Display device

Abstract

A display device includes: a cover window including a first surface; the display panel is arranged on the first surface; and a cover panel disposed on the display panel and including a second surface facing the cover window, and a third surface disposed on an opposite side of the second surface. The first surface and the second surface are curved surfaces, and the third surface is a flat surface.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0142710, filed on October 24, 2023, and all rights and benefits therefrom, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a display device. Background Art

[0003] As information-oriented society progresses, more and more requirements are placed on display devices that display images in various ways. The display device may be a flat panel display device such as a liquid crystal display, a field emission display, and a light-emitting display. The light-emitting display device may include an organic light-emitting display device or a light-emitting diode display device, the organic light-emitting display device includes an organic light-emitting diode element as a light-emitting element, and the light-emitting diode display device includes an inorganic light-emitting diode element such as a light-emitting diode ("LED") as a light-emitting element.

[0004] In order to improve the aesthetics, a flexible display device has emerged in which an edge portion of the display device is bent to have a predetermined curvature. To cope with this, research on a cover window including a curved surface is being actively conducted. Summary of the invention

[0005] An aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a display device having improved aesthetics.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure also provides a display device that minimizes cracks in circuit components.

[0007] However, the features of the present disclosure are not limited to the features set forth herein. The above and other features of the present disclosure will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains by referring to the detailed description of the present disclosure given below.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, comprising: a cover window including a first surface; a display panel arranged on the first surface; and a cover panel arranged on the display panel and including a second surface facing the cover window and a third surface arranged on the opposite side of the second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are curved, and the third surface is flat.

[0009] In one embodiment, the display panel is curved along the first surface.

[0010] In one embodiment, the curvature of the first surface and the curvature of the second surface are the same as each other.

[0011] In one embodiment, the radius of curvature of the first surface is 100 mm to 200 mm.

[0012] In one embodiment, the cover panel includes: a buffer layer disposed on the display panel; a bonding layer disposed on the buffer layer; and a supporting layer disposed on the bonding layer and including a fourth surface facing the cover window and a fifth surface disposed on the opposite side of the fourth surface, wherein the fourth surface is curved and the fifth surface is flat.

[0013] In one embodiment, the curvature of the first surface and the curvature of the fourth surface are the same as each other.

[0014] In one embodiment, the support layer comprises at least one of polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polycarbonate ("PC"), polyethylene ("PE"), polypropylene ("PP"), polysulfone ("PSF"), polymethyl methacrylate ("PMMA"), triacetyl cellulose ("TAC"), and cycloolefin polymer ("COP").

[0015] In one embodiment, the buffer layer and the bonding layer are curved along the shape of the fourth surface.

[0016] In an embodiment, the cover panel further includes at least one of a cover spacer and a heat dissipation layer disposed on the fifth surface, and the cover spacer and the heat dissipation layer have flat surfaces.

[0017] In one embodiment, the heat dissipation layer includes at least one of copper, silver, gold, aluminum, nickel, stainless steel ("SUS"), graphite, and carbon nanotubes.

[0018] In one embodiment, the outermost thickness of the cover panel is smaller than the central thickness of the cover panel.

[0019] In one embodiment, the display device may include a driving board disposed on the third surface, wherein the driving board is flat along the third surface.

[0020] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a circuit component disposed (eg, mounted) on the driving board, wherein the circuit component is disposed on a flat surface of the driving board.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, including: a display panel; an upper module, arranged on a first surface of the display panel; a cover window, arranged on the upper module and having a dome shape; a dome-shaped lower module, arranged on a second surface of the display panel opposite to the first surface and including a flat bottom surface; and a driving board, arranged on the bottom surface of the lower module.

[0022] In one embodiment, the driving plate is flat along the bottom surface of the lower module.

[0023] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a circuit component disposed on the driving board, wherein the circuit component is disposed on a flat surface of the driving board.

[0024] In one embodiment, the display panel is bent along the shape of the cover window.

[0025] In one embodiment, the upper module is bent along the shape of the cover window.

[0026] In one embodiment, the upper module comprises: an anti-reflection layer disposed on the first surface of the display panel; and an adhesive layer disposed on the anti-reflection layer, wherein the adhesive layer is in direct contact with the cover window.

[0027] In one embodiment, the lower module includes: a supporting film disposed on the second surface of the display panel; and a cover panel disposed on the supporting film, wherein the cover panel may have a dome shape and include a flat bottom surface.

[0028] According to the embodiment of the display device according to the present disclosure, aesthetics can be improved.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the display device according to the present disclosure, cracks in circuit components may be minimized.

[0030] However, the effects in the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects exemplified above, and various other effects are incorporated herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The above and other embodiments, advantages and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a display device;

[0033] Figure 2 is a front view of an embodiment of a display driving module in an unfolded state;

[0034] Figure 3 is a rear view of an embodiment of a display driving module in an unfolded state;

[0035] Figure 4 is a rear view of an embodiment of a display driving module in a bent state;

[0036] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A schematic side view of an embodiment of a display driving module in a bent state, taken along line X1-X1';

[0037] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a stacking structure of a display module;

[0038] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover window;

[0039] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a main body unit;

[0040] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 An enlarged view of region A;

[0041] Fig.10 yes Figure 8 An enlarged view of region B;

[0042] Fig.11 is an exploded perspective view showing an embodiment of a cover panel;

[0043] Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel;

[0044] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a main body unit;

[0045] Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel;

[0046] Fig.15 is an exploded perspective view showing an embodiment of a cover panel;

[0047] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a main body unit;

[0048] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel;

[0049] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a main body unit; and

[0050] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Instead, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be exhaustive and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0052] It will also be understood that when a layer is referred to as being “on” another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or intervening layers may also be present. Like reference numerals refer to like components throughout the specification.

[0053] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this article, the "first element", "component", "region", "layer" or "section" discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0054] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, the singular forms "one" and "the" are intended to include plural forms, including "at least one", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "Or" means "and / or". As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "include" or "comprise" when used in this specification clearly indicate the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups.

[0055] In addition, relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element as illustrated in the figure. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure, relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device. For example, if the device in one figure is turned over, the element described as being on the "lower" side of the other element will then be oriented on the "upper" side of the other element. Therefore, the exemplary term "lower" can cover both "lower" and "upper" orientations, depending on the specific orientation of the figure. Similarly, if the device in one figure is turned over, the element described as being "below" or "under" the other elements will then be oriented "above" the other elements. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" or "under" can cover both upper and lower orientations.

[0056] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" includes the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation of the particular value determined by one of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). The term "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, e.g., within ±30%, 20%, 10%, 5% of the stated value.

[0057] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such herein.

[0058] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a display device.

[0060] refer to Figure 1 In one embodiment, the display device 1 may include a main body unit BP and a wearable part BD. In this document, the display device 1 is exemplified as a smart watch, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the display device 1 may be various display devices 1, such as a smart phone, a television, and a computer.

[0061] The main body unit BP may include a display driving module 10 on which an image is displayed, a cover window 20, a coupling member 40, a middle frame 50, and a lower cover 60. The lower cover 60, the middle frame 50, the coupling member 40, the display driving module 10, and the cover window 20 may be sequentially arranged in the main body unit BP.

[0062] The display driving module 10 may include a display panel 100. The display panel 100 may be a screen that displays various information, content, user interface, etc. as images. The display panel 100 may be an organic light emitting display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, etc., but is not limited thereto. The display panel 100 may include a display area DA that displays an image and a non-display area NDA disposed around the display area DA. Figure 1 As shown in , the shape of the display panel 100 may be substantially circular in a plan view, but is not limited thereto, and may have various shapes including an ellipse or a polygon such as a quadrilateral.

