Display device

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device. The display device includes: a display module having a first non-foldable area, a foldable area, and a second non-foldable area arranged in a first direction in an unfolded state; and a first support layer disposed below the display module and having a mesh pattern including a plurality of first holes overlapping the foldable area, where the first holes are arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, and wherein: each of the first pores has a first width in the second direction and a second width in the first direction, the first width being in the range of about 2000 [mu] m to about 9000 [mu] m, and the second width being in the range of about 100 [mu] m to about 250 [mu] m.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application with application date of January 25, 2021, application number 202110097336.4, and invention name “Display Device”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0018529, filed on February 14, 2020, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0023759, filed on February 26, 2020, which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0004] Exemplary implementations of the present invention relate generally to display devices, and more particularly, to display devices having foldable regions. Background Art

[0005] Electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smart phones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation units, and smart TVs, include display devices to display images. The display devices generate images and provide the images to users through a display screen.

[0006] In recent years, various flexible display devices that can be transformed into a curved shape, bendable, or rollable have been studied. The flexible display device that can be transformed into various shapes is easy to carry and improves user convenience.

[0007] In a flexible display device, a foldable display device includes a display module folded around a folding axis extending in one direction. The display module is folded or unfolded around the folding axis.

[0008] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for understanding the background of the present inventive concept and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the invention

[0009] The applicant has found that a display device with a foldable display panel is damaged due to repeated folding and unfolding operations. Specifically, the applicant has realized that since the support layer for supporting the foldable display panel is folded and unfolded together with the foldable display panel, the support layer is easily damaged by repeated folding and unfolding operations.

[0010] A display device constructed according to the principles and exemplary implementations of the present invention can reduce stress and defects of a support layer for supporting a foldable display panel by providing a grid pattern having a plurality of holes included therein.

[0011] Furthermore, a display device constructed according to the principles and exemplary implementations of the present invention includes a support layer having characteristics suitable for a foldable display device.

[0012] Additional features of the inventive concept will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concept.

[0013] According to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a display device includes: a display module having a first non-foldable area, a foldable area, and a second non-foldable area arranged in a first direction in an unfolded state; and a first supporting layer disposed below the display module and having a grid pattern, the grid pattern including a plurality of first holes overlapping the foldable area, wherein the first holes are arranged in a first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and wherein: each of the first holes has a first width in the second direction and a second width in the first direction, the first width is in a range of about 2000 μm to about 9000 μm, and the second width is in a range of about 100 μm to about 250 μm.

[0014] An end portion of the first supporting layer may protrude outward beyond an end portion of the display module.

[0015] The mesh pattern may include: a plurality of first branches disposed between first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction and extending in the second direction; and a plurality of second branches disposed between first holes adjacent to each other in the second direction and extending in the first direction.

[0016] Each of the first branches may have a third width in the first direction, and the third width may be in the range of about 100 μm to about 200 μm.

[0017] Each of the second branches may have a fourth width in the second direction, and the fourth width may be in the range of about 121 μm to about 200 μm.

[0018] The first width may be about 5350 μm, the second width may be about 150 μm, and the third width may be about 100 μm.

[0019] Each of the first branches may have a hexagonal shape in a cross-sectional view when viewed in the second direction.

[0020] When viewed in the second direction, the width of the upper surface of the first branch may be equal to the width of the lower surface of the first branch, and the width of the upper surface of the first branch may be less than a third width corresponding to the width of the central portion of the first branch.

[0021] The first support layer may include a metallic material.

[0022] The first supporting layer may include: a first portion disposed under the first non-foldable region and extending from the mesh pattern in the first direction; and a second portion disposed under the second non-foldable region and extending from the mesh pattern in the first direction.

[0023] Center points of the first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction may be shifted in the second direction and spaced apart from each other.

[0024] The display device may further include a second supporting layer disposed below the first supporting layer, wherein the second supporting layer may include: a first plate overlapping the first non-foldable region; and a second plate overlapping the second non-foldable region and spaced apart from the first plate in the first direction.

[0025] The display device may further include a sub-covering layer disposed between the first supporting layer and the second supporting layer and folded or unfolded integrally with the first supporting layer.

[0026] The display module may be folded inwardly so that an upper surface of the first non-foldable region and an upper surface of the second non-foldable region face each other when the display module is folded about a folding axis in the foldable region.

[0027] A plurality of second holes may be further defined in the grid pattern, the second holes may be arranged in the first direction and the second direction, and disposed between the first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction, and the width of each of the second holes in the second direction may be smaller than the first width of each first hole in the second direction.

[0028] The grid pattern may include a plurality of first branches, which are arranged between first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction and extend in the second direction, second holes arranged in the second direction may be defined in each of the first branches, and a width of each first branch in the first direction may be greater than a second width of each first hole in the first direction.

[0029] A spacing distance between the second holes adjacent to each other in the second direction may be smaller than a first width of each of the first holes in the second direction.

[0030] Center points of the second holes adjacent to each other in the first direction may be disposed at the same position in the second direction.

[0031] According to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a display device includes: a display module having a first non-foldable area, a foldable area, and a second non-foldable area arranged in a first direction in an unfolded state; a first supporting layer, disposed below the display module and having a grid pattern including a plurality of first holes, the plurality of first holes overlapping with the foldable area of ​​the display module; and a second supporting layer, disposed below the first supporting layer and including a first plate disposed below the first non-foldable area and a second plate disposed below the second non-foldable area, the second plate being separated from the first plate, wherein: in the unfolded state, the first plate and the second plate overlap with the foldable area of ​​the display module in a second direction intersecting with the first direction, and in the folded state, the first plate and the second plate do not overlap with the foldable area of ​​the display module in the second direction.

[0032] A plurality of first holes may be arranged in a first direction and a third direction intersecting the first direction, and wherein: each of the first holes may have a first width in the third direction and a second width in the first direction, the first width may be in a range of about 2000 μm to about 9000 μm, and the second width may be in a range of about 100 μm to about 250 μm.

[0033] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the inventive concept.

[0035] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device.

[0037] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0038] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display panel of a display module of a display device.

[0039] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a display device showing a state where the display device is folded inwardly.

[0040] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0041] Fig. 7A yes Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of portion A of FIG. Figure 1 An example of a grid pattern of a first supporting layer of a display device.

