Display device

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device. The display device includes: a display panel including a first non-folding area, a folding area, and a second non-folding area arranged in a first direction; a support plate under the display panel and having a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area; an upper adhesive layer between the display panel and the support plate and overlapping the opening; and a cover layer overlapping the openings and below the support plate, the support plate including: a plurality of support portions between the openings adjacent to each other in the first direction; and a plurality of branch portions between the openings adjacent to each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction, in which the openings are defined by the branch portions and the support portion, and at least one of a lower surface of the branch portions and a lower surface of the support portion is provided with a plurality of air slots defined therein.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the priority and benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2024 - 0003748, filed on January 9, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display device. Background Art

[0004] An electronic device (such as a smart phone, a digital camera, a notebook computer, a navigation unit, and a smart TV) that provides an image to a user includes a display device that displays the image. The display device generates an image and provides the image to the user through its display screen.

[0005] In recent years, with the technological development of display devices, various types of display devices are being developed. For example, various display devices that can be transformed into a curved shape, foldable, or rollable are being developed. These display devices can be relatively easily carried and can improve user convenience.

[0006] A flexible display device includes a flexible display panel and a support plate located below the flexible display panel. The support plate is provided with a plurality of openings defined therethrough. The display device includes a cover layer to prevent foreign substances from entering the openings.

[0007] The above information disclosed in this background art section is only for enhancing the understanding of the background art, and thus the information discussed in this background art section does not necessarily constitute the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure include a display device that can prevent or reduce the openings defined through the support plate from being observed from the outside.

[0009] Aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure include a display device including: a display panel including a first non - folding area, a folding area, and a second non - folding area arranged in a first direction; a support plate below the display panel and provided with a plurality of openings overlapping the folding area; an upper adhesive layer between the display panel and the support plate and overlapping the openings; and a cover layer overlapping the openings and below the support plate. The support plate includes: a plurality of support portions between the openings adjacent to each other in the first direction; and a plurality of branch portions between the openings adjacent to each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The openings are defined by the branch portions and the support portions, and at least one of the lower surface of the branch portion and the lower surface of the support portion is provided with a plurality of air grooves defined therein.

[0010] Aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure include a display device, which includes: a display panel; a support plate below the display panel and including a first non-folded portion, a folded portion, and a second non-folded portion arranged in a first direction; an upper adhesive layer between the display panel and the folded portion; and a cover layer on a lower surface of the folded portion. The folded portion includes: a curved portion through which a plurality of openings are defined and arranged in the first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first flat portion between the first non-folded portion and the curved portion; and a second flat portion between the second non-folded portion and the curved portion. The cover layer is on the lower surface of the first flat portion and the lower surface of the second flat portion, and a height of the lower surface of the curved portion is greater than heights of the lower surfaces of the first flat portion and the second flat portion.

[0011] As described above, an air groove is defined in the lower surface of the support plate. External air flows through the air groove and fills the openings. Therefore, the openings are prevented from being in a vacuum state, and the upper adhesive layer and the cover layer are prevented from being deformed corresponding to the pattern of the openings. Accordingly, the pattern of the openings cannot be observed from the outside. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The above and other beneficial effects of the present disclosure will become apparent by referring to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 2A and Figure 2B is Figure 1 a perspective view of the folded state of the electronic device shown; Figure 3 is Figure 1 an exploded perspective view of the electronic device shown; Figure 4 is Figure 3 a block diagram of the electronic device shown; Figure 5 is Figure 3 a cross-sectional view of the display module shown; Figure 6 is Figure 5 a cross-sectional view of the display panel shown; Figure 7 is Figure 3 a plan view of the display panel shown; Figure 8 is Figure 7 a cross-sectional view of an electronic panel corresponding to one pixel shown; Fig.9A is Figure 7 a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Fig. 9B is a view showing the bending state of the bending region; Fig.9A Fig. 10A is Fig.9A a perspective view of the support plate shown; Fig. 10B is Fig. 10A an enlarged view of the first region shown; Fig. 10C is an upside-down Fig. 10A perspective view of the support plate shown; Fig.11A and Fig. 11B are views showing the folding operations of the window module, display module, and support plate according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig.9A Fig. 12A is Fig. 10A a plan view of the second region shown; Fig. 12B is a view showing a curved portion according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig.13A and Fig. 13B is Fig. 10C a view of the third region of the curved portion shown; Fig. 13C and Fig.13D are views showing a curved portion according to embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C is a view showing an air groove according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig.15A and Fig. 15B are views showing an air groove according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C is a view showing an air groove according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig.17A and Fig. 17B are views showing an air groove according to embodiments of the present disclosure; 18A to 18D is a view showing a branch portion and a support portion according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig.19A and Fig.19B are views showing a support portion according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 20 is a view showing an air groove according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig.21A and Fig. 21B are views showing a curved portion according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Description ​​

[0013] The features of the inventive concept and the method of realizing the inventive concept can be more easily understood by referring to the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings. However, the inventive concept may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the inventive concept to those skilled in the art, and the inventive concept will be defined only by the appended claims. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals denote like elements.

[0014] In this disclosure, it will be understood that when an element or 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. In contrast, when an element 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. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0015] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," "upper," etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another (other) element or feature as shown in the figures. It will be understood that the spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

[0016] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another region, layer, or part. Thus, a first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first part discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second part without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0017] The embodiments described in this disclosure are described with reference to plan views and cross-sectional views that are ideal schematic diagrams. Accordingly, the shape of the views may vary according to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Thus, the embodiments are not limited to the specific forms shown, and also include deviations in form resulting from manufacturing processes. Accordingly, the regions shown in the drawings are merely examples, and the shape of the regions shown in the drawings is intended to represent the specific shape of the regions of the elements, rather than limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electronic device ED according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2A and Figure 2B is Figure 1 a perspective view of the folded state of the electronic device ED shown.

[0020] Referring Figure 1 , the electronic device ED may have a rectangular shape defined by a short side extending in a first direction DR1 and a long side extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the shape of the electronic device ED should not be limited to a rectangular shape, and the electronic device ED may have various shapes such as a circular shape and other polygonal shapes. The electronic device ED may be flexible.

[0021] Hereinafter, a direction perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be referred to as a third direction DR3. In the present disclosure, the expression "when viewed in a plane" or "in a plan view" may represent a state of viewing from the third direction DR3.

[0022] The electronic device ED may include a folding region FA and a plurality of non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2. The non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 may include a first non-folding region NFA1 and a second non-folding region NFA2. The folding region FA may be located between the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2. The first non-folding region NFA1, the folding region FA, and the second non-folding region NFA2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0023] In the presented embodiments, one folding region FA and two non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 are shown as representative examples. However, the number of folding regions FA and the number of non-folding regions NFA1 and NFA2 should not be limited to this or restricted thereby. For example, the electronic device ED may include more than two non-folding regions and a plurality of folding regions located between the plurality of non-folding regions.

[0024] The upper surface of the electronic device ED may be referred to as a display surface DS, and the display surface DS may include a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. An image IM generated by the electronic device ED may be provided to a user through the display surface DS.

[0025] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image IM, and the non-display area NDA may not display the image IM. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and may define an edge of the electronic device ED printed in a predetermined color.

[0026] Reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B , the electronic device ED may be a foldable electronic device ED that can be folded or unfolded. As an example, the folding area FA may be folded with respect to a folding axis FX parallel to (or substantially parallel to) a second direction DR2, and thus, the electronic device ED may be folded. The folding axis FX may be defined as a long axis parallel (or substantially parallel) to the long side of the electronic device ED. When the electronic device ED is folded, a first non-folding area NFA1 and a second non-folding area NFA2 may face each other, and the display surface DS may not be exposed to the outside, that is, the electronic device ED may be folded inward (folded inward). However, the present disclosure should not be limited to this or be restricted thereby. As an example, the electronic device ED may be folded outward (folded outward) with respect to the folding axis FX as Figure 2B shown, such that the display surface DS may be exposed to the outside. According to some embodiments, the electronic device ED can be folded both inward and outward.

[0027] Figure 3 is Figure 1 an exploded perspective view of the electronic device ED shown.

[0028] Reference Figure 3 , the electronic device ED may include a display device DD, an electronic module EM, a power module PSM, and a housing EDC. According to some embodiments, the electronic device ED may further include a mechanical structure such as a hinge structure to control the folding operation of the display device DD.

[0029] The display device DD may generate an image and may sense an external input. The display device DD may include a window module WM and a display module DM. The window module WM may provide the front surface of the electronic device ED. The window module WM may be located on the display module DM and may protect the display module DM. The window module WM may transmit light generated by the display module DM to provide the light to the user.

[0030] The display module DM may include a display panel DP. Figure 3Only the display panel DP among the components of the display module DM is shown. However, the display module DM may further include a plurality of components located on and below the display panel DP. The detailed stacked structure of the display module DM will be described later. The display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA, which respectively correspond to the display area DA (refer to Figure 1 ), and the non-display area NDA (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0031] The display module DM may include a data driver DDV located in the non-display area NDA of the display panel DP. The data driver DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and may be mounted in the non-display area NDA. However, it should not be limited thereto or by this. According to some embodiments, the data driver DDV may be mounted on a flexible circuit board connected to the display panel DP.

[0032] The electronic module EM and the power module PSM may be located below the display device DD. According to some embodiments, the electronic module EM and the power module PSM may be connected to each other through a separate flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM may control the operation of the display device DD. The power module PSM may supply power to the electronic module EM.

[0033] The housing EDC may accommodate the display device DD, the electronic module EM, and the power module PSM. The housing EDC may include two housings (e.g., the first housing EDC1 and the second housing EDC2) to fold the display device DD. The first housing EDC1 and the second housing EDC2 may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0034] According to some embodiments, the electronic device ED may further include a hinge structure to connect the first housing EDC1 and the second housing EDC2. The housing EDC may be coupled to the window module WM. The housing EDC may protect the display device DD, the electronic module EM, and the power module PSM.

[0035] Figure 4 is Figure 3 a block diagram of the electronic device ED shown.