[0063] The cover window 20 may be disposed on the top of the display driving module 10 to protect the display driving module 10. The cover window 20 may transmit light emitted from the display driving module 10. In some embodiments, the cover window 20 may include a light blocking portion to block a portion of the light emitted from the display driving module 10.

[0064] The cover window 20 may include a transparent plastic material, a glass material, or a tempered glass material or may be composed of a transparent plastic material, a glass material, or a tempered glass material. In one embodiment, the cover window 20 may include any one of sapphire glass and gorilla glass or may be composed of any one of sapphire glass and gorilla glass, or may have a stacked structure thereof. In another embodiment, the cover window 20 may include any one of polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polycarbonate ("PC"), polyethersulfone ("PES"), polyethylene naphthalate ("PEN"), and polynorbornene ("PNB"). Considering scratch resistance and transparency, the cover window 20 may include tempered glass or may be composed of tempered glass.

[0065] The cover window 20 may be arranged to overlap with the display driving module 10 and cover the entire surface of the display driving module 10. The cover window 20 may have a shape substantially similar to the display driving module 10 in a plan view, but its size may be larger than the size of the display driving module 10. In one embodiment, the cover window 20 may protrude outwardly from the display driving module 10. The shape of the cover window 20 in a plan view may, for example, be the same as the shape of the main body unit BP in a plan view. In one embodiment, the planar shape of the cover window 20 may be substantially a circular shape, but is not limited thereto, and may be various shapes, for example, a polygonal shape such as a quadrilateral shape, or, for example, an elliptical shape.

[0066] In some embodiments, the cover window 20 may have a three-dimensional shape. In one embodiment, the cover window 20 may have a dome shape. In one embodiment, the cover window 20 may, for example, have a shape that is convex toward the display surface. In another embodiment, the cover window 20 may have a shape that is concave on the opposite side of the display surface. The display surface may be a surface (e.g., a top surface in the figure) disposed in a direction in which light emitted from the display panel 100 passes through the cover window 20 and leaves. Figure 7 The shape of the cover window 20 is described.

[0067] In some embodiments, the cover window 20 may include a central portion 21 and an outer portion 22 .

[0068] The central portion 21 may be disposed at the center of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, the central portion 21 may correspond to the display area DA of the display driving module 10. The central portion 21 of the cover window 20 may cover the entire display area DA of the display driving module 10, but is not limited thereto, and may only cover a portion of the display area DA of the display driving module 10.

[0069] In some embodiments, the center portion 21 may include a curved surface. In one embodiment, for example, the top surface and the bottom surface of the center portion 21 may be curved surfaces. In one embodiment, the top surface of the center portion 21 may be a curved surface convex toward the display surface, and the bottom surface of the center portion 21 may be a curved surface concave on the opposite surface of the display surface. The top surface and the bottom surface of the center portion 21 may be curved surfaces that are convexly curved toward the display surface.

[0070] The outer portion 22 may be disposed around the central portion 21. The outer portion 22 may be disposed to surround the central portion 21. The outer portion 22 may be bent from the central portion 21 and be curved. The outer portion 22 may be bent from an edge of the central portion 21.

[0071] In one embodiment, the outer portion 22 may include a curved surface having a predetermined curvature. In another embodiment, the outer portion 22 may include a flat surface. In another embodiment, the outer portion 22 may include both a flat surface and a curved surface having different curvatures.

[0072] The curvature of the central portion 21 and the curvature of the outer portion 22 may be constant for each region, but they are not limited thereto and may vary for each region. In one embodiment, for example, the central portion 21 and the outer portion 22 may have a curved shape and be inclined at different angles in each region. The central portion 21 and the outer portion 22 may have different curvatures in each region. Since the central portion 21 and the outer portion 22 are bent into a curved shape, the cover window 20 may be represented as a three-dimensional window or a three-dimensional sidewall window. The display device 1 in the illustrated embodiment may include a cover window 20 having a three-dimensional shape (e.g., a dome shape) to improve the aesthetic feeling of the user.

[0073] The coupling member 40 may be disposed between the cover window 20 and the middle frame 50. The coupling member 40 may couple the cover window 20 and the middle frame 50 to each other. The coupling member 40 may be an adhesive tape in which an adhesive material is applied to opposite sides of the coupling member 40 and has a waterproof or dustproof function.

[0074] The coupling member 40 may be disposed along the edge of the intermediate frame 50. In some embodiments, the coupling member 40 may have an annular shape with a perforated central portion in a plan view. In one embodiment, for example, the coupling member 40 may have a donut-shaped or annular shape in a plan view. In a plan view, the shape and size of the coupling member 40 may correspond to the shape and size of the intermediate frame 50. In one embodiment, for example, in a plan view, when the intermediate frame 50 has a circular shape, the coupling member 40 may also have a circular shape.

[0075] The middle frame 50 may be disposed between the cover window 20 and the lower cover 60. The middle frame 50 may be an intermediate coupling member for coupling the cover window 20 to the lower cover 60. In an embodiment, for example, the middle frame 50 may include a bracket.

[0076] The lower cover 60 may be disposed at the lowermost end of the body unit BP. The lower cover 60 may be disposed below the middle frame 50. The lower cover 60 may be a housing coupled to the middle frame 50.

[0077] In some embodiments, the lower cover 60 may include a central cover portion 61 and a peripheral portion 62 .

[0078] The central cover portion 61 may be disposed at the center of the lower cover 60. The central cover portion 61 may correspond to the central portion 21 of the cover window 20.

[0079] The peripheral portion 62 may be disposed around the central cover portion 61. The peripheral portion 62 may be disposed to surround the central cover portion 61. The peripheral portion 62 may be bent from the central cover portion 61 and be curved. The peripheral portion 62 may be bent from the edge of the central cover portion 61. In some embodiments, a portion of the peripheral portion 62 may include a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and the remaining portion may be flat. The degree (or angle) at which the peripheral portion 62 is bent from the central cover portion 61 may be an obtuse angle, but is not limited thereto, and may be a right angle or an acute angle.

[0080] The lower cover 60 may be disposed on the outermost rear surface of the display device 1, may include at least one of a plastic material, a metal material, and a glass material, and may include a color coating. In one embodiment, the lower cover 60 may be a flat glass with a transparent, translucent, or opaque color coating.

[0081] In another embodiment, the lower cover 60 may have the same shape as that of the cover window 20, and may include a glass material having a color coating. In another embodiment, for example, the lower cover 60 may have a structure symmetrical to that of the cover window 20 with the middle frame 50 interposed therebetween, and the lower cover 60 may include a transparent, translucent or opaque color coating.

[0082] The wearable portion BD may be a portion for fixing the main body unit BP to the user's wrist, etc. In an embodiment, for example, it may be any one of a band, a chain, and a bracelet.

[0083] Figure 2 FIG. 4 is a front view of an embodiment of a display driving module in an unfolded state. Figure 3 FIG. 4 is a rear view of an embodiment of a display driving module in an unfolded state. Figure 4 FIG. 4 is a rear view of an embodiment of a display driving module in a bent state. Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 Schematic side view of an embodiment of a display driving module in a bent state, taken along line X1 - X1 ′.

[0084] Figure 2 A first surface 100a is shown, for example, a front surface of the display panel 100, and Figure 3 and Figure 4 A second surface 100 b , eg, a rear surface of the display panel 100 , is shown.

[0085] refer to Figures 2 to 5 The display driving module 10 may include a display module DM, a driving chip DIC, a driving board PCB and circuit components CCM.

