Display device

Abstract

A display device according to one embodiment includes a panel assembly including a display panel including a first unfolding area, a second unfolding area, and a folding area between the first unfolding area and the second unfolding area, and a plate disposed below the display panel, the plate comprises a slit pattern located in a folding area, the middle plate is arranged below the plate, and the middle plate comprises a first middle plate part located in a first unfolding area, a second middle plate part located in a second unfolding area and a vertical middle plate part located in the folding area.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2023 - 0189282, filed on December 22, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] This application relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a foldable display device. Background art

[0004] Display devices are becoming increasingly miniaturized to meet consumers' purchasing needs. Many manufacturers are striving to miniaturize display devices because miniaturization can enhance designability, enhance portability, and demonstrate the high - technology capabilities of display devices.

[0005] In particular, display devices that can be folded or, conversely, unfolded in a folded state have been developed. The display device can be folded or unfolded with respect to a hinge device. Such display devices are currently being applied to small display devices such as smartphones, and also to medium - sized display devices such as tablets and laptop computers. Summary of the invention

[0006] This application aims to provide a display device having improved flatness of a folding area after the display panel is folded / unfolded for a long time.

[0007] This application also aims to provide a display device in which an intermediate plate protruding toward the display panel does not physically contact the display panel and does not apply additional stress.

[0008] This application also aims to provide a display device that improves wrinkles in the display panel.

[0009] This application also aims to provide a display device in which an intermediate plate protruding toward the display panel supports an upper structure and can prevent additional stress from being applied when the display panel sags.

[0010] The object of this application is not limited to the above - mentioned objects, and other technical objects can be inferred from the following embodiments.

[0011] To achieve the above object, according to one embodiment, a display device includes a panel assembly and an intermediate plate. The panel assembly includes a display panel and a plate disposed below the display panel. The display panel includes a first unfolded area, a second unfolded area, and a folding area between the first unfolded area and the second unfolded area. The plate includes a slit pattern located in the folding area. The intermediate plate is disposed below the plate, and the intermediate plate includes a first intermediate plate portion located in the first unfolded area, a second intermediate plate portion located in the second unfolded area, and a vertical intermediate plate portion located in the folding area.

[0012] To achieve the above object, according to another embodiment, a display device includes a panel assembly and an intermediate plate. The panel assembly includes a display panel and a plate disposed below the display panel. The display panel includes a first unfolded region, a second unfolded region, and a folding region between the first unfolded region and the second unfolded region. The intermediate plate is disposed below the plate. Among them, the distance between the intermediate plate and the plate within the folding region is shorter than the distance between the intermediate plate and the plate within the first unfolded region.

[0013] Details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and the drawings.

[0014] The display device according to these embodiments can have improved flatness of the folding region even when repeatedly folding / unfolding operations are performed for a long time.

[0015] For the display device according to these embodiments, since the intermediate plate protruding toward the display panel has no physical contact with the display panel, no additional stress is applied, thereby improving durability and lifespan.

[0016] The display device according to these embodiments can improve wrinkles of the display panel.

[0017] During the folding operation, slippage may occur in the coupling layer of the display device according to these embodiments. However, since the intermediate plate can support the upper structure in the unfolded state, the display device can easily recover after the slippage in the coupling layer.

[0018] However, the effects obtainable from this application are not limited to the above effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application pertains from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is a view showing an unfolded state of a display device according to a first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 is a view showing a folded state of a display device according to a first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to a first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to a first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 is a view showing Figure 4 a schematic diagram of an intermediate plate, a plate, a display panel, and a covering member of the display device shown fastened to a hinge assembly.

[0024] Figure 6 Is an exploded perspective view of the hinge assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 7 Is a perspective view of the hinge assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8 Is Figure 7 An enlarged view of the Q1 portion in

[0027] Figure 9 Is a plan view of the hinge assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 10 Is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' in

[0029] Figure 11 Is a perspective view showing the deployed state of the hinge assembly.

[0030] Figure 12 Is a perspective view showing the folded state of the hinge assembly.

[0031] Figure 13 Is another perspective view showing the deployed state of the hinge assembly.

[0032] Figure 14 Is Figure 13 An enlarged view of a part of the hinge assembly in

[0033] Figure 15 Is a cutaway perspective view showing the deployed state of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 16 Is a cutaway perspective view of the display device in the folded state according to the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 17 Is showing Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the display device shown in the folded state according to the first embodiment.

[0036] Figure 18 Is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0037] Figure 19 Is a cross-sectional view of the display device according to the second embodiment.

[0038] Figure 20 Is a cross-sectional view showing the folded state of the display device according to the second embodiment.

[0039] Figure 21It is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of a display device according to the second embodiment.

[0040] [Reference Signs]

[0041] 10: Display device

[0042] PLT: Plate

[0043] PTN: Slit pattern

[0044] MST: Intermediate plate

[0045] MSTH1 to MSTH4: First intermediate plate part to fourth intermediate plate part

[0046] PNL: Display panel

[0047] CG: Cover member Detailed Description of the Embodiment

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] The same reference signs denote the same elements. In addition, in the drawings, the thickness, ratio, and dimensions of elements may be exaggerated for effective description of the technical content. For convenience of description, the ratio of the elements shown in the drawings is different from the actual ratio and is not limited to the ratio shown in the drawings.

[0050] In the specification, when a first element (or region, layer, part, etc.) is described as being on a second element or being connected or coupled to the second element, this means that the first element can be directly connected / coupled to the second element, or a third element can be provided therebetween.

[0051] The term "and / or" includes all one or more combinations that can be defined by the relevant configuration.