[0036] Refer to Figure 4 , the electronic device ED may include an electronic module EM, a power module PSM, and a display device DD. The electronic module EM may include a control module 10, a wireless communication module 20, an image input module 30, an audio input module 40, an audio output module 50, a memory 60, and an external interface module 70. These modules may be mounted on a circuit board to be electrically connected to each other, or may be electrically connected to each other through a flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM may be electrically connected to the power module PSM.

[0037] The control module 10 can control the overall operation of the electronic device ED. That is, the control module 10 can activate or deactivate the display device DD in response to a user input. The control module 10 can control other modules in response to a user input, such as the image input module 30, the audio input module 40, the audio output module 50, etc. The control module 10 can include at least one microprocessor.

[0038] The wireless communication module 20 can send wireless signals to other terminals or receive wireless signals from other terminals using a Bluetooth or WiFi link. The wireless communication module 20 can send / receive voice signals using a general communication line. The wireless communication module 20 can include a transmission circuit 22 and a reception circuit 24. The transmission circuit 22 modulates the signal to be transmitted and transmits the modulated signal, and the reception circuit 24 demodulates the signal applied thereto.

[0039] The image input module 30 can process an image signal and can convert the image signal into image data that can be displayed through the display device DD. The audio input module 40 can receive an external sound signal through a microphone in a recording mode or a voice recognition mode, and can convert the external sound signal into electrical voice data. The audio output module 50 can convert the sound data provided to it from the wireless communication module 20 or the sound data stored in the memory 60, and can output the converted sound data to the outside.

[0040] The external interface module 70 can serve as an interface between the control module 10 and external devices such as an external charger, a wired / wireless data port, a card (e.g., a memory card and a SIM / UIM card) slot, etc.

[0041] The power module PSM can provide the power required for the overall operation of the electronic device ED. The power module PSM can include a conventional battery device.

[0042] Figure 5 is Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the illustrated display module DM.

[0043] Reference Figure 5 , the display module DM can include a display panel DP, an input sensing part ISP located on the display panel DP, an anti-reflection layer RPL located on the input sensing part ISP, and a panel protection layer PPL located under the display panel DP. The display panel DP can be a flexible display panel. As an example, the display panel DP can include a flexible substrate and a plurality of elements located on the flexible substrate.

[0044] According to some embodiments, the display panel DP may be a light-emitting display panel. However, it should not be particularly limited. As an example, the display panel DP may 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 may include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the inorganic light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots or quantum rods. Hereinafter, the organic light-emitting display panel will be described as a representative example of the display panel DP.

[0045] The input sensing part ISP may include a plurality of sensors to sense an external input by a capacitive method. When manufacturing the display module DM, the input sensing part ISP may be directly manufactured on the display panel DP.

[0046] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be located on the input sensing part ISP. When manufacturing the display module DM, the anti-reflection layer RPL may be directly formed on the input sensing part ISP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be defined as an anti-external light reflection film. The anti-reflection layer RPL may reduce the reflectance of external light incident on the display panel DP from above the display module DM.

[0047] As an example, the input sensing part ISP may be directly located on the display panel DP, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be directly formed on the input sensing part ISP. However, it should not be limited thereto or restricted thereby. As an example, the input sensing part ISP may be attached to the display panel DP through an adhesive layer after being separately manufactured from the display panel DP, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be attached to the input sensing part ISP through an adhesive layer after being separately manufactured from the input sensing part ISP.

[0048] The display panel DP, the input sensing part ISP, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be defined as the electronic panel EP.

[0049] The panel protection layer PPL may be located below the display panel DP. The panel protection layer PPL may protect the lower part of the display panel DP. The panel protection layer PPL may include a flexible plastic material. As an example, the panel protection layer PPL may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0050] Figure 6 is Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the display panel DP shown.

[0051] Figure 6 Shows a cross-section of the display panel DP when observed in the second direction DR2 as a representative example.

[0052] Reference Figure 6, the display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL located on the substrate SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED located on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE located on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0053] 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 located in the display area DA.

[0054] A plurality of pixels may be located in the circuit element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED. Each pixel may include a transistor located in the circuit element layer DP-CL and a light-emitting element located in the display element layer DP-OLED and connected to the transistor. Reference will be made to Figure 8 describe the configuration of the pixels in detail.

[0055] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may be located on the circuit element layer DP-CL to cover the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE may protect the pixels from moisture, oxygen, and foreign substances.

[0056] Figure 7 is Figure 3 a plan view of the display panel DP shown.

[0057] Reference Figure 7 , the display module DM may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and an emission driver EDV.

[0058] The display panel DP may include a first area AA1, a second area AA2, and a bending area BA between the first area AA1 and the second area AA2. The bending area BA may extend in a second direction DR2, and the first area AA1, the bending area BA, and the second area AA2 may be arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0059] The first area AA1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. The display area DA may be an area where an image is displayed, and the non-display area NDA may be an area where no image is displayed. The second area AA2 and the bending area BA may be areas where no image is displayed.

[0060] When observed in a third direction DR3, the first area AA1 may include a first non-folded area NFA1, a second non-folded area NFA2, and a folded area FA between the first non-folded area NFA1 and the second non-folded area NFA2.

[0061] 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 power line PL, a plurality of connection lines CNL, and a plurality of pads PD. Each of m and n is a natural number greater than 0. The pixels PX may be arranged in the display area DA and may be connected to the scan lines SL1 to SLm, the data lines DL1 to DLn, and the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0062] The scan driver SDV and the emission driver EDV may be located in the non-display area NDA. The scan driver SDV and the emission driver EDV may be located in the non-display area NDA to be adjacent to opposite sides of the first area AA1 in the second direction DR2. The data driver DDV may be located in the second area AA2. The data driver DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and may be mounted in the second area AA2.

[0063] The scan lines SL1 to SLm may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be connected to the data driver DDV via the bent area BA. The emission lines EL1 to ELm may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the emission driver EDV.

[0064] The power line PL may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be located in the non-display area NDA. The power line PL may be located between the display area DA and the emission driver EDV. However, it should not be limited to this or restricted thereby. That is, the power line PL may be located between the display area DA and the scan driver SDV.

[0065] The power line PL may extend to the second area AA2 via the bent area BA. When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the power line PL may extend to the lower end of the second area AA2. The power line PL may receive a driving voltage.

[0066] The connection lines CNL may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The connection lines CNL may be connected to the power line PL and the pixels PX. The driving voltage may be applied to the pixels PX via the power line PL and the connection lines CNL connected to the power line PL.

[0067] The first control line CSL1 can be connected to the scan driver SDV and can extend toward the lower end of the second region AA2 via the bending region BA. The second control line CSL2 can be connected to the emission driver EDV and can extend toward the lower end of the second region AA2 via the bending region BA. The data driver DDV can be located between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0068] When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the pad PD can be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the second region AA2. The data driver DDV, the power line PL, the first control line CSL1, and the second control line CSL2 can be connected to the pad PD.

[0069] The data lines DL1 to DLn can be connected to the corresponding pads PD via the data driver DDV. As an example, the data lines DL1 to DLn can be connected to the data driver DDV, and the data driver DDV can be connected to the pads PD corresponding to the data lines DL1 to DLn.

[0070] According to some embodiments, a printed circuit board can be connected to the pad PD, and a timing controller and a voltage generator can be located on the printed circuit board. The timing controller can be fabricated in the form of an integrated circuit chip and can be mounted on the printed circuit board. The timing controller and the voltage generator can be connected to the pad PD through the printed circuit board.

[0071] The timing controller can control the operations of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV. The timing controller can generate a scan control signal, a data control signal, and an emission control signal in response to control signals externally applied thereto. The voltage generator can generate a driving voltage.

[0072] The scan control signal can be applied to the scan driver SDV via the first control line CSL1. The emission control signal can be applied to the emission driver EDV via the second control line CSL2. The data control signal can be applied to the data driver DDV. The timing controller can receive an image signal from the outside, can convert the data format of the image signal into a data format suitable for the interface between the timing controller and the data driver DDV, and can provide the converted image signal to the data driver DDV.

[0073] The scan driver SDV can generate a plurality of scan signals in response to the scan control signal. The scan signals can be applied to the pixels PX via the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The scan signals can be sequentially applied to the pixels PX.

[0074] The data driver DDV can generate a plurality of data voltages corresponding to an image signal in response to a data control signal. The data voltages can be applied to the pixels PX via data lines DL1 to DLn. The emission driver EDV can generate a plurality of emission signals in response to an emission control signal. The emission signals can be applied to the pixels PX via emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0075] The pixel PX can receive a data voltage in response to a scan signal. The pixel PX can emit light having a luminance corresponding to the data voltage in response to the emission signal, and thus can display an image. The emission time of the pixel PX can be controlled by the emission signal.

[0076] Figure 8 is Figure 7 a cross-sectional view of an electronic panel EP corresponding to one pixel PX shown.

[0077] Reference Figure 8 , the pixel PX can include a transistor TR and a light-emitting element OLED. The light-emitting element OLED can include a first electrode (or anode) AE, a second electrode (or cathode) CE, a hole control layer HCL, an electron control layer ECL, and a light-emitting layer EML.

[0078] The transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED can be located on the substrate SUB. As an example, one transistor TR is shown in Figure 8 , however, the pixel PX can include a plurality of transistors and at least one capacitor to drive the light-emitting element OLED.

[0079] The display area DA can include a light-emitting area PA corresponding to each pixel PX and a non-light-emitting area NPA around the light-emitting area PA. The light-emitting element OLED can be located in the light-emitting area PA.

[0080] The buffer layer BFL can be located on the substrate SUB, and the buffer layer BFL can be an inorganic layer. A semiconductor pattern can be located on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern can include polysilicon, amorphous silicon, or metal oxide.

[0081] The semiconductor pattern can be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. The semiconductor pattern can include a highly doped region and a lowly doped region. The highly doped region can have a conductivity greater than that of the lowly doped region and can be used as the source electrode and the drain electrode of the transistor TR. The lowly doped region can correspond to the active part (or channel) of the transistor TR.