[0042] Figure 7B yes Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of portion B of FIG. Figure 1 A grid pattern of a first supporting layer of a display device.

[0043] Figure 8 It is along Fig. 7A A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in FIG.

[0044] Figures 9 to 11 It shows that according to Fig. 7A A graph of the observed effect of changes in the shape of the first holes in the grid pattern.

[0045] Fig.12 yes Figure 2 A plan view of part A showing Figure 1 Another example of a grid pattern of a first supporting layer of a display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] In the following description, for the purpose of illustration, many specific details are elaborated to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments or implementations of the present invention. As used herein, "implementation" and "implementation" are interchangeable words, which are non-limiting examples of one or more devices or methods using the inventive concept disclosed herein. However, it is obvious that various exemplary embodiments can be put into practice without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other examples, in order to avoid unnecessarily blurring various exemplary embodiments, known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form. In addition, various exemplary embodiments may be different, but not necessarily exclusive. For example, without departing from the inventive concept, the specific shape, configuration and characteristics of the exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment.

[0047] Unless otherwise specified, the exemplary embodiments shown should be understood as providing exemplary features of different details of some ways in which the inventive concept can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects of various embodiments (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as "elements") may be combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concept.

[0048] The use of cross hatching and / or shading in the drawings is generally to make the boundaries between adjacent elements clear. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the presence or absence of cross hatching or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material property, size, ratio, commonality between the illustrated elements 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 exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, the specific processing sequence can be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two processes described in succession can be performed substantially simultaneously, or in an order opposite to the described order. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0049] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, directly connected to, or coupled to, another element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. For this reason, the term "connected" may represent a physical connection, an electrical connection, and / or a fluid connection with or without the presence of an intervening element. In addition, the DR1 axis, the DR2 axis, and the DR3 axis are not limited to the three axes of a rectangular coordinate system (such as, the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis), and may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1 axis, the DR2 axis, and the DR3 axis may be perpendicular to each other, or may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purpose of this disclosure, "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 only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0050] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. can be used in this article 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 can be referred to as the second element.

[0051] Spatially relative terms such as "beneath," "below," "under," "lower," "above," "upper," "over," "higher," "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall"), and the like may be used herein for descriptive purposes, and thereby to describe the relationship of one element to another element(s) as shown in the accompanying drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is turned over, elements described as being "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented to be "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" may encompass both the above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0052] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing a particular embodiment and are not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used herein, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms. In addition, when used in this specification, the terms "comprising", "comprising", "including" and / or "including" represent the existence of stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their collections, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their collections. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially", "about" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as degree terms, and are therefore 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. Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to profiles and / or exploded views, which are schematic diagrams of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, deviations from the illustrated shapes caused by, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances will be expected. Thus, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be construed as limited to the particular illustrated shapes of regions but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. In this manner, the regions illustrated in the drawings may be schematic in nature and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shape of a region of a device and, therefore, are not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0053] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. 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 technology and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such herein.

[0054] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a display device DD constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 , the display device DD according to the exemplary embodiment may have a rectangular shape defined by long sides extending in a first direction DR1 and short sides extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the shape of the display device DD should not be limited to the rectangular shape, and the display device DD may have various shapes such as a circular shape or a polygonal shape.

[0056] Hereinafter, a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be referred to as a “third direction DR3 .” In the following description, the expression “when viewed in a plane” means a state viewed in the third direction DR3 .

[0057] The display device DD may include a first non-foldable area NFA1, a second non-foldable area NFA2, and a foldable area FA disposed therebetween. The first non-foldable area NFA1, the second non-foldable area NFA2, and the foldable area FA may be arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0058] As an example, Figure 1 , one foldable area FA and two non-foldable areas NFA1 and NFA2 are shown, however, the number of foldable areas FA and the number of non-foldable areas NFA1 and NFA2 should not be limited thereto or thereby. For example, the display device DD may include more than two non-foldable areas and a plurality of foldable areas disposed between the non-foldable areas.

[0059] An upper surface of the display device DD may be defined as a display surface DS, and may be a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. An image IM generated by the display device DD may be provided to a user through the display surface DS.

[0060] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image IM, and the non-display area NDA may not display the image IM. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and may be defined as an edge of the display device DD printed with a predetermined color.

[0061] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device DD, Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display panel of a display module of a display device. Figure 2 Multiple adhesive layers are omitted.

[0062] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3, the display device DD according to the exemplary embodiment may include a display module DM, a first supporting layer SUP1, a sub-covering layer SCV, and a second supporting layer SUP2. The display module DM, the first supporting layer SUP1, the sub-covering layer SCV, and the second supporting layer SUP2 may be sequentially stacked in the third direction DR3.

[0063] The display module DM may be a flexible display module. The display module DM includes a first non-foldable area NFA1, a foldable area FA, and a second non-foldable area NFA2 arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0064] The display module DM may include a display panel DP, an anti-reflection layer RPL, an impact absorbing layer ISL, a window WIN, a window protection layer WP, a first coating layer CT1, a second coating layer CT2, a panel protection layer PPL, a cover layer CVL, and a plurality of adhesive layers. Each layer of the display module DM may include a first non-foldable area NFA1, a foldable area FA, and a second non-foldable area NFA2.

[0065] An anti-reflection layer RPL, an impact absorbing layer ISL, a window WIN, a window protective layer WP, a first coating layer CT1, and a second coating layer CT2 may be disposed over the display panel DP.

[0066] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the display panel DP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be an external light anti-reflection film. The anti-reflection layer RPL may reduce the reflectivity of external light incident on the display panel DP from above the display device DD. As an example, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a retarder and / or a polarizer.

[0067] The thickness of the anti-reflection layer RPL in the third direction DR3 may be greater than the thickness of the display panel DP in the third direction DR3. For example, the thickness of the display panel DP in the third direction DR3 may be about 30 μm, and the thickness of the anti-reflection layer RPL in the third direction DR3 may be about 31 μm. However, the thickness of the anti-reflection layer RPL should not be limited thereto or thereby. The thickness of the anti-reflection layer RPL may be less than the thickness of the display panel DP.

[0068] The first adhesive layer AL1 may be disposed between the anti-reflection layer RPL and the display panel DP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be attached to the display panel DP through the first adhesive layer AL1. The thickness of the first adhesive layer AL1 in the third direction DR3 may be less than the thickness of the display panel DP in the third direction DR3. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer AL1 in the third direction DR3 may be about 25 μm.