[0052] Terms such as first and second may be used to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by the terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, the first element may be referred to as the second element, and similarly, the second element may also be referred to as the first element without departing from the scope of the embodiment. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0053] Terms such as "lower", "lower side", "upper", and "upper side" are used to describe the relationship between elements shown in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are described according to the directions marked in the drawings. For example, one or more other parts can be placed between two parts as long as the terms "adjacent" or "direct" are not used. The spatial relative terms "below or beneath", "under", "above", "on", etc. can be used to easily describe the correlation between one or more elements and another or more elements as shown in the figure. The spatial relative terms should be understood as terms for different directions of the elements in use or operation except for the directions shown in the drawings. For example, in the case of inverting the elements shown in the figure, an element described as being "below" or "beneath" another element can be arranged "above" the other element. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" can include both downward and upward directions.

[0054] It should be understood that terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and do not preclude the possibility of the pre-existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0055] The features of the various embodiments of the present specification can be partially or fully coupled or combined, and the interconnection and driving of various technologies can be achieved, and the embodiments can be implemented independently of each other or together in an associated relationship.

[0056] Hereinafter, the display device of the present application will be described as follows with reference to the drawings and embodiments.

[0057] Figure 1 is a view showing the unfolded state of the display device according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a view showing the folded state of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 , the front, upper, lower, right, left, and rear surfaces of the display device 10 in the unfolded state are shown. Refer to Figure 2 , the front, upper, lower, right, left, and rear surfaces of the display device 10 in the folded state are shown.

[0059] Reference Figure 1, the display device 10 may include a display panel PNL, and the display panel PNL includes a display area DA having a plurality of pixels. A non-display area may be provided around the display area DA. The non-display area may not include pixels and may be a border area. The display panel PNL may include a folding area FA, a first unfolded area NFA1 located on one side of the folding area FA, and a second unfolded area NFA2 located on the other side of the folding area FA. The portions of the first unfolded area NFA1, the folding area FA, and the second unfolded area NFA2 of the display panel PNL corresponding to the display area DA may display images.

[0060] The display device 10 includes a hinge assembly 200 that can rotate around a folding axis A1. In the unfolded state, the hinge assembly 200 is substantially invisible from the front and rear surfaces of the display device 10. This is because the hinge assembly 200 is provided at the rear of the display device 10 and is covered by a covering frame CF.

[0061] The hinge assembly 200 may have a shape extending along the folding axis A1. The hinge assembly 200 may be provided in the folding area FA. The folding area FA is the area where the display panel PNL is folded by the hinge assembly 200. The first unfolded area NFA1 and the second unfolded area NFA2 are areas that are symmetric to each other with respect to the folding area FA. With respect to the folding axis A1, the first unfolded area NFA1 is the area located on one side, and the second unfolded area NFA2 is the area located on the other side.

[0062] A top frame TF may be provided on the front surface of the display device 10. The top frame TF may be provided to cover the edge of the display panel PNL. The front surface of the display device 10 refers to the surface on which the display panel PNL displays images. Since the display device 10 is folded with respect to the folding axis A1, the top frame TF may include two physically separated top frames TF1 and TF2. With respect to the folding axis A1, the top frame TF includes a first top frame TF1 provided on one side and a second top frame TF2 provided on the other side. The height from the lower surface of the display device 10 to the top frame TF may be greater than or substantially equal to the height to the display panel PNL. Therefore, when viewed from the side, the display panel PNL may be invisible. Figure 3 The first top frame TF1 and the second top frame TF2 are shown.

[0063] The side surface and the rear surface of the display device 10 may be covered by a covering frame CF. The rear surface of the display device 10 refers to the surface opposite to the front surface, and the side surface refers to the surface located between the front surface and the rear surface. Since the display device 10 is folded with respect to the folding axis A1, the covering frame CF may include two physically separated covering frames CF1 and CF2. With respect to the folding axis A1, the covering frame CF includes a first covering frame CF1 provided on one side and a second covering frame CF2 provided on the other side.Figure 3 The first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2 are shown.

[0064] The hinge assembly 200 is disposed near the rear surface of the display device 10 and is disposed along the folding axis A1. In the unfolded state, the hinge assembly 200 can be disposed to be covered by the cover frames CF1 and CF2. In the unfolded state, the hinge assembly 200 of the display device 10 can be disposed to be invisible from the outside. Alternatively, in the unfolded state, the hinge assembly 200 of the display device 10 can be disposed such that only a minimal portion is visible from the outside.

[0065] A camera module for capturing images can be disposed on the front surface, rear surface, and / or side surface of the display device 10, although not shown. In addition, buttons for controlling the functions of the display device 10 or elements for performing these functions can be disposed on the front surface, rear surface, and / or side surface of the display device. For example, volume buttons, power buttons, mode conversion buttons, speakers, microphones, antennas, flashlights, etc. can be provided.

[0066] The display device 10 can include sensors for sensing the operating state or the external environment, although not shown. For example, the display device 10 can include a gesture sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared sensor, an illumination sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an iris recognition sensor, a distance detection sensor, a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor, etc.

[0067] The display device 10 can include connectors for receiving signals from the outside, although not shown. For example, the display device 10 can include a charging connector, a USB connector, a headphone jack connector, etc.

[0068] Reference Figure 2 , when the display device 10 is folded, the display panel PNL is folded such that the first unfolded area NFA1 and the second unfolded area NFA2 face each other with respect to the folding axis A1. When the cover frames CF1 and CF2 are rotationally folded, the hinge assembly 200 can be exposed to the outside.

[0069] In the folded state, the display panel PNL is invisible from the outside. Only the cover frames CF1 and CF2 of the display device 10 and the hinge assembly 200 can be seen from the outside.

[0070] According to various embodiments, the cover frames CF1 and CF2 are not limited to Figure 1 and 2The shown shape and coupling method can be implemented through other shapes or component couplings. According to one embodiment, the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2 can be disposed on both sides with respect to the folding axis A1 and can have an overall symmetric shape with respect to the folding axis A1. According to some embodiments, the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2 can be asymmetrically arranged and can have an asymmetric shape with respect to the folding axis A1. According to some embodiments, the angle or distance formed between the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2 can be changed according to the folded state, unfolded state, or intermediate state of the display device 10. According to one embodiment, each of the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2 can have a shape physically separated into a frame that only covers the rear surface of the display device 10 and a frame that only covers the side surface.

