Display device

Abstract

Provided is a display device including: a display panel; a plate disposed on a rear surface of the display panel; a base plate and a support member both disposed on a rear surface of the plate; and a flexible film connecting the display panel and the substrate to each other, wherein the flexible film is attached to a rear surface of the support member through a first adhesive member.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the priority and benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2023 - 0184645, filed on December 18, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical field

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display device. Background art

[0004] Electroluminescent display devices include an organic light - emitting display device in which organic light - emitting diodes (OLEDs) are arranged and an inorganic light - emitting display device in which inorganic light - emitting diodes (LEDs) are arranged.

[0005] Electroluminescent display devices display images using self - emitting elements without the need for a separate light source, such as a backlight unit, and thus can be implemented in various thin shapes.

[0006] An organic light - emitting display device activates organic light - emitting diodes (OLEDs) respectively arranged on pixels according to an input image signal to reproduce an image. The organic light - emitting display device has a fast pixel response time, high luminous efficiency, high brightness, and a wide viewing angle. Moreover, the organic light - emitting display device can exhibit full black in black gradation, thereby achieving excellent contrast and color reproduction rate.

[0007] An inorganic light - emitting display device activates inorganic light - emitting diodes (OLEDs) respectively arranged on pixels according to an input image signal to reproduce an image. The inorganic light - emitting diodes are made of inorganic materials, and thus have high moisture resistance (e.g., waterproofness) compared to organic light - emitting diodes, and therefore have excellent reliability. In addition, the inorganic light - emitting diodes have a fast turn - on (conductive) time, high luminous efficiency, and excellent impact resistance.

[0008] A flexible film for electrically connecting a display panel and a circuit board requires a predetermined space for its bent section (or part). However, the predetermined space limits the implementation of a compact display device. For example, due to the material and structure of the flexible film, the flexible film includes a bent section and the bent section protrudes outward, thereby limiting the implementation of a narrow bezel of the display device. Here, the flexible film can be formed in a thin form from a ductile (or plastic) material. Summary of the invention

[0009] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a display device capable of adjusting the protruding degree of a bent section of a flexible film using a support member and an adhesive member, thereby reducing the bezel size (or magnitude) of the display device.

[0010] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a display device that can use a support member and an adhesive member to prevent shaking of a flexible film, etc., thereby preventing or minimizing the possibility of potential defects occurring in the corresponding (or respective) connection portions between the display panel of the display device and the flexible film.

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a display device that can include a shared support member that can be used when the display device is a flat (or planar) display device or a curved (or curved surface) display device, thereby improving the productivity of the display device.

[0012] The objectives to be solved by the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above objectives, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand the objectives not described above from the following description.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a display device including: a display panel; a plate member disposed on the rear surface of the display panel; a substrate and a support member, both disposed on the rear surface of the plate member; and a flexible film connecting the display panel and the substrate to each other, wherein the flexible film is attached to the rear surface of the support member by a first adhesive member.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a display device including: a display panel; a plate member disposed on the rear surface of the display panel; a substrate and a support member, both disposed (or provided) on the rear surface of the plate member; a flexible film connecting the display panel and the substrate to each other; and a cover member disposed on the front surface side of the display panel, wherein the flexible film is attached to the rear surface of the support member by a first adhesive member, wherein the cover member includes a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and wherein the support member includes a plurality of grooves formed in an elongated shape in a first direction at intervals from each other in a second direction, wherein the second direction is different from the first direction.

[0015] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, by using a support member and an adhesive member to adjust the protruding degree of the bent section of the flexible film, the bezel size of the display device can be reduced, thereby making the display device compact.

[0016] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the display device can use a support member and an adhesive member to avoid shaking of the flexible film, etc., thereby preventing or minimizing the potential possibility of defects occurring in the corresponding (or respective) connection portions between the display panel of the display device and the flexible film. Therefore, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the display device can extend the service life of the display panel, thereby enabling low-power driving of the production process in terms of reducing production energy consumption.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device may include a shared support member (which is formed of, for example, a synthetic resin material), and the support member may be used in the case where the display device is a flat (or planar) display device or a curved (or curved surface) display device, thereby improving the productivity of the display device.

[0018] Various useful advantages and effects of the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand the effects not described above from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The above and other objects (or objectives), features, and advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art by referring to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 1 ;

[0023] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 3 ;

[0024] Figure 5 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the cross-sectional structure of a display area of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating a support member as a first example disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 8 is a plan view illustrating a support member as a first example disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 9 is a side view illustrating a support member as a first example disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 10FIG. is an enlarged view of a support portion of a support member disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 11 FIG. is a view showing an arrangement relationship between a flexible film and a support portion of a support member disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 12 FIG. is a view schematically showing an arrangement relationship among a cover member, a display panel, a plate member, and a support member formed with a predetermined curvature in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 13 FIG. is a plan view showing an arrangement relationship between a support member and a first adhesive member in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 14 FIG. is a side view showing an arrangement relationship between a support member and a first adhesive member of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 15 FIG. is a view showing a filling member of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 16 FIG. is a view showing a groove in a support member as a second example disposed on a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 17 FIG. is a plan view showing a support member as a third example disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 18 FIG. is a side view showing a support member as a third example disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 19 FIG. is a view showing an arrangement relationship among a cover member, a display panel, a plate member, and a support member as a third example formed with a predetermined curvature in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 20 FIG. is a plan view showing a support member as a fourth example (in other words, a fourth actual example) disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 21 FIG. is a side view showing a support member as a fourth example disposed in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 22FIG. is a view showing an arrangement relationship among a cover member, a display panel, a plate member, and a support member of a fourth example, which are formed with a predetermined curvature according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 23 FIG. is a view showing an example in which a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used (i.e., an example in which the display device is installed in a vehicle). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Advantages and features of the present disclosure and methods for implementing the present disclosure will be more clearly understood according to embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, but can be implemented in various different forms. On the contrary, the embodiments will make the disclosure of the present disclosure complete and allow those skilled in the art to fully understand the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is only defined by the scope of the appended claims.

[0044] When describing the present disclosure, detailed descriptions of known related technologies may be omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0045] Terms such as "comprising", "including", "having", and "consisting of" used herein generally intend to allow the addition of other components, unless these terms are used together with the term "only". Unless otherwise clearly stated, the singular involved should be interpreted as including (or containing) the plural.

[0046] When describing the positional or interconnection relationship between two components (such as "... on top of", "... above", "... below", "... close to...", "connected or coupled (or joined) to...", "crossed", "intersected", etc.), one or more other components may be inserted between them unless "immediately" or "directly (or exactly)" is used.

[0047] When describing the time context relationship (such as "... after", "subsequently", "next", or "... before"), it may be discontinuous on the time scale unless "immediately" or "directly" is used.

[0048] Terms such as "first", "second", etc. may be used to distinguish components from each other, but the functions or structures of the components are not limited by the serial numbers or component names in front of the components.

[0049] The following embodiments may be combined or associated with each other in whole or in part, and various types of linkage and drive are technically possible. The embodiments may be implemented independently of each other or together in an interrelated relationship.

[0050] Unless otherwise specifically defined and described, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present disclosure shall be construed as they would be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains in a normal manner, and the terms used commonly (such as terms defined in a dictionary) shall be interpreted according to their contextual meanings in the relevant field.

[0051] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] In today's information society, display devices have become increasingly important as visual information transmission media, and they are being improved to meet requirements such as low power consumption, thinness, weight reduction, high definition (or resolution), and high efficiency.

[0053] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the area (or region) occupied by a bezel can be reduced by reducing the space occupied by a flexible film by using a support member and an adhesive member, which is a non-display area NA (for example, see Figure 5 ). That is, a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (in which a narrow bezel is implemented) can be provided as a compact display device.

[0054] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a support member and an adhesive member are used to fix and support a flexible film. Thereby, damage to the flexible film or separation of the connection portion of the flexible film caused by a predetermined load applied to the flexible film can be prevented. Therefore, the improvement in the durability of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure extends its service life, making it possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in terms of reducing production energy consumption.

[0055] A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a support member that can be used in the case where the display device is flat or curved, thereby improving the productivity of the display device.

[0056] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line I-I' of Figure 1 Figure 4 is a view illustrating Figure 3 an enlarged view of part A of

[0057] Refer to Figures 1 to 4 ​, the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include (or comprise): a display panel 100; a plate member 200 disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 100; a substrate 300 and a support member 400, both disposed on the rear surface of the plate member 200; a flexible film 500 connecting the display panel 100 and the substrate 300 to each other; and a first adhesive member 600a attaching one region of the flexible film 500 to the rear surface of the support member 400. In this case, the flexible film 500 may include a bent section that appears when the flexible film 500 is bent. However, fixing one side of the flexible film 500 to the support member 400 by the first adhesive member 600a can minimize the protrusion of the bent section toward the outside. Here, the term "inside" may be defined as indicating a direction toward the center of the display panel 100, and the term "outside" may be defined as indicating a direction opposite to the "inside". One surface of the display panel 100 on which an input image is displayed may be referred to as the front surface of the display panel 100, and the surface opposite to the front surface may be referred to as the rear surface. In this case, Figures 1 to 3 the X-axis direction shown may refer to the width or lateral direction, the Y-axis direction may refer to the length or longitudinal direction, and the Z-axis direction may refer to the thickness or vertical direction. In addition, the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction may be perpendicular to each other, but may also refer to different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. Therefore, each of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Y-axis directions may be expressed as any one of the first, second, and third directions. Thus, a surface extending in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction may refer to a horizontal surface.

