Display device

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device. The display device comprises a display module; a support portion disposed below the display module; a dummy portion extending to one end of the support portion; and a shaft that may extend to one end of the dummy portion and may have a rotation axis extending in the first direction, the display module may be wound or unwound about the shaft. The support portion, the dummy portion, and the shaft may include the same resin.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2023 - 0188024, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on December 21, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] The disclosure herein relates to a display device. Background art

[0004] Electronic devices such as smart phones, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation devices, and smart TVs that provide images to a user include a display device for displaying an image. The display device generates an image through a display screen and provides the image to the user.

[0005] Recently, with the technological development of display devices, display devices having various shapes are being developed. For example, various flexible display devices that can be changed into a curved, folded, or rolled - up shape are being developed. The flexible display device can be portable and improves user convenience.

[0006] Among the flexible display devices, a rollable display device may include a display module and a module support part disposed under the display module. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present disclosure provides a display device having improved surface quality.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device may include: a display module; a support part disposed under the display module; a dummy part extending to one end of the support part; and a shaft extending to one end of the dummy part, the shaft having a rotation axis extending in a first direction, and the display module being wound around the shaft or unwound from the shaft. The support part, the dummy part, and the shaft may include the same resin.

[0009] The thickness of the dummy part may be greater than the thickness of the support part.

[0010] The difference between the height of the top surface of the display module disposed on the support part and the height of the top surface of the dummy part may be in the range of about 0 micrometers to about 50 micrometers.

[0011] When the display module is wound around the shaft, at the boundary between the shaft and the dummy part, the difference between the distance from the rotation axis to the outer periphery of the shaft adjacent to the boundary and the distance from the rotation axis to the outer periphery of the dummy part adjacent to the boundary may be in the range of about 0 micrometers to about 50 micrometers.

[0012] The radius, which can be defined as the distance from the axis of rotation to the outer periphery of the shaft, can vary.

[0013] The support portion may include: a resin layer including resin; and a support body disposed in the resin layer.

[0014] The support body may include a plurality of support rods that extend in a first direction and are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0015] The support body may include a support plate in which a plurality of opening portions may be defined.

[0016] The support portion, the dummy portion, and the shaft may be integrally formed with each other.

[0017] The shaft may include: a sub-shaft extending in a first direction; and a coating portion configured to surround the sub-shaft, and the coating portion may contain resin.

[0018] The resin may have an elastic modulus in the range of about 0.2 MPa to about 1 MPa.

[0019] When the display module is wound around the shaft, the bottom surface of the dummy portion may contact the outer periphery of the shaft.

[0020] The bottom surface of the support portion may contact a part of the dummy portion and a part of the shaft each of which may be adjacent to the boundary between the dummy portion and the shaft.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device may include: a display module; a shaft including a first stepped portion provided at the outer periphery of the shaft; and an extension portion extending from the first stepped portion, and the extension portion may be wound around the shaft or unwound from the shaft together with the display module. The extension portion may include: a dummy portion extending from the first stepped portion; and a support portion extending from the dummy portion in a first direction, and the support portion may be provided below the display module. A second stepped portion may be provided at the boundary between the dummy portion and the support portion.

[0022] The curvature of the shaft adjacent to the first stepped portion may be equal to the curvature of the dummy portion adjacent to the first stepped portion.

[0023] When the display module is wound, the support portion may be wound along the outer periphery of the dummy portion and the outer periphery of the shaft.

[0024] When the display module is wound, the curvature of the dummy portion adjacent to the second stepped portion may be equal to the curvature of the support portion adjacent to the second stepped portion.

[0025] The shaft may have at least two different curvatures.

[0026] The support portion, the dummy portion, and the shaft can be integral with each other. Description of the Drawings

[0027] The drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the specification, are used to explain the principles of the present disclosure. In the drawings:

[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2 is a view showing a display module led out from the housing shown in Figure 1 ;

[0030] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' shown in Figure 1 ;

[0031] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a shaft and an extension portion shown in Figure 2 ;

[0032] Figure 5 is Figure 4 ;

[0033] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in Figure 5 ;

[0034] Figure 7 is a view for explaining a shaft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 8 is for explaining Figure 5 ;

[0036] Figures 9A to 9C is a view for explaining a support body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 10 is a view showing a display module accommodated in the housing shown in Figure 2 ;

[0038] Figure 11 is a view showing Figure 10 ;

[0039] Figure 12 is a view showing Figure 10 ;

[0040] Figure 13 is a view showing an example of a schematic cross-section of the display panel shown in Figure 12 ;

[0041] Figure 14 is a plan view of a display device of the display panel shown in Figure 13 ; and

[0042] Figures 15A to 15H is a view for explaining a method for manufacturing the support portion shown in Figure 5 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] In the following description, for purposes of illustration, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments or implementations of the present disclosure. As used herein, "embodiment" and "implementation" are interchangeable terms that are non-limiting examples of the devices or methods disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent that the various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. Here, the various embodiments are not necessarily exclusive and do not limit the present disclosure. For example, the specific shapes, configurations, and characteristics of an embodiment may be used or implemented in another embodiment.

[0044] Unless otherwise specified, the embodiments shown are to be understood as providing features of the present disclosure. Thus, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions, and / or aspects, etc. (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as "elements") of the various embodiments may be otherwise combined, separated, interchanged, and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concept.

[0045] The use of cross-hatching and / or shading in the drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless specified, the presence or absence of cross-hatching or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material property, size, ratio, commonality between the elements shown, and / or any other characteristic, attribute, property, etc. of the elements. In addition, in the drawings, for clarity and / or description purposes, the dimensions and relative dimensions of the elements may be exaggerated. When an embodiment can be implemented differently, a specific process order may be performed differently from the described order. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in an order opposite to the described order. In addition, the same reference numerals and / or reference characters denote the same elements.