[0071] According to various embodiments, the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2 can form an internal accommodation space through their structural coupling. The hinge assembly 200 and the display panel PNL can be accommodated in the internal accommodation space.

[0072] According to various embodiments, components for driving the display device 10 can be disposed in the internal accommodation space. For example, a battery, a control printed circuit board, a flat cable, a flexible printed circuit board, etc. can be disposed in the internal accommodation space.

[0073] According to various embodiments, the size of the portion of the hinge assembly 200 exposed to the outside can be changed according to the folding angle of the display device 10. For example, when the display device 10 is in the folded state, a large portion of the hinge assembly 200 can be exposed between the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2. When the display device 10 is in the unfolded state, the hinge assembly 200 can be substantially covered by the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2. When the display device 10 is in an intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state, a relatively small portion of the hinge assembly 200 can be exposed between the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2.

[0074] According to various embodiments, when the display device 10 is in the unfolded state, the angle formed between the first cover frame CF1 and the second cover frame CF2 can be 180 degrees. Therefore, the angle formed between the first unfolded area NFA1 and the second unfolded area NFA2 can be 180 degrees. Therefore, the display panel PNL can become a completely flat state.

[0075] According to various embodiments, when the display device 10 is in an intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state, the folding can be stopped at the folding angle. This can be called so-called free stop.

[0076] According to various embodiments, the cover frame CF and the top frame TF may be made of glass or polymer. The cover frame CF and the top frame TF may be transparent or opaque. For example, the cover frame CF and the top frame TF may be made of coated or colored glass, ceramics, polymers, aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium, or a combination thereof.

[0077] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to a first embodiment. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to a first embodiment. Figure 5 shows Figure 4 a schematic view of the intermediate plate, plate, display panel, and cover member of the display device shown fastened to the hinge assembly.

[0078] Referring Figures 3 to 5 , in the present application, the direction along the folding axis A1 is defined as the axial direction AD, in which the display device 10 is folded. The direction starting from the first unfolded area NFA1 of the display device 10, passing through the folding area FA, and reaching the second unfolded area NFA2 is defined as the side direction SD. The direction in which the display panel PNL of the display device 10 points is defined as the upward direction UD. The direction opposite to the upward direction UD is defined as the downward direction BD.

[0079] The top frame TF is disposed at the uppermost part of the display device 10 in the upward direction UD. Relative to the folding axis A1, the top frame TF includes a first top frame TF1 disposed on one side and a second top frame TF2 disposed on the other side. The top frame TF may be disposed to cover the edge of the display panel PNL. The top frame TF may protect the display panel PNL from external impacts. The top frame TFT may form a border of the display device 10.

[0080] The cover member CG may be disposed below the top frame TF. The cover member CG may be disposed above the display panel PNL. The cover member CG may be made of glass or a glass material containing quartz or the like. However, the cover member CG is not limited thereto and may also be made of a plastic material.

[0081] The cover member CG may be disposed above the display panel 100 to protect the components disposed below the cover member CG from the outside. At the same time, since the display device 10 is used as a foldable display device, the cover member CG should have flexibility. For this purpose, the modulus of the cover member CG is preferably 70 GPa or less, and the thickness is preferably about 100 μm or less. However, when the thickness of the cover member CG is too small, the cover member CG cannot function to protect the components disposed below the cover member CG, so the thickness of the cover member CG is preferably at least about 20 μm or more. The cover member CG may be a cover layer formed by chemical strengthening.

[0082] Meanwhile, although as described above, the function of the cover member CG is to protect the components arranged below the cover member CG from external influences, since the cover member CG is made of a glass material, the cover member CG can be damaged by an external force to generate glass fragments, and these glass fragments can scatter to the outside of the display device 10. In order to prevent the scattering of glass fragments caused by the damage of the cover member CG, a thin film layer, a hard coating, etc. can be further provided above the cover member CG.

[0083] The panel assembly PNLA is arranged below the cover member CG. The panel assembly PNLA includes a display panel PNL and a plate PLT. The display panel PNL may include: a flexible substrate, a circuit element layer provided on the flexible substrate and including transistors, a light-emitting layer provided on the circuit element layer and including light-emitting elements, a packaging layer provided on the light-emitting layer, a touch layer provided on the packaging layer or within the packaging layer, a polarizer for reducing the reflection visibility of the front surface of the display panel, a cover glass provided above the touch layer, and so on. The display panel PNL may include a first unfolded area NFA1, a folding area FA, and a second unfolded area NFA2.

[0084] The plate PLT can be arranged below the display panel PNL and can include various plates for supporting the display panel PNL. For example, one or more plates may include a back plate for supporting the display panel PNL, a top plate arranged below the back plate and made of stainless steel (SUS) material, a bottom plate arranged below the top plate and having a pattern formed in the folding part and made of SUS material, a heat sink having a heat dissipation function, and an intermediate plate for covering the non-flat plane caused by the respective elements of the hinge assembly.

[0085] As Figures 3 to 5 shown, a slit pattern PTN can be formed in the plate PLT. The slit pattern PTN can be formed at a position corresponding to the folding area FA of the display panel PNL. The slit pattern PTN can be a slit-shaped etched part formed in the plate PLT. For example, the plate PLT can be made of a metal such as SUS material, but the strong and tough properties of the metal may cause problems when folding or unfolding the plate PLT. The slit pattern PTN can supplement the flexibility of the plate PLT. Figure 3 The representative example of the plate PLT shown in

[0086] The middle plate MST is disposed below the panel assembly PNLA. The middle plate MST supports the components disposed above it in the upward direction UD. In addition, the hinge assembly 200 and the cover frame CF are disposed in the downward direction BD of the middle plate MST, and their upper surfaces may not be flat. The middle plate MST can flatten the uneven lower surface. The middle plate MST can be made of materials such as plastic, polyimide, or metal to increase the rigidity of the display device 10. For example, the middle plate MST can include aluminum or SUS, but is not limited thereto. The middle plate MST can be provided as a pair of middle plates MST.