[0058] In addition, the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include: an optical member 700 disposed on the front surface of the display panel 100; a cover adhesive member 800 disposed on the front surface of the optical member 700; and a cover member 900 disposed on the front surface side of the display panel 100, wherein the cover adhesive member 800 is located between the optical member 700 and the cover member 900.

[0059] In addition, in order to protect the display panel 100, the plate member 200, the substrate 300, the support member 400, the flexible film 500, etc., the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a housing.

[0060] The housing and the cover member 900 together may form the external contour of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this case, due to the display panel 100, the plate member 200, the substrate 300, the support member 400, the flexible film 500, etc., all disposed within the housing, the shape of the housing may vary widely. In the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of protrusion of the bent section caused by the bending of the flexible film 500 may be adjusted by the support member 400 and the first adhesive member 600a, thereby providing a thin-sized housing.

[0061] The housing can be formed in a cylindrical shape that is open on one side. In this case, the shape or material of the housing can vary widely. For example, the housing can be formed of a synthetic resin material for forming various shapes, but is not limited to this material. The housing can also be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum that is highly resistant to high temperatures.

[0062] In addition, coupling (or connecting) a cover member 900 disposed on the open side of the housing to the housing can form an accommodation space within the housing. Accordingly, the display panel 100, the plate member 200, the substrate 300, the support member 400, the flexible film 500, etc. can be disposed within the accommodation space.

[0063] The display panel 100 is disposed on the open side of the housing, and an input image can be displayed on the display panel 100. The display panel 100 can be formed in the shape of a plate member having a predetermined thickness, and can have a front surface on which an image is displayed and a rear surface opposite to the front surface. Here, the rear surface can be one surface of the display panel 100 that is disposed in the upper portion in the Z-axis direction in the drawing (see Figure 3 ).

[0064] In addition, the flexible film 500 can be electrically connected to the pad portion of the display panel 100. For example, the flexible film 500 can be bonded to the pad portion of the display panel 100 through an anisotropic conductive film (ACF).

[0065] Figure 5 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Refer to Figure 5 , the display device 1 includes a display panel 100 (wherein a plurality of pixels are arranged in a display area AA) and a driving circuit for driving the pixels.

[0067] The display panel 100 can be a panel having a rectangular structure, which has a width in the X-axis direction, a length in the Y-axis direction, and a thickness in the Z-axis direction. Each pixel has a plurality of sub-pixels SP that can emit light of different colors. The driving circuit can include a data driver DD, a gate driver GD, and a timing controller TC that controls the gate driver GD and the data driver DD. The display area AA on the display panel 100 where an input image is displayed can be a screen visible when viewed from above the front surface of the display panel 100. In this case, the width and length of the display panel 100 can be set to various design values depending on the application field of the display device 1.

[0068] An input image is displayed on a sub-pixel SP disposed in a display area AA of a display panel 100. Each sub-pixel SP includes a light-emitting element and a pixel circuit that drives the light-emitting element. The light-emitting element may be a light-emitting diode (LED) or a micro-light-emitting diode (micro-LED).

[0069] A plurality of scan lines SL and a plurality of data lines DL are arranged on the display panel 100 in a crossing manner. Each sub-pixel SP is connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL. Figure 5 The power supply lines omitted herein may be respectively connected to the sub-pixels SP. A non-display area NA may be arranged outward from the display area AA of the display panel 100.

[0070] In response to a gate control signal provided from a timing controller TC, a gate driver GD supplies a scan signal to the scan line SL. As Figure 5 shown, the gate driver GD may be arranged in at least the non-display area NA of the display panel 100 or within the display area AA.

[0071] In response to a data control signal provided from the timing controller TC, a data driver DD converts image data received from the timing controller TC into a reference compensation voltage and outputs a data voltage. The data voltage output from the data driver DD is supplied to the data line DL.

[0072] The timing controller TC registers the image data input from the outside and supplies the registered image data to the data driver DD. The timing controller TC may generate a gate control signal and a data control signal based on timing signals synchronized with the input image signal (e.g., based on a dot clock signal, a data enable signal, and a horizontal / vertical synchronization signal). The timing controller TC supplies the gate control signal to the gate driver GD and the data control signal to the data driver DD, and thereby controls the operation timings of both the gate driver GD and the data driver DD.

[0073] Link lines and pad electrodes may be arranged in the non-display area NA, both of which are used to transmit signals to the sub-pixels SP in the display area AA. In addition, one or both of a gate driver IC and a data driver IC may be arranged in the non-display area NA. The gate driver IC is formed by integrating the circuit of the gate driver GD, and the data driver IC is formed by integrating the circuit of the data driver DD. The non-display area NA may be located on the rear surface of the display panel 100, i.e., on the rear surface where there are no sub-pixels SP, or its size may be minimized to the extent that the image is not visible when displayed on the display panel 100.

[0074] Drivers such as the gate driver GD, data driver DD, and timing controller TC can be connected to the display panel 100 using various techniques. For example, the gate driver GD can also be arranged in the non-display area NA using in-panel gate (GIP) technology and can also be arranged between the sub-pixels SP in the display area AA using gate-in-active (GIA) technology. For example, the data driver DD and the timing controller TC are respectively formed on a separate flexible film and a separate printed circuit board (PCB). Then, the flexible film and the PCB are bonded to the pad electrodes formed in the non-display area NA of the display panel 100. Thus, the data driver DD and the timing controller TC can be electrically connected to the display panel 100.

[0075] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the cross-sectional structure of the display area AA of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] Reference Figure 6 , the display panel 100 may include a circuit layer 120 disposed on the panel substrate 110 and a light-emitting element layer 130 disposed on the circuit layer 120. In addition, the display panel 100 may include a packaging layer 140 disposed on the light-emitting element layer 130, a touch sensor layer 150 formed on the packaging layer 140, and a color filter layer (or color filter film layer) 160 disposed on the touch sensor layer 150.

[0077] The panel substrate 110 may be formed of an insulating material or a material with flexible characteristics. For example, the panel substrate 110 may be formed of glass, metal, plastic, etc.

[0078] The circuit layer 120 may include pixel circuits connected to wires (or conductors) such as data lines, gate lines, and power lines, a gate driver connected to the gate lines, etc. The wires and circuit elements on the circuit layer 120 may include a plurality of insulating layers, two or more metal layers (separated from each other by insulating layers therebetween), and an active layer containing a semiconductor material.

[0079] The light-emitting element layer 130 may include light-emitting elements driven by the pixel circuits. The light-emitting elements may include red light-emitting elements, green light-emitting elements, and blue light-emitting elements. In another practical example, the light-emitting element layer 130 may include white light-emitting elements and color filters (or color filter films). The light-emitting elements on the light-emitting element layer 130 may be covered by a protective layer including an organic film and a protective film.

[0080] The encapsulation layer 140 covers the light-emitting element layer 130 in such a way as to hermetically seal the circuit layer 120 and the light-emitting element layer 130. For example, the encapsulation layer 140 may have a multi-insulating film structure in which an organic film and an inorganic film are alternately stacked on top of each other. Here, the inorganic film blocks the penetration of moisture or oxygen. The organic film planarizes the surface of the inorganic film. When the organic film and the inorganic film are alternately stacked on top of each other to form several layers, the path for moisture or oxygen to move is lengthened compared to a single layer. This lengthening can effectively block the penetration of moisture or oxygen that affects the light-emitting element layer 130.

[0081] The touch sensor layer 150 may include a capacitive touch sensor that senses a touch input based on a change in capacitance before and after the touch input. The touch sensor layer 150 may include metal wire patterns and insulating films that form the capacitance of the touch sensor. The insulating film may isolate the crossing (or intersecting) portions of the metal wire patterns and may planarize the surface of the touch sensor layer 150.

[0082] A polarizing plate (not shown in the drawings) may be adhered to the touch sensor layer 150. The polarizing plate may improve visibility and contrast by converting the polarization of external light reflected by the metal wire patterns on the circuit layer 120. The polarizing plate may be implemented as a linear polarizing plate or may be implemented as a circular polarizing plate obtained by combining a linear polarizing plate and a phase retardation film with each other. The cover member 900 may be attached to the polarizing plate. Here, the cover member 900 may be a cover glass (or glass cover sheet) formed of a glass material.

[0083] The color filter layer 160 may be formed on the touch sensor layer 150.

[0084] The color filter layer 160 may include red, green, and blue color filter films. In addition, the color filter layer 160 may further include a black matrix pattern. The color filter layer 160 may be used to replace the polarizing plate and may increase color purity by absorbing a part of the light wavelength reflected from the circuit layer 120. In this practical example, the color filter layer 160 having a higher light transmittance than the polarizing plate is used in the display panel 100. This use of the color filter layer 160 may improve the light transmittance of the display panel 100 and may improve or enhance the thickness and flexibility (or flexibility) of the display panel 100. The cover member 900 may be attached to the color filter layer 160.

[0085] The color filter layer 160 may include an organic film that covers the color filter films and the black matrix pattern. The extended portion of the organic film may cover the panel substrate 110 or the remaining portion of the inorganic film at the border area (i.e., its edge area) of the display panel 100.

[0086] The plate member 200 may be formed to have a predetermined thickness and may be formed in a shape corresponding to the rear surface of the display panel 100. The plate member 200 may be disposed between the display panel 100 and the substrate 300.

[0087] The plate member 200 may support and protect the display panel 100 by being attached to the rear surface of the display panel 100. For example, fixing the plate member 200 to the rear surface of the display panel 100 through an adhesive member may protect one side of the display panel 100 while supporting the display panel 100. Here, the adhesive member may be formed of an adhesive material such as a molding tape and may be disposed along the edge of the plate member 200.