[0069] The impact absorbing layer ISL may be disposed on the anti-reflection layer RPL. The impact absorbing layer ISL may absorb impact applied to the display panel DP from the outside of the display device DD. The impact absorbing layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material. For example, the impact absorbing layer ISL may include polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The impact absorbing layer ISL may have an elastic modulus equal to or greater than about 1 GPa.

[0070] The thickness of the impact absorbing layer ISL in the third direction DR3 may be greater than the thickness of the anti-reflection layer RPL in the third direction DR3. As an example, the thickness of the impact absorbing layer ISL in the third direction DR3 may be about 41 μm.

[0071] The first coating layer CT1 may be coated on the lower surface of the impact absorbing layer ISL. The first coating layer CT1 may include a hard coating layer. The first coating layer CT1 may planarize the lower surface of the impact absorbing layer ISL, which may be a curved surface.

[0072] The second adhesive layer AL2 may be disposed between the impact absorbing layer ISL and the anti-reflection layer RPL. The impact absorbing layer ISL and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be attached to each other by the second adhesive layer AL2. When viewed in the third direction DR3, the thickness of the second adhesive layer AL2 may be less than the thickness of the anti-reflection layer RPL and equal to the thickness of the first adhesive layer AL1. As an example, the thickness of the second adhesive layer AL2 in the third direction DR3 may be about 25 μm.

[0073] The window WIN may be disposed on the impact absorbing layer ISL. The window WIN may protect the display panel DP and the anti-reflection layer RPL from being scratched. The image generated by the display panel DP may be provided to the user through the window WIN. The window WIN may have optically transparent properties. For example, the window WIN may include a glass material. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the window WIN may be an ultra-thin glass (UTG). However, the material of the window WIN should not be limited thereto or thereby. For example, the window WIN may include a transparent plastic material.

[0074] The window WIN may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the window WIN may include a plurality of synthetic resin films attached to each other by an adhesive, or may include a glass substrate and a synthetic resin film attached to the glass substrate by an adhesive.

[0075] When viewed in a plane, the area of ​​the window WIN may be smaller than the area of ​​the display panel DP. In detail, opposite ends DP-E of the display panel DP in the first direction DR1 may protrude outwardly beyond opposite ends WIN-E of the window WIN in the first direction DR1. For example, each of the opposite ends DP-E of the display panel DP may protrude more than the corresponding end WIN-E of the window WIN in the first direction DR1 by about 150 μm or more. For example, opposite ends of the display panel DP in the second direction DR2 may protrude outwardly beyond opposite ends of the window WIN in the second direction DR2.

[0076] According to an exemplary embodiment, when the end portion WIN-E of the window WIN is disposed inside the end portion DP-E of the display panel DP, the window WIN may be effectively protected from an external impact acting on the display module DM.

[0077] The thickness of the window WIN in the third direction DR3 may be less than the thickness of each of the impact absorbing layer ISL and the anti-reflection layer RPL and may be equal to the thickness of the display panel DP. For example, the thickness of the window WIN in the third direction DR3 may be about 30 μm.

[0078] The third adhesive layer AL3 may be disposed between the window WIN and the impact absorbing layer ISL. The window WIN and the impact absorbing layer ISL may be attached to each other by the third adhesive layer AL3. The thickness of the third adhesive layer AL3 may be greater than the thickness of the window WIN and less than the thickness of the impact absorbing layer ISL. As an example, the thickness of the third adhesive layer AL3 in the third direction DR3 may be about 35 μm.

[0079] When viewed in a plane, the area of ​​the third adhesive layer AL3 may be smaller than the area of ​​the window WIN. In detail, the opposite ends WIN-E of the window WIN in the first direction DR1 may protrude outwardly beyond the opposite ends AL3-E of the third adhesive layer AL3 in the first direction DR1. For example, the opposite ends of the window WIN in the second direction DR2 may protrude outwardly beyond the opposite ends of the third adhesive layer AL3 in the second direction DR2.

[0080] According to an exemplary embodiment, when the end AL3-E of the third adhesive layer AL3 disposed under the window WIN is disposed inside the end WIN-E of the window WIN, the window WIN can be folded more easily. The window protection layer WP can be disposed on the window WIN. The second coating CT2 can be coated on the upper surface of the window protection layer WP. The window protection layer WP and the second coating CT2 can protect the window WIN.

[0081] The window protection layer WP may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. The second coating layer CT2 may include a hard coating layer, however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto or thereby. The second coating layer CT2 may further include an anti-fingerprint layer or an anti-scattering layer used as a functional layer.

[0082] The thickness of the window protection layer WP in the third direction DR3 may be greater than the thickness of the impact absorbing layer ISL in the third direction DR3. As an example, the thickness of the window protection layer WP in the third direction DR3 may be about 55 μm.

[0083] The fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be disposed between the window protection layer WP and the window WIN. The window protection layer WP and the window WIN may be attached to each other by the fourth adhesive layer AL4. The thickness of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 in the third direction DR3 may be less than the thickness of the window WIN in the third direction DR3. As an example, the thickness of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 in the third direction DR3 may be about 25 μm.

[0084] The panel protection layer PPL and the cover layer CVL may be disposed under the display panel DP. The panel protection layer PPL may be disposed under the display panel DP. The panel protection layer PPL may include a flexible material. For example, the panel protection layer PPL may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0085] The thickness of the panel protection layer PPL in the third direction DR3 may be greater than the thickness of the display panel DP in the third direction DR3. As an example, the thickness of the panel protection layer PPL in the third direction DR3 may be about 50 μm.

[0086] The fifth adhesive layer AL5 may be disposed between the display panel DP and the panel protection layer PPL. The display panel DP and the panel protection layer PPL may be attached to each other by the fifth adhesive layer AL5. The thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5 may be less than the thickness of the display panel DP. As an example, the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5 in the third direction DR3 may be about 18 μm.