[0046] When an element such as a layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, no intervening elements or layers are present. For this reason, the term “connected” can refer to physical connection, electrical connection, and / or fluid connection with or without intervening elements. In addition, the DR1 axis, DR2 axis, and DR3 axis are not limited to the three axes such as the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis of a rectangular coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1 axis, DR2 axis, and DR3 axis can be perpendicular to each other, or can be different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0047] For the purposes of the present disclosure, “at least one of A and B” can be interpreted as only A, only B, or any combination of A and B. In addition, “at least one of X, Y, and Z” and “at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z” can be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0048] Although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various types of elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, a first element discussed below can be termed a second element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0049] For descriptive purposes, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “beneath,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” “on top of,” “higher,” “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”), etc. may be used herein and, thereby, to describe the relationship of one element to another(s) as shown in the figures. In addition to the orientation depicted in the figures, the spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, an element described as “below” or “beneath” another element or feature will then be oriented “above” the other element or feature. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both an orientation above and below. In addition, the device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and thus, the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0050] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Further, when used in this specification, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes" and / or "including" specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially", "about" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms and not as terms of degree, and are thus used to interpret the inherent deviations in measured, calculated and / or provided values that would be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0051] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or exploded views that are schematic illustrations of embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Accordingly, variations in the shape of the figures due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Thus, the embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be construed as limited to the shapes of the particular regions shown, but should include, for example, shape deviations resulting from manufacturing. In this manner, the regions shown in the figures may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shape of the regions of the device and are thus not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0052] As is customary in the art, some exemplary embodiments are described and illustrated in the drawings for functional blocks, units, and / or modules. Those skilled in the art will understand that these blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented by electrical circuits (or optical circuits) such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hardwired circuits, memory elements, wiring connectors, etc., which can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing technologies or other manufacturing technologies. In cases where the blocks, units, and / or modules are implemented by a microprocessor or other similar hardware, they can be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and can be selectively driven by firmware and / or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit, and / or module can be implemented by dedicated hardware, or can be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuits) for performing other functions. Additionally, without departing from the scope of the inventive concept, each block, unit, and / or module in some embodiments can be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks, units, and / or modules. Furthermore, without departing from the scope of the inventive concept, the blocks, units, and / or modules of some embodiments can be physically combined into more complex blocks, units, and / or modules.

[0053] Unless otherwise defined or implied herein, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will also be understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0054] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0055] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a view showing Figure 1 a display module led out from the housing shown in

[0056] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a housing HS, a display module DM accommodated in the housing HS, a handle HND connected to the display module DM, and supports SUP adjacent to both sides of the display module DM.

[0057] The housing HS may have a hexahedral shape. The top surface of the housing HS may have a rectangular shape having a long side extending in a first direction DR1 and a short side extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the shape of the housing HS is not limited thereto.

[0058] Hereinafter, a direction that intersects substantially perpendicularly to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be defined as a third direction DR3. The clause "when viewed on a plane" in this document may mean the state when viewed in the third direction DR3 or when viewed in a plan view.

[0059] The housing opening portion HOP may be defined in one of the two sides of the housing HS that may be opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The housing opening portion HOP may be closer to the upper portion of the housing HS than to the lower portion adjacent to the housing HS.

[0060] The display module DM may be wound around an axis provided in the housing HS and introduced and withdrawn through the housing opening portion HOP. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the display module DM may slide from the inside of the housing HS to the outside and be withdrawn to the outside without using an axis. A configuration in which the display module DM can be wound around an axis will be described in detail later.

[0061] The handle HND may be provided outside the housing HS adjacent to the housing opening portion HOP. The handle HND may be adjacent to the upper portion of the housing HS. The handle HND may move in the second direction DR2. When the handle HND moves in the second direction DR2 away from the housing HS, the display module DM may be drawn out from the housing HS toward the housing opening portion HOP. The handle HND may be operated by a user.

[0062] As Figure 1 shown, a state in which the display module DM may be provided inside the housing HS and not exposed to the outside may be defined as a closed mode. As Figure 2 shown, an operation in which the display module DM may be exposed to the outside may be defined as an open mode. In the open mode, the exposed portion of the display module DM may extend.

[0063] The support member SUP may be provided on two opposite sides of the display module DM in the first direction DR1 to support the display module DM. The support member SUP may include a first support member SUP1 adjacent to one side of the display module DM and a second support member SUP2 adjacent to the other side of the display module DM. One side and the other side of the display module DM may be two opposite sides of the display module DM in the first direction DR1.

[0064] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 1 line I-I' shown in Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 2 line II-II' shown in Figure 5 is Figure 4 a perspective view of the shaft SFT and the extension part ETP shown in Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 5 line III-III' shown in Figure 7 a view for explaining the shaft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is for explaining Figure 5 a perspective view of the support rod shown in Figures 9A to 9C a view for explaining the support body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] As an example, Figure 9A and Figure 9B each show a perspective view, and Figure 9C is Figure 9B a plan view of the first region AA1 shown in

[0066] As an example, Figures 4 to 7 and Figure 9A is a view showing the extension part ETP in the open mode.

[0067] Figures 9A to 9C the shaft SFT, the dummy part PT1, and the support part PT2 shown in Figure 5 are substantially the same as the shaft SFT, the dummy part PT1, and the support part PT2 shown in

[0068] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the display device DD may include a housing HS, a display module DM, a shaft SFT, an extension part ETP, a support SUP, and a handle HND. The display module DM, the shaft SFT, the extension part ETP, and the support SUP may be accommodated in the housing HS.

[0069] Referring to Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 7 , the shaft SFT may be inside the housing HS and adjacent to a side opposite to the side of the housing HS where a housing opening part HOP may be defined. The shaft SFT may rotate in clockwise and counterclockwise directions about a rotation axis RX parallel to a first direction DR1. Although not shown, the display device DD may further include a driving part for rotating the shaft SFT.

[0070] The shaft SFT can have at least two curvatures. Specifically, when observed in the first direction DR1, the dimension of the radius r of the shaft SFT can be variable. The radius r of the shaft SFT can be defined as the length from the rotation axis RX to the outer periphery of the shaft SFT. The length from the rotation axis RX of the shaft SFT to the outer periphery of the shaft SFT can be variable. For example, as Figure 6 shown, the shaft SFT can have a spiral shape. The outer periphery of the shaft SFT can be defined as the surface of the shaft SFT that faces the bottom surface of the display module DM in the closed state of the display module DM.

[0071] The shaft SFT can include a resin. The resin can be an elastic polymer. For example, the shaft SFT can include silicone or polyurethane acrylate. The resin of the shaft SFT can have an elastic modulus in the range of about 0.2 MPa to about 1 Mpa.

[0072] Unlike Figure 6 the shaft SFT shown, Figure 7 the shaft SFTa shown in

[0073] can include a sub-shaft MCP containing metal and a coating portion CP containing resin. As an example, when observed in the first direction DR1, the sub-shaft MCP can have a circular shape. The coating portion CP can surround the sub-shaft MCP. Since the sub-shaft MCP can be disposed inside the shaft SFTa, the rigidity of the shaft SFTa can be increased. Figure 3 Referring to

[0074] the display module DM can extend in the second direction DR2 to be wound around the shaft SFT. The display module DM can extend to the shaft SFT through an extension portion ETP to be described later. A part of the display module DM can be wound around the shaft SFT, and another part of the display module DM can be arranged to overlap with the support member SUP without being wound around the shaft SFT. The other end of the display module DM, which can be the end opposite to one end of the display module DM, can be connected to the handle HND. The other end of the display module DM can be adjacent to the housing opening portion HOP. Hereinafter, the state in which the display module DM is wound around the shaft SFT can be defined as the curled state. The state in which the display module DM is not wound around the shaft SFT (or not wound around the shaft SFT) can be defined as the unfolded state.