[0088] The plate member 200 may be made of a material having rigid characteristics and high thermal conductivity. For example, it may be made of a metallic material such as aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), silver (Ag), gold (Au), iron (Fe), stainless steel (STS), or invar. Therefore, by dispersing the heat generated within the display panel 100 and at the same time minimizing the temperature variation between the regions of the display panel 100, a uniform temperature distribution on the display panel 100 may be achieved.

[0089] In addition, a coating may be formed on the plate member 200 in such a way as to prevent damage caused by corrosion, chemical materials, etc. For example, considering the appearance aesthetics, productivity, heat dissipation performance, etc. of the plate member 200, the coating may be formed only on one surface of the plate member 200.

[0090] The coating on the plate member 200 may be formed of an insulating material by an electrodeposition coating process, but it is not necessarily limited thereto. Here, electrodeposition coating is one of the coating methods in which the coating target to be used as a positive electrode or a negative electrode is immersed in a solution containing a water-soluble paint for electrodeposition and in which a paint film is electrodeposited on the surface of the coating target by flowing a direct current between the coating target and the counter electrode.

[0091] In addition, according to the principle of blackbody thermal radiation, the coating may be provided in black. Therefore, the emissivity of the coating may reach or exceed 80%. Here, a blackbody refers to an object that completely absorbs uniform radiation in all wavelength ranges, that is, an object that absorbs all the radiant energy incident from the outside and has a maximum radiation (absorption) rate of 1 without any surface reflection (i.e., only re-radiation is possible). The thermal radiation emitted from a blackbody is called blackbody radiation. In fact, it is difficult to manufacture a perfect blackbody with a radiation efficiency of 1, but it is feasible to increase the radiation efficiency in a way close to the radiation efficiency of a blackbody. For example, the radiation efficiency of charcoal or soot is close to that of a blackbody.

[0092] Accordingly, the black coating formed by electrodeposition coating can increase the firmness of the paint film and can improve the heat transfer characteristics and heat emissivity of the panel 200. In addition, by disposing the panel 200 between the display panel 100 and the substrate 300, the local transfer of heat generated in the substrate 300 to the display panel 100 can be blocked or minimized.

[0093] The substrate 300 may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel 200. In this case, the substrate 300 and the support member 400 may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel 200 in a spaced-apart manner from each other. The substrate 300 and the support member 400 may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 200 using the bonding member 10.

[0094] The substrate 300 may include a circuit board body in the shape of a panel and circuit elements mounted on the circuit board body. For example, the substrate 300 may include a camera (or a camera), a main control module of a vehicle, a communication device, a device for driving the display panel 100, etc. In addition, the substrate 300 may include an internal circuit and various types of active and passive elements. The flexible film 500 may be electrically connected to one side of the circuit board body. Here, the substrate 300 may be a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0095] The support member 400 may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel 200. In this case, the support member 400 may be disposed on the edge of the panel 200 to support the bent flexible film 500. Considering the stress applied to the corresponding joint portions of the display panel 100 and the flexible film 500, the support member 400 may be disposed in a manner that protrudes more outward than the side surface 100a of the display panel 100. Here, considering the machinability of the support member 400, the support member 400 may be formed of a synthetic resin material such as plastic. For example, the support member 400 may be formed of a synthetic resin material having predetermined rigidity characteristics, which are, for example, polycarbonate (PC), polyimide (PI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc., but are not limited to these materials.

[0096] Figure 7 FIG. is a perspective view showing the support member 400 as a first example (in other words, a first practical example) disposed in the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 FIG. is a plan view showing the support member 400 of the first example disposed in the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 FIG. is a side view showing the support member 400 of the first example disposed in the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 FIG. is an enlarged view showing the support portion of the support member 400 disposed in the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.Figure 11 FIG. is a view showing an arrangement relationship between a support portion of a support member 400 and a flexible film 500 disposed in a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 12 FIG. is a view schematically showing an arrangement relationship between a cover member 900, a display panel 100, a plate member 200, and a support member 400 formed with a predetermined curvature according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In Figures 7 to 9 the support member 400 shown in may hereinafter be referred to as a support member according to a first practical example.

[0097] Referring Figures 7 to 10 , the support member 400 may include a main body 410 and a driving chip accommodating portion 420 formed in a rear surface of the main body 410. In addition, the support member 400 may include a plurality of grooves 430 formed in the rear surface of the main body 410 in such a manner that the support member 400 can be used in a flat display device or a curved display device. In other words, by means of the grooves 430 formed therein, the support member 400 can be used in a flat display device or a curved display device. Therefore, the support member 400 can be shared (or commonly used) by a flat display device and a curved display device.

[0098] The main body 410 may be formed in a rectangular shape and may include a main body portion 411 and a support portion 412 extending from the main body portion 411 in a first direction (i.e., the X-axis direction). In this case, the main body portion 411 and the support portion 412 may be integrally formed as a single piece.

[0099] The main body portion 411 may be formed in the shape of a plate member. The main body portion 411 of the support member 400 may be attached to the rear surface of the plate member 200 through an adhesive member 10 and may overlap the plate member 200 in the Z-axis direction.

[0100] The support portion 412 may be formed to have a greater thickness than the main body portion 411 and may include a curved surface so as to support the curved flexible film 500. Therefore, the support portion 412 may include a protrusion 412a that protrudes more toward the display panel 100 than the front surface 411a of the main body portion 411 and an end surface that guides the bending of the flexible film 500.

[0101] In addition, considering the position of the bending section of the flexible film 500 and the stress applied to the corresponding bonding portions of the display panel 100 and the flexible film 500, the support member 412 may be arranged to protrude more outward in the X-axis direction (the first direction) than the side surface 100a of the display panel 100. Therefore, the end surface may also be arranged to be more outwardly positioned in the X-axis direction than the side surface 100a of the display panel 100.

[0102] In addition, the position of the end surface can be adjusted according to the shape of the support portion 412 and the degree to which the support portion 412 protrudes.

[0103] For example, from Figure 11 it can be clearly seen that the closer the end surface is to the imaginary line LZ extending in the Z-axis direction of the side surface 100a of the display panel 100, the more likely the corresponding connection portion CP of the display panel 100 and the flexible film 500 will be damaged due to the force F applied to the flexible film 500. Therefore, in the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by applying a shear stress Fx via the support portion 412 to distribute the force F, the possibility of the corresponding connection portion CP being damaged due to the force F can be reduced.

[0104] However, since the goal of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is to achieve a narrow bezel, there is a limit to the degree to which the support portion 412 protrudes. Therefore, by using the protrusion 412a to bring the corresponding contact area of the support portion 412 and the flexible film 500 closer to the corresponding connection portion CP, the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be made compact, and at the same time, the possibility of the corresponding connection portion CP being damaged can be reduced.

[0105] Referring to Figure 10 , the end surface may include a first end curved surface 412b, a second end curved surface 412c, and an end flat plane 412d disposed between the first end curved surface 412b and the second end curved surface 412c. In addition, the end surface may include a first inclined surface 412f connecting the first end curved surface 412b and the rear surface of the main body portion 411 to each other, and a second inclined surface 412g extending in the X-axis direction from the end of the second end curved surface 412c.

[0106] The protrusion 412a may be arranged closer to the display panel 100 than the front surface 411a of the main body portion 411. The second end curved surface 412c and the second inclined surface 412g may be disposed on the protrusion 412a. Therefore, the second end curved surface 412c may also be arranged closer to the display panel 100 than the front surface 411a of the main body portion 411. In this case, the protrusion 412a may be arranged at a distance from the rear surface of the display panel 100 to prevent damage caused by contact between the protrusion 412a and the display panel 100.

[0107] Referring to Figure 11, by utilizing the first end curved surface 412b, the second end curved surface 412c, and the end flat plane 412d disposed between the first end curved surface 412b and the second end curved surface 412c, the end surface can make two-point contact with the flexible film 500 at two points in its vertical cross-section. This two-point contact can prevent or minimize the movement of the flexible film 500. In this case, since the flexible film 500 contacts the first end curved surface 412b and the second end curved surface 412c, the end flat plane 412d can be arranged in a manner spaced apart from the flexible film 500. In this case, the first end curved surface 412b can be a curved surface formed in a manner having a predetermined radius of curvature ER1, while the second end curved surface 412c can be a curved surface formed in a manner having a predetermined radius of curvature ER2.

[0108] The radius of curvature ER1 of the first end curved surface 412b and the radius of curvature ER2 of the second end curved surface 412c can be different from each other. Therefore, the curvature of the first end curved surface 412b and the curvature of the second end curved surface 412c can be different from each other. Specifically, the radius of curvature ER2 of the second end curved surface 412c can be smaller than the radius of curvature ER1 of the first end curved surface 412b. For example, the radius of curvature ER2 of the second end curved surface 412c can be 0.3 millimeters (mm), while the radius of curvature ER1 of the first end curved surface 412b can be 0.4 millimeters. Therefore, the second end curved surface 412c is formed in a manner having a gentler curvature than the first end curved surface 412b. Therefore, the second end curved surface 412c increases the degree of contact with the flexible film 500, and at the same time, increases the amplitude of the shear stress Fx. These increases can reduce the possibility of damage to the corresponding connection portion CP.

[0109] The end flat plane 412d is formed as a flat surface and can be arranged in the Z-axis direction.

[0110] The first inclined surface 412f can be a flat surface connecting the first end curved surface 412b and the rear surface of the body portion 411 to each other, and can be formed in a manner having a predetermined first inclination angle θ1 with respect to the rear surface of the body portion 411.