[0086] The display module DM may include a display panel 100. In one embodiment, the display panel 100 may include an organic light emitting display panel, a micro light emitting diode ("LED") display panel, a nano LED display panel, a quantum dot light emitting display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, a plasma display panel, a field emission display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, etc. In the following description, a case where an organic light emitting display panel is applied in one embodiment of the display panel 100 will be exemplified, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and other display panels may be applied within the same technical spirit.

[0087] The display panel 100 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA may refer to a portion where a picture is displayed, and the non-display area NDA may refer to a portion where a picture is not displayed.

[0088] The display area DA may have a circular shape in a plan view. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the display area DA may have various shapes in a plan view, such as a rectangle, a rectangle with rounded corners, a square, other polygons, and an ellipse.

[0089] The non-display area NDA may be disposed around the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may be a frame area. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and for example, the non-display area NDA may not be disposed in at least a portion of the surrounding area of ​​the display area DA.

[0090] In the non-display area NDA, a signal line or a driving circuit for applying a signal to the display area DA (display area or touch area) may be provided. In another embodiment, the non-display area NDA may include a portion of the touch area, and a sensor member such as a force sensor may be provided in the area.

[0091] The display panel 100 may include a plurality of pixels arranged in a display area DA. The plurality of pixels may be arranged in a matrix. The shape of each pixel may be a rectangular or square shape in a plan view. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it may be a rhombus shape with each side inclined relative to the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2. Each pixel may include an emission region. Each emission region may be the same as or different from the shape of the pixel. In one embodiment, for example, when the shape of the pixel is a rectangular shape, the emission region of the corresponding pixel may have various shapes, such as a rectangle, a rhombus, a hexagon, an octagon, and a circle.

[0092] In the illustrated figures, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 intersect each other as horizontal directions. In one embodiment, for example, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be orthogonal to each other. In addition, for example, the third direction DR3 intersects the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, and may be vertical directions orthogonal to each other. In the specification, the direction indicated by the arrows from the first direction to the third directions DR1, DR2, and DR3 may also be referred to as a side, and the opposite direction thereof may also be referred to as an opposite side.

[0093] The display driving module 10 may further include a touch member for detecting a touch input. The touch member may be formed of a touch layer TSL (reference Figure 6 ) is provided on the display panel 100. In this case, the touch layer TSL (reference Figure 6 ) may be provided integrally with the display panel 100. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the touch member may be provided as a panel or film separate from the display panel 100 and may be attached to the display panel 100. In the following embodiments, the touch member is provided in the form of a touch layer TSL (refer to Figure 6 ), but the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0094] The touch area may be an area for detecting a touch input. The touch area may overlap with the display area DA. In other words, the display area DA may be an area for displaying a screen and detecting a touch input.

[0095] In some embodiments, the display panel 100 may include a flexible substrate that includes or consists of a flexible polymer material such as polyimide. Accordingly, the display panel 100 may be curved, bent, folded, or curled. The display panel 100 may be curved along the surface of the cover window 20.

[0096] The display panel 100 may include a main area MA, a bending area BA, and a sub-area SA. The bending area BA may be disposed between the main area MA and the sub-area SA in the second direction DR2. The main area MA may be disposed on one side of the bending area BA in the second direction DR2. The sub-area SA may be disposed on the opposite side of the bending area BA in the second direction DR2.

[0097] The main area MA may include a display area DA. The display area DA of the display panel 100 may be disposed in the main area MA. In one embodiment, the peripheral edge portion of the display area DA in the main area MA, the entire bending area BA, and the entire sub-area SA may be a non-display area NDA. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the bending area BA and / or the sub-area SA may also include the display area DA.

[0098] In some embodiments, the shape of the main area MA may correspond to the shape of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, for example, when the shape of the cover window 20 is a three-dimensional shape, the shape of the main area MA may also be bent into a three-dimensional shape corresponding to the shape of the cover window 20.

[0099] In one embodiment, the main area MA may be curved to form a curved surface corresponding to the shape of the cover window 20, or may be bent in the vertical direction. In this case, the display area DA may also be disposed in the edge that is bent together. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and a non-display area that does not display a picture may be disposed on the bent edge. In an alternative embodiment, both the display area and the non-display area may be disposed on the bent edge.

[0100] The bending area BA may be connected to the opposite side of the main area MA in the second direction DR2. In one embodiment, for example, the bending area BA may be connected to the main area MA through the lower short side of the main area MA. The width of the bending area BA, for example, in the first direction DR1, may be smaller than the width of the main area MA adjacent to the bending area BA, for example, in the first direction DR1. The connection portion between the main area MA and the bending area BA may have an L-shaped cutout portion.

[0101] The bending area BA may be an area where the display panel 100 is bent. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in , the display panel 100 may be bent in the bending area BA with a downward curvature in the thickness direction. In one embodiment, for example, the display panel 100 may be bent in the bending area BA to the opposite side of the third direction DR3.

[0102] The bending area BA may have a constant radius of curvature. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the bending area BA may have a different radius of curvature for each section. The surface of the display panel 100 may be turned over as the display panel 100 is bent in the bending area BA. In one embodiment, for example, the display panel 100 may be bent in a direction opposite to the first surface 100a as the display surface. Accordingly, in the second surface 100b as the opposite surface of the display surface, the second surface 100b of the main area MA and the second surface 100b of the sub-area SA may face each other in the third direction DR3.

[0103] The sub-region SA may be disposed on an opposite side of the bending area BA in the second direction DR2. The sub-region SA may extend from the bending area BA. The width of the sub-region SA, for example, in the first direction DR1, may be greater than the width of the bending area BA, for example, in the first direction DR1. A connection portion between the sub-region SA and the bending area BA may have an L-shaped cutout portion.

[0104] In some embodiments, the size of the sub-area SA may be smaller than the size of the main area MA of the display panel 100. Figure 4 As shown in , for example, when the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the sub-region SA may completely overlap the main region MA. When the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the outer edge of the sub-region SA may be surrounded by the outer edge of the main region MA in a plan view. The outer edge of the sub-region SA may be disposed inwardly of the outer edge of the main region MA in a plan view.

[0105] like Figure 5 As shown in , when the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the sub-region SA may overlap the main region MA in the thickness direction of the display panel 100 (ie, in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The sub-region SA may be disposed below the main region MA in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3.

[0106] The driving chip DIC may be disposed on the sub-area SA of the display panel 100. In some embodiments, the driving chip DIC may be disposed on the first surface 100a of the display panel 100 in the sub-area SA of the display panel 100. In one embodiment, the driving chip DIC may be directly disposed (e.g., mounted) on the display panel 100 using a chip on glass (“COG”) or a chip on plastic (“COP”) method, as shown in the drawings. In another embodiment, the driving chip DIC may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on a flexible film using a chip on film (“COF”) method.

[0107] The driving chip DIC may generate and output a data voltage, a power voltage, a scan timing signal, etc. The driving chip DIC may include an integrated circuit for driving the display panel 100. The integrated circuit may include a display integrated circuit and / or a touch unit integrated circuit. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the display integrated circuit and the touch unit integrated circuit may be provided as separate chips or may be provided as one integrated chip.

[0108] The driving board PCB may be disposed on one end of the sub-area SA of the display panel 100. The pad portion may be disposed at one end of the sub-area SA of the display panel 100. The pad portion may include a plurality of display signal wiring pads and touch signal wiring pads. The driving board PCB may be connected to the pad portion at one end of the sub-area SA of the display panel 100. The driving board PCB may be attached to the pad portion by a conductive adhesive member such as an anisotropic conductive film and an anisotropic conductive adhesive. The driving board PCB may be a flexible printed circuit board or a flexible film such as a chip on a film.

