover plate.

26. A method for manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: attaching a first cover plate on an upper surface of the display panel; attaching a second cover plate on a lower surface of the display panel by using an adhesive layer; forming a step portion relative to the upper surface of the first cover plate by attaching a first protective layer on the upper surface of the first cover plate, the step portion and the first protective layer having the same thickness; forming a protruding portion protruding relative to the upper surface of the second cover plate by attaching a second protective layer on a portion of the upper surface of the second cover plate that is exposed upward, the protruding portion and the second protective layer having the same thickness; forming a side surface covering member by applying a strength reinforcing material on at least a portion of a side surface of the display panel exposed between the step portion and the protrusion portion; and The first protective layer or the second protective layer is removed after the side surface covering member is formed.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein: The protrusion portion is disposed in a region where the first cover plate and the second cover plate do not overlap each other when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the display panel.

28. The method according to claim 26, wherein: A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the first cover plate is limited by the step portion.

29. The method according to claim 26, wherein: A covering area of ​​the side surface covering member on the upper surface of the second cover plate is limited by the protruding portion.

30. The method of claim 26, further comprising: The first cover plate and the second cover plate are fastened by a fastening member without interfering with the side surface covering member.

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