[0082] The source S, active portion A, and drain D of the transistor TR may be formed of a semiconductor pattern. The first insulating layer INS1 may be located on the semiconductor pattern. The gate G of the transistor TR may be located on the first insulating layer INS1. The second insulating layer INS2 may be located on the gate G. The third insulating layer INS3 may be located on the second insulating layer INS2.

[0083] The connection electrode CNE may include a first connection electrode CNE1 and a second connection electrode CNE2 to connect the transistor TR to the light-emitting element OLED. The first connection electrode CNE1 may be located on the third insulating layer INS3 and may be connected to the drain D via a first contact hole CH1 defined through the first insulating layer INS1, the second insulating layer INS2, and the third insulating layer INS3.

[0084] The fourth insulating layer INS4 may be located on the first connection electrode CNE1. The fifth insulating layer INS5 may be located on the fourth insulating layer INS4. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be located on the fifth insulating layer INS5. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 via a second contact hole CH2 defined through the fourth insulating layer INS4 and the fifth insulating layer INS5.

[0085] The sixth insulating layer INS6 may be located on the second connection electrode CNE2. The layer from the buffer layer BFL to the sixth insulating layer INS6 may be defined as the circuit element layer DP-CL. Each of the first insulating layer INS1 to the sixth insulating layer INS6 may be an inorganic layer or an organic layer.

[0086] The first electrode AE may be located on the sixth insulating layer INS6. The first electrode AE may be connected to the second connection electrode CNE2 via a third contact hole CH3 defined through the sixth insulating layer INS6. The pixel defining layer PDL may be located on the first electrode AE and the sixth insulating layer INS6. The pixel defining layer PDL may be provided with an opening PX_OP defined therethrough to expose a part of the first electrode AE.

[0087] The hole control layer HCL may be located on the first electrode AE and the pixel defining layer PDL. The hole control layer HCL may include a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

[0088] The light-emitting layer EML may be located on the hole control layer HCL. The light-emitting layer EML may be located in a region corresponding to the opening PX_OP. The light-emitting layer EML may include an organic material and / or an inorganic material. The light-emitting layer EML may generate light having one color among red, green, and blue.

[0089] The electronic control layer ECL can be located on the light-emitting layer EML and the hole control layer HCL. The electronic control layer ECL can include an electron transport layer and an electron injection layer. The hole control layer HCL and the electronic control layer ECL are commonly located in the light-emitting region PA and the non-light-emitting region NPA.

[0090] The second electrode CE can be located on the electronic control layer ECL. The second electrode CE is commonly positioned across a plurality of pixels PX. The layer in which the light-emitting element OLED is located can be referred to as the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0091] The thin film encapsulation layer TFE can be located on the second electrode CE to cover the pixels PX. The thin film encapsulation layer TFE can include a first encapsulation layer EN1 located on the second electrode CE, a second encapsulation layer EN2 located on the first encapsulation layer EN1, and a third encapsulation layer EN3 located on the second encapsulation layer EN2.

[0092] The first encapsulation layer EN1 and the third encapsulation layer EN3 can include an inorganic insulating layer and can protect the pixels PX from moisture and oxygen. The second encapsulation layer EN2 can include an organic insulating layer and can protect the pixels PX from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0093] A first voltage can be applied to the first electrode AE via a transistor TR, and a second voltage having a voltage level lower than that of the first voltage can be applied to the second electrode CE. The holes and electrons injected into the light-emitting layer EML can recombine to generate excitons, and the light-emitting element OLED can emit light through the excitons returning from the excited state to the ground state.

[0094] The input sensing part ISP can be located on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE. The input sensing part ISP can be directly fabricated on the upper surface of the thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0095] The base layer BS can be located on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE. The base layer BS can include an inorganic insulating layer. At least one inorganic insulating layer can be provided on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE as the base layer BS.

[0096] The input sensing part ISP can include a first conductive pattern CTL1 and a second conductive pattern CTL2 located on the first conductive pattern CTL1. The first conductive pattern CTL1 can be located on the base layer BS. The insulating layer TINS can be located on the base layer BS to cover the first conductive pattern CTL1. The insulating layer TINS can include an inorganic insulating layer or an organic insulating layer. The second conductive pattern CTL2 can be located on the insulating layer TINS.

[0097] The first conductive pattern CTL1 and the second conductive pattern CTL2 may overlap with the non-emitting region NPA. According to some embodiments, the first conductive pattern CTL1 and the second conductive pattern CTL2 may be located in the non-emitting region NPA between the light-emitting regions PA and may have a grid shape.

[0098] The first conductive pattern CTL1 and the second conductive pattern CTL2 may form sensors of the input sensing part ISP. As an example, the first conductive pattern CTL1 and the second conductive pattern CTL2 having a grid shape may be separated from each other in a predetermined region to form sensors. A part of the second conductive pattern CTL2 may be connected to the first conductive pattern CTL1.

[0099] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be located on the second conductive pattern CTL2. The anti-reflection layer RPL may include a black matrix BM and a plurality of color filters CF. The black matrix BM may overlap with the non-emitting region NPA, and the color filters CF may overlap with the light-emitting regions PA, respectively.

[0100] The black matrix BM may be located on the insulating layer TINS to cover the second conductive pattern CTL2. The black matrix BM may be provided with openings B_OP defined therethrough to overlap with the light-emitting region PA and the opening PX_OP. The black matrix BM may absorb and block light. The width of the opening B_OP may be greater than the width of the opening PX_OP.

[0101] The color filters CF may be located on the insulating layer TINS and the black matrix BM. The color filters CF may be respectively located in the openings B_OP. The planarizing insulating layer PINS may be located on the color filters CF. The planarizing insulating layer PINS may provide a flat upper surface.

[0102] In the case where external light incident on the display panel DP is provided to the user (like a mirror) after being reflected by the display panel DP, the user may perceive the external light. To prevent this from happening, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include color filters CF presenting the same color as the light emitted from the corresponding pixels PX. The color filters CF may filter the external light into the same color as the light emitted from the corresponding pixels PX. In this case, the external light may not be perceived by the user.

[0103] However, the present disclosure should not be limited to this or restricted thereby, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a polarizing film to relatively reduce the reflectance of external light. The polarizing film may be attached to the input sensing part ISP through an adhesive layer after being separately manufactured. The polarizing film may include a retarder and / or a polarizer.

[0104] Fig.9A is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 7 the line I-I'. Fig. 9B is a view showing Fig.9A the bending state of the bending region BA. Fig. 10A is Fig.9A a perspective view of the support plate PLT shown. Fig. 10B is Fig. 10A an enlarged view of the first region A1 shown. Fig. 10C is an upside-down Fig. 10A perspective view of the support plate PLT shown. Fig.11A and Fig. 11B are views showing Fig.9A the folding operations of the window module WM, the display module DM, and the support plate PLT according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 12A is Fig. 10A a plan view of the second region A2 shown. Fig. 12B is a view showing the curved portion CSPa according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0105] Fig.9A show a part of the display portion DSP, a part of the support plate PLT, and a part of the window module WM as representative examples.

[0106] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B are cross-sectional views.

[0107] For ease of explanation, in Fig.11A and Fig. 11B each of the window module WM and the display module DM is schematically shown as a single layer, and the Fig.9A fifth adhesive layer AL5, the barrier layer BRL, and the sixth adhesive layer AL6 are omitted.

[0108] Because Fig.11A and Fig. 11B have the same or substantially the same folding axis FX as Figure 2A its details will be omitted.

[0109] Refer to Fig.9A, the folding region FA may include a curving region D-CSP, a first reverse curvature region D-EX1, a second reverse curvature region D-EX2, a first flat region D-PLA1, and a second flat region D-PLA2. The curving region D-CSP may overlap with the folding axis FX. The first reverse curvature region D-EX1 may be located between the curving region D-CSP and the first non-folding region NFA1. The second reverse curvature region D-EX2 may be located between the curving region D-CSP and the second non-folding region NFA2. The first flat region D-PLA1 may be located between the first reverse curvature region D-EX1 and the curving region D-CSP. The second flat region D-PLA2 may be located between the second reverse curvature region D-EX2 and the curving region D-CSP. Reference will be made to Fig.11A and Fig. 11B describe in detail the curving region D-CSP, the first reverse curvature region D-EX1, the second reverse curvature region D-EX2, the first flat region D-PLA1, and the second flat region D-PLA2.

[0110] The display device DD may include a display portion DSP, a window module WM located on the display portion DSP, a support plate PLT located below the display portion DSP, and a cover layer TPU. The support plate PLT may support the display module DM. The window module WM may include a window WIN, a window protection layer WP, a hard coating HC, and a first adhesive layer AL1 and a second adhesive layer AL2.

[0111] The display portion DSP may include an electronic panel EP, a shock absorption layer ISL, a panel protection layer PPL, a barrier layer BRL, and a third adhesive layer AL3, a fourth adhesive layer AL4, a fifth adhesive layer AL5, and a sixth adhesive layer AL6. The shock absorption layer ISL, the electronic panel EP, the panel protection layer PPL, the third adhesive layer AL3, and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be defined as the display module DM. Since the configuration of the electronic panel EP and the panel protection layer PPL has been described in the previous reference Figure 5 the description of the same elements will not be repeated.

[0112] The shock absorption layer ISL may be located on the electronic panel EP. The shock absorption layer ISL may absorb external shocks applied to the electronic panel EP from above the display device DD and may protect the electronic panel EP. The shock absorption layer ISL may be manufactured in the form of a stretched film.

[0113] The shock absorption layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material. The flexible plastic material may be defined as a synthetic resin film. As an example, the shock absorption layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0114] The window WIN can be located on the impact absorption layer ISL. The window WIN can protect the electronic panel EP from external scratches. The window WIN can have optical transparency characteristics. The window WIN can include a glass material, however, it should not be limited to this or restricted thereby. According to some embodiments, the window WIN can include a synthetic resin film.

[0115] The window WIN can have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. As an example, the window WIN can include a plurality of synthetic resin films attached to each other by an adhesive, or can include a glass substrate and a synthetic resin film attached to the glass substrate by an adhesive.