[0074] The top surface of the display module DM can be defined as the surface on which an image can be displayed. The extension portion ETP can be provided on the surface of the display module DM. The extension portion ETP can be provided on the bottom surface of the display module DM, which can be the surface opposite to the top surface of the display module DM. For example, the extension portion ETP can be attached to the bottom surface of the display module DM by an adhesive. Hereinafter, the surface of the display module DM can be defined as the bottom surface of the display module DM. The display module DM will be referred to Figures 10 to 14Detailed description.

[0075] Reference Figures 3 to 5 , the extension part ETP can extend in the second direction DR2 to wind around the shaft SFT. The extension part ETP can have one end extending to the shaft SFT and the other end connected to the handle HND. The other end of the extension part ETP can be adjacent to the housing opening part HOP.

[0076] In the closed mode, the extension part ETP can extend from the shaft SFT in the second direction DR2 to be adjacent to the housing opening part HOP. A part of the extension part ETP can be wound around the shaft SFT, and another part of the extension part ETP can be arranged to overlap with the support member SUP without being wound around the shaft SFT.

[0077] The extension part ETP can include resin. The resin can be an elastic polymer. For example, the extension part ETP can include silicone or polyurethane acrylate. The extension part ETP and the shaft SFT can include the same material. The resin of the extension part ETP can have a modulus of elasticity in the range of about 0.2 MPa to about 1 MPa.

[0078] Reference Figures 3 to 6 , the extension part ETP can include a dummy part PT1 and a support part PT2. The dummy part PT1 can have one end extending to the shaft SFT. Specifically, the dummy part PT1 can have one end extending to the first step part ST1 of the shaft SFT. The dummy part PT1 can have a structure extending from the first step part ST1 of the shaft SFT, and basically the dummy part PT1 and the shaft SFT can have a structure set as one body. The first step part ST1 can define a first boundary BOU1 between the dummy part PT1 and the shaft SFT.

[0079] At the first boundary BOU1 between the dummy part PT1 and the shaft SFT, a step part may not be provided between the outer periphery of the dummy part PT1 and the outer periphery of the shaft SFT. The curvature of the outer periphery of the dummy part PT1 and the curvature of the outer periphery of the shaft SFT can be the same as each other at the first boundary BOU1. At the first boundary BOU1, the difference between the distance from the rotation axis RX to the outer periphery of the dummy part PT1 that can be adjacent to the first boundary BOU1 and the distance from the rotation axis RX to the outer periphery of the shaft SFT that can be adjacent to the first boundary BOU1 can be in the range of about 0 micrometers to about 50 micrometers. In the case where the display module DM is in a curled state, the outer periphery of the dummy part PT1 and the outer periphery of the shaft SFT can be respectively defined as the surface of the dummy part PT1 and the surface of the shaft SFT in which each of them faces the bottom surface of the display module DM.

[0080] The dummy part PT1 may have an end extending to the other end of the support part PT2. The support part PT2 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the display module DM. The support part PT2 may support the display module DM from below the display module DM.

[0081] The support part PT2 may have an end extending to the dummy part PT1. The support part PT2 may have a structure extending from the other end of the dummy part PT1, and substantially the dummy part PT1 and the support part PT2 may be provided integrally. For example, the extension part ETP including the dummy part PT1 and the support part PT2 and the shaft SFT may be provided integrally.

[0082] The dummy part PT1 may have a thickness that may be greater than the thickness of the support part PT2. According to an embodiment, at the second boundary BOU2 between the dummy part PT1 and the support part PT2, the height of the top surface of the dummy part PT1 may be greater than the height of the top surface of the support part PT2. Accordingly, the extension part ETP may have a second step part ST2 at the second boundary BOU2.

[0083] In the closed mode, a part of the extension part ETP may be wound around the shaft SFT (or wound around the shaft SFT), and another part of the extension part ETP may be disposed to overlap with the support SUP without being wound around the shaft SFT. The dummy part PT1 may be wound along the outer periphery of the shaft SFT. The bottom surface of the dummy part PT1 may contact the outer periphery of the shaft SFT.

[0084] A part of the support part PT2 may be wound around the shaft SFT. The bottom surface of the support part PT2 may contact the outer periphery of the shaft SFT or the dummy part PT1. When the support part PT2 is wound, the bottom surfaces of the support part PT2 and the dummy part PT1, each of which may be adjacent to the boundary between the support part PT2 and the dummy part PT1, may have the same curvature. Another part of the support part PT2 may be disposed to overlap with the support SUP without being wound around the shaft SFT. The other end of the support part PT2, which may be an end opposite to one end of the support part PT2, may be connected to the handle HND. The other end of the support part PT2 may be adjacent to the housing opening part HOP.

[0085] As Figure 3As shown, when the display module DM is wound, the first boundary BOU1 can overlap with the support part PT2 and the display module DM. The bottom surface of the support part PT2 can contact the outer peripheries of each axis SFT that can be adjacent to the first boundary BOU1 and the outer periphery of the dummy part PT1. Hereinafter, the part of the first boundary BOU1 corresponding to the support part PT2 can be defined as the first area P1, and the part of the first boundary BOU1 corresponding to the display module DM can be defined as the second area P2.

[0086] The first area P1 can be provided on the outer peripheries of the dummy part PT1 and the axis SFT that can be adjacent to the first boundary BOU1. Therefore, the shape of the first area P1 can be changed to correspond to the outer peripheries of the dummy part PT1 and the axis SFT. When changing the shape of the first area P1, the shape of the second area P2 of the display module DM that can be provided on the first area P1 can also be changed.

[0087] When the outer peripheries of the dummy part PT1 and the axis SFT that can be adjacent to the first boundary BOU1 have different curvatures from each other, the outer peripheries of the dummy part PT1 and the axis SFT that can be adjacent to the first boundary BOU1 can be arranged to have a stepped part therebetween. The shape of the first area P1 can be changed to have a stepped part. As the shape of the first area P1 can be changed, the shape of the second area P2 of the display module DM can be changed to have a stepped part. Therefore, the stress caused by the curling of the display module DM can be concentrated in the second area P2 that overlaps with the first boundary BOU1 of the display module DM. Therefore, wrinkles may be generated on the front surface of the display module DM, which may deteriorate the surface quality of the display module.

[0088] However, since the dummy part PT1 and the axis SFT can be provided as a single body (or can be integrated with each other), the outer peripheries of the dummy part PT1 and the axis SFT can have the same curvature. The outer peripheries of the dummy part PT1 and the axis SFT may not have a stepped part therebetween. The shape of the first area P1 may not be changed to a shape having a stepped part. The shape of the second area P2 provided on the first area P1 may not be changed to have a stepped part. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the stress caused by the curling of the display module DM from concentrating in the part that overlaps with the first boundary BOU1 of the display module DM. Therefore, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from being generated on the front surface of the display module DM to improve the surface quality of the display module DM.