[0087] The middle plate MST may include a first middle plate portion MSTH1 disposed in the first unfolded area NFA1 and a second middle plate portion MSTH2 disposed in the second unfolded area NFA2.

[0088] The hinge assembly 200 is disposed below the panel assembly PNLA. The hinge assembly 200 is disposed below the folding area FA. The hinge assembly 200 may have a shape extending along the axial direction AD. The hinge assembly 200 can perform a folding motion in which one side and the other side rotate around the folding axis A1. Reference will be made to Figure 5 etc. to describe the hinge assembly 200 in detail below.

[0089] The cover frame CF is disposed below the hinge assembly 200. A receiving groove can be formed on the upper surface of the cover frame CF to receive a part of the hinge assembly 200. With respect to the folding axis A1, the cover frame CF includes a first cover frame CF1 on one side and a second cover frame CF2 on the other side. The cover frame CF can be a housing for defining the side surface and the rear surface of the display device 10. The cover frame CF can protect the display device 10 from external impacts. The cover frame CF can be coupled to the hinge assembly 200. The folding and unfolding of the display device 10 can be achieved according to the rotation of the cover frames CF1 and CF2.

[0090] Coupling members BM1, BM2, and BM3 for coupling these elements can be further provided between adjacent elements MST, PLT, PNL, and CG. In each of the unfolded areas NFA1 and NFA2, the first coupling member BM1 can couple the middle plate portions MSTH1 and MSTH2 to the plate PLT disposed thereon, the second coupling member BM2 can couple the plate PLT, PTN to the display panel PNL disposed thereon, and the third coupling member BM3 can couple the display panel PNL to the cover member CG.

[0091] As Figure 5 shown, the coupled cover member CG, display panel PNL, plate PLT, and middle plate MST can be placed on the cover frames CF1 and CF2. The display device 10 can perform folding and unfolding operations through the hinge assembly 200 disposed on the cover frames CF1 and CF2.

[0092] Hereinafter, with reference to Figures 6 to 16 the specific structure and function of the hinge assembly 200 including the hinge support 250 will be described in detail.

[0093] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge assembly according to a first embodiment. Figure 7 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly according to a first embodiment. Figure 8 is Figure 7 an enlarged view of part Q1 in Figure 9 is a plan view of a hinge assembly according to a first embodiment. Figure 10 is for Figure 9 a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' in Figure 6 In Figure 8 the gear arm 240 is omitted from the upper left part and the hinge arm 230 is omitted from the upper right part to show the internal elements. In

[0094] Referring to Figures 6 to 10 , the hinge assembly 200 according to the first embodiment may include a hinge housing 210, a pair of hinge arms 230, and an inner frame 220.

[0095] In addition, although not shown, the hinge assembly 200 of the first embodiment may further include a hinge arm upper cover and a hinge arm lower cover respectively fastened to the upper and lower parts of the hinge arm 230, but is not limited thereto. The hinge assembly 200 may have a pair of hinge arms 230 on one side thereof, and the pair of hinge arms 230 may be rotatably connected. In other words, the hinge arm 230 may include a first hinge arm 230a and a second hinge arm 230b having a symmetric structure, but is not limited thereto. The first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b may have a symmetric structure.

[0096] The hinge arm 230 according to the first embodiment has a two-axis folding (rotation) structure. In other words, when a 4-axis gear is used to achieve a folding hinge, it may not be possible to manufacture a thin kit, or if the gear size is reduced to achieve a small thickness, there may be durability problems. Therefore, the present invention is characterized in that the display device 10 (see Figure 1 ) has a new hinge structure for forming a folding trajectory based on a two-axis rotation structure ( Figure 10 marked with a dashed line in Figure 1) It has a two-axis folding hinge structure that can be folded in an inward direction. In addition, the first embodiment is characterized in that the display device 10 has a new hinge structure with two bevel gears 241 and a link sliding structure for synchronization between the axes during two-axis rotation. The hinge arm 230 is a two-axis folding lever and can also be referred to as a lever wing.

[0097] The bevel gear 241 can be a gear for synchronizing the two-axis folding hinge arm 230. Therefore, the bevel gear 241 can also be referred to as a sunken gear.

[0098] The bevel gear 241 may include a first bevel gear 241a coupled to the first hinge arm 230a and a second bevel gear 241b coupled to the second hinge arm 230b.

[0099] The first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may have a virtual axis different from the rotation axis R_AXIS (i.e., the actual axis). In other words, the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may have a virtual axis substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis R_AXIS.

[0100] Each of the first tooth profile portion and the second tooth profile portion formed on the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may be formed only on a part of its circumference, but is not limited thereto.

[0101] The first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may be arranged to mesh. However, the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b are not limited thereto, and the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may also mesh with a first rotating gear and a second rotating gear respectively, and are configured to make the first rotating gear and the second rotating gear mesh.

[0102] Through the two synchronizing gears 241, that is, the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b, left-right synchronization can be maintained.

[0103] The first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may include second idler gears meshing with the first idler gears of the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b respectively to change and transmit the rotations of the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b in the vertical direction.

[0104] In this case, the first idler gear and the second idler gear can be disposed substantially in the vertical direction to change the rotation in the vertical direction. In other words, although the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b can each be rotatably fixed to the first idler gear of the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b respectively through the second idler gear, the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b can each be slidably fixed to the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b to perform the folding and unfolding operations of the display device 10 while maintaining left - right synchronization.

[0105] At the ends of the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b, sliding pins 242 protruding toward the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b can be provided, and sliding spaces 239 can be provided on the protruding portions 238 of the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b facing the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b, and the sliding pins 242 can move in the sliding spaces 239. Therefore, during the folding or unfolding operation of the display device 10, the sliding pins 242 can move in the sliding spaces 239, and the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b can rotate together with the rotation of the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b. The following will refer to Figures 13 to 16 describe it in detail.