[0116] The window protection layer WP can be located on the window WIN. The window protection layer WP can include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The hard coating HC can be located on the window protection layer WP.

[0117] The printing layer PIT can be located on the lower surface of the window protection layer WP. The printing layer PIT can have a black color, however, the color of the printing layer PIT should not be limited to black. The printing layer PIT can be positioned adjacent to the edge of the window protection layer WP.

[0118] The barrier layer BRL can be located below the panel protection layer PPL. The barrier layer BRL can increase the resistance to compressive forces caused by external pressure. Therefore, the barrier layer BRL can prevent the electronic panel EP from deforming. The barrier layer BRL can include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0119] The barrier layer BRL can have a light-absorbing color. As an example, the barrier layer BRL can have a black color. In this case, when viewing the display module DM from above the display module DM, the components located below the barrier layer BRL can not be observed by the user.

[0120] The first adhesive layer AL1 can be located between the window protection layer WP and the window WIN. The window protection layer WP can be attached to the window WIN through the first adhesive layer AL1. The first adhesive layer AL1 can cover the printing layer PIT.

[0121] The second adhesive layer AL2 can be located between the window WIN and the impact absorption layer ISL. The window WIN can be attached to the impact absorption layer ISL through the second adhesive layer AL2.

[0122] The third adhesive layer AL3 can be located between the impact absorption layer ISL and the electronic panel EP. The impact absorption layer ISL can be attached to the electronic panel EP through the third adhesive layer AL3.

[0123] The fourth adhesive layer AL4 can be located between the electronic panel EP and the panel protective layer PPL. The electronic panel EP can be attached to the panel protective layer PPL through the fourth adhesive layer AL4.

[0124] The fifth adhesive layer AL5 can be located between the panel protective layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL. The panel protective layer PPL can be attached to the barrier layer BRL through the fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0125] The sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be located between the barrier layer BRL and the support plate PLT. The support plate PLT can be located below the barrier layer BRL, and the sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be located between the barrier layer BRL and the support plate PLT. The sixth adhesive layer AL6 can overlap with the first non-folded area NFA1, the second non-folded area NFA2, and the folded area FA. The barrier layer BRL can be attached to the support plate PLT through the sixth adhesive layer AL6. Hereinafter, the sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be referred to as the upper adhesive layer AL6.

[0126] The first adhesive layer AL1 to the sixth adhesive layer AL6 can include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or a transparent adhesive such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA). However, the type of the adhesive should not be particularly limited.

[0127] The thickness of the panel protective layer PPL can be less than the thickness of the window protective layer WP, and the thickness of the barrier layer BRL can be less than the thickness of the panel protective layer PPL. The thickness of the electronic panel EP can be less than the thickness of the barrier layer BRL and equal to the thickness of the window WIN. The thickness of the impact absorption layer ISL can be less than the thickness of the electronic panel EP.

[0128] The thickness of the first adhesive layer AL1 can be equal to the thickness of the barrier layer BRL, and the thickness of each of the second adhesive layer AL2 and the third adhesive layer AL3 can be equal to the thickness of the panel protective layer PPL. The thickness of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 can be equal to the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0129] The thickness of each of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 and the fifth adhesive layer AL5 can be less than the thickness of the electronic panel EP and greater than the thickness of the impact absorption layer ISL. The thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL6 can be less than the thickness of the impact absorption layer ISL. The thickness of the hard coating HC can be less than the thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL6.

[0130] The electronic panel EP, the impact absorption layer ISL, the panel protection layer PPL, and the third adhesive layer AL3 and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may have the same width as each other. The window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1 may have the same width as each other. The barrier layer BRL and the fifth adhesive layer AL5 and the sixth adhesive layer AL6 may have the same width as each other.

[0131] The widths of the electronic panel EP, the impact absorption layer ISL, the panel protection layer PPL, and the third adhesive layer AL3 and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be greater than the widths of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The edges of the electronic panel EP, the impact absorption layer ISL, the panel protection layer PPL, and the third adhesive layer AL3 and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be located outside the edges of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0132] The widths of the window WIN and the second adhesive layer AL2 may be less than the widths of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The width of the second adhesive layer AL2 may be less than the width of the window WIN. The edge of the window WIN may be located inside the edges of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The edge of the second adhesive layer AL2 may be located inside the edge of the window WIN.

[0133] The widths of the barrier layer BRL and the fifth adhesive layer AL5 and the sixth adhesive layer AL6 may be less than the widths of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The edges of the barrier layer BRL and the fifth adhesive layer AL5 and the sixth adhesive layer AL6 may be located inside the edges of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0134] The support plate PLT may be located below the display portion DSP and may support the display portion DSP. The support plate PLT may be located below the electronic panel EP and may support the electronic panel EP. The width of the support plate PLT may be the same as or substantially the same as the width of the electronic panel EP. The support plate PLT may have a higher rigidity than the display portion DSP.

[0135] The support plate PLT may include a non-metallic material. As an example, the support plate PLT may include a fiber-reinforced composite material. The fiber-reinforced composite material may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP).

[0136] Because the support plate PLT includes a fiber-reinforced composite material, the support plate PLT may be lightweight. Since the support plate PLT includes a fiber-reinforced composite material, the support plate PLT may have a light weight and may have a modulus and strength similar to those of a metal support plate formed of a metal material as compared with the metal support plate.

[0137] In addition, since the support plate PLT includes a fiber-reinforced composite material, the shaping process for the support plate PLT can be easier compared to a metal support plate. As an example, the support plate PLT including the fiber-reinforced composite material can be easily processed by using a laser process or a micro-blast process. However, the present disclosure should not be limited to this or restricted thereby, and according to some embodiments, the support plate PLT can include a metallic material.

[0138] The support plate PLT can include a first non-folded portion PLT1, a folded portion PLF, and a second non-folded portion PLT2. The first non-folded portion PLT1 can overlap with the first non-folded area NFA1. The folded portion PLF can overlap with the folded area FA. The second non-folded portion PLT2 can overlap with the second non-folded area NFA2.

[0139] The folded portion PLF can include a curved portion CSP, a first reverse-curvature portion EX1, a second reverse-curvature portion EX2, a first flat portion PLA1, and a second flat portion PLA2. The curved portion CSP can overlap with the curved area D-CSP.

[0140] A plurality of openings OP can be defined through the curved portion CSP. The openings OP can be formed to pass through a portion of the curved portion CSP in the third direction DR3. When viewed in the second direction DR2, the openings OP can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The openings OP can be formed by a laser process or a micro-blast process.

[0141] When the openings OP are defined to pass through the curved portion CSP overlapping with the curved area D-CSP, the flexibility of the curved portion CSP can be increased. As a result, the support plate PLT can be folded with respect to the folded area FA.

[0142] The first reverse-curvature portion EX1 can overlap with the first reverse-curvature area D-EX1. The first reverse-curvature portion EX1 can be located between the curved portion CSP and the first non-folded portion PLT1. The second reverse-curvature portion EX2 can overlap with the second reverse-curvature area D-EX2. The second reverse-curvature portion EX2 can be located between the curved portion CSP and the second non-folded portion PLT2.

[0143] Reverse-curvature grooves CGR can be defined in the lower surfaces of the first reverse-curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse-curvature portion EX2. The reverse-curvature grooves CGR can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The reverse-curvature grooves CGR can extend from the lower surface PLT-L of the support plate PLT toward the upper surface PLT-U of the support plate PLT. As an example, the reverse-curvature grooves CGR can extend to a position corresponding to half of the thickness of the support plate PLT. Reference will be made to Fig. 10C and Fig.11A Describe the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse curvature portion EX2 in detail.

[0144] The first flat portion PLA1 may overlap with the first flat region D-PLA1. The first flat portion PLA1 may be located between the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the curving portion CSP. The second flat portion PLA2 may overlap with the second flat region D-PLA2. The second flat portion PLA2 may be located between the second reverse curvature portion EX2 and the curving portion CSP. Reference will be made to Fig. 10C and Fig.11A Describe the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2 in detail.

[0145] The cover layer TPU may be located on the lower surface PLT-L of the support plate PLT. The cover layer TPU may be located on the lower surface of the curving portion CSP. The cover layer TPU may overlap with the opening OP.

[0146] The cover layer TPU may be located below the curving portion CSP to cover the opening OP. The width of the region forming the opening OP may be the same as or substantially the same as the width of the cover layer TPU. The cover layer TPU may prevent moisture and foreign matter from entering the opening OP.

[0147] According to some embodiments, the adhesive layer may be located between the cover layer TPU and the support plate PLT. The cover layer TPU may be attached to the support plate PLT through the adhesive layer.

[0148] According to some embodiments, the display device DD may further include a digitizer, a shielding layer, and a heat dissipation layer located below the support plate PLT.

[0149] Reference Fig. 9B , the panel protection layer PPL and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may not be located in the bending region BA. The panel protection layer PPL and the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be located below the electronic panel EP to partially overlap with the second region AA2. The data driver DDV may be located in the second region AA2 and may be located below the electronic panel EP.

[0150] The printed circuit board PCB may be connected to the electronic panel EP in the second region AA2. The printed circuit board PCB may be connected to one side of the electronic panel EP in the second region AA2. The bending region BA may be bent, and the second region AA2 may be located below the first region AA1. Therefore, the data driver DDV and the printed circuit board PCB may be located below the first region AA1.

[0151] Reference Fig. 10A, when observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the support plate PLT may have a rectangular shape defined by a short side extending in a first direction DR1 and a long side extending in a second direction DR2. However, this is only an example. According to an embodiment, the support plate PLT may have various shapes.

[0152] The support plate PLT may include a first non-folded portion PLT1, a folded portion PLF, and a second non-folded portion PLT2. The folded portion PLF may be located between the first non-folded portion PLT1 and the second non-folded portion PLT2. The first non-folded portion PLT1, the folded portion PLF, and the second non-folded portion PLT2 may be arranged in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. The first non-folded portion PLT1 and the second non-folded portion PLT2 may respectively overlap with Figure 7 and Fig.9A the first non-folded region NFA1 and the second non-folded region NFA2 shown. The folded portion PLF may overlap with Figure 7 and Fig.9A the folded region FA shown.