[0089] The thickness of the support portion PT2 can be less than the thickness of the dummy portion PT1. At the second boundary BOU2 between the dummy portion PT1 and the support portion PT2, the top surfaces of the dummy portion PT1 and the support portion PT2 can be arranged to have a stepped portion therebetween. As an example, as Figure 4 shown, in the open mode, the height of the top surface of the dummy portion PT1 can be greater than the height of the top surface of the support portion PT2.

[0090] The display module DM can be disposed on the top surface of the support portion PT2. The thickness of the display module DM can be less than the thickness of the dummy portion PT1. The sum of the thickness of the display module DM and the thickness of the support portion PT2 can be equal to the thickness of the dummy portion PT1. The difference between the height of the front surface of the display module DM and the height of the top surface of the dummy portion PT1 can be in the range of about 0 microns to about 50 microns. Thus, at the second boundary BOU2, the top surface of the dummy portion PT1 and the front surface of the display module DM can not have a stepped portion therebetween.

[0091] As Figure 3 shown, in the closed mode of the display device DD, the second boundary BOU2 can overlap with the support portion PT2 and the display module DM. The bottom surface of the support portion PT2 can contact the outer perimeters of the dummy portion PT1 and the display module DM each of which can be adjacent to the second boundary BOU2. The portion of the second boundary BOU2 corresponding to the support portion PT2 can be defined as the third region P3, and the portion of the second boundary BOU2 corresponding to the display module DM can be defined as the fourth region P4.

[0092] The third region P3 of the support portion PT2 and the fourth region P4 of the display module DM can be changed into shapes corresponding to the top surface of the dummy portion PT1 and the front surface of the display module DM each of which can be adjacent to the second boundary BOU2.

[0093] Here, since the top surface of the dummy portion PT1 and the front surface of the display module DM each of which can be adjacent to the second boundary BOU2 do not have a stepped portion therebetween, the third region P3 and the fourth region P4 each of which overlaps with the second boundary BOU2 can not be changed into a shape having a stepped portion. Thus, stress concentration caused by curling can be prevented in the fourth region P4 of the display module DM. Thus, wrinkles can be prevented from being generated on the display module DM due to stress, and the surface quality of the display module DM can be improved.

[0094] Refer to Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 8, the support part PT2 may include a support body SBD and a resin layer RSL. The resin layer RSL may be an elastic polymer. For example, the resin layer RSL may include silicone or polyurethane acrylate. The resin of the resin layer RSL may have a modulus of elasticity in the range of about 0.2 MPa to about 1 MPa.

[0095] The support body SBD may be disposed in the resin layer RSL. The support body SBD may have a higher rigidity than the resin layer RSL. As an example, Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 8 the support body SBD in may include a plurality of support bars SPB arranged in the second direction DR2. However, the support body SBD may include a plate in which a plurality of opening portions may be defined. Reference will be made to Figures 9A to 9C for a detailed description of the shape of the support body SBD.

[0096] The support bars SPB may be arranged in the second direction DR2. As an example, Figure 5 the support bars SPB disposed in the resin layer RSL are shown in dashed lines. The support bars SPB adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 may be spaced apart from each other by a distance (e.g., a predetermined or selectable distance). The support bars SPB may extend in the first direction DR1.

[0097] Both ends of each of the support bars SPB that may face each other in the first direction DR1 may be exposed to the outside without being disposed in the resin layer RSL. When viewed in the first direction DR1, each of the support bars SPB may have a "T" shape. However, the shape of the side surface of each of the support bars SPB is not limited thereto, and the support bars SPB may have various shapes.

[0098] The support bars SPB may be provided in a rigid type. For example, the support bars SPB may include metal. The support bars SPB may include aluminum, stainless steel, invar, or a combination thereof. The support bars SPB may include a metal adhered to a magnet. However, the support bars SPB are not limited thereto, and may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP).

[0099] Reference Figure 9A and Figure 9B , the support body SBDa may include a support plate LPT. The support plate LPT may be disposed in the support part PT2. Both sides of the support plate LPT that may face each other in the first direction DR1 may be exposed to the outside from the support body SBDa.

[0100] A grid pattern can be defined in the support plate LPT. For example, a plurality of opening portions OP can be defined in the support plate LPT. The opening portions OP can be arranged according to rules (e.g., predetermined or selectable rules). The opening portions OP can be arranged in a grid shape to define a grid pattern in the entire area of the support plate LPT.

[0101] Since the opening portions OP can be defined in the entire area of the support plate LPT, the surface area of the support plate LPT can be reduced to lower the rigidity of the support plate LPT. Therefore, in the case where the opening portions OP are defined in the support plate LPT, the flexibility of the support plate LPT can be increased compared to the case where the opening portions OP are not defined. As a result, the support plate LPT can be curled more easily.

[0102] Reference Figure 9C , the opening portions OP can be arranged in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The opening portions OP can extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2.

[0103] The opening portions OP can include a plurality of first opening portions OP1 and a plurality of second opening portions OP2. The plurality of first opening portions OP1 are arranged in the first direction DR1, and the plurality of second opening portions OP2 are arranged adjacent to the first opening portions OP1 in the first direction DR1 in the second direction DR2. The first opening portions OP1 and the second opening portions OP2 can be offset (or staggered) from each other.

[0104] The support plate LPT can include a first branch BR1 and a second branch BR2. Each of the first branches BR1 can be disposed between the opening portions OP adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2, and each of the second branches BR2 can be disposed between the opening portions OP adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The first branch BR1 can extend in the first direction DR1, and the second branch BR2 can extend in the second direction DR2. The opening portions OP can be defined by the first branch BR1 and the second branch BR2.

[0105] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the handle HND can be moved in the second direction DR2 so as to be away from the housing HS. According to the movement of the handle HND, the display module DM and the extension portion ETP, each of which can be connected to the handle HND, can be moved in the second direction DR2. The display module DM and the extension portion ETP can be unwound from the shaft SFT, and the unwound display module DM and extension portion ETP can be led out of the housing HS through the housing opening portion HOP. Therefore, the exposed portion of the display module DM can be extended.

[0106] When the display module DM and the extension part ETP are drawn out of the housing HS according to the movement of the handle HND, the support member SUP connected to the handle HND can extend to the outside of the housing HS through the housing opening part HOP. The support member SUP can extend to the outside of the housing HS to support the display module DM from outside the housing HS.

[0107] The support part PT2 of the extension part ETP that has moved to the outside of the housing HS can be supported by the support member SUP, and the support part PT2 supported by the support member SUP can support the display module DM.

[0108] The support member SUP can include a first extension piece EX1, a second extension piece EX2, and a third extension piece EX3 so as to extend to the outside of the housing HS. The second extension piece EX2 can be disposed between the first extension piece EX1 and the third extension piece EX3.

[0109] In order to have a structure that can extend like an antenna, the second extension piece EX2 can be introduced into and drawn out from the first extension piece EX1, and the third extension piece EX3 can be introduced into and drawn out from the second extension piece EX2. The first extension piece EX1 can be disposed in the housing HS, and the second extension piece EX2 and the third extension piece EX3 can move to the outside of the housing HS. The third extension piece EX3 can extend to the handle HND.