[0087] The cover layer CVL may be disposed below the panel protection layer PPL. The cover layer CVL may define a lower portion of the display module DM. The cover layer CVL may absorb external impact applied to the lower portion of the display module DM. When viewed in a plane, the area of ​​the cover layer CVL may be smaller than the area of ​​the display panel DP. The opposite ends DP-E of the display panel DP in the first direction DR1 may protrude outwardly beyond the opposite ends of the cover layer CVL in the first direction DR1. For example, each of the opposite ends DP-E of the display panel DP may protrude about 200 μm or more in the first direction DR1 than the corresponding end of the opposite ends of the cover layer CVL. For example, the opposite ends of the display panel DP in the second direction DR2 may protrude outwardly beyond the opposite ends of the cover layer CVL in the second direction DR2.

[0088] The cover layer CVL may include a barrier layer BRL and a buffer layer CUL. The barrier layer BRL may be disposed under the panel protection layer PPL. The barrier layer BRL may increase resistance to a compressive force due to external pressure. As an example, the barrier layer BRL may prevent the display panel DP from being deformed. The barrier layer BRL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0089] The buffer layer CUL may be disposed below the barrier layer BRL. The buffer layer CUL may absorb an external impact applied to the lower portion of the display module DM and may protect the display module DM. The buffer layer CUL may include a foam sheet having a predetermined elasticity. The buffer layer CUL may include foam, sponge, polyurethane, or thermoplastic polyurethane. The buffer layer CUL may be formed directly on the lower surface of the barrier layer BRL serving as a base layer.

[0090] The thickness of the barrier layer BRL in the third direction DR3 may be greater than the thickness of the display panel DP in the third direction DR3 and less than the thickness of the panel protection layer PPL in the third direction DR3. As an example, the thickness of the barrier layer BRL in the third direction DR3 may be about 35 μm. The thickness of the buffer layer CUL in the third direction DR3 may be greater than the thickness of the panel protection layer PPL in the third direction DR3. As an example, the thickness of the buffer layer CUL in the third direction DR3 may be about 100 μm.

[0091] At least one of the barrier layer BRL and the buffer layer CUL may have a color that absorbs light. For example, at least one of the barrier layer BRL and the buffer layer CUL may have a black color. In this case, when the display device DD is viewed in a plane, the components disposed under the cover layer CVL may not be seen.

[0092] The sixth adhesive layer AL6 may be disposed between the panel protection layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL. The panel protection layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL may be attached to each other by the sixth adhesive layer AL6. The thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL6 in the third direction DR3 may be less than the thickness of the display panel DP in the third direction DR3, and greater than the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5 in the third direction DR3. For example, the thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL6 in the third direction DR3 may be about 25 μm.

[0093] Reference Figure 4 The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer CL disposed on the substrate SUB, a display element layer OL disposed on the circuit element layer CL, a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the display element layer OL, and an input sensing unit ISP disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0094] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include a flexible plastic material. For example, the substrate SUB may include polyimide (PI).

[0095] The circuit element layer CL may include an insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, and a signal line. The insulating layer, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer may be formed on the substrate SUB by coating and deposition processes, and then, the insulating layer, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer may be selectively patterned by multiple photolithography processes. Then, the semiconductor pattern, the conductive pattern, and the signal line of the circuit element layer CL may be formed.

[0096] The display element layer OL may be disposed on the display area DA. The display element layer OL may include a light emitting element. For example, the display element layer OL may include an organic light emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, or a micro LED.

[0097] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the circuit element layer CL to cover the display element layer OL. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include an inorganic layer, an organic layer, and an inorganic layer stacked in sequence. The inorganic layer may include an inorganic material and may protect the pixel from moisture, oxygen, etc. The organic layer may include an organic material and may protect the pixel from foreign matter (such as dust particles).

[0098] The input sensing unit ISP may include a plurality of sensors to sense external input. The sensor may detect the external input by a capacitive method. The external input may include various inputs caused by a part of the user's body, light, heat, a pen, or pressure.

[0099] When manufacturing the display panel DP, the input sensing unit ISP may be directly manufactured on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE, however, the input sensing unit ISP is not limited thereto or thereby. The input sensing unit ISP may be attached to the display panel DP through an adhesive layer after being manufactured separately from the display panel DP.

[0100] Refer again Figures 2 to 3 , the first support layer SUP1 may be disposed under the display module DM. For example, the first support layer SUP1 may be disposed under the buffer layer CUL of the cover layer CVL. The first support layer SUP1 may support the display module DM. In addition, the heat dissipation performance of the display device DD may be improved by the first support layer SUP1.

[0101] The first support layer SUP1 may be a flexible layer. For example, the first support layer SUP1 may include a material having an elastic modulus of about 60 GPa or more. The first support layer SUP1 may include a metal material such as stainless steel. For example, the first support layer SUP1 may include SUS 304, however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto or thereby. The first support layer SUP1 may include various metal materials.

[0102] When viewed in a plane, the area of ​​the first support layer SUP1 may be larger than the area of ​​the display module DM. In detail, opposite ends SUP1-E of the first support layer SUP1 in the first direction DR1 may protrude outwardly beyond opposite ends DP-E of the display panel DP in the first direction DR1. For example, each of the opposite ends SUP1-E of the first support layer SUP1 in the first direction DR1 may protrude beyond the corresponding end DP-E of the display panel DP in the first direction DR1 by about 150 μm or more. For example, opposite ends of the first support layer SUP1 in the second direction DR2 may protrude outwardly beyond opposite ends of the display panel DP in the second direction DR2.

[0103] According to example embodiments, since the edge portion of the first supporting layer SUP1 protrudes outward beyond the display module DM, the first supporting layer SUP1 may effectively protect the display module DM from an external impact applied thereto from the outside of the display device DD.

[0104] The first support layer SUP1 may include a first portion PP1, a second portion PP2, and a mesh pattern LT. The mesh pattern LT may be disposed between the first portion PP1 and the second portion PP2. The first portion PP1, the second portion PP2, and the mesh pattern LT may be formed integrally with each other. For example, each of the first portion PP1 and the second portion PP2 may extend from the mesh pattern LT in the first direction DR1.

[0105] The first portion PP1 may be disposed below the first non-foldable area NFA1 and may support the first non-foldable area NFA1. The second portion PP2 may be disposed below the second non-foldable area NFA2 and may support the second non-foldable area NFA2. The grid pattern LT may be disposed below the foldable area FA. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the width of the grid pattern LT in the first direction DR1 may be in the range of about 8.65 mm to about 9.65 mm. However, the width of the grid pattern LT in the first direction DR1 is not limited thereto or thereby.