[0153] As an example, each of the first non-folded portion PLT1 and the second non-folded portion PLT2 may have a quadrilateral shape on a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. However, it should not be limited to this or restricted thereby. According to an embodiment, each of the first non-folded portion PLT1 and the second non-folded portion PLT2 may have various shapes.

[0154] Referring to Fig. 10B and Fig. 12A , a grid pattern may be defined in the folded portion PLF. As an example, openings OP may be defined to pass through the folded portion PLF. The openings OP may be arranged according to a predetermined rule. The openings OP may be arranged in a grid shape, and thus, a grid pattern may be formed in the folded portion PLF.

[0155] The openings OP may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the openings OP adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 may be arranged in a staggered manner.

[0156] The openings OP may extend longer in the second direction DR2 than in the first direction DR1. That is, the openings OP may extend in a direction parallel to or substantially parallel to the folding axis FX.

[0157] The folding portion PLF may include a plurality of branch portions BR and a plurality of support portions SSP. The support portions SSP may be located between openings OP adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The branch portions BR may be located between openings OP adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2. The support portions SSP may extend in the second direction DR2, and the branch portions BR may extend in the first direction DR1. The branch portions BR may connect the support portions SSP adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The openings OP may be defined by the support portions SSP and the branch portions BR.

[0158] Reference Fig. 10C , the folding portion PLF may include a curved portion CSP, a first reverse curvature portion EX1, a second reverse curvature portion EX2, a first flat portion PLA1, and a second flat portion PLA2. The curved portion CSP may correspond to the region through which the opening OP is defined.

[0159] The first reverse curvature portion EX1 may be located between the first non-folding portion PLT1 and the curved portion CSP. The second reverse curvature portion EX2 may be located between the second non-folding portion PLT2 and the curved portion CSP.

[0160] Reverse curvature grooves CGR may be defined in the lower surfaces of the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse curvature portion EX2. The reverse curvature grooves CGR may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and may extend in the second direction DR2. Due to the definition of the reverse curvature grooves CGR, when the folding portion PLF is folded, the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse curvature portion EX2 may be easily bent. Reference will be made below to Fig.11A and Fig. 11B describe the reverse curvature grooves CGR in detail.

[0161] The first flat portion PLA1 may be located between the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the curved portion CSP. When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the first flat portion PLA1 may have a quadrilateral shape defined by a short side extending in the first direction DR1 and a long side extending in the second direction DR2. However, it should not be limited to this or restricted thereby.

[0162] The second flat portion PLA2 may be located between the second reverse curvature portion EX2 and the curved portion CSP. When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the second flat portion PLA2 may have a quadrilateral shape defined by a short side extending in the first direction DR1 and a long side extending in the second direction DR2. However, it should not be limited to this or restricted thereby.

[0163] Reference Fig. 10A , Fig. 10C , Fig.11A and Fig. 11B When the folding region FA is folded relative to the folding axis FX, the support plate PLT, the display module DM, and the window module WM can be folded. The folding region FA can be bent, and thus the support plate PLT, the display module DM, and the window module WM can be folded. The first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 can rotate relative to the folding axis FX and can face each other. When folded, the folding region FA can be bent into a curved shape. When the folding region FA is bent into a curved shape, the display module DM, the support plate PLT, and the window module WM can be partially bent into a curved shape.

[0164] When the folding region FA is bent into a curved shape, the portion of the folding region FA that overlaps with the folding axis FX can have a predetermined curvature. When the display device DD is folded, the curved region D-CSP can be bent to have a predetermined curvature. When the display device DD is folded, the curved portion CSP can be bent to have a predetermined curvature. When the opening OP is defined to pass through the curved portion CSP, the curved portion CSP can be easily bent.

[0165] The first reverse curvature region D-EX1 and the second reverse curvature region D-EX2 can be bent. The first reverse curvature region D-EX1 can be bent from the first non-folding region NFA1 and can extend to the first flat region D-PLA1 and the curved region D-CSP. The second reverse curvature region D-EX2 can be bent from the second non-folding region NFA2 and can extend to the second flat region D-PLA2 and the curved region D-CSP. The first reverse curvature region D-EX1 and the second reverse curvature region D-EX2 can be bent in a direction opposite to the direction in which the curved region D-CSP is bent.

[0166] When the first reverse curvature region D-EX1 and the second reverse curvature region D-EX2 are bent in a direction opposite to the bending direction of the curved region D-CSP, the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse curvature portion EX2 that respectively overlap with the first reverse curvature region D-EX1 and the second reverse curvature region D-EX2 can be bent in a direction opposite to the bending direction of the curved portion CSP. Since the reverse curvature grooves CGR are defined in the lower surfaces of the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse curvature portion EX2, the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse curvature portion EX2 that respectively overlap with the first reverse curvature region D-EX1 and the second reverse curvature region D-EX2 can be easily bent.

[0167] Reference Fig. 10A and Fig. 12B, the curved portion CSPa may include a first portion PT1 and a second portion PT2. The first portion PT1 may overlap with the folding axis FX. The second portion PT2 may be located on opposite sides of the first portion PT1 in the first direction DR1. The second portion PT2 may be located between the first portion PT1 and the first flat portion PLA1 and between the first portion PT1 and the second flat portion PLA2. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of description, one of the two second portions PT2 will be described, and the other of the two second portions PT2 may have the same or substantially the same structure as the one second portion PT2.

[0168] A plurality of openings OP may be defined through the first portion PT1 and the second portion PT2. The opening OP defined through the first portion PT1 may be referred to as the first opening OP1. The opening OP defined through the second portion PT2 may be referred to as the second opening OP2. The first opening OP1 may be the same as or substantially the same as the opening OP shown, and thus, its details will be omitted. Fig. 10B The opening OP shown

[0169] The second opening OP2 defined through the second portion PT2 may be arranged in a pattern different from that of the first opening OP1 defined through the first portion PT1. Specifically, the second opening OP2 may include a first type of opening OP2a and a second type of opening OP2b. The size of the first type of opening OP2a may be smaller than the size of the second type of opening OP2b. The first type of opening OP2a and the second type of opening OP2b may be alternately arranged in the second direction DR2.

[0170] As an example, the second opening OP2 may be arranged in the first to fourth columns in the second portion PT2, and the first to fourth columns are sequentially arranged in the direction from the first portion PT1 toward the first flat portion PLA1. The columns may correspond to the second direction DR2.

[0171] The first type of opening OP2a defined in the first and second columns may have the same size in the second direction DR2. The first type of opening OP2a defined in the third and fourth columns may have the same size in the second direction DR2. The size of the first type of opening OP2a defined in the second column may be smaller than the size of the first type of opening OP2a defined in the third column.

[0172] The second type of openings OP2b defined in the first and second columns may have the same dimensions in the second direction DR2. The second type of openings OP2b defined in the third and fourth columns may have the same dimensions in the second direction DR2. The dimensions of the second type of openings OP2b defined in the second column may be greater than the dimensions of the second type of openings OP2b defined in the third column.

[0173] Since the dimensions of the first type of openings OP2a and the dimensions of the second type of openings OP2b are different from each other, the number of branch portions BR arranged in the second part PT2 may be greater than the number of branch portions BR arranged in the first part PT1. That is, the ratio of the size of the openings OP to the size of the branch portions BR in the second part PT2 may be relatively smaller than in the first part PT1. Therefore, the rigidity of the second part PT2 can be increased. Rigidity can be defined as the force with which an object resists an external force when the external force is applied to the object.

[0174] Reference Fig. 11B and Fig. 12B , when the curved portions CSP and CSPa are folded with respect to the folding axis FX, the rigidity of a part of the curved portion CSP of the second part PT2 that does not include Fig. 12B may be reduced. This part is adjacent to the boundary between the curved portion CSP and the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2. Therefore, the part of the curved portion CSP may be bent sharply. Then, the part of the display module DM located on the curved portion CSP may be bent sharply, and the display module DM may be damaged.

[0175] However, when the curved portion CSPa includes the second part PT2, the rigidity of the part of the curved portion CSPa adjacent to the boundary between the curved portion CSPa and the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2 can be increased. Therefore, when the curved portion CSPa is folded with respect to the folding axis FX, the second part PT2 can be bent smoothly. Therefore, the part of the display module DM located on the curved portion CSPa can be bent smoothly, and damage to the display module DM can be prevented.

[0176] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B is Fig. 10C a view of the third region AA3 of the curved portion CSP shown. Fig. 13C and Fig.13D are views showing the curved portion CSP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0177] As an example, Fig.13A is a perspective view of a part corresponding to the third region AA3 of the folding portion PLF, and FIG. 13B to FIG. 13D is a plan view of a part corresponding to the third region AA3.

[0178] For the sake of explanation, FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D the folded portion PLF is shown upside down, and thus, the lower surface of the folded portion is shown. Fig. 10C Since the opening OP, the support portion SSP, and the branch portion BR of

[0179] are the same as or substantially the same as the opening OP, the support portion SSP, and the branch portion BR of FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D their details will be omitted or described schematically. Fig. 10B For the sake of explanation, reference will be made to

[0180] to describe the lower surface of the curved portion CSP adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2, and the description of the lower surface of the curved portion CSP adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2 can be applied to the lower surface of the curved portion CSP adjacent to the first flat portion PLA1 (refer to FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D ). Fig. 10C Reference is made to

[0181] and Fig.13A Fig. 13B

[0182] Fig.13A Fig. 13B As an example, as shown in Fig.13A and Fig. 13B the air groove AGR can be defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSP. When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), each of the air grooves AGR can extend in a first direction DR1 and can have a uniform width. The air groove AGR can extend from one end of the support portion SSP through the center of the support portion SSP to the other end of the support portion SSP that is opposite to the one end of the support portion SSP in the first direction DR1. One end of the support portion SSP can be defined as the side that is opposite to the other end of the support portion SSP facing the second flat portion PLA2 in the first direction DR1. The center of the support portion SSP can be defined as the center between the openings adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0183] When the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP are sequentially defined in the first direction DR1 away from the second flat portion PLA2, the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP can be connected to each other through the air groove AGR. The air groove AGR defined in the h-th support portion SSP located between the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP can be arranged in the second direction DR2. The air groove AGR defined in the h-th support portion SSP and the air groove AGR defined in the (h + 1)-th support portion SSP can be arranged in the first direction DR1. h is a natural number greater than 0.