[0106] Meanwhile, the gear arm 240 is rotatably fastened to the shaft 233.

[0107] The gear arm 240 is a two - axis folding stopper and can also be referred to as a lever stopper.

[0108] In other words, the gear arm 240 can include a first gear arm 240a and a second gear arm 240b, and the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b can be respectively fastened to the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b and interact with the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b.

[0109] The gear arm 240 can have a link structure connected to the two - axis articulated arm 230. In other words, the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b can be respectively connected to the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b. Therefore, during the folding or unfolding operation of the display device 10, the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b can be rotated together according to the rotation of the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b, and left - right synchronization can be maintained through the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b respectively connected to the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b.

[0110] As described above, the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b can interact with the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b respectively.

[0111] The shaft 233 can form a framework for placing and assembling the cam 245.

[0112] A compression spring 260 for generating frictional force of the cam 245 can be provided on the outer surface of the shaft 233 between the gear arm 240 and the cam 245.

[0113] The gear arm 240 fastened to the outer surface of the shaft 233 can include a plurality of cams 245 and a second stopper 246 for maintaining the folding and unfolding angles of the articulated arm 230 and the gear arm 240. Therefore, the cam 245 can be an element for the torque of folding and unfolding the articulated arm 230. The cam 245 can be referred to as a sliding cam.

[0114] Meanwhile, a predetermined articulated housing 210 for accommodating the inner frame 220, the articulated arm 230, and the gear arm 240 can be provided below the articulated assembly 200.

[0115] The articulated housing 210 is an outer covering of the articulated assembly 200, can have a predetermined length, and provides a space therein to accommodate the inner frame 220, the articulated arm 230, and the gear arm 240. The articulated housing 210 can be referred to as an articulated covering.

[0116] The inner frame 220 can be a framework for fixing the interior of the articulated assembly 200. The inner frame 220 can be provided with a plurality of fastening grooves (not shown) and through grooves (not shown). The inner frame 220 is an outer covering for accommodating the pair of first bevel gear 241a and second bevel gear 241b, and can be referred to as a housing covering.

[0117] In addition, a fixing member 211 facing the fastening groove of the inner frame 220 can be formed in the articulated housing 210, and a fixing groove (or fixing hole) 212 can be formed in the fixing member 211, which is fixedly fastened to the fastening groove by a fastening member such as a screw.

[0118] The articulated housing 210 can have a predetermined size, and the inner frame 220, the articulated arm 230, and the gear arm 240 can be accommodated in the space of the articulated housing 210.

[0119] Meanwhile, the distance between the rotation centers of the pair of shafts 233 can be greater than the distance D between the rotation axes R_AXIS which are the rotation centers of the pair of articulated arms 230.

[0120] In this case, a pair of virtual axes passing through the centers of a pair of shafts 233 can serve as the central axes for coupling the elements constituting the articulated housing 210. A pair of virtual axes can be provided, and each virtual axis can correspond to the first cover 110 and the second cover 120.

[0121] There may be a shaft height H between the folding portion where the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b contact the display panel PNL and the rotation axis R_AXIS, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0122] Meanwhile, as described above, in the first embodiment, a "T"-shaped articulated support 250 is provided between the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b of the articulated assembly 200. By means of the up / down method of the articulated support 250, an escape structure for achieving the curvature when the display panel PNL is folded can be ensured, and at the same time, the impact resistance can be improved by supporting the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b.

[0123] The articulated support 250 can be provided in the inner frame 220 between the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b in the longitudinal direction of the inner frame 220.

[0124] The articulated support 250 can have a "T" shape with an upper end protruding in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0125] The articulated support 250 can have an empty space therein, but is not limited thereto.

[0126] Meanwhile, as described above, the present invention is characterized by having a link sliding structure and two bevel gears 241a and 241b for synchronizing between the axes during two-axis rotation, which will be described in detail below. Figures 10 to 16 A detailed description thereof will be given.

[0127] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the unfolded state of the articulated assembly. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the folded state of the articulated assembly. Figure 13 is another perspective view showing the unfolded state of the articulated assembly. Figure 14 is Figure 13 an enlarged view of a part of the articulated assembly in Figure 15 is a cut-away perspective view showing the unfolded state of the display device according to the first embodiment. Figure 16 is a cut-away perspective view of the folded state of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0128] Figures 11 to 14 Some elements of the articulated assembly are shown, and the articulated housing is removed for ease of description.

[0129] Figure 15 andFigure 16 Specific unfolded and folded states of the display device are respectively shown. For ease of description, the display panel and the bezel cover are omitted.

[0130] Reference Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 15 and Figure 16 , a first cover 110 and a second cover 120 can be provided below the hinge assembly and the kit frames 150 and 160.

[0131] The kit frames 150 and 160 can include a first support plate 150 on the left side, a second support plate 160 on the right side, a first frame on the left side, and a second frame on the right side, but are not limited thereto.

[0132] The first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 can be respectively set to be independently foldable, and a hinge assembly can be provided between them.

[0133] The display device according to the first embodiment can be implemented in an inward folding manner in which the screen part is placed therein when folded.

[0134] In addition, the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 of the first embodiment can be provided in one area and another area that perform the folding and unfolding of the display device.

[0135] The hinge assembly can include a hinge housing 210, a first hinge arm 230a, a second hinge arm 230b, and an inner frame 220.

[0136] In addition, the hinge assembly of the first embodiment can further include a hinge arm upper cover and a hinge arm lower cover, which are fastened to the upper and lower parts of the first hinge arm 230a and the second 230b, but are not limited thereto.

[0137] The hinge assembly can include a pair of hinge arms 230a and 230b, and the pair of hinge arms 230a and 230b can include a first hinge arm 230a and a second hinge arm 230b having a symmetric structure.

[0138] The first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b according to the first embodiment have a two-axis folding (rotation) structure.