[0106] The mesh pattern LT may be provided with a plurality of first holes H1 formed therethrough. The first holes H1 may penetrate the first support layer SUP1 in the third direction DR3. The thickness of the first holes H1 in the third direction DR3 may be equal to the thickness of the first support layer SUP1. Due to the first holes H1, the mesh pattern LT may be easily folded together with the display module DM in the foldable area FA. A detailed description of the first holes H1 defined to pass through the mesh pattern LT will be given later.

[0107] The thickness of the first support layer SUP1 in the third direction DR3 may be greater than the thickness of the buffer layer CUL of the cover layer CVL in the third direction DR3. For example, the thickness of the first support layer SUP1 in the third direction DR3 may be about 150 μm.

[0108] The seventh adhesive layer AL7 may be disposed between the buffer layer CUL and the first support layer SUP1. The buffer layer CUL and the first support layer SUP1 may be attached to each other by the seventh adhesive layer AL7. The thickness of the seventh adhesive layer AL7 in the third direction DR3 may be less than the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5 in the third direction DR3. As an example, the thickness of the seventh adhesive layer AL7 in the third direction DR3 may be about 8 μm.

[0109] The sub-cover layer SCV may be disposed below the first support layer SUP1. The sub-cover layer SCV may cover the first hole H1 defined as the mesh pattern LT passing through the first support layer SUP1. The sub-cover layer SCV may have flexibility. The elastic modulus of the sub-cover layer SCV may be less than the elastic modulus of the first support layer SUP1. For example, the sub-cover layer SCV may include thermoplastic polyurethane or rubber, however, the material of the sub-cover layer SCV is not limited thereto or thereby.

[0110] The sub-cover layer SCV may be manufactured in a sheet form and may be attached to the first support layer SUP1. For example, an eighth adhesive layer AL8 may be provided between the sub-cover layer SCV and the first support layer SUP1. The sub-cover layer SCV and the first support layer SUP1 may be attached to each other through the eighth adhesive layer AL8. The sub-cover layer SCV may prevent foreign matter from entering the first hole H1 defined as the mesh pattern LT passing through the first support layer SUP1.

[0111] The second supporting layer SUP2 may be disposed below the sub-covering layer SCV. The second supporting layer SUP2 may support the first non-foldable area NFA1 and the second non-foldable area NFA2 of the display module DM. Unlike the first supporting layer SUP1 and the sub-covering layer SCV, the second supporting layer SUP2 may be rigid. For example, the second supporting layer SUP2 may include the same material as that of the first supporting layer SUP1, such as stainless steel. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and the second supporting layer SUP2 may include a variety of metals, such as Invar.

[0112] The second supporting layer SUP2 may include a first plate PL1 and a second plate PL2 arranged in the first direction DR1. The first plate PL1 may be arranged to overlap with the first non-foldable area NFA1, and may support the first non-foldable area NFA1. The second plate PL2 may be arranged to overlap with the second non-foldable area NFA2, and may support the second non-foldable area NFA2. The first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 may extend to the foldable area FA, but may be spaced apart from each other in the foldable area FA. For example, the distance between the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 in the first direction DR1 may be in the range of about 2.2 mm to about 2.6 mm.

[0113] The first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 may be disposed adjacent to each other in the foldable area FA. The first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 may support the mesh pattern LT (the first hole H1 is defined to pass through it) of the first support layer SUP1 in the foldable area FA. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the mesh pattern LT (the first hole H1 is defined to pass through it) from above the mesh pattern LT, deformation of the mesh pattern LT (the first hole H1 is defined to pass through it) of the first support layer SUP1 may be prevented by the second support layer SUP2. In addition, the second support layer SUP2 may prevent a component disposed thereon from being deformed by a component disposed thereunder.

[0114] The ninth adhesive layer AL9 may be disposed between the second support layer SUP2 and the sub-cover layer SCV. The second support layer SUP2 and the sub-cover layer SCV may be attached to each other by the ninth adhesive layer AL9. The ninth adhesive layer AL9 may be disposed in an area overlapping with the first non-foldable area NFA1 and in an area overlapping with the second non-foldable area NFA2. The ninth adhesive layer AL9 may not be disposed in an area overlapping with the foldable area FA.

[0115] The second support layer SUP2 may further include a heat dissipation layer RHL and an insulating tape ITP. The heat dissipation layer RHL may be disposed below the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2. The heat dissipation layer RHL may be a graphitized polymer film. For example, the polymer film may be a polyimide film.

[0116] A tenth adhesive layer AL10 may be disposed between the second board PL2 and the heat dissipation layer RHL. The second board PL2 and the heat dissipation layer RHL may be attached to each other by the tenth adhesive layer AL10.

[0117] The insulating tape ITP may be disposed under the heat dissipation layer RHL. The insulating tape ITP may include an insulating material. The eleventh adhesive layer AL11 may be disposed between the insulating tape ITP and the heat dissipation layer RHL. The insulating tape ITP and the heat dissipation layer RHL may be attached to each other through the eleventh adhesive layer AL11.

[0118] The first to eleventh adhesive layers AL1 to AL11 may include a transparent adhesive such as a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA).

[0119] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the display device DD, which shows the inwardly folded state of the display device DD, and Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0120] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the display device DD may be a foldable display device DD that is folded. For example, the display device DD may be folded about a folding axis FX that is substantially parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0121] When the display device DD is folded about the folding axis FX, the upper surface of the first non-foldable area NFA1 and the upper surface of the second non-foldable area NFA2 of the display module DM may face each other. Therefore, the display device DD may be folded inwardly (i.e., inwardly folded state) so that the display surface DS (refer to Figure 1 ) is not exposed to the outside.

[0122] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the display device DD is folded around a folding axis FX extending in the second direction DR2, however, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto or thereby. The display device DD may be folded in different ways. For example, the display device DD may be folded around a folding axis extending in the first direction DR1.

[0123] Since the display module DM is a flexible display module, the foldable area FA of the display module DM may be easily folded. The first support layer SUP1 and the sub cover layer SCV disposed under the display module DM may be folded together with the display module DM.