[0184] However, this is only an example, and the direction along which the air grooves AGR defined in the h-th support portion SSP and the (h + 1)-th support portion SSP are arranged can be changed. This will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C and Fig.17A and Fig. 17B the detailed description.

[0185] Reference Fig.9A 、 Fig.13A and Fig. 13B When the display module DM, the barrier layer BRL, and the support plate PLT are coupled to each other, the coupling process can be performed in a vacuum state. In this case, the upper adhesive layer AL6 and the cover layer TPU can overlap the opening OP. The upper adhesive layer AL6 can cover the upper part of the opening OP. The cover layer TPU can cover the lower part of the opening OP. Thus, the inside of the opening OP can be in a vacuum state. When the coupling process is completed, the display module DM, the barrier layer BRL, and the support plate PLT can be under atmospheric pressure.

[0186] In this case, a part of the upper adhesive layer AL6 located on the upper surface PLT-U of the support plate PLT and a part of the cover layer TPU located on the lower surface PLT-L of the support plate PLT can be sucked into the inside of the opening OP by the atmospheric pressure. Thus, the cover layer TPU and the upper adhesive layer AL6 may be deformed into a shape corresponding to the pattern of the opening OP. As a result, the pattern of the opening OP may be observed by the user from the outside of the display device DD.

[0187] However, according to the present disclosure, the air groove AGR can be defined in the lower surface PLT-L of the support plate PLT. The passage through which air flows can be defined by the air groove AGR.

[0188] Specifically, outside air can be introduced through an opening OP defined between a curved portion CSP and a second flat portion PLA2. The introduced air can flow through an air groove AGR to other openings OP. That is, the interior of the opening OP can be filled with air at a pressure equal to atmospheric pressure. Thus, even when the display module DM, the barrier layer BRL, and the support plate PLT are at atmospheric pressure, the cover layer TPU and the upper adhesive layer AL6 will not be sucked into the opening OP. Therefore, the pattern of the opening OP can be prevented from being observed by the user through the cover layer TPU and the upper adhesive layer AL6.

[0189] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGR can be defined in the upper surface of the support portion SSP.

[0190] Reference Fig.9A and Fig. 13C and, the air groove AGR can be defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BR. The air groove AGR can extend in a first direction DR1 in the lower surface of the branch portion BR. The air groove AGR can have a uniform width in a second direction DR2. Specifically, the air groove AGR can extend from one end of the branch portion BR through the center of the branch portion BR to the other end of the branch portion BR that is opposite to the one end of the branch portion BR in the first direction DR1. One end of the branch portion BR can be defined as the side opposite to the other end of the branch portion BR that faces the second flat portion PLA2 in the first direction DR1. The center of the branch portion BR can be defined as the center between the openings adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0191] The air groove AGR defined in the branch portion BR arranged along the first direction DR1 can be arranged in the first direction DR1. Thus, when the k-th opening OP, the (k + 1)-th opening OP, and the (k + 2)-th opening OP are sequentially defined in the first direction DR1 away from the second flat portion PLA2, the k-th opening OP, the (k + 1)-th opening OP, and the (k + 2)-th opening OP can be connected to each other through the air groove AGR. k is a natural number greater than 1.

[0192] Among the air grooves AGR, the air groove adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2 can be referred to as an edge air groove AGR-E. The edge air groove AGR-E can extend in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The edge air groove AGR-E can extend from the center of the branch portion BR to the opposite side of the branch portion BR in the second direction DR2. The openings OP adjacent to the edge air groove AGR-E and adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 can be sequentially defined in the second direction DR2.

[0193] The edge air groove AGR-E can extend to the opening OP adjacent to it in the first direction DR1.

[0194] External air can be introduced through an opening OP adjacent to one end of the curved portion CSP. The introduced air can flow to other openings OP through the edge air groove AGR-E and the air groove AGR.

[0195] Therefore, the opening OP can be filled with air. Accordingly, the upper adhesive layer AL6 located on the upper surface PLT-U of the support plate PLT and the covering layer TPU located on the lower surface PLT-L of the support plate PLT can not be sucked into the opening OP by atmospheric pressure, and as a result, the pattern of the opening OP can be prevented from being observed by the user.

[0196] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGR can be defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BR and the lower surface of the support portion SSP. This will be described in detail with reference to Fig.15A and Fig. 15B in detail.

[0197] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGR can be defined in the upper surface of the branch portion BR.

[0198] In Fig.13D for the sake of convenience of description, the following description will focus on features different from those of Fig. 13C features.

[0199] The air groove AGRa can have a non-uniform width in the second direction DR2. As an example, when observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the width of each of the portions of the air groove AGRa adjacent to the center of the branch portion BR in the second direction DR2 can be smaller than the width of the corresponding portion of the air groove AGRa adjacent to the opposite side of the branch portion BR in the second direction DR2. Among the air grooves AGRa, the air groove adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2 can be referred to as the edge air groove AGR-E1.

[0200] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C is a view showing the air grooves AGRb, AGRc, and AGRd according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0201] As an example, FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C is an enlarged plan view showing a portion corresponding to the third region AA3 of Fig. 10C features.

[0202] Since FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C the opening OP and the support portion SSP of Fig. 10B features are the same as or substantially the same as those of the opening OP and the support portion SSP of

[0203] features, the details thereof will be omitted or schematically described. Fig.9A 、 Fig.14A and Fig. 14B, the air grooves AGRb and AGRc can be defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BR. The air grooves AGRb and AGRc can extend in the second direction DR2 in the lower surface of the branch portion BR.

[0204] The openings OP adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 can be connected to each other through the air grooves AGRb and AGRc. Therefore, the air introduced from the outside of the curved portion CSP into the curved portion CSP can flow along the air grooves AGRb and AGRc and can fill the openings OP. Therefore, the covering layer TPU (refer to Fig.9A ), and the upper adhesive layer AL6 (refer to Fig.9A ) can not be sucked into the openings OP, and thus, the pattern of the openings OP can be prevented from being observed by the user.

[0205] Refer to Fig.14A , when observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the air groove AGRb can be defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BR. The air groove AGRb can have a varying width in the first direction DR1. As an example, when observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the air groove AGRb can have a shape corresponding to a lozenge-shaped portion.

[0206] The width of the air groove AGRb in the first direction DR1 can be the largest at the center of the branch portion BR. The width of the air groove AGRb in the first direction DR1 can decrease in the second direction DR2 as the distance from the center of the branch portion BR increases.

[0207] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGRb can also be defined in the upper surface of the branch portion BR.

[0208] Refer to Fig. 14B , when observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the air groove AGRc can have a shape corresponding to an elliptical-shaped portion. The width of the air groove AGRc in the first direction DR1 can be the largest at the center of the branch portion BR. The width of the air groove AGRc in the first direction DR1 can decrease in the second direction DR2 as the distance from the center of the branch portion BR increases.

[0209] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGRc can be defined in the upper surface of the branch portion BR.

[0210] Refer to Fig.9A and Fig. 14C, the air groove AGRd can be defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BR and the lower surface of the support portion SSP. When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the air groove AGRd can have an H shape rotated by about 90 degrees. The openings OP adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 can be connected to each other through the air groove AGRd.

[0211] Among the air grooves AGRd, the air groove adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2 can be referred to as the edge air groove AGRd-E. The edge air groove AGRd-E can extend more in the second direction DR2 in the lower surface of the branch portion BR than the air grooves AGRd arranged at intervals from the second flat portion PLA2. The openings OP adjacent to the opposite side of the edge air groove AGRd-E in the second direction DR2 can be connected to each other in the second direction DR2. Therefore, the air introduced through the opening OP adjacent to one end of the curved portion CSP can flow through the edge air groove AGRd-E and the air groove AGRd, and can fill the opening OP. Therefore, the cover layer TPU and the upper adhesive layer AL6 can not be sucked into the opening OP, and thus, the pattern of the opening OP can be prevented from being observed by the user.

[0212] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B are views showing the air groove AGRe according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0213] As an example, Fig.15A is a perspective view of a portion corresponding to the third region AA3 of Fig. 10C , and Fig. 15B is a plan view of a portion corresponding to the third region AA3 of Fig. 10C .

[0214] Because Fig.15A and Fig. 15B the openings OP, the support portion SSP, and the branch portion BR of Fig. 10B are the same as or substantially the same as the openings OP, the support portion SSP, and the branch portion BR of

[0215] their details will be omitted or described schematically. Fig.15A and Fig. 15B Referring to

[0216] When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the first air groove AGRe1 may extend in a first direction DR1 and have a uniform width in a second direction DR2. The first air groove AGRe1 may extend from one end of the support portion SSP to the other end of the support portion SSP that is opposite to the one end of the support portion SSP in the first direction DR1. One end of the support portion SSP may be defined as the side that is opposite to the other end of the support portion SSP facing the second flat portion PLA2 in the first direction DR1.

[0217] When the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP are sequentially defined in the first direction DR1 away from the second flat portion PLA2, the h-th support portion SSP may be located between the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP. The first air groove AGRe1 defined in the h-th support portion SSP may be arranged in the second direction DR2. The first air groove AGRe1 defined in the h-th support portion SSP and the first air groove AGRe1 defined in the (h + 1)-th support portion SSP may be arranged in the first direction DR1. Thus, the h-th opening OP may be connected to the (h + 1)-th opening OP through the first air groove AGRe1. h is a natural number greater than 0.

[0218] When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the second air groove AGRe2 may extend in the second direction DR2. The second air groove AGRe2 may have the same shape. The openings OP adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 may be connected to each other through the second air groove AGRe2.