[0109] When the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the driving chip DIC and the driving board PCB may be disposed on opposite sides of the main area MA of the display panel 100, with the sub-area SA of the display panel 100 interposed therebetween. That is, the driving chip DIC and the driving board PCB may be disposed on the first surface 100a of the sub-area SA, and when the display panel 100 is bent, they may be disposed away from the main area MA in the third direction DR3.

[0110] In some embodiments, the size of the driving board PCB may be smaller than the size of the main area MA of the display panel 100. Figure 4 As shown in , for example, when the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the driving board PCB may completely overlap the main area MA of the display panel 100. When the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the outer edge of the driving board PCB may be surrounded by the outer edge of the main area MA of the display panel 100 in a plan view. The outer edge of the driving board PCB may be disposed inwardly of the outer edge of the main area MA of the display panel 100 in a plan view.

[0111] The shape of the driving board PCB in a plan view may be substantially similar to the shape of the display panel 100 in a plan view. In one embodiment, for example, when the display panel 100 has a circular shape in a plan view, at least a portion of the driving board PCB may be circular. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the shape of the driving board PCB may be modified in various ways.

[0112] The circuit component CCM may be disposed (eg, mounted) on the driving board PCB. For example, the circuit component CCM may be disposed on a flat surface of the driving board PCB. Figure 5 As shown in , when the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the circuit components CCM may be disposed on a side away from the main area MA of the display panel 100, with the driving board PCB interposed therebetween. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and when the display panel 100 is in a bent state, some of the circuit components CCM may be disposed on a side close to the main area MA of the display panel 100, with the driving board PCB interposed therebetween.

[0113] The circuit component CCM may include various components disposed (e.g., mounted) on the driver board PCB. In one embodiment, the circuit component CCM may include various processor chips for controlling the operation of the display device 1. In one embodiment, the processor chip may include a touch drive circuit (touch drive integrated circuit ("IC")), a main processor, an application processor ("AP"), a central processing unit ("CPU"), a system chip, etc.

[0114] In the drawings, the circuit component CCM is illustrated to be disposed substantially at the center of the driving board PCB and has a quadrilateral shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The position and shape of the circuit component CCM may vary depending on the type of component.

[0115] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a stacked structure of a display module.

[0116] refer to Figure 6 , the display module DM may include a display panel 100, an upper module UM disposed on the top (e.g., top surface) of the display panel 100, and a lower module LM disposed below (e.g., on the bottom surface) the display panel 100. The upper portion of the display panel 100 may be in a direction in which the display surface faces, and the lower portion of the display panel 100 may be in a direction opposite to the direction in which the display surface faces.

[0117] The display panel 100 may include a substrate SUB, a circuit driving layer DRL, a light emitting element layer EML, an encapsulation layer ENL, and a touch layer TSL.

[0118] The substrate SUB may support components disposed on the substrate SUB. The substrate SUB may include a transparent material. In one embodiment, for example, the substrate SUB may include a transparent insulating material such as glass, quartz, etc. The substrate SUB may be a rigid substrate. However, it is not limited thereto, and may include a plastic such as polyimide, etc., and may have a flexible property such that it may be twisted, bent, folded, or curled.

[0119] The circuit driving layer DRL may be disposed on the top surface of the substrate SUB. The circuit driving layer DRL may include a circuit driving the light emitting element layer EML of the pixel. The circuit driving layer DRL may include a plurality of thin film transistors.

[0120] The light emitting element layer EML may be disposed on the circuit driving layer DRL. The light emitting element layer EML may include an organic light emitting layer, but is not limited thereto. The light emitting element layer EML may emit light having various brightness levels according to a driving signal transmitted from the circuit driving layer DRL.

[0121] The encapsulation layer ENL may be disposed on the light emitting element layer EML. The encapsulation layer ENL may include an inorganic layer or a laminated layer of an inorganic layer and an organic layer. In another embodiment, the encapsulation layer ENL may include glass or an encapsulation film.

[0122] The touch layer TSL may be disposed on the encapsulation layer ENL. The touch layer TSL is a layer for recognizing a touch input and may be used as a touch member. The touch layer TSL may include a plurality of sensing regions and sensing electrodes.

[0123] The upper module UM may include an anti-reflection layer 200 and an adhesive layer 300 .

[0124] The anti-reflection layer 200 may be disposed on the display panel 100. For example, the anti-reflection layer 200 may be disposed on the top surface of the display panel 100. The anti-reflection layer 200 may be used to reduce the reflection of external light. The anti-reflection layer 200 may be attached in the form of a polarizing film. In this case, the anti-reflection layer 200 may polarize the light passing therethrough. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the anti-reflection layer 200 may be stacked in the form of a color filter layer. In this case, the anti-reflection layer 200 may include a color filter for selectively transmitting light of a predetermined wavelength, etc.

[0125] The adhesive layer 300 may be disposed on the anti-reflection layer 200. The adhesive layer 300 may bond the cover window 20 described above to the display panel 100 or the anti-reflection layer 200. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 300 may be an optically clear adhesive ("OCA") film or a pressure-sensitive adhesive ("PSA") film. In the drawings, the adhesive layer 300 is shown as being included in the display module DM, but is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, for example, the adhesive layer 300 may not be included in the display module DM, but may be attached to the cover window 20 and provided together with the cover window 20.

[0126] The lower module LM may include a supporting film 400 and a cover panel 500. The lower module LM may have a dome shape.

[0127] The supporting film 400 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the display panel 100. The supporting film 400 may be disposed between the display panel 100 and the cover panel 500. The supporting film 400 may support the display panel 100.

[0128] In one embodiment, the support film 400 may include polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), polyimide ("PI"), polycarbonate ("PC"), polyethylene ("PE"), polypropylene ("PP"), polysulfone ("PSF"), polymethyl methacrylate ("PMMA"), triacetyl cellulose ("TAC"), cycloolefin polymer ("COP"), etc.

[0129] In some embodiments, the support film 400 may be omitted, but is not limited thereto.

[0130] The cover panel 500 may be disposed on the support film 400. In one embodiment, for example, the cover panel 500 may be disposed below the support film 400. The cover panel 500 may include at least one functional layer to perform a heat dissipation function, an electromagnetic wave shielding function, a buffering function, a strength enhancement function, a supporting function, an adhesive function, etc.

[0131] In one embodiment, for example, the functional layer of the cover panel 500 may be a sheet layer including or consisting of a sheet, a film layer including or consisting of a film, a film layer, a coating, a panel, a plate, etc. A functional layer may be composed of a single layer or a stack of multiple films or coatings. For example, the functional layer may be a supporting member, a heat dissipation layer, an electromagnetic shielding layer, an impact absorbing layer, a bonding layer, etc.

[0132] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover window.

[0133] refer to Figure 7 , the cover window 20 may have a dome shape. In one embodiment, the cover window 20 may have a convex shape toward the display surface. In another embodiment, the cover window 20 may have a concave shape on the opposite side of the display surface.

[0134] The cover window 20 may include a first surface 20a and a second surface 20b. The first surface 20a may be a surface in the first direction to the third direction DR1, DR2, and DR3, and the second surface 20b may be a surface in the opposite direction from the first direction to the third direction DR1, DR2, and DR3. In one embodiment, for example, the second surface 20b may be disposed to be aligned with the display driving module 10 (refer to Figure 8 ) adjacent to the surface, and the first surface 20a may be disposed on the display driving module 10 (reference Figure 8 The first surface 20a may be an outer surface of the cover window 20, and the second surface 20b may be an inner surface of the cover window 20.