[0124] The second support layer SUP2 disposed below the sub-cover layer SCV is of a rigid type, and therefore, the second support layer SUP2 may not be folded. When the ninth adhesive layer AL9 is disposed to the foldable area FA, the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 of the second support layer SUP2 may be attached to the sub-cover layer SCV in the foldable area FA. When the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 are attached to the sub-cover layer SCV in the foldable area FA, the foldable area FA of the display module DM may not be easily folded due to the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2. Therefore, the display module DM may be difficult to fold. For example, in the unfolded state, the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 may overlap with the foldable area FA of the display module DM in a third direction DR3 intersecting with the first direction DR1, and in the folded state, the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 may not overlap with the foldable area FA of the display module DM in the third direction DR3.

[0125] In an exemplary embodiment, the ninth adhesive layer AL9 may not be disposed in the area overlapping the foldable area FA. Therefore, portions of the first and second panels PL1 and PL2 overlapping the foldable area FA are not attached to the display module DM, and thus, the foldable area FA of the display module DM may be easily folded.

[0126] By overlapping the mesh pattern LT with the foldable area FA, the first support layer SUP1 can be easily folded together with the display module DM. When the first support layer SUP1 is folded, the first side S1 of the mesh pattern LT can be deformed into a concave shape in the first direction DR1. The first side S1 may be a portion of the mesh pattern LT adjacent to the folding axis FX. When the first support layer SUP1 is folded, compressive stress may act on the first side S1. Therefore, the portion adjacent to the first side S1 in the first hole H1 may be compressed.

[0127] When the first supporting layer SUP1 is folded, the second side S2 of the grid pattern LT may be deformed into a convex shape. The second side S2 may be opposite to the first side S1 and may be spaced farther from the folding axis FX than the first side S1. When the first supporting layer SUP1 is folded, tensile stress may act on the second side S2. Therefore, a portion of the first hole H1 adjacent to the second side S2 may be stretched.

[0128] According to an exemplary embodiment, the display device DD may be unfolded to return to Figure 1 In this case, the grid pattern LT can be restored to its original shape. The folding and unfolding operation of the display device DD can be repeated several times. Therefore, the grid pattern LT of the first support layer SUP1 needs to have appropriate stretching characteristics to facilitate the folding operation of the display device DD, and have appropriate durability so as not to be damaged during repeated folding and unfolding operations.

[0129] Fig. 7A yes Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of portion A of FIG. Figure 1 An example of a grid pattern of a first supporting layer of a display device. Fig. 7A It is shown Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of the central portion of the mesh pattern LT.

[0130] Reference Figure 2 and Fig. 7A , the first holes H1 may be defined in the grid pattern LT. The first holes H1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The grid pattern LT may include a plurality of first branches BR1 and a plurality of second branches BR2. The first branches BR1 may be disposed between the first holes H1 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The first branches BR1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1. Each of the first branches BR1 may extend in the second direction DR2.

[0131] The second branch BR2 may be disposed between the first holes H1 adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2. The second branches BR2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The thickness of the central portion of each second branch BR2 may be less than the thickness of the edge of the second branch BR2. The edge of the second branch BR2 means a portion of the second branch BR2 adjacent to the first branch BR1. Therefore, the opposite ends of the first hole H1 in the second direction DR2 may have a convex shape.

[0132] Each of the second branches BR2 may extend in the first direction DR1. Each of the first holes H1 may be defined by two first branches BR1 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 and two second branches BR2 adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0133] The first holes H1 may be arranged in a zigzag form along the first direction DR1. In detail, the center points of the first holes H1 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 may be spaced apart from each other by alternately shifting in the second direction DR2. For example, when one of the odd-numbered first holes arranged in the first direction DR1 is referred to as a first sample hole H1_O and one of the even-numbered first holes arranged in the first direction DR1 is referred to as a second sample hole H1_E, the first sample hole H1_O and the second sample hole H1_E may be disposed adjacent to each other. The first center point C1 of the first sample hole H1_O may be spaced apart from the second center point C2 of the second sample hole H1_E in the second direction DR2. The first center point C1 and the second center point C2 may define the center of the first sample hole H1_O and the center of the second sample hole H1_E, respectively.

[0134] Each of the first holes H1 may have a first width W1 and a second width W2. The first width W1 may be a width of the first hole H1 in the second direction DR2. The second width W2 may be a width of the first hole H1 in the first direction DR1.

[0135] The first width W1 may be in the range of about 2000 μm to about 9000 μm, and preferably, in the range of about 3500 μm to about 6000 μm. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first width W1 may be about 5350 μm.

[0136] The second width W2 may be in the range of about 100 μm to about 250 μm, and preferably, in the range of about 100 μm to about 200 μm. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the second width W2 may be about 150 μm.

[0137] Each of the first branches BR1 may have a third width W3 in the first direction DR1. The third width W3 may indicate a spacing distance between the first holes H1 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The third width W3 may be a maximum width of the first branch BR1 in the first direction DR1. The third width W3 may be in a range of about 100 μm to about 200 μm, and preferably, in a range of about 93 μm to about 180 μm. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the third width W3 may be about 100 μm.

[0138] Each of the second branches BR2 may have a fourth width W4 in the second direction DR2. The fourth width W4 may indicate a spacing distance between the first holes H1 adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2. The fourth width W4 may be in a range of about 121 μm to about 200 μm. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the fourth width W4 may be about 200 μm.

[0139] Figure 7B yes Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of portion B of FIG. Figure 1 A grid pattern of a first supporting layer of a display device. Figure 7B It is shown Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of the edge of the mesh pattern LT.

[0140] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 7B , the mesh pattern LT may include a plurality of extension branches EXB. The extension branches EXB may be disposed adjacent to opposite ends of the first branches BR1 in the second direction DR2. The extension branches EXB may be arranged in the first direction DR1. Each of the extension branches EXB may extend in the second direction DR2. The extension branches EXB may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0141] In detail, each of the extension branches EXB may extend from two first branches BR1 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The width of each extension branch EXB in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the third width W3 of the first branch BR1 and the second width W2 of the first hole H1. For example, the width of each extension branch EXB in the first direction DR1 may be substantially the same as the sum of the width of the two first branches BR1 arranged in the first direction DR1 (i.e., a width twice the third width W3) and the width of the first hole H1 (i.e., the second width W2).

[0142] Figure 7B Only the extension branches EXB arranged at one end of the mesh pattern LT are illustrated, however, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and the extension branches EXB may be arranged at the other end of the mesh pattern LT.