[0110] Guide grooves GG can be defined in each of the first extension piece EX1, the second extension piece EX2, and the third extension piece EX3. The guide grooves GG defined in the first extension piece EX1, the second extension piece EX2, and the third extension piece EX3 can be defined as continuous spaces that overlap each other in the first direction DR1.

[0111] As Figure 3 shown, when the handle HND moves in the second direction DR2 to approach the housing HS, the handle HND can be disposed outside the housing HS adjacent to the housing opening part HOP. According to the movement of the handle HND, the support member SUP can decrease in length in the second direction DR2 to be disposed inside the housing HS, and the display module DM and the extension part ETP can be introduced into the housing HS.

[0112] Figure 10 is a view showing the display module accommodated in the Figure 2 housing shown in

[0113] The display module DM can have a rectangular shape having a long side extending in the second direction DR2 and a short side extending in the first direction DR1. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the display module DM can have various shapes such as a circular shape and a polygonal shape.

[0114] The top surface of the display module DM can be defined as the display surface DS and can have a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. An image IM generated in the display module DM can be provided to a user through the display surface DS.

[0115] The display surface DS can include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The display area DA can display an image, and the non-display area NDA can not display an image. The non-display area NDA can surround the display area DA and define an edge of the display module DM that can be printed to have a color (e.g., a predetermined or selectable color).

[0116] Figure 11 is a view showing Figure 10 a state in which the display module shown in

[0117] Reference Figure 11 , the display module DM can be a flexible display module. The display module DM can be curled like a scroll. The display module DM can be curled in the second direction DR2. The display module DM can start curling from one side of the display module DM. The display module DM can be curled such that the display surface DS faces the outside. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the display module DM can be curled such that the display surface DS faces the inside.

[0118] Figure 12 is a view showing Figure 10 an example of a schematic cross-section of the display module shown in

[0119] As an example, Figure 12 shows a schematic cross-section of the display module DM observed in the second direction DR2.

[0120] Reference Figure 12 , the display module DM can include a display panel DP, an input sensing part ISP, an anti-reflection layer RPL, a window WIN, and a panel protection film PF.

[0121] The display panel DP can be a flexible display panel. The display panel DP according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be a light-emitting display panel and is not particularly limited. For example, the display panel DP can be an organic light-emitting display panel or an inorganic light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of the organic light-emitting display panel can include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the inorganic light-emitting display panel can include quantum dots, quantum rods, etc. Hereinafter, the display panel DP can be described as an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0122] The input sensing part ISP may be disposed on the display panel DP. The input sensing part ISP may include a plurality of sensors (not shown) for sensing an external input by using a capacitive method. The input sensing part ISP may be fabricated on the display panel DP during the manufacture of the display device DD (e.g., directly fabricated on the display panel DP). However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the input sensing part ISP may be fabricated as a panel separate from the display panel DP and attached to the display panel DP through an adhesive layer.

[0123] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the input sensing part ISP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the input sensing part ISP (e.g., directly disposed on the input sensing part ISP), or coupled to the input sensing part ISP through an adhesive layer. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be defined as a film for preventing reflection of external light. The anti-reflection layer RPL may reduce the reflectance of external light incident on the display panel DP from above the display device DD.

[0124] In the case where external light traveling toward the display panel DP is reflected by the display panel DP and provided to the external user again, the display panel DP may reflect the external light like a mirror, such that the external light may be visible to the user. To prevent this phenomenon, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include, for example, a plurality of color filters that emit the same color as the pixels of the display panel DP.

[0125] The color filters may respectively filter the external light into the same color as the color of the pixels. The external light may be invisible to the user. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a polarizing film for reducing the reflectance of external light. The polarizing film may include a retarder and / or a polarizer.

[0126] The window WIN may be disposed on the anti-reflection layer RPL. The window WIN may be disposed on the anti-reflection layer RPL (e.g., directly disposed on the anti-reflection layer RPL), or coupled to the anti-reflection layer RPL through an adhesive layer. The window WIN may protect the display panel DP, the input sensing part ISP, and the anti-reflection layer RPL from external scratches and impacts.

[0127] The panel protection film PF may be disposed under the display panel DP. The panel protection film PF may be disposed under the display panel DP (e.g., directly disposed under the display panel DP), or coupled to the display panel DP through an adhesive layer. The panel protection film PF may protect the lower part of the display panel DP. The panel protection film PF may include a flexible plastic material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0128] Figure 13 is a view showing Figure 12 an example of a schematic cross-section of the display panel shown in

[0129] As an example, Figure 13 a schematic cross-section of a display panel DP observed in a second direction DR2 is shown.

[0130] Referring to Figure 13 , the display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the substrate SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0131] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI). The display element layer DP-OLED may be disposed in the display area DA.

[0132] A plurality of pixels may be disposed in the display area DA. Each of the pixels may include a light-emitting element that is electrically connected to a transistor that may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL and is disposed in the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0133] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL so as to cover the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may include an inorganic layer and an organic layer between the inorganic layers. The inorganic layer may protect the pixels from moisture / oxygen. The organic layer may protect the pixels from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0134] Figure 14 is a plan view of a display device showing the display panel shown in Figure 13 .

[0135] Referring to Figure 14 , the display device DD may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, an emission driver EDV, and a plurality of pads PD. The display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA.

[0136] The display panel DP may include a plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines SL1 to SLm, a plurality of data lines DL1 to DLn, a plurality of emission lines EL1 to ELm, a first control line CSL1 and a second control line CSL2, a first power line PL1 and a second power line PL2, and a connection line CNL. Here, m and n may each be a natural number greater than 0.

[0137] Pixels PX can be set in the display area DA. The scan driver SDV and the emission driver EDV can be respectively set in the non-display area NDA adjacent to the long side of the display panel DP. The data driver DDV can be set in the non-display area NDA adjacent to any one of the short sides of the display panel DP. In a plan view, the data driver DDV can be adjacent to the lower end of the display panel DP.

[0138] The scan lines SL1 to SLm can extend in the first direction DR1 to be electrically connected to the pixels PX and the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn can extend in the second direction DR2 to be electrically connected to the pixels PX and the data driver DDV. The emission lines EL1 to ELm can extend in the first direction DR1 to be electrically connected to the pixels PX and the emission driver EDV.

[0139] The first power line PL1 can extend in the second direction DR2 to be set in the non-display area NDA. The first power line PL1 can be set between the display area DA and the emission driver EDV. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the first power line PL1 can be set between the display area DA and the scan driver SDV.

[0140] The connection line CNL can extend in the first direction DR1 and be arranged in the second direction DR2. The connection line CNL can be electrically connected to the first power line PL1 and the pixel PX. The first voltage can be applied to the pixel PX through the first power line PL1 and the connection line CNL that can be electrically connected to each other.