[0135] In some embodiments, the first surface 20a and the second surface 20b of the cover window 20 may be curved surfaces having a predetermined curvature. In one embodiment, for example, the first surface 20a and the second surface 20b may be curved surfaces convex in the first to third directions DR1, DR2, and DR3.

[0136] The curvature of the first surface 20a may vary for each region. The curvature of the second surface 20b may vary for each region. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first surface 20a may have a constant curvature in all regions, and the second surface 20b may have a constant curvature in all regions. The curvature of the first surface 20a and the curvature of the second surface 20b may be the same as each other, but they are not limited thereto. In one embodiment, for example, the curvature of the first surface 20a and the curvature of the second surface 20b may be different from each other.

[0137] In one embodiment, the radius of curvature of the second surface 20b of the cover window 20 may be approximately 100 millimeters (mm) to approximately 200 mm. Preferably, the radius of curvature of the second surface 20b of the cover window 20 may be approximately 120 mm to approximately 160 mm. When the radius of curvature of the second surface 20b varies for each region, the radius of curvature may be measured relative to a point with a minimum radius of curvature.

[0138] In some embodiments, the cover window 20 may include a central portion 21 and an outer portion 22 .

[0139] The central portion 21 may be disposed at the center of the cover window 20. The outer portion 22 may be disposed around the central portion 21. The outer portion 22 may be disposed to surround the central portion 21. The outer portion 22 may be bent from the central portion 21 and may be curved. The outer portion 22 may be bent from an edge of the central portion 21.

[0140] In some embodiments, the curvature of the first surface 20a in the central portion 21 may be smaller than the curvature of the first surface 20a in the outer portion 22, and the curvature of the second surface 20b in the central portion 21 may be smaller than the curvature of the second surface 20b in the outer portion 22. In one embodiment, for example, the first surface 20a and the second surface 20b in the central portion 21 may be more gently curved than the first surface 20a and the second surface 20b in the outer portion 22, and the first surface 20a and the second surface 20b in the outer portion 22 may be more sharply curved than the first surface 20a and the second surface 20b in the central portion 21. Accordingly, the outer portion 22 may be bent from the central portion 21 in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3.

[0141] The curvature of the central portion 21 and the curvature of the outer portion 22 may each be constant for each region, but they are not limited thereto and may vary for each region. In one embodiment, for example, the central portion 21 and the outer portion 22 may each have a curved shape and may be tilted at different angles in each region. The central portion 21 and the outer portion 22 may have different curvatures in each region. Since the central portion 21 and the outer portion 22 are bent into a curved shape, the cover window 20 may be represented as a three-dimensional window or a three-dimensional sidewall window. The display device 1 in the illustrated embodiment may include a cover window 20 having a three-dimensional shape (e.g., a dome shape) to improve the aesthetic feeling of the user.

[0142] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the main body unit.

[0143] refer to Figure 8 , as referenced Figure 1 The depicted body unit BP may include a display driving module 10 , a cover window 20 , a coupling member 40 , a middle frame 50 , and a lower cover 60 .

[0144] As reference Figure 2 As described in FIG. 1 , the display driving module 10 may include a display module DM, a driving chip DIC, a driving board PCB and a circuit component CCM. Figure 6 As described, the display module DM may include the display panel 100, an upper module UM, and a lower module LM.

[0145] The display module DM, the driving chip DIC, the driving board PCB and the circuit parts CCM of the display driving module 10 and the display panel 100, the upper module UM and the lower module LM of the display module DM have been described above, and thus a detailed description will be omitted.

[0146] The cover window 20 may be disposed on the upper module UM. The cover window 20 may be attached to the display driving module 10 through the upper module UM of the display module DM. The display panel 100 may be disposed on the second surface 20b of the cover window 20. The central portion 21 of the cover window 20 may be in direct contact with the upper module UM. The outer portion 22 of the cover window 20 may surround the display driving module 10 on a horizontal plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0147] The coupling member 40 may include a first coupling member 41 and a second coupling member 42. The coupling member 40 may be an adhesive tape having an adhesive material applied to opposite sides thereof and having a waterproof or dustproof function. The first coupling member 41 and the second coupling member 42 may include the same material, but are not limited thereto.

[0148] The first coupling member 41 may be disposed on the top surface of the middle frame 50. The first coupling member 41 may be disposed between the middle frame 50 and the cover window 20 in the third direction DR3. In one embodiment, for example, the first coupling member 41 may couple the top surface of the middle sidewall 52 of the middle frame 50 to the bottom surface of the outer portion 22 of the cover window 20.

[0149] The second coupling member 42 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the middle frame 50. The second coupling member 42 may be disposed between the middle frame 50 and the lower cover 60 in the third direction DR3. In one embodiment, for example, the second coupling member 42 may couple the bottom surface of the middle side wall 52 of the middle frame 50 to the top surface of the peripheral portion 62 of the lower cover 60.

[0150] The middle frame 50 may serve as a bracket for fixing the cover window 20 to the lower cover 60 .

[0151] The display driving module 10 may be disposed between the middle frame 50 and the cover window 20. The top surface of the middle frame 50 may face the bottom surface of the display driving module 10. The top surface of the middle frame 50 may be spaced apart from the bottom surface of the display driving module 10. The first storage space SS1 may be defined between the top surface of the middle frame 50 and the bottom surface of the display driving module 10. The first storage space SS1 may define a space for storing peripheral circuits of electronic devices such as a host driving system, a memory, and a battery.

[0152] In some embodiments, the middle frame 50 may include a middle plate 51 and a middle side wall 52 .

[0153] The middle plate 51 may be disposed below the display driving module 10. At least one opening, at least one recess, etc. may be disposed in the first storage space SS1 defined between the top surface of the middle plate 51 and the bottom surface of the display driving module 10, a cable or the like for electrically connecting between a host driving system and a display driving circuit portion connected to the display driving module 10 passes through the at least one opening, and various electronic circuit components disposed (e.g., mounted) on the electronic device are arranged in the at least one recess.

[0154] The middle side wall 52 may be provided on the side surface of the middle plate 51. The extending direction of the middle side wall 52 may be different from the extending direction of the middle plate 51. The middle side wall 52 may support the outer portion 22 of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, for example, the middle side wall 52 may be coupled to the outer portion 22 of the cover window 20 by the first coupling member 41. As a result, the waterproof performance of the display device 1 may be improved, and the penetration of foreign substances and the like may be prevented.

[0155] The lower cover 60 may be disposed below the middle frame 50. In one embodiment, for example, a top surface of the lower cover 60 may face a bottom surface of the middle frame 50. At least a portion of the top surface of the lower cover 60 may be spaced apart from at least a portion of the bottom surface of the middle frame 50. The second storage space SS2 may be defined between at least a portion of the top surface of the lower cover 60 and at least a portion of the bottom surface of the middle frame 50. The second storage space SS2 may define a space for storing peripheral circuits of the electronic device that are not placed in the first storage space SS1.

[0156] In some embodiments, the lower cover 60 may include a central cover portion 61 and a peripheral portion 62 .

[0157] The center cover portion 61 may be disposed below the middle plate 51. Peripheral circuits of the electronic device that are not placed in the first storage space SS1 may be disposed in the second storage space SS2 defined between the top surface of the center cover portion 61 and the bottom surface of the middle plate 51. In some embodiments, a battery for operating the display device 1 or the like may be disposed in the second storage space SS2.