[0111] The second inclined surface 412g can be a flat surface extending in the X-axis direction from the end of the second end curved surface 412c, and can be formed in a manner having a predetermined second inclination angle θ2 with respect to an imaginary flat surface parallel to the rear surface of the body portion 411.

[0112] The positions of the first end bending surface 412b and the second end bending surface 412c can be set by considering the stresses applied to the corresponding contact areas of the support part 412 and the flexible film 500 and the corresponding connection parts CP of the display panel 100 and the flexible film 500. For this reason, the first inclination angle θ1 and the second inclination angle θ2 can be different from each other. Specifically, the second inclination angle θ2 can be smaller than the first inclination angle θ1. For example, the second inclination angle θ2 can be 1 degree, while the first inclination angle θ1 can be 3 degrees.

[0113] Meanwhile, since the main body part 411 is fixed to the plate member 200 by the bonding member 10, the support part 412 can be formed to protrude in a cantilever shape. Therefore, a predetermined load can cause the support member 400 to move. Accordingly, in the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the support part 412 can be attached to the rear surface of the display panel 100 by the second bonding member 600b.

[0114] Reference Figure 4 , the driving chip accommodation part 420 can be formed in the rear surface of the main body 410 of the support member 400 in a manner corresponding to the driving chip 510, and the driving chip 510 can be disposed within the driving chip accommodation part 420. In this case, the driving chip 510 can be disposed such that an air gap (or an air clearance) is formed between the driving chip accommodation part 420 and the driving chip 510. Accordingly, the air gap can minimize the transfer of heat generated in the driving chip 510 to the support member 400.

[0115] The driving chip accommodation part 420 can be a groove recessed in the rear surface of the support member 400, or can be a hole passing through the support member 400 in the Z-axis direction. Accordingly, the driving chip accommodation part 420 can provide a space in which the driving chip 510 can be accommodated. For example, the groove formed in the driving chip accommodation part 420 can be referred to as a driving chip accommodation groove, and the hole formed in the driving chip accommodation part 420 can be referred to as a driving chip accommodation hole.

[0116] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4, the driving chip accommodating part 420 may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the support member 400. Here, the groove may be formed in an elongated shape (in other words, over a relatively long distance) in the Y-axis direction (second direction) corresponding to the driving chip 510. In this case, the driving chip 510 may be arranged at a distance from the bottom surface and the side surface of the groove defining the groove. Accordingly, an air gap is formed between the driving chip accommodating part 420 and the driving chip 510, and thus, the air gap may prevent contact between the driving chip 510 and the support member 400. Moreover, since the flexible film 500 may be attached to the two first adhesive members 600a, a predetermined tensile force is generated on the flexible film 500 between the two first adhesive members 600a. Using this tensile force, it is possible to more effectively prevent the driving chip 510 disposed between the two first adhesive members 600a from contacting the support member 400.

[0117] In the case where the driving chip accommodating part 420 is formed as a hole, the driving chip 510 may be arranged through the hole to face the plate member 200. Accordingly, an increase in the size of the air gap in the Z-axis direction can more effectively prevent contact between the driving chip 510 and the support member 400.

[0118] Reference Figure 7 , a plurality of grooves 430 may be formed on the main body 410 at intervals in the Y-axis direction and may be formed in an elongated shape (in other words, over a relatively long distance, for example, across the entire width of the main body 410) in the X-axis direction.

[0119] For example, with reference to Figure 12 , in the case where the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is of a curved type, the arrangement of the plurality of grooves 430 enables effective correspondence to the curvature of the display device 1. For example, when the cover member 900 of the curved display device includes a curved surface formed to have a predetermined radius of curvature R1, the display panel 100 and the plate member 200 may also be arranged in a manner corresponding to the curved surface of the cover member 900. Accordingly, the support member 400 may be bent in a manner having a predetermined curvature. Thus, in the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of grooves 430 are formed in the support member 400 at intervals in the Y-axis direction while extending in an elongated form in the X-axis direction. This forming method enables the support member 400 to be easily bent into a predetermined curvature. Here, the groove 430 may be referred to as a bending groove.

[0120] For example, since the support member 400 extends in an elongated form in the X direction, rather than in the Y-axis direction, a large number of grooves 430 can be formed in the rear surface of the body 410 so as to be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of grooves 430 arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction enable the support member 400 to be easily formed into a shape having a predetermined curvature.

[0121] For example, referring to Figure 8 , a plurality of grooves 430 can be formed in the rear surface of the body 410 so as to be spaced apart from each other by the same distance D. In this case, one of the plurality of grooves 430 can be formed along an imaginary line L passing through the center C of the support member 400 in the X-axis direction. The plurality of grooves 430 can be formed to be symmetric with respect to the imaginary line L. Therefore, the support member 400 can be bent with a predetermined curvature with respect to the groove 430 formed along the imaginary line L. Here, the groove 430 formed along the imaginary line L can be referred to as a central groove.

[0122] In addition, for example, referring to Figure 9 , the groove 430 can be formed to have an arc-shaped cross section having a predetermined radius of curvature HR starting from an imaginary center HC. Therefore, the groove 430 can be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 to have a predetermined depth. Thus, a plurality of grooves 430 having the same width W are arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance D in the support member 400 of the first example, where the support member 400 has the same thickness T at the groove 430. Accordingly, the support member 400 can be bent with a predetermined curvature corresponding to the curved surface of the plate member 200.

[0123] At least one flexible film 500 can electrically connect the display panel 100 and the substrate 300 to each other. Specifically, the flexible film 500 can connect the pad electrode of the display panel 100 to the output terminal of the substrate 300. In this case, the flexible film 500 can be bonded to the display panel 100 through an anisotropic conductive film (ACF). Here, the flexible film 500 can be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a chip on film (COF), where an integrated circuit (IC) from a data driver (DD) and / or a gate driver (GD) is mounted on the chip on film (COF), but is not limited to FPCB and COF. The flexible film 500 can be referred to as a flexible circuit film, and the IC can be referred to as a driving chip 510.

[0124] Figure 13 is a plan view showing the arrangement relationship between the support member 400 and the first adhesive member 600a of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 14FIG. 0 is a side view showing the arrangement relationship between the support member 400 and the first adhesive member 600a of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0125] The first adhesive member 600a can attach a region of the flexible film 500 to the rear surface of the support member 400.

[0126] Reference Figure 2 、 Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the first adhesive member 600a can be arranged in an elongated shape in the Y-axis direction on the rear surface of the support member 400 (in other words, over a relatively long distance, for example, spanning most of the support member 400). Here, the first adhesive member 600a can be made of an adhesive material (such as a formed tape).

[0127] For example, two first adhesive members 600a can be arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction. Therefore, since the flexible film 500 is attached to the two first adhesive members 600a, a region of the flexible film 500 arranged between the two first adhesive members 600a can support a load using tensile force. Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , since the driving chip 510 is attached to a region of the flexible film 500 arranged between the two first adhesive members 600a, the driving chip 510 is affected by the tensile force. Therefore, the tensile force can prevent contact between the driving chip 510 and the support member 400.

[0128] Reference Figure 4 , arranging the second adhesive member 600b between the display panel 100 and the support member 400 can attach the support portion 412 of the support member 400 to the edge of the rear surface of the display panel 100. Therefore, the second adhesive member 600b can prevent the support portion 412 from moving. Here, the second adhesive member 600b can be made of an adhesive material (such as a formed tape) and can overlap the support portion 412 in the Z-axis direction.

[0129] The optical member 700 can be arranged on the front surface of the display panel 100. In this case, the optical member 700 can be attached to the front surface of the display panel 100 using the adhesive member 10. In this case, the adhesive member 10 arranged between the optical member 700 and the display panel 100 can be formed of a transparent material having excellent adhesiveness, for example, formed of an optically clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), or an optically clear resin (OCR), but is not limited to these materials.

[0130] In addition, the optical member 700 may include an optical angle adjustment structure to adjust the visible range of the image displayed on the display panel 100. In addition, the optical member 700 may further include a polarizing plate for controlling display characteristics (e.g., external light reflection, color accuracy, brightness, etc.). In addition, the optical member 700 may further include a barrier layer (or barrier film) for preventing moisture or oxygen from permeating, and the barrier layer may be formed of a material having low water vapor permeability (e.g., a polymer material).

[0131] In addition, considering a part of the flexible film 500 disposed on the front surface edge of the display panel 100, the optical member 700 may have an area smaller than that of the display panel 100. Thus, as Figure 4 shown, a predetermined space (or gap) S may be formed between the edge of the display panel 100 and the cover adhesive member 800 or between the edge of the display panel 100 and the cover member 900.

[0132] The cover adhesive member 800 is disposed on the front surface of the optical member 700 and may attach the cover member 900. Here, the cover adhesive member 800 may be formed of a transparent material having excellent adhesiveness, for example, formed of an optically clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), or an optically clear resin (OCR), but is not limited to these materials.

[0133] In addition, the cover adhesive member 800 may be formed in such a manner as to have an area larger than that of the optical member 700 and the same area as the display panel 100. Thus, a predetermined space S may be formed between the edge of the display panel 100 and the cover adhesive member 800.

[0134] In addition, the cover adhesive member 800 may also be formed in such a manner as to have the same area as the optical member 700. Thus, a predetermined space S may also be formed between the edge of the display panel 100 and the cover member 900.

[0135] The cover member 900 is disposed on the front surface of the display panel 100 and may protect the display panel 100. In this case, the cover member 900 may be attached to the front surface of the display panel 100 by using an adhesive member such as the cover adhesive member 800.

[0136] In addition, the cover member 900 may be formed in such a manner as to have a horizontal area larger than that of the display panel 100 and the cover adhesive member 800. Thus, even when the display panel 100 is attached to the rear surface of the cover member 900, the edge of the rear surface of the cover member 900 may be exposed, and the end portion of the housing may be disposed on the exposed edge.