[0141] The second power line PL2 can be set in the non-display area NDA. The second power line PL2 can extend along the long side of the display panel DP and the other short side of the display panel DP where the data driver DDV may not be set. The second power line PL2 can be set at an external position of each of the scan driver SDV and the emission driver EDV.

[0142] Although not shown, the second power line PL2 can extend toward the display area DA to be electrically connected to the pixel PX. The second voltage having a level lower than that of the first voltage can be applied to the pixel PX through the second power line PL2.

[0143] The first control line CSL1 can be electrically connected to the scan driver SDV and extend toward the lower end of the display panel DP in a plan view. The second control line CSL2 can be electrically connected to the emission driver EDV and extend toward the lower end of the display panel DP in a plan view. The data driver DDV can be set between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0144] The pad PD can be disposed on the display panel DP. The pad PD can be closer to the lower end of the display panel DP than the data driver DDV. The data driver DDV, the first power line PL1, the second power line PL2, the first control line CSL1, and the second control line CSL2 can be electrically connected to the pad PD. The data lines DL1 to DLn can be electrically connected to the data driver DDV, and the data driver DDV can be electrically connected to the pads PD corresponding to the data lines DL1 to DLn.

[0145] Although not shown, the display device DD may further include a timing controller and a voltage generator. The timing controller is used to control the operations of each of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV, and the voltage generator is used to generate a first voltage and a second voltage. The timing controller and the voltage generator can be electrically connected to their corresponding pads PD through a printed circuit board.

[0146] The scan driver SDV can generate a plurality of scan signals, and the scan signals can be applied to the pixels PX through the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The data driver DDV can generate a plurality of data voltages, and the data voltages can be applied to the pixels PX through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The emission driver EDV can generate a plurality of emission signals, and the emission signals can be applied to the pixels PX through the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0147] The pixel PX can be supplied with a data voltage in response to the scan signal. The pixel PX can display an image by emitting light having a brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to the emission signal. The emission time of the pixel PX can be controlled by the emission signal.

[0148] The display panel DP can be curled in the second direction DR2. The display panel DP can start curling from the side of the display panel DP that can be adjacent to the data driver DDV. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the display panel DP can start curling from the other side of the display panel DP that can be opposite to one side of the display panel DP.

[0149] Figures 15A to 15H is for explaining a method for manufacturing Figure 5 the support portion shown in

[0150] As an example, Figures 15A to 15F and Figure 15H is a perspective view, and Figure 15G is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV' shown in Figure 15F

[0151] As an example, Figure 15C is Figure 15B an enlarged perspective view of the second region AA2 shown in​

[0152] Figure 15H The extension part ETP and the shaft SFT in are respectively the same as Figure 3 the extension part ETP and the shaft SFT in, and thus their descriptions will be omitted or provided briefly.

[0153] Refer to Figure 5 and Figure 15A , the method for manufacturing the extension part ETP and the shaft SFT may include the step of preparing a jig JG. The device SMA (hereinafter referred to as "device") for manufacturing the extension part ETP and the shaft SFT may include a jig JG and a shaft forming part SMK. The jig JG and the shaft forming part SMK may be arranged in the second direction DR2. An anti-fingerprint coating (AF coating) may be applied to the surface of each of the jig JG and the shaft forming part SMK.

[0154] As an example, the jig JG may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. However, the shape of the jig JG is not limited thereto. The jig JG may include a top surface UPL defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. As an example, the top surface UPL of the jig JG may have a rectangular shape in a plan view.

[0155] A groove GR may be defined in the top surface UPL of the jig JG. The groove GR may extend from the top surface UPL of the jig JG toward the bottom surface of the jig JG in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3. The groove GR may be defined by a side surface SWL and a floor surface PL of the jig JG.

[0156] The floor surface PL may include a first floor surface PLL1 and a plurality of second floor surfaces PLL2. In a plan view, the second floor surfaces PLL2 may be respectively provided at both sides of the first floor surface PLL1 that may be opposite to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0157] The first floor surface PLL1 may have a rectangular shape in a plan view with a short side extending in the first direction DR1 and a long side extending in the second direction DR2. Each of the second floor surfaces PLL2 may have a rectangular shape in a plan view with a short side extending in the first direction DR1 and a long side extending in the second direction DR2.

[0158] The length of the first floor surface PLL1 in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the length of each of the second floor surfaces PLL2 in the first direction DR1. The length of the first floor surface PLL1 in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the length of the second floor surface PLL2 in the second direction DR2. For example, the surface area of the first floor surface PLL1 may be greater than the surface area of the second floor surface PLL2.

[0159] The height of the first floor surface PLL1 can be less than the height of each of the second floor surfaces PLL2. Each of the second floor surfaces PLL2 and the first floor surface PLL1 can be arranged such that there is a stepped portion therebetween. The height of each of the second floor surfaces PLL2 can be less than the height of the top surface UPL of the jig JG. Each of the second floor surfaces PLL2 and the top surface UPL of the jig JG can be arranged such that there is a stepped portion therebetween.

[0160] The side surface SWL can include a first side surface SWL1 and a plurality of second side surfaces SWL2. The first side surface SWL1 can be provided at one of two opposite sides of the first floor surface PLL1 that can be opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. One of two opposite sides of the first floor surface PLL1 that can be opposite to each other in the second direction DR2 can be defined as the side opposite to the other side adjacent to the shaft forming portion SMK. The first side surface SWL1 can be provided between the 2-2 side surfaces SWL2-2 that can face each other in the first direction DR1, which will be described later.

[0161] The second side surface SWL2 can be defined as the inner surface of the groove GR that can face each other in the first direction DR1. The second side surface SWL2 can include a 2-1 side surface SWL2-1, a 2-2 side surface SWL2-2, and a 2-3 side surface SWL2-3.

[0162] The 2-2 side surfaces SWL2-2 can be respectively provided on the 2-1 side surfaces SWL2-1. The 2-2 side surfaces SWL2-2 can be closer to the top surface UPL of the jig JG than the 2-1 side surfaces SWL2-1. The distance between the 2-1 side surfaces SWL2-1 that can face each other in the first direction DR1 can be less than the distance between the 2-2 side surfaces SWL2-2 that can face each other in the first direction DR1.

[0163] The 2-3 side surfaces SWL2-3 can be respectively arranged with the 2-1 side surfaces SWL2-1 in the second direction DR2. The 2-1 side surfaces SWL2-1 and the 2-3 side surfaces SWL2-3 can be provided on substantially the same plane. The 2-3 side surfaces SWL2-3 can protrude from the 2-2 side surfaces SWL2-2 toward the first floor surface PLL1. The 2-3 side surfaces SWL2-3 can be closer to the first floor surface PLL1 than the 2-2 side surfaces SWL2-2. For example, the distance between the 2-3 side surfaces SWL2-3 that can face each other in the first direction DR1 can be less than the distance between the 2-2 side surfaces SWL2-2 that can face each other in the first direction DR1.