[0158] The peripheral portion 62 may be disposed on a side surface of the central cover portion 61. The extension direction of the peripheral portion 62 may be different from the extension direction of the central cover portion 61. The peripheral portion 62 may be supported by the intermediate side wall 52. In an embodiment, the peripheral portion 62 may be coupled to the intermediate side wall 52 by a second coupling member 42. As a result, the waterproof performance of the display device 1 may be improved, and penetration of foreign matter or the like may be prevented.

[0159] In another embodiment, the lower cover 60 may be detachably coupled to the middle side wall 52. In one embodiment, for example, the second coupling member 42 may be omitted between the middle side wall 52 and the peripheral portion 62, and a mechanical connection may be adopted. In this case, battery replacement may be facilitated in the event of battery discharge during use of the display device 1, and disassembly for repair of the display device 1 may be facilitated.

[0160] In the display device 1 in the exemplary embodiment, the shape of the top surface of the display module DM may correspond to the shape of the bottom surface of the cover window 20. In an embodiment, for example, the top surface of the display module DM may be curved with the same curvature as that of the bottom surface of the cover window 20.

[0161] In the display device 1 in the exemplary embodiment, the shape of the bottom surface of the display module DM may be flat. In one embodiment, for example, the bottom surface of the lower module LM may be flat, and the driving board PCB may be flat along the bottom surface of the lower module LM. Accordingly, the driving board PCB disposed on the bottom surface of the display module DM (or the bottom surface of the lower module LM) may be attached to the flat surface, thereby preventing the risk of cracking of the driving board PCB and the circuit components CCM disposed (e.g., mounted) on the driving board PCB.

[0162] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 Magnified view of area A. Fig.10 yes Figure 8 Magnified view of area B.

[0163] refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The display driving module 10 may include a display module DM, a driving chip DIC, a driving board PCB and circuit components CCM. The display module DM may include a display panel 100, an upper module UM and a lower module LM.

[0164] The display module DM may further include a bending protection layer PBL. The bending protection layer PBL may be disposed on a partial area of ​​the display panel 100. In one embodiment, the bending protection layer PBL may be disposed on the bending area BA of the display panel 100. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the bending protection layer PBL may also be disposed on an area other than the bending area BA. In one embodiment, for example, as shown in the accompanying drawings, the bending protection layer PBL may also be disposed in the sub-area SA. In another embodiment, the bending protection layer PBL may also be disposed in the main area MA.

[0165] The bending protection layer PBL may include or consist of a polymer compound such as polyimide, acrylate, epoxy resin, etc. The bending protection layer PBL may minimize the occurrence of cracks caused by stress applied to the display panel 100 during bending of the display panel 100 and may prevent the propagation of the cracks. Accordingly, the durability of the display module DM may be improved.

[0166] The supporting film 400 may include a first supporting film 410 and a second supporting film 420 spaced apart from each other. In one embodiment, for example, the first supporting film 410 may be disposed in the main area MA, and the second supporting film 420 may be disposed in the sub-area SA. When the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the first supporting film 410 and the second supporting film 420 may be opposite to each other in a third direction DR3. When the display panel 100 is in a bent state, the first supporting film 410 and the second supporting film 420 may overlap each other in the third direction DR3.

[0167] The cover window 20 may be attached to the display driving module 10 through the adhesive layer 300. The adhesive layer 300 may be in direct contact with the cover window 20. The central portion 21 of the cover window 20 may be in direct contact with the adhesive layer 300.

[0168] In the display device 1 in the exemplary embodiment, the shapes of the upper module UM, at least a portion of the display panel 100, and at least a portion of the first supporting film 410 may correspond to the shape of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, for example, the upper module UM, at least a portion of the display panel 100, and at least a portion of the first supporting film 410 may be curved with the same curvature as the curvature of the second surface 20b of the cover window 20. The upper module UM may be curved along the shape of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, the upper module UM, at least a portion of the display panel 100, and at least a portion of the first supporting film 410 may have a dome shape.

[0169] In some embodiments, the upper module UM, the display panel 100, and the first supporting film 410 may have a flat shape before being coupled to the cover window 20. The upper module UM, the display panel 100, and the first supporting film 410 may have flexible properties so that they can be bent to conform to the shape of the cover window 20 after being coupled to the cover window 20.

[0170] The display panel 100 may be curved along the shape of the cover window 20. The display panel 100 may be curved in a region contacting the upper module UM with the same curvature as the cover window 20. The first supporting film 410 may be curved in a region overlapping the upper module UM in the third direction DR3 with the same curvature as the cover window 20.

[0171] In some embodiments, the first supporting film 410 and the second supporting film 420 may include flat portions 410a and 420a, respectively. Each of the flat portions 410a and 420a of the first supporting film 410 and the second supporting film 420 may protrude beyond one end of the upper module UM in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. A portion of the display panel 100 disposed on each of the flat portions 410a and 420a of the first supporting film 410 and the second supporting film 420 may have a flat shape. Accordingly, the display panel 100 may be prevented from being bent from a bent portion of the display panel 100 formed by overlapping with the upper module UM. This may make it easy to control the shape of the display panel 100 in the bending area BA, and may minimize the repulsive force to the bending protection layer PBL.

[0172] In the display device 1 according to the exemplary embodiment, the cover panel 500 may include a first surface 500a and a second surface 500b. The first surface 500a of the cover panel 500 may be a surface close to (e.g., facing) the cover window 20. The second surface 500b of the cover panel 500 may be a surface away from the cover window 20. The second surface 500b of the cover panel 500 may be on the opposite side of the first surface 500a. In an embodiment, for example, the first surface 500a of the cover panel 500 may be a top surface, and the second surface 500b of the cover panel 500 may be a bottom surface.

[0173] The shape of the first surface 500a of the cover panel 500 may correspond to the shape of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, for example, the first surface 500a of the cover panel 500 may have the same curvature as the curvature of the second surface 20b of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, the first surface 500a of the cover panel 500 may have a dome shape.

[0174] The second surface 500b of the cover panel 500 may be a flat surface. The top and bottom surfaces of the second supporting film 420, the bottom surface of the lower module LM, and the bottom surface of the display module DM may be flat. The driving board PCB disposed on the second surface 500b of the cover panel 500 may be flat along the second surface 500b of the cover panel 500. Accordingly, the driving board PCB disposed on the bottom surface of the display module DM may be attached to the flat surface, thereby preventing the risk of cracks in the driving board PCB and the circuit components CCM disposed (e.g., mounted) on the driving board PCB.

[0175] In some embodiments, the outermost thickness TH1 of the cover panel 500 may be smaller than the center thickness TH2 of the cover panel 500. Since the center of the first surface 500a of the cover panel 500 protrudes toward the cover window 20 and the second surface 500b of the cover panel 500 is flat, the outermost thickness TH1 of the cover panel 500 may be smaller than the center thickness TH2 of the cover panel 500.

[0176] Fig.11 is an exploded perspective view showing an embodiment of a cover panel. Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel.

[0177] exist Fig.11 In the exploded view of FIG. 5 , the components of the cover panel 500 are disassembled and the three-dimensional shape is unfolded into a planar shape.

[0178] Apart from Figures 8 to 10 In addition, reference Fig.11 and Fig.12 , the cover panel 500 may include a buffer layer 510 , a bonding layer 520 , a support layer 530 , a cover spacer 540 , and a heat dissipation layer 550 .

[0179] The buffer layer 510 may be disposed on the first supporting film 410 or the display panel 100. In one embodiment, for example, the buffer layer 510 may be disposed under the first supporting film 410 (for example, in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The buffer layer 510 may be disposed on an upper portion of the cover panel 500 and may contact the first supporting film 410 or the display panel 100.