[0219] Reference Fig.9A 、 Fig.15A and Fig. 15B , external air may be introduced through the opening OP adjacent to one end of the curved portion CSP. Air may flow through the first air groove AGRe1 and the second air groove AGRe2. Thus, air may flow into the opening OP and may fill the opening OP. Thus, the upper adhesive layer AL6 located on the upper surface PLT-U of the support plate PLT and the covering layer TPU located on the lower surface PLT-L of the support plate PLT may not be sucked into the opening OP, and the pattern of the opening OP may be prevented from being observed by the user.

[0220] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGRe may be defined in the upper surface of the branch portion BR and the upper surface of the support portion SSP.

[0221] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C is a view showing the air grooves AGRf and AGRg according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0222] As an example, FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C is Fig. 10C a view of a portion corresponding to the third region AA3 of

[0223] As an example, Fig.16A is a perspective view, and Fig. 16B and Fig. 16C are plan views.

[0224] Since FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C the second flat portion PLA2, the second reverse curvature portion EX2, the curving portion CSP, the opening OP, the support portion SSP, and the branch portion BR of Fig.13A are the same as or substantially the same as the second flat portion PLA2, the second reverse curvature portion EX2, the curving portion CSP, the opening OP, the support portion SSP, and the branch portion BR of

[0225] For ease of explanation, in FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C , the portion of the curving portion CSP adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2 will be described, and the portion of the curving portion CSP adjacent to the first flat portion (refer to Fig. 10C PLA1 of

[0226] For ease of explanation, the following description of the air groove AGRf of Fig.16A and Fig. 16B and the air groove AGRg of Fig. 16C will focus on the features different from the features of the air groove AGR described with reference to Fig. 13B .

[0227] Referring to Fig.9A , Fig.16A and Fig. 16B , a covering layer (TPU of Fig.9A ) may be located on the lower surface of the curving portion CSP. The covering layer TPU may overlap the opening OP. The width of the portion through which the opening OP is formed may be the same as or substantially the same as the width of the covering layer TPU. The covering layer TPU may not be located on the lower surfaces of the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2.

[0228] The air groove AGRf may be defined in the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2. The air groove AGRf may extend in a first direction DR1 from one of the two ends of the second flat portion PLA2 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1. One end of the second flat portion PLA2 may be defined as the side facing the curving portion CSP. According to some embodiments, the air groove AGRf may extend to the lower surface of the first flat portion PLA1 (refer to Fig.9A ).

[0229] When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the air grooves AGRf defined in the support portion SSP arranged along the first direction DR1 and the air grooves AGRf defined in the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2 can be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0230] Reference Fig. 16C , the air groove AGRg can be defined in the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2. The air groove AGRg can extend from one end of the two ends of the second flat portion PLA2 that face each other in the first direction DR1 to the other end of the second flat portion PLA2 in the first direction DR1. The air groove AGRg can be connected to the reverse curvature groove CGR defined in the lower surface of the second reverse curvature portion EX2.

[0231] When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the air grooves AGRg defined in the support portion SSP arranged along the first direction DR1 and the air grooves AGRg defined in the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2 can be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0232] Reference FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C , the openings OP can be connected to each other through the air grooves AGRf and AGRg. Therefore, the air introduced through the opening OP defined at one end of the curved portion CSP and the air grooves AGRf and AGRg or the reverse curvature groove CGR defined in the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2 can flow through the air grooves AGRf and AGRg. Air can be introduced into the opening OP through the air grooves AGRf and AGRg. Air can fill the opening OP and the air grooves AGRf and AGRg. Therefore, the upper adhesive layer (reference Fig.9A of PLT) located on the upper surface (reference Fig.9A of PLT-U) and the cover layer TPU located on the lower surface (reference Fig.9A of AL6) of the support plate PLT located on the lower surface (reference Fig.9A of PLT-L) can not be sucked into the opening OP by atmospheric pressure, and the pattern of the opening OP can be prevented from being observed by the user.

[0233] According to some embodiments, the air grooves AGRf and AGRg can be defined in the upper surface of the branch portion BR or the upper surface of the support portion SSP, and can extend to the upper surface of the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2 or the upper surface of the first reverse curvature portion EX1 and the second reverse curvature portion EX2.

[0234] Fig.17A And Fig. 17B are views showing the air grooves AGRh and AGRi according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0235] As an example, Fig.17A and Fig. 17B is a view of a part corresponding to the third region AA3 of Fig. 10C .

[0236] Because Fig.17A and Fig. 17B the curved portions CSPa, the second flat portion PLA2, the second reverse curvature portion EX2, the branch portion BR, the opening OP, and the support portion SSP of Fig. 12B are the same as or substantially the same as those of

[0237] their details will be omitted or described schematically. Fig.17A and Fig. 17B show a structure that defines the air grooves AGRh and AGRi in the curved portion CSPa shown in Fig. 12B , however, the air grooves AGRh and AGRi can be defined in the curved portion CSP shown in Fig. 12A .

[0238] The following description of the air grooves AGRh and AGRi of Fig.17A and Fig. 17B will focus on features different from those of the air groove AGR of Fig. 13B .

[0239] Referring to Fig.17A , the air groove AGRh can be defined in at least one of the lower surface of the branch portion BR and the lower surface of the support portion SSP. When observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the air groove AGRh can have a uniform width.

[0240] When the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP are sequentially defined in the first direction DR1 away from the second flat portion PLA2, the h-th support portion SSP can be located between the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP. The air groove AGRh defined in the h-th support portion SSP can be arranged in the second direction DR2. h is a natural number greater than 0.

[0241] The air groove AGRh defined in the h-th support part SSP and the air groove AGRh defined in the (h + 1)-th support part SSP may be arranged in the first diagonal direction DDR1. The openings OP may be connected to each other through the air groove AGRh. The first diagonal direction DDR1 may be a direction that forms an acute angle with a straight line parallel to the first direction DR1 in the clockwise direction. However, this is only an example. According to some embodiments, the air groove AGRh may be arranged in the second diagonal direction DDR2. The second diagonal direction DDR2 may be a direction that forms an acute angle with a straight line parallel to the first direction DR1 in the counterclockwise direction. Hereinafter, the description of the air groove AGRh is the same as those described above, and thus the details thereof will be omitted.

[0242] Reference Fig. 17B , the arrangement direction of the air groove AGRi defined in the h-th support part SSP and the air groove AGRi defined in the (h + 1)-th support part SSP may be changed at least once. As an example, the air groove AGRi may be arranged in a straight line shape extending in the first diagonal direction DDR1, and then may be arranged in a straight line shape extending in the second diagonal direction DDR2. As another example, the air groove AGRi may be arranged in a straight line shape extending in the second diagonal direction DDR2, and then may be arranged in a straight line shape extending in the first diagonal direction DDR1. Hereinafter, the description of the air groove AGRi is the same as those described above, and thus, the details thereof will be omitted.

[0243] According to some embodiments, the air grooves AGRh and AGRi may be defined in at least one of the upper surface of the branch part BR and the upper surface of the support part SSP.

[0244] 18A to 18D is a view showing the branch parts BRa and BRb and the support parts SSPa and SSPb according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0245] As an example, Fig.18A and Fig. 18C is an enlarged plan view of a part corresponding to the third region AA3 of Fig. 10C . Fig.18B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II' shown in Fig.18A . Fig.18D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III' shown in Fig. 18C .

[0246] Since Fig.18A and Fig. 18C the second reverse curvature part EX2, the reverse curvature groove CGR, the second flat part PLA2 and the air groove AGR of Fig. 13B and Fig. 13CThe second reverse curvature portion EX2, reverse curvature groove CGR, second flat portion PLA2, and air groove AGR are the same or substantially the same, and thus their details will be omitted or described schematically.

[0247] Reference Fig.18A and Fig.18B , the air groove AGR may be defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BRa. The air groove AGR may have a uniform width in the second direction DR2. When the air groove AGR is defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BRa, the thickness of the branch portion BRa may be relatively reduced.

[0248] The branch portion BRa may have a rigidity proportional to the thickness of the branch portion BRa and the width of the branch portion BRa in the first direction DR1. Since the thickness of the branch portion BRa is relatively reduced by the air groove AGR, the rigidity of the branch portion BRa may be relatively reduced.

[0249] However, the reduction in the thickness of the branch portion BRa according to the present disclosure can be compensated by increasing the width of the branch portion BRa in the first direction DR1. That is, when observed in a plane (or in a plan view), the opposite ends of the branch portion BRa in the first direction DR1 may protrude toward the openings OPa adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The opposite ends of the branch portion BRa in the first direction DR1 may have a shape protruding toward the openings OPa adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The openings OPa may have a shape corresponding to the opposite ends of the branch portion BRa. The opposite ends of the support portion SSPa in the first direction DR1 may have a concave shape. As an example, the openings OPa may have a dumbbell shape.

[0250] Therefore, even if the air groove AGR is defined in the lower surface of the branch portion BRa, the width of the branch portion BRa in the first direction DR1 can be increased, and thus the relative reduction in the rigidity of the branch portion BRa can be prevented. Therefore, even when the curved portion CSP is folded or unfolded, the branch portion BRa will not be deformed.

[0251] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGR may be defined in the upper surface of the branch portion BRa.

[0252] Reference Fig. 18C and Fig.18D , the air groove AGR may be defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSPb. The air groove AGR may have a uniform width in the second direction DR2. When the air groove AGR is defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSPb, the thickness of the support portion SSPb may be relatively reduced.

[0253] The support portion SSPb may have rigidity proportional to the thickness of the support portion SSPb and the width of the support portion SSPb in the first direction DR1. Since the thickness of the support portion SSPb is relatively reduced by the air groove AGR, the rigidity of the support portion SSPb may be relatively reduced.