[0139] In this case, the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b can be folded (rotated) along the folding trajectory of the housing cover track 235 (see the arrow in Figure 12 ).

[0140] In other words, a pair of guide pins 234 may be provided at the upper end of the inner frame 220. The pair of guide pins 234 project toward the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b therein, and an outer shell covering rail 235 may be provided on the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b. The pair of guide pins 234 are assembled into the pair of outer shell covering rails 235. Therefore, the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b can be folded (rotated) along the folding trajectory of the outer shell covering rail 235 in a state guided by the pair of guide pins 234.

[0141] In addition, the first embodiment is characterized in that it has two bevel gears 241a and 241b and a link sliding structure for synchronization between the shafts during rotation of the two shafts. By using two bevel gears instead of four conventional gears, the thickness of the display device can be minimized. In other words, in the case of left-right synchronization using four ordinary gears, the thickness of the hinge assembly may increase due to the thickness of the four vertically arranged gears. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, by adjusting the left-right synchronization with two bevel gears 241a and 241b, the thickness and weight of the hinge assembly can be reduced. In addition, a folding R value smaller than the conventional value can also be achieved.

[0142] Specifically, the bevel gear 241 may include a first bevel gear 241a coupled to the first hinge arm 230a and a second bevel gear 241b coupled to the second hinge arm 230b.

[0143] The first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may have a virtual axis different from the rotation axis R_AXIS (i.e., the actual axis). In other words, the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may have a virtual axis substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis R_AXIS.

[0144] Each of the first tooth profile portion and the second tooth profile portion formed on the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may be formed only on a part of its circumference, but is not limited thereto.

[0145] The first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may be set to mesh. However, the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b are not limited thereto. The first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may also mesh with a first rotating gear and a second rotating gear respectively, and are configured such that the first rotating gear and the second rotating gear mesh.

[0146] The first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b may include a second idler gear 232b that meshes with the first idler gear 232a of the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b respectively to change and transmit the rotation of the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b in the vertical direction (see Figure 13 andFigure 14 )。

[0147] In this case, the first idler gear 232a and the second idler gear 232b can be arranged in a substantially vertical direction to change the rotation in the vertical direction. In other words, although each of the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b is rotatably fastened to the first idler gear 232a of the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b respectively through the second idler gear 232b, the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b are both slidably fastened to the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b to perform the folding and unfolding operations of the display device while maintaining left - right synchronization.

[0148] In other words, when the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b are folded / unfolded in the vertical direction, the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b rotate in the horizontal direction to adjust the synchronization.

[0149] At the same time, the rotation axis R_AXIS of the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b can be different from a pair of virtual axes B passing through the centers of the pair of shafts 233. In other words, the rotation axis R_AXIS around which the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b are folded / unfolded does not match the virtual axes B around which the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b are folded / unfolded, and the rotation axis R_AXIS and the virtual axes B can interact through the link sliding structure.

[0150] Therefore, the virtual axes B around which the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b are folded / unfolded are the central axes of the shafts 233, and the rotation axis R_AXIS around which the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b are folded / unfolded is the central axis of the housing cover rail 235. The rotation axis R_AXIS and the virtual axes B can be connected in the link sliding structure to enable the interaction between the two different folding / unfolding axes.

[0151] In other words, in the first embodiment, although the first bevel gear 241a and the second bevel gear 241b are used for synchronization between the axes during two - axis rotation, the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b are respectively slidably fastened to the first articulated arm 230a and the second articulated arm 230b.

[0152] In other words, sliding pins 242 protruding toward the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b may be provided at the ends of the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b, and sliding spaces 239 may be provided in the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b facing the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b. The sliding pins 242 may move in the sliding spaces 239. Therefore, during the folding or unfolding operation of the display device, the sliding pins 242 may move in the sliding spaces 239, and the first gear arm 240a and the second gear arm 240b may rotate (or fold / unfold) together with the rotation (or folding / unfolding) of the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b. As described above, the two-axis hinge operation may be synchronized by the first bevel gear 241a, the second bevel gear 241b, and the link sliding structure.

[0153] In this case, the sliding spaces 239 may be provided in the side protrusions 238 of the first hinge arm 230a and the second hinge arm 230b, but are not limited thereto.

[0154] Meanwhile, during the folding and unfolding operations of the display device 10 (see Figure 1 ), frictional forces between the elements constituting the hinge assembly are utilized to achieve a holding force for maintaining a specific folding angle of the display device.

[0155] In other words, the hinge assembly may be provided in the portion where the display device is folded and unfolded to allow the folding and unfolding operations of the display device to be easily performed. In addition, the hinge assembly may provide a holding force for maintaining the folded state of the display device at a specific angle.

[0156] As described above, the display panel may be provided on one surface of the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160. The display panel may be one of various display panels such as an organic light-emitting display panel and a liquid crystal display panel. In addition, the display panel may be flexible to fold and unfold together when the display device is folded and unfolded.

[0157] The display device may be folded such that the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 form a specific folding angle. In other words, although Figure 15 the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 are shown fully unfolded, for example, at an angle of 180°, the display device may be folded at a specific angle. In other words, although Figure 16 the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 are shown folded at an angle of, for example, 90°, the present invention is not limited thereto. In this case, when the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 are folded, the display panel provided above the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 may also be folded together.

[0158] The display device can be folded at a specific angle according to the user's intention. In addition, the display device can be fully folded or unfolded according to the user's intention. The display device can be folded inward (or internally folded) and folded or unfolded so that the display panel is placed inside, or folded outward and folded or unfolded so that the display panel is placed outside.

[0159] The display device can maintain a specific folding angle by the holding force provided by the hinge assembly. In other words, the first support plate 150 and the second support plate 160 can be fixed in a state of maintaining a specific folding angle through the hinge assembly. Therefore, the display device can be folded at a specific angle according to the user's intention and can maintain the folded state at a specific angle by the holding force of the hinge assembly.