[0180] The buffer layer 510 may absorb external impact to prevent the display device 1 from being damaged. The buffer layer 510 may be formed as a single layer or a plurality of stacked layers.

[0181] In one embodiment, the buffer layer 510 may include a material capable of elastic transformation. In one embodiment, for example, the buffer layer 510 may include a thermoplastic elastomer, polystyrene, polyolefin, polyurethane thermoplastic elastomer, polyamide, synthetic rubber, polydimethylsiloxane, polybutadiene, polyisobutylene, poly(styrene-butadiene styrene), polyurethane, polychloroprene, polyethylene, silicone, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0182] The buffer layer 510 may include an adhesive layer, a tackifying layer or a resin layer for bonding with the first supporting film 410 or the display panel 100. In one embodiment, for example, the buffer layer 510 as an adhesive layer, a tackifying layer or a resin layer may include the same material as that of the bonding layer 520 described later.

[0183] Before attaching the cover panel 500 to the support film 400 or the display panel 100, an embossed shape may be formed on the top surface of the buffer layer 510. When the embossed shape is formed on the top surface of the buffer layer 510, the embossed shape of the surface may serve as an air passage when attaching the cover panel 500, thereby reducing bubbles. Once the cover panel 500 is fully attached, the embossed shape on the top surface of the buffer layer 510 may disappear.

[0184] The bonding layer 520 may be disposed on the buffer layer 510. In one embodiment, for example, the bonding layer 520 may be disposed below the buffer layer 510 (for example, in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The bonding layer 520 may be disposed between the buffer layer 510 and the support layer 530. The bonding layer 520 may bond the buffer layer 510 to the support layer 530.

[0185] The bonding layer 520 may include an adhesive layer, a tackifying layer, or a resin layer. In one embodiment, for example, the bonding layer 520 may include or be composed of a polymer material, which is classified as a silicone polymer, a urethane polymer, a SU polymer having a silicone-urethane hybrid structure, an acrylic polymer, an isocyanate polymer, a PVA polymer, a gelatin polymer, a vinyl polymer, a latex polymer, a polyester polymer, a water-based polyester polymer, etc. In one embodiment, the bonding layer 520 may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive ("PSA"), but is not limited thereto.

[0186] The support layer 530 may be disposed on the bonding layer 520. In one embodiment, the support layer 530 may be disposed below the bonding layer 520 (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The support layer 530 may be disposed between the cover spacer 540 and the bonding layer 520, and between the heat dissipation layer 550 and the bonding layer 520.

[0187] The support layer 530 may support the buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520. The support layer 530 may maintain the shape of the cover spacer 540 and perform a strength reinforcing function. The support layer 530 may be a strength reinforcing member for reinforcing the display device 1 against external impacts.

[0188] In some embodiments, the support layer 530 may include at least one of PET, PI, PC, PE, PP, PSF, PMMA, TAC, and COP.

[0189] The cover spacer 540 may be disposed on the support layer 530. The cover spacer 540 may be disposed under the support layer 530 (eg, in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3).

[0190] The cover spacer 540 and the support layer 530 can prevent the display driving module 10 from bending due to external force or can reduce the degree of bending. Even when external force is applied, the cover spacer 540 can keep the display driving module 10 in a relatively flat state.

[0191] The cover spacer 540 may include a rigid or semi-rigid material. Specifically, the cover spacer 540 may include a metal material such as stainless steel ("SUS") and aluminum or a polymer material such as PMMA, PC, polyvinyl alcohol ("PVA"), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene ("ABS"), PET, etc.

[0192] The heat dissipation layer 550 may be disposed on the support layer 530. The heat dissipation layer 550 may be disposed below the support layer 530 (eg, in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3).

[0193] The heat dissipation layer 550 can dissipate the heat generated in the display device 1 or on the driving board PCB, and can shield electromagnetic waves. In one embodiment, the heat dissipation layer 550 can include or consist of a conductive metal selected from a group consisting of metals with excellent thermal conductivity (such as copper, silver, gold, aluminum, nickel, and SUS and combinations thereof). In another embodiment, the heat dissipation layer 550 can include graphite and / or carbon nanotubes.

[0194] The cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be disposed in the same layer. In one embodiment, for example, the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be disposed between the support layer 530 and the second support film 420 or between the support layer 530 and the driving board PCB in the third direction DR3. Fig.12 , the side surfaces of the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 are shown to be in direct contact with each other, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2.

[0195] The cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be arranged side by side in the second direction DR2. The cover spacer 540 may be arranged closer to the bending area BA than the heat dissipation layer 550. In one embodiment, the thickness T_540 of the cover spacer 540 in the third direction DR3 may be the same as the thickness T_550 of the heat dissipation layer 550 in the third direction DR3.

[0196] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 5 , the shapes of the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 in a plan view may substantially correspond to the shape of the support layer 530 in a plan view. In a plan view, the sizes of the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be smaller than the size of the support layer 530. In an embodiment, the outer edges of the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be set to be a first distance D1 inward from the outer edge of the support layer 530.

[0197] The cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 can offset the height difference formed between the sub-area SA of the display panel 100 and the cover panel 500 and between the driving board PCB and the cover panel 500. In one embodiment, for example, the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 can be arranged between the sub-area SA of the display panel 100 and the cover panel 500 and between the driving board PCB and the cover panel 500 in the third direction DR3, so that the display panel 100 and the driving board PCB can be maintained in a flat state. In some embodiments, the sub-area SA of the display panel 100 and the driving board PCB can be attached to the lower portion of the cover spacer 540 or the lower portion of the second supporting film 420 by an adhesive member. Accordingly, the sub-area SA of the display panel 100 and the driving board PCB can be maintained in a fixed state.

[0198] In the display device 1 according to the exemplary embodiment, the support layer 530 may include a first surface 530a and a second surface 530b. The first surface 530a of the support layer 530 may be a surface close to (e.g., facing) the cover window 20. The second surface 530b of the support layer 530 may be a surface away from the cover window 20. In an embodiment, for example, the first surface 530a of the support layer 530 may be a top surface, and the second surface 530b of the support layer 530 may be a bottom surface.

[0199] The shape of the first surface 530a of the support layer 530 may correspond to the shape of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, for example, the first surface 530a of the support layer 530 may have the same curvature as the curvature of the second surface 20b of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, the first surface 530a of the support layer 530 may have a dome shape.

[0200] The second surface 530b of the support layer 530 may be a flat surface. At least one of the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be disposed on the second surface 530b of the support layer 530. The top and bottom surfaces of the cover spacer 540 and the heat dissipation layer 550 may be flat. Accordingly, the driving board PCB disposed on the bottom surface of the display module DM may be attached to the flat surface, thereby preventing the risk of cracks in the driving board PCB and the circuit components CCM disposed (e.g., mounted) on the driving board PCB.

[0201] The shapes of the buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may correspond to the shape of the first surface 530a of the support layer 530. In one embodiment, for example, the shapes of the buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may be curved with the same curvature as the curvature of the first surface 530a of the support layer 530. The buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may be curved along the shape of the first surface 530a of the support layer 530.

[0202] In some embodiments, the buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may have flat surfaces before being bonded to the support layer 530. The buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may have flexible properties such that they may bend to conform to the shape of the first surface 530a of the support layer 530 after being bonded to the support layer 530.