[0164] The length of each of the second to third side surfaces SWL2-3 in the third direction DR3 can be equal to the sum of the lengths of each of the second to first side surfaces SWL2-1 in the third direction DR3 and the lengths of each of the second to second side surfaces SWL2-2 in the third direction DR3.

[0165] The groove GR can include a first groove GR1 and a second groove GR2. The first groove GR1 and the second groove GR2 can be defined continuously in the second direction DR2. The second groove GR2 can extend from the first groove GR1 in the second direction DR2.

[0166] The first groove GR1 can be defined by the first floor surface PLL1 and the second to third side surfaces SWL2-3. The second groove GR2 can be defined by the first floor surface PLL1, the second floor surface PLL2, the second to first side surfaces SWL2-1, and the second to second side surfaces SWL2-2.

[0167] The second groove GR2 can include a second to first groove GR2-1 and a second to second groove GR2-2. The second to first groove GR2-1 can be defined by the first floor surface PLL1 and the second to first side surfaces SWL2-1. The second to second groove GR2-2 can be defined by the second floor surface PLL2 and the second to second side surfaces SWL2-2. The second to first groove GR2-1 and the second to second groove GR2-2 can be defined continuously in the third direction DR3. The second to second groove GR2-2 can be closer to the top surface UPL of the jig JG than the second to first groove GR2-1.

[0168] The first axial groove SGR1 can be defined in one of two opposite side surfaces of the jig JG that can be opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The side surface of the jig JG including the first axial groove SGR1 can have a surface that is recessed in the second direction DR2. The side surface of the jig JG including the first axial groove SGR1 can connect the top surface and the bottom surface of the jig JG to each other. As an example, the first axial groove SGR1 can have a shape corresponding to a part of a cylinder. The side surface of the jig JG including the first axial groove SGR1 can be defined as the side surface adjacent to the first groove GR1.

[0169] As an example, the shaft forming portion SMK can have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. However, the shape of the shaft forming portion SMK is not limited to this.

[0170] A second shaft groove SGR2 may be defined in one of two opposite side surfaces of the shaft forming portion SMK that can face each other in the second direction DR2. The side surface of the shaft forming portion SMK that includes the second shaft groove SGR2 may have a surface that is recessed in the second direction DR2. The side surface of the shaft forming portion SMK that includes the second shaft groove SGR2 may connect the top surface and the bottom surface of the shaft forming portion SMK to each other. As an example, the second shaft groove SGR2 may have a shape corresponding to a part of a cylinder. Basically, the first shaft groove SGR1 and the second shaft groove SGR2 may be symmetric in the second direction DR2. The side surface of the shaft forming portion SMK that includes the second shaft groove SGR2 may be defined as the side surface facing the side surface of the fixture JG that includes the first shaft groove SGR1.

[0171] Reference Figure 15B and Figure 15C , after the fixture JG can be prepared, the step of setting the preliminary support body PSP in the second groove GR2 may be performed. The preliminary support body PSP may include a support rod SPB and a connecting portion CNP. The support rod SPB may extend in the first direction DR1 and be arranged in the second direction DR2. The connecting portion CNP may extend from opposite ends of each of the support rods SPB that can face each other in the first direction DR1 in the second direction DR2. As an example, the support rod SPB and the connecting portion CNP may be integral with each other.

[0172] Cutting lines CL1 and CL2 may be provided between the connecting portions CNP. The cutting lines CL1 and CL2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and extend in the second direction DR2.

[0173] The preliminary support body PSP may be provided in the 2-2 groove GR2-2. Opposite sides of the preliminary support body PSP that can face each other in the first direction DR1 may be provided on the top surface of the second floor surface PLL2. The connecting portion CNP may be provided on the top surface of the second floor surface PLL2.

[0174] The height of the bottom surface of the preliminary support body PSP may be greater than the height of the first floor surface PLL1. The bottom surface of the preliminary support body PSP may be spaced apart from the first floor surface PLL1 in the third direction DR3. The space between the bottom surface of the preliminary support body PSP and the first floor surface PLL1 may be the 2-1 groove GR2-1. The height of the top surface of the preliminary support body PSP may be less than the height of the top surface UPL of the fixture JG. The top surface UPL of the fixture JG and the top surface of the preliminary support body PSP may be set to have a stepped portion therebetween.

[0175] Reference Figure 15D, after the preliminary support PSP can be set in the second groove GR2, the step of setting the shaft forming portion SMK on the side surface of the jig JG can be performed.

[0176] The shaft forming portion SMK can be moved in the second direction DR2 toward the side surface of the jig JG such that the side surfaces of the shaft forming portion SMK and the jig JG can be in contact with each other. In the case where the shaft forming portion SMK and the jig JG are in contact with each other, the first shaft groove SGR1 and the second shaft groove SGR2 can be continuously defined in the second direction DR2.

[0177] The first shaft groove SGR1 can have an inner surface that can be a concave surface. The surface connecting the bottom surface of the jig JG and the first floor surface PLL1 can be concave. The second shaft groove SGR2 can have an inner surface that can be a concave surface. The inner surface of the shaft forming portion SMK can be the surface connecting the bottom surface and the top surface of the shaft forming portion SMK and can be concave.

[0178] The bottom surface of the jig JG and the bottom surface of the shaft forming portion SMK can be set on the same plane. The height of the first floor surface PLL1 of the jig JG can be less than the height of the top surface of the shaft forming portion SMK. Therefore, the curvature of the inner surface of the first shaft groove SGR1 and the curvature of the inner surface of the second shaft groove SGR2 can be different from each other.

[0179] Reference Figure 15E , after the shaft forming portion SMK and the jig JG are connected (or attached) to each other, the step of providing resin can be performed. The first resin RS1 can be provided on the top surface of the jig JG. The first resin RS1 can be in a fluid state. The first resin RS1 in a fluid state can have a viscosity in the range of about 1 Cp to about 1000 Cp (centipoise).

[0180] The first resin RS1 can be filled in the first groove GR1, the second groove GR2, and the first shaft groove SGR1 and the second shaft groove SGR2. The first resin RS1 can be filled to be higher than the preliminary support PSP set in the second groove GR2. The support rod SPB and the connecting portion CNP can be immersed (or submerged) in the first resin RS1. The height of the top surface of the first resin RS1 filled in the first groove GR1 can be the same as the height of the top surface of the first resin RS1 filled in the second groove GR2.

[0181] After the first resin RS1 is filled in the first groove GR1, the second groove GR2, and the first shaft groove SGR1 and the second shaft groove SGR2, the first resin RS1 can be cured. As an example, the first resin RS1 can be cured by heat or ultraviolet light.

[0182] The change in volume of the first resin RS1 after curing relative to the volume of the first resin RS1 before curing can be in the range of about 0% to about 0.1%. The cured resin can have a modulus of elasticity in the range of about 0.2 MPa to about 1 MPa.