[0143] Figure 8 It is along Fig. 7A A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in FIG. Figure 8 The first branches BR1 adjacent to each other when viewed in the second direction DR2 and the first holes H1 defined between the first branches BR1 are illustrated.

[0144] Reference Figure 8, each of the first branches BR1 has a hexagonal shape in a cross-sectional view. In detail, the first branch BR1 may include an upper surface UF and a lower surface BF. The upper surface UF and the lower surface BF may be substantially parallel to the first direction DR1. The upper surface UF may have a fifth width W5 in the first direction DR1. The fifth width W5 may be smaller than the third width W3. The ratio of the fifth width W5 to the third width W3 may be variable. For example, the ratio of the fifth width W5 to the third width W3 may be greater than or equal to about 0.4 and less than about 1. As the ratio of the fifth width W5 to the third width W3 increases, the stress acting on the grid pattern LT may increase during the folding and unfolding operations. The fifth width W5 may be in the range of about 40 μm to about 150 μm. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the fifth width W5 may be about 40 μm.

[0145] However, the shape of the first branch BR1 is not limited thereto or thereby. For example, when the ratio of the fifth width W5 to the third width W3 is about 1, the third width W3 and the fifth width W5 may be substantially the same as each other. In this case, each first branch BR1 may have a rectangular shape in a cross-sectional view.

[0146] Figures 9 to 11 It shows that according to Fig. 7A A graph showing the observed effect of changes in the shape of the first holes of the grid pattern. Figures 9 to 11 In FIG. 1 , the stress acting on the mesh pattern LT is indicated by a dotted line, the visibility of the mesh pattern LT is indicated by a solid line, and the resistance of the mesh pattern LT is indicated by a thick solid line. Figures 9 to 11 In FIG. 1 , the x-axis unit is micrometer (μm). In addition, the y-axis represents a relative value based on the assumption that the value at a specific time point is 1.

[0147] The stress means a load acting on the mesh pattern LT when the display device DD is folded. In detail, the stress may be a load acting on the mesh pattern LT. Figure 6 As the stress acting on the mesh pattern LT is reduced, the folding and unfolding operations of the display device DD may be easily performed.

[0148] Visibility means the degree to which the mesh pattern LT is observed when the display device DD is observed in a plane. The smaller the visibility, the better, because the mesh pattern LT is preferably not observed by the user.

[0149] Resistance means the property of the mesh pattern LT to maintain its original shape against external forces. In other words, resistance means the durability of the mesh pattern LT. For example, the external force may be gravity or pressure generated when a user touches the display device DD. When the resistance is too low, the mesh pattern LT may be concave downward in the state where the display device DD is unfolded.

[0150] Fig. 9 The stress, visibility and resistance are shown according to the first width W1. Fig. 9 , it is assumed that the stress and the resistance are one (1) when the first width W1 is zero (0).

[0151] Reference Fig. 7A and Fig. 9 In terms of stress, the stress can be reduced as the first width W1 increases. This is because Fig. 7A The deformable range of the first hole H1 in the first direction DR1 is proportional to the first width W1. Fig. 9 , when the first width W1 is about 4000 μm, the stress may be about 0.2. In other words, when the first width W1 is about 4000 μm, the stress may be reduced by about 80%.

[0152] In terms of resistance, the resistance may decrease as the first width W1 increases. That is, as the first width W1 increases, the grid pattern LT may be easily deformed due to external force. When the first width W1 is too large, the grid pattern LT of the first support layer SUP1 may be recessed downward in the unfolded state of the display device DD. In this case, the first support layer SUP1 may not be able to properly perform the function of supporting the display module DM. Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the first width W1 may be equal to or less than about 9000 μm.

[0153] In terms of visibility, even if the first width W1 is changed, visibility may not change significantly.

[0154] Therefore, in terms of stress, the first width W1 is preferably small, but considering the predetermined resistance, the ease of the manufacturing process and the process error, the first width W1 needs to be at least a predetermined width. The first width W1 may be in the range of about 2000 μm to about 9000 μm, preferably, in the range of about 3500 μm to about 6000 μm. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first width W1 may be about 5350 μm.

[0155] Fig.10 The stress, visibility and resistance are shown according to the second width W2. Fig.10 , it is assumed that when the second width W2 is 500 μm, the resistance and visibility are one (1), and the stress has a maximum value. Fig.10 , the second width W2 is greater than zero (0), and the stress, visibility, and resistance when the second width W2 is zero (0) are not limited.

[0156] Reference Fig. 7A and Fig.10In terms of stress, the stress may be reduced as the second width W2 decreases. This is because a greater number of first holes H1 may be defined in the mesh pattern LT having a specific area when the second width W2 (which is the width of the first hole H1 in the first direction DR1) decreases, and because as the number of first holes H1 increases, the stress acting on the mesh pattern LT may be uniformly distributed.

[0157] In terms of visibility, the visibility may decrease as the second width W2 decreases. This is because the size of the first hole H1 gradually decreases as the second width W2 decreases.

[0158] In terms of resistance, the resistance may decrease as the second width W2 decreases. This is because in the mesh pattern LT, the areas of the first branches BR1 and the second branches BR2 decrease as the number of the first holes H1 increases.

[0159] Therefore, in terms of stress and visibility, the second width W2 is preferably smaller, but in order to ensure a predetermined resistance, and in consideration of the ease of manufacturing process and process errors, the second width W2 needs to be at least a predetermined width. The second width W2 may be in the range of about 100 μm to about 250 μm, preferably, in the range of about 100 μm to about 200 μm. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second width W2 may be about 150 μm.

[0160] Fig.11 The stress, visibility and resistance are shown according to the change of the third width W3. Fig.11 In FIG. 1 , it is assumed that the stress is one (1) when the third width W3 is 300 μm. Fig.11 , the third width W3 is greater than zero (0), and the stress, visibility, and resistance when the third width W3 is zero (0) are not limited.

[0161] Reference Fig. 7A and Fig.11 In terms of stress, the stress may be reduced as the third width W3 decreases. This is because as the third width W3 of the first branch BR1 in the first direction DR1 decreases, the mesh pattern LT is deformed and the stress is uniformly distributed to the first branch BR1.

[0162] In terms of visibility, the visibility may decrease as the third width W3 increases. This is because the ratio of external light blocked by the first branches BR1 increases.