[0137] In addition, the cover member 900 may include a light-shielding layer disposed on the edge, such as a black matrix. The light-shielding layer can shield the components disposed in the non-display area NA from being exposed to the outside. For example, the light-shielding layer may be disposed on the rear surface edge of the cover member 900 in such a manner that the corresponding portions of the flexible film 500 and the like disposed to overlap the non-display area NA are not visible from the outside.

[0138] In addition, the cover member 900 may be formed of a transparent material. Therefore, the light emitted from the display panel 100 can pass through the cover member 900.

[0139] Figure 15 FIG. is a view showing a filling member 1000 of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] When viewed in the Z-axis direction, the filling member 1000 may be disposed between the display panel 100 and the cover adhesive member 800. Refer to Figure 4 and Figure 15 , the filling member 1000 may be disposed in a predetermined space S formed between the edge of the display panel 100 and the cover adhesive member 800.

[0141] The filling member 1000 may be inserted into the predetermined space S, and thus the space S may be occupied (filled) by the filling member 1000. Therefore, the filling member 1000 can prevent the cover adhesive member 800 from separating from the optical member 700 by absorbing the impact applied to the cover member 900. For example, in the case where the filling member 1000 is not provided, when a predetermined impact is applied to the cover member 900, the cover member 900 may fall off, or the cover adhesive member 800 may separate from the optical member 700. Therefore, the filling member 1000 can absorb the impact.

[0142] Therefore, by absorbing the impact, the filling member 1000 can prevent the flexible film 500 from separating from the display panel 100.

[0143] In addition, the filling member 1000 may be formed of an acrylic or epoxy resin having excellent visible light transmittance (for example, visible light transmittance of 90% or higher), but is not limited to these materials.

[0144] In addition, the filling member 1000 is disposed so as to cover a part of the flexible film 500 disposed on the front surface edge of the display panel 100, whereby the flexible film 500 can be firmly fixed in place (i.e., fixed in position). Therefore, the filling member 1000 can reduce the possibility that the corresponding (or respective) connection portions CP of the display panel 100 and the flexible film 500 are damaged. Here, the filling member 1000 may be a material that is inserted and then cured, such as a resin. For this reason, the filling member 1000 may be referred to as an adhesive member.

[0145] In addition, depending on the horizontal area of the cover bonding member 800, when viewed in the Z-axis direction, the filling member 1000 may also be disposed between the display panel 100 and the cover member 900.

[0146] The support members described below may also correspond to various curvatures of a flexible display as well as a flat display device.

[0147] A flexible display device may be manufactured in a manner having various curvatures. The greater the curvature of the curved surface of the cover member 900 increases, the greater the curvature of the support member 400 increases. Accordingly, the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may provide various practical examples of the support member 400, which may adapt to the curvature of a flexible display device, a double-curved surface, and the like.

[0148] Figure 16 FIG. is a view illustrating a groove in the support member 400 that is disposed on the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure as a second example (in other words, a second practical example). Here, Figure 16 the illustrated support member may be referred to as the support member 400a of the second example. The support member 400a of the second example may be used to replace the support member of the first example.

[0149] Referring to Figure 9 and Figure 16 , the support member 400a of the second example is different from the support member 400 of the first example in that the groove 430a in the support member 400a has a greater width Wa than the groove 430 in the support member 400.

[0150] The components of the support member 400a of the second example may have the same reference numerals as the components of the support member 400 of the first example. Accordingly, when describing the support member 400a of the second example, a detailed description of the components having the same reference numerals in the support member 400a is omitted.

[0151] Referring to Figure 16 , the groove 430a may be formed in the support member 400a in a manner having a U-shaped cross-section or a cross-section similar to that of a dish with a bottom.

[0152] For example, the groove 430a includes a bottom surface 431a disposed between two curved surfaces having a predetermined curvature. Thus, the support member 400a of the second example may have an increased width Wa of the groove 430a. Here, the bottom surface 431a may be a flat surface. Thus, through the bottom surface 431a of the groove 430a, the support member 400a may have an increased width Wa. Accordingly, although the curvature of the cover member 900 increases due to the bending of the cover member 900, the support member 400a can easily adapt to the curvature of the cover member 900.

[0153] Figure 17 FIG. is a plan view of a support member 400b as a third example (in other words, a third actual example) of a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 18 FIG. is a side view of a support member 400b of a third example of a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19 FIG. is a view showing an arrangement relationship among a cover member 900 formed with a predetermined curvature, a display panel 100, a plate member 200, and a support member 400b of a third example of a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The support member 400b of the third example may be used to replace the support member 400 of the first example.

[0154] Reference Figure 9 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 17 、 Figure 18 and Figure 19 ,The support member 400b of the third example is different from the support member 400 of the first example in that the distance between the grooves 430b in the support member 400b is different from the distance between the grooves 430 in the support member 400. In addition, the support member 400b is different from the support member 400 in that the radius of curvature R2 of the cover member 900 on which the support member 400a of the third example is disposed is smaller than the radius of curvature R1 of the cover member 900 on which the support member 400 of the first example is disposed.

[0155] The components of the support member 400b of the third example may have the same reference numerals as the components of the support member 400 of the first example. Thus, when describing the support member 400b of the third example, a detailed description of the components having the same reference numerals in the support member 400b is omitted.

[0156] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18, the support member 400b may include a body 410, a driving chip accommodation part 420 formed in the rear surface of the body 410, and a plurality of grooves 430b formed in the rear surface of the body 410. In this case, the plurality of grooves 430b may be formed symmetrically with respect to an imaginary line L. Here, the imaginary line L may be a line passing through the center C of the support member 400b in the X-axis direction.

[0157] The plurality of grooves 430b may include a central groove 430bc formed along the imaginary line L and a first groove 430b1, a second groove 430b2, and a third groove 430b3 formed at predetermined intervals from the central groove 430bc in the Y-axis direction in sequence. In this case, a total of seven grooves 430b are formed in the support member 400b of the third example, but the support member 400b is not necessarily limited to a total of seven grooves 430b. For example, eight or more grooves 430b may be formed in the support member 400b, or six or fewer grooves 430b may be formed. However, considering the fact that the central groove 430bc is formed in the center of the support member 400b and the fact that the plurality of grooves 430b are formed symmetrically with respect to the imaginary line L, an odd number of grooves 430b may be formed in the rear surface of the body 410.

[0158] As a practical example, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b is from the imaginary line L, the greater the distance between the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b and an adjacent groove becomes.

[0159] In addition, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b is from the imaginary line L, the greater the radius of curvature of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b becomes. Therefore, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b is from the imaginary line L, the greater the width of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b becomes. Therefore, although the curvature of the cover member 900 increases due to the bending of the cover member 900, the support member 400b can easily adapt to the curvature of the cover member 900. In this case, the center of each of the plurality of grooves 430b may be located on an imaginary horizontal plane, but is not necessarily limited to this plane. Here, the horizontal plane on which the center of each of the plurality of grooves 430b is located (or positioned) may be parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400b.

[0160] In addition, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b is from the imaginary line L, the greater the depth of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b becomes. Accordingly, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b is from the imaginary line L, the greater the width of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b becomes. The farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b is from the imaginary line L, the smaller the thickness of the support member 400b at the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves 430b becomes.

[0161] The central groove 430bc may be formed along the imaginary line L.

[0162] The central groove 430bc may be formed in a manner having an arcuate cross-section with a predetermined first radius of curvature HR1 starting from an imaginary first center HC1. Accordingly, the central groove 430bc may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 with a predetermined depth. The support member 400b may be formed to have a first thickness T1 at the central groove 430bc. The central groove 430bc may be formed to have a first width W1 in the Y-axis direction. In this case, the first thickness T1 and the first width W1 may be adjusted by the position of the first center HC1. For example, the first radius of curvature HR1 may be 1.4 mm, while the first thickness T1 may be 0.4 mm.

[0163] The first groove 430b1 may be formed to be spaced apart from the imaginary line L in the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, the first groove 430b1 may be formed to be spaced apart from the central groove 430bc by a first distance D1. Here, the first distance D1 may be the separation distance between the central groove 430bc and the first groove 430b1, or may be the distance from the center of the central groove 430bc to the center of the first groove 430b1. The first distance D1 may be 7.0 mm.

[0164] The first groove 430b1 may be formed in a manner having an arcuate cross-section with a predetermined second radius of curvature HR2 starting from an imaginary second center HC2. In this case, the second radius of curvature HR2 of the first groove 430b1 may be greater than the first radius of curvature HR1 of the central groove 430bc. For example, the second radius of curvature HR2 of the first groove 430b1 may be 2.0 mm. The first center HC1 and the second center HC2 may be located on an imaginary horizontal plane parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400b.

[0165] The first groove 430b1 may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 to have a predetermined depth. The support member 400b may be formed to have a second thickness T2 at the first groove 430b1. The first groove 430b1 may be formed to have a second width W2 in the Y-axis direction. For example, the second thickness may be 0.38 mm.

[0166] The second groove 430b2 may be formed to be positioned farther from the imaginary line L than the first groove 430b1 in the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, the second groove 430b2 may be formed to be spaced apart from the first groove 430b1 by a second distance D2. Here, the second distance D2 may be the separation distance between the first groove 430b1 and the second groove 430b2, or may be the distance from the center of the first groove 430b1 to the center of the second groove 430b2. For example, the second distance D2 may be 9.0 mm.