[0160] In particular, the feature of the present invention is that the holding torque and the free stop function are realized by applying the structure of the cam 245 including the compression spring 260 to maintain a specific folding angle of the display device.

[0161] Figure 17 It shows Figure 4 a cross-sectional view showing the folded state of the display device according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 18 a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0162] Refer to Figure 17 , the display panel PNL, the cover member CG, the plate PLT, and the intermediate plate MST can all be folded relative to the folding area FA. The first intermediate plate portion MSTH1 and the second intermediate plate portion MSTH2 can overlap each other in the thickness direction. The slit pattern PTN can be arranged in the folding area FA.

[0163] Although in the unfolded state of the display device 10, the folding area FA has a planar shape as shown in Figure 4 , in the folded state, the folding area FA can be bent as shown in Figure 17 by folding.

[0164] When the display device 10 repeatedly performs the folding / unfolding operation for a long time, the folding area FA may be greatly deformed.

[0165] After repeated unfolding operations, the folding area FA can be as shown in Figure 18The downward depression shown. More specifically, since the folding region FA has a large deformation after repeated folding / unfolding operations, the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA may be depressed downward and unable to return to the original state. Even when the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA are restored, the restoration time may be a predetermined time or longer. In this case, the depressed shape (or wrinkled shape) can be seen from the outside, causing a display defect. Since there is no separate member for supporting the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA below them, the degree of depression of the depressed shape may become severe over time.

[0166] The display device according to the second embodiment will be described below to solve the depression problem of the folding region FA of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0167] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the display device according to the second embodiment. Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the folded state of the display device according to the second embodiment. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the display device according to the second embodiment.

[0168] Refer to Figures 19 to 21 and, the display device 11 according to the second embodiment is different from the display device 10 shown in Figure 4 that an intermediate plate MST_1 may also be provided in the folding region FA.

[0169] More specifically, in the folding region FA, the intermediate plate MST_1 may protrude upward toward the upper members PNL and PTN. The intermediate plate MST_1 may further include a vertical intermediate plate that protrudes upward toward the upper members PNL and PTN in the folding region FA. The intermediate plate MST_1 may be formed by etching. However, the intermediate plate MST_1 may be formed in various ways.

[0170] The separation distance between the middle plate MST_1 and the plate PLT in the folding region FA (or the separation distance between the middle plate MST_1 and the slit pattern PTN) may be less than the separation distance between the middle plate MST_1 and the plate PLT in the unfolded regions NFA1 and NFA2. To this end, the vertical middle plate of the middle plate MST_1 may further include a third middle plate portion MSTH3 connected to the first middle plate portion MSTH1_1 and a fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 connected to the second middle plate portion MSTH2_1. The third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 may protrude further upward from the surfaces of the first middle plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second middle plate portion MSTH2_1 toward the upper members PNL and PTN, respectively. The thicknesses of the third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 may be greater than the thicknesses of the first middle plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second middle plate portion MSTH2_1, respectively.

[0171] The surface heights of the third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 may be greater than the surface heights of the first middle plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second middle plate portion MSTH2_1, respectively.

[0172] The third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 may function to prevent the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN in the folding region FA from being recessed downward. As described above Figure 18 Since there is no separate member supporting them below, the degree of depression of the recessed shape (or wrinkled shape) of the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA may become more severe. However, for the display device 11 according to the second embodiment, since the third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 having a surface height higher than that of the first middle plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second middle plate portion MSTH2_1 may be provided in the folding region FA, it is possible to prevent the recessed shape (or wrinkled shape) of the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA from becoming more severe over time.

[0173] The height H2 by which the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 protrude from the surface height of the first intermediate plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second intermediate plate portion MSTH2_1 may be less than the height H1 by which the first coupling member BM1 protrudes from the surface height of the first intermediate plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second intermediate plate portion MSTH2_1. The surface of the first coupling member BM1 may be coplanarly located at the lower surface of the slit pattern PTN. When the surfaces of the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 are coplanarly located at the lower surface of the slit pattern PTN such that the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 are in direct contact with the slit pattern PTN, physical interference may occur between the slit pattern PTN and the intermediate plate MST_1 during the folding operation, and the folding operation may not proceed smoothly.

[0174] In addition, in order to prevent the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN in the folding area FA from being recessed by the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4, it is preferable to place the surfaces of the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 between the upper and lower surfaces of the first coupling member BM1. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the surface height of the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 may be coplanarly positioned at the surface height (or upper surface height) of the first coupling member BM1.

[0175] In addition, in order to facilitate the prevention of the covering member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN in the folding area FA from being recessed by the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4, it is preferable to place the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 at the central portion of the folding area FA. Therefore, the first intermediate plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second intermediate plate portion MSTH2_1 may extend into the folding area FA respectively. Since the first intermediate plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second intermediate plate portion MSTH2_1 extend into the folding area FA respectively, and the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 are respectively connected to the adjacent first intermediate plate portion MSTH1_1 and second intermediate plate portion MSTH2_1, the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 may be spaced apart from the inner surfaces of the first coupling member BM1 located in each unfolded area NFA1 and NFA2.

[0176] The third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 of the display device 11 according to the second embodiment may be spaced apart from each other with respect to the bisector of the folding area FA. The reason for separating the third intermediate plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate plate portion MSTH4 with respect to the bisector of the folding area FA is to smoothly perform the folding operation through the hinge assembly 200 of the display device 11. As described above with reference toFigure 3 As described above, since the middle plate MST_1 is made of materials such as plastic, polyimide, or metal to increase the rigidity of the display device 11, when the middle plate MST is integrally formed between the unfolded regions NFA1 and NFA2 and the folding region FA, the stress acting on the display device 11 during the folding operation may increase. Therefore, similar to Figure 4 the middle plate MST of the display device 10 shown, the first middle plate portion MSTH1_1 and the third middle plate portion MSTH3 may be physically spaced apart from the second middle plate portion MSTH2_1 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4.