[0163] In terms of resistance, the resistance may decrease as the third width W3 increases. This is because when the third width W3 of the first branch BR1 in the first direction DR1 decreases, cracks are generated in the mesh pattern LT or the mesh pattern LT is disconnected.

[0164] Therefore, in terms of stress, the third width W3 is preferably smaller, but considering visibility, resistance and process errors, the third width W3 needs to be at least a predetermined width. The third width W3 may be in the range of about 100 μm to about 200 μm, preferably, in the range of about 93 μm to about 180 μm. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the third width W3 may be about 100 μm.

[0165] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first width W1, the second width W2, and the third width W3 of the mesh pattern LT may have values ​​within the above numerical range. Figure 1 ) of the mesh pattern LT, the numerical range may be the range derived from the experimental data. Figure 2 ) may have stretching characteristics suitable for the foldable display device DD, and may have appropriate durability so as not to be damaged during repeated folding and unfolding operations.

[0166] Fig.12 yes Figure 2 A plan view of part A showing Figure 1 Another example of a grid pattern of a first supporting layer of a display device. Fig.12 Shown with Fig. 7A The mesh pattern LT shown in FIG. 1 has a mesh pattern LT-1 having a different shape. Fig.12 In the present invention, the same reference numerals denote the same elements as those of the above-described embodiment, and thus, a detailed description of the same elements will be omitted, and different features will be mainly described.

[0167] Reference Fig.12 , a plurality of first holes H1 and a plurality of second holes H2 may be defined by the grid pattern LT-1. The second holes H2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In detail, the second holes H2 arranged in the first direction DR1 may be disposed between the first holes H1 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The second holes H2 arranged in the second direction DR2 may be defined by the first branch BR1-1.

[0168] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the sixth width W6 of the first branch BR1-1 in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the above-described embodiments (refer to Fig. 7A and Figure 7B ). The sixth width W6 may be greater than the second width W2 of the first hole H1.

[0169] The second hole H2 may have a seventh width W7 in the second direction DR2. The seventh width W7 may be smaller than the first width W1. For example, the seventh width W7 may be equal to or greater than about 2000 μm and smaller than the first width W1. The spacing distance D1 between the second holes H2 adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 may be smaller than the first width W1.

[0170] The second holes H2 may be arranged substantially parallel to each other in the first direction DR1. For example, center points of the second holes H2 adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 may be disposed at the same position in the second direction DR2.

[0171] Therefore, the first holes H1 may be arranged in a zigzag shape along the first direction DR1 in the grid pattern LT-1, and the second holes H2 may be arranged substantially parallel to each other in the first direction DR1. As described above, since the first holes H1 and the second holes H2 (whose widths in the second direction DR2 are different from the widths of the first holes H1 in the second direction DR2) are asymmetrically arranged in the grid pattern LT-1, the grid pattern LT-1 may have stretch characteristics suitable for the foldable display device DD.

[0172] According to the illustrated exemplary embodiment, when the sixth width W6 of the first branch BR1 - 1 of the mesh pattern LT- 1 is designed to be greater than the second width W2 of the first hole H1 , the durability of the mesh pattern LT- 1 may be improved.

[0173] Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described, it should be understood that the present invention should not be limited to these exemplary embodiments, but can be made various changes and modifications by those of ordinary skill in the art within the spirit and scope of the present invention as required herein. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, and the scope of the inventive concept should be determined according to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A display module having a first non-foldable area, a foldable area, and a second non-foldable area arranged in a first direction in an unfolded state; as well as a first supporting layer disposed below the display module and having a grid pattern including a plurality of first holes overlapping the foldable region, wherein the first holes are arranged in the first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and wherein: Each of the first holes has a first width in the second direction and a second width in the first direction, The first width is in the range of 2000 μm to 9000 μm, and The second width is in the range of 100 μm to 250 μm; wherein a plurality of second holes are further defined in the grid pattern, the second holes are arranged in the first direction and the second direction, and are disposed between the first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction; wherein the plurality of first holes located on adjacent sides of the plurality of second holes arranged in the second direction are arranged in a zigzag shape along the first direction; Wherein, a width of each of the second holes in the second direction is smaller than the first width of each of the first holes in the second direction.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: An end portion of the first supporting layer protrudes outward beyond an end portion of the display module.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The grid pattern comprises: a plurality of first branches disposed between the first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction and extending in the second direction; and A plurality of second branches are disposed between the first holes adjacent to each other in the second direction and extend in the first direction.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: Each of the first branches has a third width in the first direction, and The third width is in the range of 100 μm to 200 μm.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: Each of the second branches has a fourth width in the second direction, and The fourth width is in the range of 121 μm to 200 μm.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The first width is 5350 μm, The second width is 150 μm, The third width is 100 μm, and The fourth width is 200 μm.

7. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: Each of the first branches has a hexagonal shape in a cross-sectional view when viewed in the second direction.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: When viewed in the second direction, a width of an upper surface of the first branch is equal to a width of a lower surface of the first branch, and the width of the upper surface of the first branch is less than a third width corresponding to a width of a central portion of the first branch.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first supporting layer includes a metallic material.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first supporting layer comprises: a first portion disposed below the first non-foldable region and extending from the grid pattern in the first direction; and A second portion is disposed below the second non-foldable region and extends from the grid pattern in the first direction.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: Center points of the first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction are shifted in the second direction and are spaced apart from each other.

12. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a second supporting layer disposed below the first supporting layer, wherein: The second supporting layer comprises: a first panel overlapping the first infoldable region; and A second plate overlaps the second non-foldable region and is spaced apart from the first plate in the first direction. 13 . The display device according to claim 12 , further comprising a sub-covering layer disposed between the first supporting layer and the second supporting layer and folded or unfolded integrally with the first supporting layer.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The display module is folded inwardly so that when the display module is folded about a folding axis in the foldable region, an upper surface of the first non-foldable region and an upper surface of the second non-foldable region face each other.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The grid pattern includes a plurality of first branches, wherein the plurality of first branches are disposed between the first holes adjacent to each other in the first direction and extend in the second direction, the second holes arranged in the second direction are defined in each of the first branches, and the width of each of the first branches in the first direction is greater than the second width of each of the first holes in the first direction.

16. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A spacing distance between the second holes adjacent to each other in the second direction is smaller than the first width of each of the first holes in the second direction.

17. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A straight line connecting center points of the second holes adjacent to each other in the first direction is parallel to the first direction.

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