[0167] The second groove 430b2 may be formed to have an arcuate cross-section having a predetermined third radius of curvature HR3 starting from an imaginary third center HC3. In this case, the third radius of curvature HR3 of the second groove 430b2 may be greater than the second radius of curvature HR2 of the first groove 430b1. For example, the third radius of curvature HR3 of the second groove 430b2 may be 3.0 mm. The first center HC1, the second center HC2, and the third center HC3 may be located on an imaginary horizontal plane parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400b.

[0168] The second groove 430b2 may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 to have a predetermined depth. The support member 400b may be formed to have a third thickness T3 at the second groove 430b2. The second groove 430b2 may be formed to have a third width W3 in the Y-axis direction. For example, the third width W3 may be 0.35 mm.

[0169] The third groove 430b3 may be formed to be positioned farther from the imaginary line L than the second groove 430b2 in the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, the third groove 430b3 may be formed to be spaced apart from the second groove 430b2 by a third distance D3. Here, the third distance D3 may be the separation distance between the second groove 430b2 and the third groove 430b3, or may be the distance from the center of the second groove 430b2 to the center of the third groove 430b3. For example, the third distance D3 may be 12.0 mm.

[0170] The third groove 430b3 may be formed in such a manner as to have an arcuate cross-section with a predetermined fourth curvature radius HR4 starting from a hypothetical fourth center HC4. In this case, the fourth curvature radius HR4 of the third groove 430b3 may be greater than the third curvature radius HR3 of the second groove 430b2. For example, the fourth curvature radius HR4 of the third groove 430b3 may be 4.0 mm. The first center HC1, the second center HC2, the third center HC3, and the fourth center HC4 may be located on a hypothetical horizontal plane parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400b.

[0171] The third groove 430b3 may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 in such a manner as to have a predetermined depth. The support member 400b may be formed in such a manner as to have a fourth thickness T4 at the third groove 430b3. The third groove 430b3 may be formed in such a manner as to have a fourth width W4 in the Y-axis direction. For example, the fourth width W4 may be 0.3 mm.

[0172] Accordingly, when the flexible display device has a cover member 900 that is highly curved, such as in the case where the curvature radius R2 of the cover member 900 (on which the support member 400b is disposed) in the third example is smaller than the curvature radius R1 of the cover member 900 (on which the support member 400 is disposed) in the first example, the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can adapt to a flexible display device with a high degree of curvature by adjusting the distance between adjacent grooves among the plurality of grooves 430b.

[0173] In addition, the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can more easily adapt to a flexible display device with a high degree of curvature by adjusting the curvature radius of each of the plurality of grooves 430b, and thus adjusting the depth and width of each of the plurality of grooves 430b.

[0174] Figure 20 FIG. is a plan view showing a support member 400c as a fourth actual example of a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 21 FIG. is a side view showing the support member 400c of the fourth example of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 22 FIG. is a view showing the arrangement relationship between a cover member 900 formed with a predetermined curvature, a display panel 100, a plate member 200, and the support member 400c of the fourth example of the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The support member 400c of the fourth example may be used to replace the support member 400 of the first example.

[0175] Reference Figure 9 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 20 、 Figure 21 and Figure 22, the support member 400c of the fourth example is different from the support member 400 of the first example in that the support member 400c includes a portion where the distances between adjacent grooves among the plurality of grooves 430 are different from each other. In addition, the cover member 900 on which the support member 400c of the fourth example is disposed is formed in such a manner as to have at least two radii of curvature (i.e., a first radius of curvature R1 and a second radius of curvature R2). In this regard, the cover member 900 on which the support member 400c of the fourth example is disposed is different from the cover member 900 on which the support member 400 of the first example is disposed. For example, in addition to a first region A1 formed with the first radius of curvature R1, the cover member 900 on which the support member 400c of the fourth example is disposed further includes a second region A2 formed with the second radius of curvature R2. The first radius of curvature R1 and the second radius of curvature R2 are different from each other. In this regard, the cover member 900 on which the support member 400c is disposed is different from the cover member 900 on which the support member 400 is disposed. Here, the first radius of curvature R1 may be greater than the second radius of curvature R2. Here, the first radius of curvature R1 may represent the distance from an imaginary center to the curved surface of the cover member 900 disposed in the first region A1. Here, the second radius of curvature R1 may represent the distance from the imaginary center to the curved surface of the cover member 900 disposed in the second region A2.

[0176] The components of the support member 400c of the fourth example may have the same reference numerals as the components of the support member 400 of the first example and the components of the support member 400b of the third example. Therefore, when describing the support member 400c of the fourth example, the detailed description of the components of the support member 400c having the same reference numerals is omitted.

[0177] Reference Figure 20 、 Figure 21 and Figure 22 , the support member 400c may include a first portion P1 corresponding to the first region A1 and a second portion P2 corresponding to the second region A2. In this case, the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 may be distinguished by an imaginary line L passing through the center C of the support member 400c in the X-axis direction. In this case, the support member 400c may be disposed on the rear surface of the plate member 200 in such a manner that the imaginary line L overlaps with the boundary line distinguishing the first region A1 and the second region A2. For example, when the imaginary L extends in the Z-axis direction, it may intersect the boundary line.

[0178] The support member 400c may include a body 410, a driving chip accommodating portion 420 formed in the rear surface of the body 410, and a plurality of grooves 430c formed in the rear surface of the body 410. In this case, the plurality of grooves 430c may be formed in a manner asymmetric with respect to the imaginary line L.

[0179] The plurality of grooves 430c may include a central groove 430cc formed along an imaginary line L, a first-part groove 430c1 formed in a first part P1, and a second-part groove 430c2 formed in a second part P2.

[0180] The central groove 430cc may be formed along the imaginary line L.

[0181] The central groove 430cc may be formed in a manner having an arcuate cross-section with a predetermined first curvature radius HR1 starting from an imaginary first center HC1. Thus, the central groove 430cc may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 with a predetermined depth. The support member 400c may be formed to have a first thickness T1 at the central groove 430cc. The central groove 430cc may be formed to have a first width W1 in the Y-axis direction. In this case, the first thickness T1 and the first width W1 may be adjusted by the position of the first center HC1. For example, the first curvature radius HR1 of the central groove 430cc may be 1.4 mm, while the first thickness T1 of the central groove 430cc may be 0.4 mm.

[0182] The plurality of first-part grooves 430c1 may be formed in a region of the rear surface of the body 410 corresponding to the first part P1 at the same distance D from each other. The first-part grooves 430c1 may be formed in the same shape as the central groove 430cc.

[0183] The first-part grooves 430c1 may be formed in a manner having an arcuate cross-section with a predetermined first curvature radius HR1 starting from an imaginary first center HC1. Thus, the first-part grooves 430c1 may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 with a predetermined depth.

[0184] Thus, in the support member 400c of the fourth example, a plurality of first-part grooves 430c1 having the same first width W1 are formed, and the support member 400c has the same thickness T1 at the first-part grooves 430c1. Thus, the support member 400c can adapt to the first curvature radius R1 of the cover member 900.

[0185] The second-part groove 430c2 may include a (2-1) groove 430c2-1, a (2-2) groove 430c2-2, and a (2-3) groove 430c2-3 formed at intervals from the central groove 430cc in the Y-axis direction in sequence. In this case, the second-part groove 430c2 includes a total of three grooves, but is not limited to three grooves. For example, the second-part groove 430c2 may also include four or more grooves, or may also include two or fewer grooves.

[0186] In addition, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 is from the imaginary line L, the greater the separation distance between the corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 and an adjacent groove becomes.

[0187] In addition, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 is from the imaginary line L, the greater the radius of curvature of the corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 becomes. In this case, the center of each of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 may be located on an imaginary horizontal plane, but is not necessarily limited to this plane. Here, the horizontal plane where the center of each of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 is located may be parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400b.

[0188] In addition, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 is from the imaginary line L, the greater the depth of the corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 becomes. Therefore, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 is from the imaginary line L, the greater the width of the corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 becomes. The farther a corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 is from the imaginary line L, the smaller the thickness of the support member 400b at the corresponding one of the plurality of second part grooves 430c2 becomes.

[0189] The (2-1) groove 430c2-1 may be formed so as to be spaced apart from the imaginary line L in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, the (2-1) groove 430c2-1 may be formed so as to be spaced apart from the central groove 430cc by a first distance D1. Here, the first distance D1 may be the separation distance between the central groove 430cc and the (2-1) groove 430c2-1, or may be the distance from the center of the central groove 430cc to the center of the (2-1) groove 430c2-1. For example, the first distance D1 may be 7.0 mm.

[0190] The (2-1) groove 430c2-1 may be formed to have an arcuate cross-section having a predetermined second radius of curvature HR2 starting from an imaginary second center HC2. In this case, the second radius of curvature HR2 of the (2-1) groove 430c2-1 may be greater than the first radius of curvature HR1 of the central groove 430cc. For example, the second radius of curvature HR2 of the (2-1) groove 430c2-1 may be 2.0 mm. The first center HC1 and the second center HC2 may be located on an imaginary horizontal plane parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400c.

[0191] The (2-1) groove 430c2-1 can be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the main body 410 to have a predetermined depth. The support member 400c can be formed to have a second thickness T2 at the (2-1) groove 430c2-1. The (2-1) groove 430c2-1 can be formed to have a second width W2 in the Y-axis direction. For example, the second thickness can be 0.38 mm.

[0192] The (2-2) groove 430c2-2 can be formed to be positioned farther from the imaginary line L than the (2-1) groove 430c2-1 in the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, the (2-2) groove 430c2-2 can be formed to be spaced apart from the (2-1) groove 430c2-1 by a second distance D2. Here, the second distance D2 can be the separation distance between the (2-1) groove 430c2-1 and the (2-2) groove 430c2-2, or can be the distance from the center of the (2-1) groove 430c2-1 to the center of the (2-2) groove 430c2-2. For example, the second distance D2 can be 9.0 mm.