[0177] As Figure 21 shown, when the display device 11 repeats the folded and unfolded states, the folding region FA may be recessed downward.

[0178] More specifically, since the folding region FA has a large deformation during the repeated folding / unfolding operation, the cover member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA may each be recessed downward and may not return to the original state. Even when the cover member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA are restored, the restoration time may be a predetermined time or longer. In this case, the recessed shape (or wrinkled shape) can be seen from the outside, causing display defects. In addition, since there is no separate member supporting the cover member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA below them, the degree of depression of the recessed shape may become severe over time.

[0179] However, in the display device 11 according to the second embodiment, since the third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 of the folding region FA are formed to protrude further upward from the surfaces of the first middle plate portion MSTH1_1 and the second middle plate portion MSTH2_1 toward the upper members PNL and PTN, even if the cover member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA are recessed downward due to the repeated folding / unfolding states, the cover member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN are only recessed to the surfaces of the third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 (bringing the third middle plate portion MSTH3 and the fourth middle plate portion MSTH4 into contact with the slit pattern PTN). Therefore, the restoration time of the cover member CG, the display panel PNL, and the slit pattern PTN provided in the folding region FA can be shortened.

[0180] In addition, it is possible to prevent display defects caused by the recessed shape (or wrinkled shape) of the folding region FA being visible from the outside. Further, since the slit pattern PTN is recessed only into the surfaces of the third intermediate panel portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate panel portion MSTH4, the recessing phenomenon (or wrinkling phenomenon) of the folding region FA can be improved.

[0181] In addition, since the intermediate panel portion MST_1 is separated from the display panel PNL and the plates PLT and PTN are inserted therebetween, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon of additional stress being applied to the display panel PNL due to the formation of the third intermediate panel portion MSTH3 and the fourth intermediate panel portion MSTH4.

[0182] The remaining description has been referred to above Figures 1 to 18 and will be omitted in the following for the sake of brevity.

[0183] The above description and the drawings merely illustrate the technical essence of the present application. Those skilled in the art to which the present application pertains can make various changes or modifications without departing from the basic characteristics of the present application, such as coupling, separating, replacing, and changing components. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to limit the technical essence of the present application, but rather to describe the technical essence of the present application, and the scope of the technical essence of the present application is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of the present application is interpreted in accordance with the appended claims, and all technical essences within the same scope should be construed as being included within the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A panel assembly, comprising a display panel and a plate disposed below the display panel, wherein the display panel comprises a first unfolding area, a second unfolding area, and a folding area between the first unfolding area and the second unfolding area, and the plate comprises a slit pattern located in the folding area; and an intermediate plate disposed below the plate; The middle plate includes a first middle plate portion located in the first unfolding area, a second middle plate portion located in the second unfolding area, and a vertical middle plate portion located in the folding area.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The vertical intermediate plate portion protrudes toward the plate.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The vertical middle plate portion includes a third middle plate portion connected to the first middle plate portion and a fourth middle plate portion connected to the second middle plate portion.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: The third middle plate portion and the fourth middle plate portion are spaced apart from each other.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A distance between the third intermediate plate portion and the plate is shorter than a distance between the first intermediate plate portion and the plate.

6. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A distance between the fourth intermediate plate portion and the plate is shorter than a distance between the second intermediate plate portion and the plate.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first unfolding region and the second unfolding region are folded relative to the folding region and overlap each other in a folded state.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: In the unfolded state, the slit pattern located at the folding area is spaced apart from the vertical middle plate portion.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: In the unfolded state, the folding area of ​​the display panel is recessed downward.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein: The slit pattern located at the folding area is in direct contact with the vertical middle plate portion. 11 . The display device according to claim 1 , further comprising an inner folding hinge assembly disposed in the folding area below the panel assembly, the inner folding hinge assembly comprising a hinge cover. 12 . The display device of claim 11 , further comprising a first frame cover and a second frame cover coupled to the inner folding hinge assembly.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The inner folding hinge assembly includes a first hinge arm and a second hinge arm that are rotatably connected, a first bevel gear and a second bevel gear coupled to the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm in the vertical direction, respectively, and a first gear arm and a second gear arm fastened to interact with the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm, and the display panel performs folding and unfolding operations around a rotation axis that is different from the central axis of the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The first bevel gear and the second bevel gear are arranged to mesh, and the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear each include a second idler gear meshing with the first idler gears of the first articulated arm and the second articulated arm, respectively.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The first idle gear and the second idle gear are arranged in directions perpendicular to each other.

16. A display device comprising: A panel assembly, comprising a display panel and a plate disposed below the display panel, wherein the display panel comprises a first unfolding area, a second unfolding area, and a folding area between the first unfolding area and the second unfolding area, and the plate comprises a slit pattern located in the folding area; and an intermediate plate disposed below the plate; in, A distance between the intermediate panel and the panel in the folding region is shorter than a distance between the intermediate panel and the panel in the first unfolding region.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein: The middle panel includes a first middle panel portion located in the first unfolding area, a second middle panel portion located in the second unfolding area, and a vertical middle panel portion located in the folding area, the vertical middle panel portion protruding toward the panel.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: The vertical middle plate portion includes a third middle plate portion connected to the first middle plate portion and a fourth middle plate portion connected to the second middle plate portion, the third middle plate portion and the fourth middle plate portion being spaced apart from each other.

19. The display device according to claim 18, wherein: The first and second unfolding regions are folded relative to the folding region, the first and second unfolding regions overlap each other in a folded state, and the slit pattern located in the folding region is spaced apart from the vertical middle plate portion in an unfolded state.

20. The display device according to claim 18, wherein: The first unfolding area and the second unfolding area are folded relative to the folding area, the first unfolding area and the second unfolding area overlap each other in the folded state, and in the unfolded state, the folding area of ​​the display panel is recessed downward, and the slit pattern located in the folding area is in direct contact with the vertical middle plate portion.

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