[0203] In the drawings, the buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may define empty spaces 510a and 520a, respectively, in a plan view. As described above, since the first surface 530a of the support layer 530 is a curved surface, the shapes of the buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may also be curved. When such a curved surface is unfolded in a plan view, the buffer layer 510 and the bonding layer 520 may define empty spaces 510a and 520a, respectively, in a plan view.

[0204] In some embodiments, the outermost thickness TH3 of the supporting layer 530 may be smaller than the central thickness TH4 of the supporting layer 530. Because the center of the first surface 530a of the supporting layer 530 protrudes toward the cover window 20 and the second surface 530b of the supporting layer 530 is flat, the outermost thickness TH3 of the supporting layer 530 may be smaller than the central thickness TH4 of the supporting layer 530.

[0205] Hereinafter, other embodiments of the display device in the embodiment will be described. In the following embodiments, descriptions of components identical to those of the above-described embodiment denoted by the same reference numerals will be omitted or simplified, and differences will be mainly described.

[0206] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a main body unit. Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel. Fig.15is an exploded perspective view showing an embodiment of a cover panel.

[0207] refer to Figures 13 to 15 , the display device 1 in the exemplary embodiment is different from the reference Figure 8 The display device 1 in one embodiment described in the embodiment is different in that it further defines a third storage space SS3 in a through-hole shape.

[0208] More specifically, the display device 1 in the illustrated embodiment may define a third storage space SS3. The third storage space SS3 may be defined between the display panel 100 and the driving board PCB in the third direction DR3. The third storage space SS3 may be a space for storing electronic devices such as an ambient light sensor ("ALS") and a fingerprint sensor on a display ("FOD").

[0209] The third storage space SS3 may be a hole HOL passing through the lower module LM. Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown in , for example, the third storage space SS3 may be defined as a hole HOL passing through the cover panel 500 .

[0210] The hole HOL penetrating the cover panel 500 may pass through the buffer layer 510, the bonding layer 520, the support layer 530, and the heat dissipation layer 550. Although not shown in the drawings, the hole HOL may pass through the cover spacer 540 according to its position.

[0211] In an embodiment, for example, the holes HOL may include a first hole HOL_1 passing through the buffer layer 510 , a second hole HOL_2 passing through the bonding layer 520 , a third hole HOL_3 passing through the support layer 530 , and a fourth hole HOL_4 passing through the heat dissipation layer 550 .

[0212] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a main body unit. Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel.

[0213] refer to Fig.16 and Fig.17 The display device 1 in the exemplary embodiment is different from the above reference Figure 8 and Fig.13 The display device 1 in the embodiments described above is different in that it further defines a third storage space SS3 in a groove shape defined adjacent to the driving board PCB.

[0214] More specifically, the third storage space SS3 may be a groove GRV defined by recessing at least a portion of the bottom surface of the lower module LM. Fig.17As shown in , for example, the third storage space SS3 may be defined as a groove GRV defined by recessing at least a portion of the bottom surface of the cover panel 500 toward the top surface of the cover panel 500 .

[0215] The groove GRV may pass through at least a portion of the heat dissipation layer 550 and the support layer 530. Although not shown in the drawings, the groove GRV may pass through the cover spacer 540 according to its position.

[0216] In one embodiment, as shown in the drawings, for example, the top surface of the groove GRV may be defined at a predetermined point inside the support layer 530 in the third direction DR3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the top surface of the groove GRV may be defined at any point inside the buffer layer 510 or the bonding layer 520.

[0217] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a main body unit. Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a cover panel.

[0218] refer to Fig.18 and Fig.19 The display device 1 in the exemplary embodiment is different from the above reference Figure 8 , Fig.13 and Fig.16 The display device 1 in the embodiments described above is different in that it further includes a third storage space SS3 in a groove shape defined adjacent to the display panel 100 .

[0219] More specifically, the third storage space SS3 may be a groove GRV defined by recessing at least a portion of the top surface of the lower module LM. Fig.19 As shown in , the third storage space SS3 may be a groove GRV defined by recessing at least a portion of the top surface of the cover panel 500 toward the bottom surface of the cover panel 500 .

[0220] The groove GRV may pass through at least a portion of the buffer layer 510, the bonding layer 520, and the support layer 530. In one embodiment, as shown in the drawings, for example, the bottom surface of the groove GRV may be defined at a predetermined point inside the support layer 530 in the third direction DR3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the bottom surface of the groove GRV may be defined at any point inside the heat dissipation layer 550 or the cover spacer 540.

[0221] At the end of the detailed description, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many changes and modifications may be made to the preferred embodiment without departing substantially from the principles of the present disclosure. Therefore, the preferred embodiments of the present invention disclosed are used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A cover window including a first surface; A display panel is arranged on the first surface; as well as A cover panel is disposed on the display panel and comprises: a second surface facing the cover window; as well as a third surface disposed on the opposite side of the second surface, The first surface and the second surface are curved, and the third surface is flat. 2 . The display device according to claim 1 , wherein the display panel is curved along the first surface. 3 . The display device according to claim 1 , wherein a curvature of the first surface and a curvature of the second surface are identical to each other. The display device according to claim 3 , wherein a radius of curvature of the first surface is 100 mm to 200 mm.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the cover panel comprises: A buffer layer, disposed on the display panel; A bonding layer, disposed on the buffer layer; as well as a supporting layer disposed on the bonding layer and comprising a fourth surface facing the cover window and a fifth surface disposed on the opposite side of the fourth surface, Wherein the fourth surface is curved and the fifth surface is flat. The display device according to claim 5 , wherein the curvature of the first surface and the curvature of the fourth surface are identical to each other. 7 . The display device according to claim 5 , wherein the support layer comprises at least one of polyethylene terephthalate, polyimide, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polysulfone, polymethyl methacrylate, triacetyl cellulose, and cycloolefin polymer. 8 . The display device according to claim 5 , wherein the buffer layer and the bonding layer are curved along a shape of the fourth surface.

9. The display device according to claim 5, wherein The cover panel further includes at least one of a cover spacer and a heat dissipation layer disposed on the fifth surface, and The cover spacer and the heat dissipation layer have flat surfaces.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein the heat dissipation layer comprises at least one of copper, silver, gold, aluminum, nickel, stainless steel, graphite, and carbon nanotubes. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein an outermost thickness of the cover panel is smaller than a central thickness of the cover panel.

12. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a driving board disposed on the third surface, The driving plate is flat along the third surface.

13. The display device according to claim 12, further comprising a circuit component disposed on the driving board, The circuit components are arranged on a flat surface of the driving board.

14. A display device, comprising: Display panel; An upper module, disposed on the first surface of the display panel; a cover window, disposed on the upper module and having a dome shape; a lower module having a dome shape and disposed on a second surface of the display panel opposite to the first surface, and including a flat bottom surface; as well as A driving board is disposed on the bottom surface of the lower module. 15 . The display device of claim 14 , wherein the driving board is flat along the bottom surface of the lower module.

16. The display device according to claim 15, further comprising a circuit component disposed on the driving board, The circuit components are arranged on a flat surface of the driving board. 17 . The display device according to claim 15 , wherein the display panel is bent along a shape of the cover window.

18. The display device according to claim 15, wherein the upper module is bent along a shape of the cover window.

19. The display device according to claim 14, wherein the upper module comprises: an anti-reflection layer, disposed on the first surface of the display panel; as well as an adhesive layer, disposed on the anti-reflection layer, The adhesive layer is in direct contact with the cover window.

20. The display device according to claim 14, wherein the lower module comprises: A supporting film, disposed on the second surface of the display panel; as well as a cover panel, arranged on the supporting film, The cover panel has a dome shape and includes a flat bottom surface.

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