[0193] The (2-2) groove 430c2-2 can be formed to have an arcuate cross-section with a predetermined third curvature radius HR3 starting from a third imaginary center HC3. In this case, the third curvature radius HR3 of the (2-2) groove 430c2-2 can be greater than the second curvature radius HR2 of the (2-1) groove 430c2-1. For example, the third curvature radius HR3 of the (2-2) groove 430c2-2 can be 3.0 mm. The first center HC1, the second center HC2, and the third center HC3 can be located on an imaginary horizontal plane parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400c.

[0194] The (2-2) groove 430c2-2 can be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the main body 410 to have a predetermined depth. The support member 400c can be formed to have a third thickness T3 at the (2-2) groove 430c2-2. The (2-2) groove 430c2-2 can be formed to have a third width W3 in the Y-axis direction. For example, the third width W3 can be 0.35 mm.

[0195] The (2-3) groove 430c2-3 may be formed in such a manner as to be positioned farther from the imaginary line L in the Y-axis direction than the (2-2) groove 430c2-2. Accordingly, the (2-3) groove 430c2-3 may be formed in such a manner as to be spaced apart from the (2-2) groove 430c2-2 by a third distance D3. Here, the third distance D3 may be a separation distance between the (2-2) groove 430c2-2 and the (2-3) groove 430c2-3, or may be a distance from the center of the (2-2) groove 430c2-2 to the center of the (2-3) groove 430c2-3. For example, the third distance D3 may be 12.0 mm.

[0196] The (2-3) groove 430c2-3 may be formed in such a manner as to have an arcuate cross-section having a predetermined fourth radius of curvature HR4 starting from an imaginary fourth center HC4. In this case, the fourth radius of curvature HR4 of the (2-3) groove 430c2-3 may be greater than the third radius of curvature HR3 of the (2-2) groove 430c2-2. For example, the fourth radius of curvature HR4 of the (2-3) groove 430c2-3 may be 4.0 mm. The first center HC1, the second center HC2, the third center HC3, and the fourth center HC4 may be located on an imaginary horizontal plane parallel to the rear surface of the support member 400b.

[0197] The (2-3) groove 430c2-3 may be recessedly formed in the rear surface of the body 410 in such a manner as to have a predetermined depth. The support member 400c may be formed in such a manner as to have a fourth thickness T4 at the (2-3) groove 430c2-3. The (2-3) groove 430c2-3 may be formed in such a manner as to have a fourth width W4 in the Y-axis direction. For example, the fourth width W4 may be 0.3 mm.

[0198] The cover member 900 may include a curved surface having at least two different curvatures.

[0199] Reference Figure 22 , the cover member 900 includes a first region A1 formed with a first radius of curvature R1 and a second region A2 formed with a second radius of curvature R2. In this case, since the first radius of curvature R1 and the second radius of curvature R2 are different from each other, one surface of the cover member 900 may include a curved surface having at least two curvatures.

[0200] The second region A2 may be located on both sides of the first region A1 in the Y-axis direction, respectively. Accordingly, an imaginary boundary line may be located between the first region A1 and the second region A2 having different curvatures. Here, the first radius of curvature R1 may be greater than the second radius of curvature R2. Accordingly, the curved surface may be curved more gently in the first region A1 than in the second region A2.

[0201] In addition, the boundary line can be positioned in a manner that overlaps with the imaginary line L passing through the support member 400c. Thus, although the first region A1 and the second region A2 have different curvatures, the said portion of the support member 400c can easily adapt to the curvatures of the first region A1 and the second region A2 respectively. Accordingly, the first region A1 can overlap with the first portion P1 of the support member 400c, while the second region A2 can overlap with the second portion P2 of the support member 400c.

[0202] Since the distance between the grooves 430c in the support member 400c of the fourth example varies from one portion to another, the support member 400c can adapt to at least two radii of curvature of the cover member 900. In addition, the width and depth of the second portion grooves 430c2 formed in the second portion P2 vary according to the position of the second portion grooves 430c2 in the support member 400c of the fourth example. Thus, the support member 400c can more easily adapt to at least two radii of curvature of the cover member 900.

[0203] Therefore, by using the support member 400c of the fourth example, a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can adapt to a curved display device including at least two curved surfaces having different curvatures.

[0204] Figure 23 FIG. is a view illustrating an example in which the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used (i.e., an example in which the display device 1 is arranged inside a vehicle).

[0205] As Figure 23 shown, the display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be arranged on at least a part of a vehicle dashboard. In this case, the vehicle dashboard can represent one of the vehicle components arranged in front of the front seats (e.g., the driver's seat or the passenger's seat) in the vehicle. Input components for performing the functions of various systems provided in the vehicle (e.g., an air conditioning system, an audio system, and a navigation system) can be arranged on the vehicle dashboard.

[0206] The display device 1 can be arranged on the vehicle dashboard and can operate as an input device for performing at least one of the various functions of the vehicle. In addition, the display device 1 can provide various information associated with the vehicle, such as driving information of the vehicle (e.g., the current speed of the vehicle, the fuel gauge reading, and the fuel mileage) and component information of the vehicle (e.g., the degree of damage to the vehicle tires).

[0207] In addition, the display device 1 may be arranged to span the space between the driver's seat and the passenger seat mounted in front of the vehicle. The users of the display device 1 may include the driver sitting on the driver's seat and the occupants sitting on the passenger seat, but are not limited thereto. For example, the display device 1 may be arranged for the occupants sitting on the rear seats of the vehicle.

[0208] In an embodiment, as Figure 23 shown, only a part of the display device 1 is shown. As Figure 23 shown, the display device 1 may represent a display panel among various components that may be included in the display device 1. Among the components of the display device 1, components other than those shown in Figure 23 may be installed in the vehicle.

[0209] The display device mounted on the vehicle is an example for describing the present disclosure, and the embodiments herein are not limited thereto.

[0210] The display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be applicable to a mobile device (or apparatus), a video phone, a smart watch, a watch phone, a wearable device (or apparatus), a foldable device, a rollable device, a bendable device, a flexible device, a curved surface device, a sliding device, a variable device, an electronic notebook, an e-book, a portable multimedia player (PMP), a personal digital assistant (PDA), an MP3 player, a mobile medical device (or apparatus), a desktop PC, a laptop PC, a netbook computer, a workstation, a navigation device, an in-vehicle navigation device, an in-vehicle display device, an in-vehicle apparatus, a theater apparatus, a theater display device, a television, a wallpaper device, a sign device, a game device, a notebook computer, a monitor, a camera, a video camera, and a household appliance. In addition, the display device of the present disclosure may be applicable to an organic light-emitting lighting device or an inorganic light-emitting lighting device.

[0211] The embodiments of the present disclosure described above will be briefly described below.

[0212] The display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a display panel; a plate member disposed on the rear surface of the display panel; a substrate and a support member, both disposed on the rear surface of the plate member; and a flexible film connecting the display panel and the substrate to each other, wherein the flexible film may be attached to the rear surface of the support member through a first adhesive member.

[0213] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the support member may include a body portion and a support portion extending from the body portion in a first direction, the flexible film may be in contact with an end surface of the support portion, and the support portion may protrude more outward in the first direction than a side surface of the display panel.

[0214] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the support portion may have a greater thickness than the body portion.

[0215] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end surface may include a first end curved surface, a second end curved surface, and an end flat plane arranged between the first end curved surface and the second end curved surface, the first end curved surface and the second end curved surface may be in contact with the flexible film, and the end flat plane may be separated from the flexible film.

[0216] In the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, a curvature of the first end curved surface and a curvature of the second end curved surface may be different from each other.

[0217] In the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the end surface may further include a first inclined surface connecting the first end curved surface and the rear surface of the body portion to each other, and a second inclined surface extending from an end of the second end curved surface along the first direction.

[0218] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the supporting portion may include a protrusion that protrudes toward the display panel more than the front surface of the main body portion, the second end curved surface and the second inclined surface may be arranged on the protrusion, the second end curved surface may be closer to the display panel than the front surface of the main body portion, and the protrusion may be spaced apart from the rear surface of the display panel.

[0219] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface may have a first inclination angle relative to the rear surface of the main body part, the second inclined surface may have a second inclination angle relative to an imaginary flat surface parallel to the rear surface of the main body part, and the first inclination angle and the second inclination angle may be different from each other.

[0220] In the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the support portion may be attached to the rear surface of the display panel by the second adhesive member.

[0221] In the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the number of the first adhesive members may be two, the two first adhesive members may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and the driving chip mounted on the flexible film may be arranged between the two first adhesive members.

[0222] In the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the support member may include a driving chip accommodating portion corresponding to the driving chip, and the driving chip accommodating portion may be a groove concavely formed in the rear surface of the support member or a hole passing through the support member.

[0223] In the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the end portion of the driving chip may be spaced apart from the support member.

[0224] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a driving chip may be disposed within a driving chip receiving portion, and an air gap may be formed between the driving chip receiving portion and the driving chip.

[0225] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a support member may include a plurality of grooves formed to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction, and the plurality of grooves may be formed to be elongated in a first direction different from the second direction.

[0226] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of grooves may be formed to be spaced apart from each other by the same distance.

[0227] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of grooves may have the same width, and the support member may have the same thickness at the plurality of grooves.

[0228] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of grooves may have an arc-shaped cross-section, wherein the arc-shaped cross-section has a predetermined curvature.

[0229] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of grooves may have a U-shaped cross-section or a cross-section similar to that of a dish with a bottom.