[0183] Reference Figure 15F and Figure 15G and, after curing the first resin RS1, a step of providing an additional frame AFR on the top surface of each of the jig JG and the shaft forming portion SMK can be performed. The additional frame AFR can have a frame shape. The additional frame AFR can include a long side extending in the first direction DR1 and a short side extending in the second direction DR2. A dummy opening portion DGR can be defined by the additional frame AFR. The dummy opening portion DGR can have a rectangular shape in a plan view. The dummy opening portion DGR can be provided above the first groove GR1. The dummy opening portion DGR can overlap the first groove GR1.

[0184] After providing the additional frame AFR on the jig JG and the shaft forming portion SMK, a step of providing a second resin RS2 in the dummy opening portion DGR can be performed. As Figure 15G shown, the second resin RS2 can be provided on the top surface of the first resin RS1 provided in the first groove GR1. The second resin RS2 can not be provided on the top surface of the first resin RS1 provided in the second groove GR2. Thus, the height of the top surface of the second resin RS2 overlapping the first groove GR1 can be greater than the height of the top surface of the first resin RS1 overlapping the second groove GR2. The second resin RS2 can be substantially the same as the first resin RS1.

[0185] Reference Figure 15G and Figure 15H and, after providing the second resin RS2 in the dummy opening portion DGR, the second resin RS2 can be cured. As an example, the second resin RS2 can be cured by heat or ultraviolet rays. Hereinafter, each portion of the first resin RS1 and the second resin RS2 that overlaps the first groove GR1 can be defined as a dummy portion PT1. Another portion of the first resin RS1 that overlaps the second groove GR2 can be defined as a support portion PT2. The first resin RS1 provided in the first shaft groove SGR1 and the second shaft groove SGR2 can be defined as a shaft SFT.

[0186] After the second resin RS2 is cured, the preliminary support PSP, the dummy part PT1, the support part PT2, and the shaft SFT can be separated from the jig JG and the shaft forming part SMK. The shaft SFT and the dummy part PT1 can be integral with each other. The outer peripheries of the dummy part PT1 and the shaft SFT can have the same curvature at the boundary between the dummy part PT1 and the shaft SFT. The top surface of the dummy part PT1 and the outer periphery of the shaft SFT can not have a stepped portion therebetween.

[0187] The support part PT2 can extend from the dummy part PT1 in the second direction DR2. The height of the top surface of the dummy part PT1 can be greater than the height of the top surface of the support part PT2. The top surface of the dummy part PT1 and the top surface of the support part PT2 can have a stepped portion therebetween.

[0188] Thereafter, the step of cutting the connecting part CNP of the preliminary support PSP from the support bar SPB can be performed. The connecting part CNP and the support bar SPB can be cut along the cutting lines CL1 and CL2. In the case of cutting the connecting part CNP from the support bar SPB, both sides of each of the support bars SPB that can face each other in the first direction DR1 can be exposed to the outside from the support bar SPB.

[0189] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 15H Although not shown, a display module DM can be provided on the top surface of the support part PT2. The thickness of the dummy part PT1 can be substantially equal to the sum of the thickness of the support part PT2 and the thickness of the display module DM. As an example, the difference between the height of the front surface of the dummy part PT1 and the height of the top surface of the display module DM can be in the range of about 0 microns to about 50 microns. Thus, a stepped portion can not be generated between the top surface of the dummy part PT1 and the display module DM. Thus, the surface quality of the display panel DP can be improved.

[0190] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the support part provided under the display panel can include a shaft and an extension part. The extension part and the shaft can be integral with each other such that a stepped portion can not be generated at the boundary between the extension part and the shaft. Thus, in the case where the display panel is curled on the shaft, wrinkles can not be generated on the portion of the display panel that overlaps with the boundary between the extension part and the shaft. Thus, the surface quality of the display panel can be improved.

[0191] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it should be understood that the present disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments, but various changes and modifications can be made by those of ordinary skill in the art within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed. Therefore, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the content described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display module; A supporting portion, arranged below the display module; a dummy portion extending to one end of the supporting portion; as well as a shaft extending to one end of the dummy portion, the shaft having a rotation axis extending in a first direction, the display module being wound around or unwound from the shaft; wherein the support portion, the dummy portion, and the shaft include the same resin.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The thickness of the dummy portion is greater than the thickness of the supporting portion.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: A difference between a height of a top surface of the display module disposed on the support portion and a height of a top surface of the dummy portion is in a range of 0 micrometers to 50 micrometers.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: With the display module wound on the axis, at a boundary between the axis and the dummy part, a difference between a distance from the rotation axis to an outer periphery of the axis adjacent to the boundary and a distance from the rotation axis to an outer periphery of the dummy part adjacent to the boundary is in a range of 0 μm to 50 μm.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The radius of the shaft, defined as the distance from the axis of rotation to the outer periphery of the shaft, can be varied.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The supporting portion comprises: a resin layer comprising the resin; and A support body is provided in the resin layer.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The support body includes a plurality of support rods extending in the first direction and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

8. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The support body includes a support plate in which a plurality of opening portions are defined.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The supporting portion, the dummy portion, and the shaft are integral with each other.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The shaft comprises: a sub-axis extending in the first direction; and The coating portion is configured to surround the sub-shaft, and the coating portion contains the resin.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The resin has an elastic modulus in the range of 0.2 MPa to 1 MPa.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: In a state where the display module is wound on the shaft, a bottom surface of the dummy portion contacts an outer periphery of the shaft.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: A bottom surface of the support portion contacts a portion of the dummy portion and a portion of the shaft, each of the portion of the dummy portion and the portion of the shaft being adjacent to a boundary between the dummy portion and the shaft.

14. A display device comprising: Display module; a shaft including a first step portion provided at an outer periphery of the shaft; as well as an extension portion extending from the first step portion, the extension portion being wound around the shaft or unwound from the shaft together with the display module, Wherein, the extended portion comprises: a dummy portion extending from the first step portion; and a supporting portion extending from the dummy portion in a first direction, the supporting portion being disposed below the display module, and A second step portion is provided at a boundary between the dummy portion and the support portion.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: A curvature of the shaft adjacent to the first stepped portion is equal to a curvature of the dummy portion adjacent to the first stepped portion.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: In a case where the display module is rolled up, the support portion is rolled up along an outer periphery of the dummy portion and an outer periphery of the shaft.

17. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: In a state where the display module is rolled, a curvature of the dummy portion adjacent to the second step portion is equal to a curvature of the support portion adjacent to the second step portion.

18. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: A difference between a thickness of the dummy portion and a sum of a thickness of the support portion and a thickness of the display module is in a range of 0 μm to 50 μm.

19. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The shaft has at least two different curvatures.

20. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The supporting portion, the dummy portion, and the shaft are integral with each other.

21. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The supporting portion comprises: a resin layer comprising a resin; and A support body is provided in the resin layer.

22. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: The shaft comprises: a coating portion including a resin; and A sub-shaft is surrounded by the coating portion.

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