[0230] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, one of the plurality of grooves may be formed along an imaginary line passing through the center of the support member in a first direction.

[0231] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the greater the distance between the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves and an adjacent groove may be.

[0232] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the greater the depth of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves may be.

[0233] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of grooves may have an arc-shaped cross-section, wherein the arc-shaped cross-section has a predetermined curvature, and the farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the greater the radius of curvature of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves may be.

[0234] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of grooves may be formed to be symmetric with respect to an imaginary line L.

[0235] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of grooves may be formed to be asymmetric with respect to an imaginary line.

[0236] The display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include: an optical member disposed on the front surface of the display panel and having an area smaller than that of the display panel; a cover adhesive member disposed on the front surface of the optical member and having an area larger than that of the optical member; and a cover member disposed on the front surface of the cover adhesive member, wherein the cover member may include a first region and a second region having different radii of curvature.

[0237] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the support member may include a body and a plurality of grooves formed in the rear surface of the body so as to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction. The body includes a first part corresponding to the first region and a second part corresponding to the second region. The plurality of grooves may be formed in the first part so as to be spaced apart from each other by the same distance, and the plurality of grooves may be formed in the second part so as to be spaced apart from each other by different distances.

[0238] The display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include: an optical member disposed on the front surface of the display panel and having an area smaller than that of the display panel; a cover adhesive member disposed on the front surface of the optical member and having an area larger than that of the optical member; a cover member disposed on the front surface of the cover adhesive member; and a filling member disposed between the display panel and the cover adhesive member, wherein the filling member may cover a part of the flexible film.

[0239] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a predetermined space may be formed between the edge of the display panel and the cover adhesive member or between the edge of the display panel and the cover member, and the filling member may be disposed in the predetermined space.

[0240] The display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a display panel; a plate member disposed on the rear surface of the display panel; a substrate and a support member both disposed on the rear surface of the plate member; a flexible film connecting the display panel and the substrate to each other; and a cover member disposed on the front surface side of the display panel. The flexible film may be attached to the rear surface of the support member through a first adhesive member. The cover member may include a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and the support member may include a plurality of grooves formed in an elongated shape in a first direction so as to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction, where the second direction is different from the first direction.

[0241] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, one of the plurality of grooves may be formed along an imaginary line passing through the center of the support member in the first direction, and the farther the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the greater the distance between the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves and the adjacent groove may be.

[0242] In a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member may include a first region and a second region having different radii of curvature, the support member may include a first portion corresponding to the first region and a second portion corresponding to the second region, the plurality of grooves may be formed in the rear surface of the support member in a spaced-apart manner from each other, the plurality of grooves may be formed in the first portion at the same distance from each other, and the plurality of grooves may be formed in the second portion at different distances from each other.

[0243] The object to be achieved by the present disclosure, the means for achieving the object, and the effects of the present disclosure do not specify the basic features of the claims, and thus the scope of the claims is not limited to the disclosure of the present disclosure.

[0244] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it may be embodied (or implemented) in many different forms without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure are provided only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative in all respects and do not limit the present disclosure.

[0245] Description of Reference Numerals

[0246] 100: Display panel 200: Plate member

[0247] 300: Substrate 400: Support member

[0248] 410: Body

[0249] 420: Driving chip accommodating portion

[0250] 430, 430a, 430b, 430c: Grooves

[0251] 500: Flexible film 600a: First adhesive member

[0252] 700: Optical member 800: Cover adhesive member

[0253] 900: Cover member 1000: Filling member

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display panel; a plate member disposed on a rear surface of the display panel; a base plate and a support member, both disposed on a rear surface of the plate; as well as a flexible film connecting the display panel and the substrate to each other, Wherein, the flexible film is attached to the rear surface of the supporting member by a first adhesive member.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The supporting member includes a body portion and a supporting portion extending from the body portion along a first direction, wherein the flexible film contacts an end surface of the support portion, and The support portion protrudes outward further than a side surface of the display panel in the first direction.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The support portion has a greater thickness than the body portion.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The end surface includes a first end curved surface, a second end curved surface, and an end flat plane disposed between the first end curved surface and the second end curved surface, wherein the first end curved surface and the second end curved surface are in contact with the flexible membrane, and Wherein the end flat surface is spaced apart from the flexible membrane.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: A curvature of the first end curved surface and a curvature of the second end curved surface are different from each other.

6. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The end surface further includes a first inclined surface connecting the first end curved surface and the rear surface of the body portion to each other, and a second inclined surface extending from an end of the second end curved surface in the first direction.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The supporting portion includes a protrusion that protrudes further toward the display panel than the front surface of the main body portion, the second end curved surface and the second inclined surface are arranged on the protrusion, the second end curved surface is closer to the display panel than the front surface of the main body portion, and the protrusion is spaced apart from the rear surface of the display panel.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The first inclined surface has a first inclination angle relative to the rear surface of the body portion, the second inclined surface has a second inclination angle relative to an imaginary flat surface parallel to the rear surface of the body portion, and the first inclination angle and the second inclination angle are different from each other.

9. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The supporting portion is attached to the rear surface of the display panel by a second adhesive member.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The number of the first bonding members is two, and the two first bonding members are arranged in a manner spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and The driving chip mounted on the flexible film is arranged between the two first adhesive members.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The supporting member includes a driving chip accommodating portion corresponding to the driving chip, and The driving chip accommodating portion is a groove concavely formed in the rear surface of the supporting member or a hole passing through the supporting member.

12. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: An end portion of the driving chip is spaced apart from the supporting member.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The driving chip is disposed in the driving chip accommodating portion, and an air gap is formed between the driving chip accommodating portion and the driving chip.

14. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The supporting member includes a plurality of grooves formed in a manner of being spaced apart from each other in the second direction, and The plurality of grooves are formed in an elongated shape in a first direction different from the second direction.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The supporting member includes a plurality of grooves formed in a manner of being spaced apart from each other in the second direction, and The plurality of grooves are formed in an elongated shape in a first direction different from the second direction.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: The plurality of grooves are formed to be spaced apart from each other by the same distance.

17. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: The plurality of grooves have the same width, and the support member has the same thickness at the plurality of grooves.

18. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: Each of the plurality of grooves has an arc-shaped cross-section, wherein the arc-shaped cross-section has a predetermined curvature.

19. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: Each of the plurality of grooves has a U-shaped cross section or a cross section similar to a plate with a bottom.

20. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: One of the plurality of grooves is formed along an imaginary line passing through a center of the supporting member in the first direction.

21. The display device according to claim 20, wherein: The farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the greater a distance between the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves and an adjacent groove becomes.

22. The display device according to claim 20, wherein: The farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the greater the depth of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves becomes.

23. The display device according to claim 20, wherein: Each of the plurality of grooves has an arc-shaped cross section, wherein the arc-shaped cross section has a predetermined curvature, and The farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the larger the radius of curvature of the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves becomes.

24. The display device according to claim 20, wherein: The plurality of grooves are formed in a symmetrical manner with respect to the imaginary line.

25. The display device according to claim 20, wherein: The plurality of grooves are formed in an asymmetrical manner with respect to the imaginary line.

26. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: an optical member arranged on a front surface of the display panel and having a smaller area than the display panel; a cover bonding member disposed on a front surface of the optical member and having a larger area than the optical member; as well as a cover member disposed on a front surface of the cover adhesive member, The cover member includes a first region and a second region having different radii of curvature.

27. The display device according to claim 26, wherein: The supporting member includes a body and a plurality of grooves formed in a rear surface of the body in a manner spaced apart from each other in a second direction, the body including a first portion corresponding to the first area and a second portion corresponding to the second area, wherein the plurality of grooves are formed in the first portion in such a manner as to be spaced apart from each other by the same distance, and The plurality of grooves are formed in the second portion in a manner of being spaced apart from each other by different distances.

28. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: an optical member arranged on a front surface of the display panel and having a smaller area than the display panel; a cover bonding member disposed on a front surface of the optical member and having a larger area than the optical member; a cover member disposed on a front surface of the cover adhesive member; as well as a filling member disposed between the display panel and the cover adhesive member, Wherein, the filling member covers a portion of the flexible film.

29. The display device according to claim 28, wherein: A predetermined space is formed between an edge of the display panel and the cover adhesive member or between an edge of the display panel and the cover member, and the filling member is arranged in the predetermined space.

30. A display device comprising: Display panel; a plate member disposed on a rear surface of the display panel; a base plate and a support member, both disposed on a rear surface of the plate; a flexible film connecting the display panel and the substrate to each other; as well as a cover member disposed on the front surface side of the display panel, wherein the flexible film is attached to the rear surface of the support member by a first adhesive member, wherein the cover member includes a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and The supporting member includes a plurality of grooves formed in an elongated shape in a first direction in a manner of being spaced apart from each other in a second direction, the second direction being different from the first direction.

31. The display device according to claim 30, wherein: One of the plurality of grooves is formed along an imaginary line passing through a center of the supporting member in the first direction, and The farther a corresponding one of the plurality of grooves is from the imaginary line, the greater the distance between the corresponding one of the plurality of grooves and an adjacent groove becomes.

32. The display device according to claim 30, wherein: The cover member includes a first region and a second region having different radii of curvature, wherein the supporting member comprises a first portion corresponding to the first region and a second portion corresponding to the second region, wherein the plurality of grooves are formed in the rear surface of the support member in a manner spaced apart from each other, wherein the plurality of grooves are formed in the first portion in such a manner as to be spaced apart from each other by the same distance, and The plurality of grooves are formed in the second portion in a manner of being spaced apart from each other by different distances.

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