[0254] The reduction in the thickness of the support portion SSPb can be compensated for by increasing the width of the support portion SSPb in the first direction DR1. That is, when viewed in a plane (or in a plan view), the opposite ends of the support portion SSPb in the first direction DR1 can protrude into the openings OPb adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The opposite ends of the support portion SSPb in the first direction DR1 can have a shape protruding toward the openings OPb adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1. The opposite ends of the branch portion BRb in the first direction DR1 can have a concave shape.

[0255] Therefore, even if the air groove AGR is defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSPb, the width of the support portion SSPb in the first direction DR1 can be increased, and thus, a reduction in the rigidity of the support portion SSPb can be prevented. Therefore, even when the curved portion CSP is folded or unfolded, the support portion SSPb does not deform.

[0256] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGR can be defined in the upper surface of the support portion SSPb.

[0257] Fig.19A and Fig.19B are views showing a support portion SSPc according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0258] As an example, Fig.19A and Fig.19B are plan views of portions corresponding to the third region AA3 of Fig. 10C The branch portion BR, the opening OP, and the air groove AGR of

[0259] Since Fig.19A and Fig.19B are the same as or substantially the same as the branch portion BR, the opening OP, and the air groove AGR of Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C details thereof will be omitted or described schematically.

[0260] For ease of explanation, the description with reference to Fig.19B will focus on features different from those of Fig.19A For ease of explanation, it will be in

[0261] For ease of explanation, it will be in Figure 19A and Figure 19BThe support part SSPc described therein is located between the folding axis FX and the second flat part PLA2, and the support part SSPc located between the folding axis FX and the first flat part PLA1 may have the same or substantially the same structure.

[0262] Reference Figure 19A , the folding axis FX may overlap with the opening OP. The part of the curving part CSP that overlaps with the folding axis FX may be defined as the center of the curving part CSP. The support part SSPc may be located between the openings OP spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. As an example, the support part SSPc may sequentially include a first support part SSPc1, a second support part SSPc2, a third support part SSPc3, a fourth support part SSPc4, and a fifth support part SSPc5 away from the folding axis FX. However, this is only an example, and the number of the support parts SSPc should not be limited thereto or restricted thereby.

[0263] The air groove AGR may be defined in the lower surface of the support part SSPc and the lower surface of the branch part BR. The air groove AGR may extend in the first direction DR1. The air groove AGR may have a uniform width in the second direction DR2. The air groove AGR may extend along the first direction DR1 from one end of the support part SSPc to the other end of the support part SSPc opposite to the one end in the first direction DR1. One of the opposite ends of the support part SSPc may be defined as the side opposite to the other side facing the second flat part PLA2.

[0264] When the curving part CSP is folded, the stress applied to the curving part CSP may increase as the distance from the folding axis FX decreases. Therefore, the support part SSPc adjacent to the folding axis FX may need to have high rigidity. The rigidity may be proportional to the thickness of the support part SSPc and the width of the support part SSPc in the first direction DR1.

[0265] Since the air groove AGR is defined in the lower surface of the support part SSPc, the thickness of the support part SSPc is relatively reduced, and the rigidity of the support part SSPc adjacent to the folding axis FX may be relatively reduced. When the rigidity is relatively reduced, the support part SSPc adjacent to the folding axis FX may be deformed by repeated folding and unfolding operations.

[0266] However, the width of the support portion SSPc in the first direction DR1 can vary. Specifically, the width of the first support portion SSPc1 adjacent to the folding axis FX in the first direction DR1 can be referred to as the first width W1. The width of the second support portion SSPc2 in the first direction DR1 can be referred to as the second width W2. The width of the third support portion SSPc3 in the first direction DR1 can be referred to as the third width W3. The width of the fourth support portion SSPc4 in the first direction DR1 can be referred to as the fourth width W4. The width of the fifth support portion SSPc5 in the first direction DR1 can be referred to as the fifth width W5.

[0267] The first width W1 can be greater than the second width W2. The second width W2 can be greater than the third width W3. The third width W3 can be greater than the fourth width W4. The fourth width W4 can be greater than the fifth width W5. As the distance from the folding axis FX increases, the distance between the openings OP adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 can decrease.

[0268] Therefore, even if the air groove AGR is defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSPc adjacent to the folding axis FX and the thickness of the support portion SSPc is relatively reduced, the reduction in the thickness of the support portion SSPc can be compensated by increasing the width of the support portion SSPc in the first direction DR1. Thus, the first support portion SSPc1 adjacent to the folding axis FX can have the highest rigidity among the support portions SSPc, and therefore, even if the curved portion CSP is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the support portion SSPc adjacent to the folding axis FX can remain undeformed.

[0269] Reference Figure 19B , except that the air groove AGR is only defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSPc, Figure 19B the support portion SSPc shown can have the same or substantially the same structure as the support portion SSPc shown in Figure 19A , and therefore, its details will be omitted.

[0270] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGR can be defined in the upper surface of the support portion SSPc.

[0271] Figure 20 is a view showing the air groove AGRj according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0272] As an example, Figure 20 is an enlarged plan view of a portion corresponding to the third region AA3 of Figure 10C .

[0273] Since Figure 20The second reverse curvature portion EX2, the second flat portion PLA2, the curving portion CSP, the branch portion BR, the support portion SSP, and the opening OP of [[]] are the same as or substantially the same as those of [[]], and thus the details thereof will be omitted or schematically described. Figure 13B The second reverse curvature portion EX2, the second flat portion PLA2, the curving portion CSP, the branch portion BR, the support portion SSP, and the opening OP of [[]] are the same as or substantially the same as those of [[]], and thus the details thereof will be omitted or schematically described.

[0274] Reference Figure 20 , an air groove AGRj can be defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSP. When the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP are sequentially arranged in the first direction DR1 from the second flat portion PLA2 toward the folding axis FX, the h-th support portion SSP located between the h-th opening OP and the (h + 1)-th opening OP can be arranged in the second direction DR2. The air groove AGRj defined in the h-th support portion SSP can have the same width in the second direction DR2. h is a natural number greater than 0.

[0275] The air groove AGRj defined in the h-th support portion SSP and the air groove AGRj defined in the (h + 1)-th support portion SSP can be arranged in the first direction DR1. The width of the air groove AGRj defined in the h-th support portion SSP in the second direction DR2 can be greater than the width of the air groove AGRj defined in the (h + 1)-th support portion SSP in the second direction DR2.

[0276] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGRj defined in the curving portion CSP adjacent to the first flat portion PLA1 and the air groove AGRj defined in the curving portion CSP adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2 are symmetric with each other based on the folding axis FX.

[0277] As the distance from the folding axis FX increases, the size of the air groove AGRj in the second direction DR2 can increase. That is, the air groove AGRj adjacent to the second flat portion PLA2 can have the maximum size in the second direction DR2, and the air groove AGRj adjacent to the folding axis FX can have the minimum size in the second direction DR2.

[0278] The rigidity of the support portion SSP can be proportional to the thickness of the support portion SSP and the width of the support portion SSP in the first direction DR1, and inversely proportional to the length of the support portion SSP in the second direction DR2. When the air groove AGRj is defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSP, the rigidity of the portion of the support portion SSP defining the air groove AGRj may be relatively reduced. The rigidity of the support portion SSP can be determined by the sum of the rigidity of the support portion SSP overlapping with the air groove AGRj and the rigidity of the support portion SSP not overlapping with the air groove AGRj.

[0279] When the curved portion CSP is folded, the tension applied to the support portion SSP can increase as the distance from the folding axis FX decreases. The support portion SSP adjacent to the folding axis FX may need to have high rigidity to prevent deformation of the support portion SSP.

[0280] When the air groove AGRj is defined in the lower surface of the support portion SSP, the width of the air groove AGRj in the second direction DR2 can be relatively reduced to prevent a reduction in the rigidity of the support portion SSP adjacent to the folding axis FX. Accordingly, the length of the support portion SSP overlapping with the air groove AGRj can be reduced, and thus a reduction in the rigidity of the support portion SSP can be prevented. Accordingly, even when the curved portion CSP is folded and unfolded, deformation of the support portion SSP can be prevented.

[0281] According to some embodiments, the air groove AGRj can be defined in the upper surface of the curved portion CSP.

[0282] Figure 21A and Figure 21B are views showing the curved portions CSPb and CSPc according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0283] As an example, Figure 21A and Figure 21B are perspective views of portions corresponding to the third region AA3 of Figure 10C The second reverse curvature portion EX2 and the second flat portion PLA2 of

[0284] Since Figure 21A and Figure 21B are the same as or substantially the same as the second reverse curvature portion EX2 and the second flat portion PLA2 of Figure 13B details thereof will be omitted or schematically described.

[0285] For ease of explanation, the description of the curved portion CSPc of Figure 21B will focus on features different from those of the curved portion CSPb of Figure 21A Reference is made to

[0286] and Figure 9A and Figure 21A The lower surface of the curved portion CSPb and the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2 can be arranged to form a step difference therebetween. According to some embodiments, the lower surface of the curved portion CSPb and the lower surface of the first flat portion PLA1 can be arranged to form a step difference therebetween. When the support plate PLT is located below the display module DM, the height of the lower surface of the curved portion CSPb can be greater than the heights of the lower surfaces of the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2.

[0287] The curved portion CSPb may include a plurality of support bars SB. The support bars SB may be located on the lower surface of the branch portion BR. The support bars SB may extend in a first direction DR1 and may be arranged in a second direction DR2. As another example, the support bars SB may be located on the lower surface of the support portion SSP.

[0288] The covering layer TPU may be located on the lower surface of the support bars SB and on the lower surfaces of the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2. The covering layer TPU may be spaced apart from the lower surface of the branch portion BR and the lower surface of the support portion SSP. The covering layer TPU may not cover the lower side of the opening OP.

[0289] The opening OP may be defined to extend along a third direction DR3 from the space between the lower surface of the branch portion BR and the covering layer TPU and the space between the lower surface of the support portion SSP and the covering layer TPU. Thus, external air may be introduced into the opening OP. The opening OP may not be in a vacuum state. Thus, it is possible to prevent the covering layer TPU and the upper adhesive layer AL6 from being sucked into the opening OP, and thus it is possible to prevent the pattern of the opening OP from being observed from the outside.

[0290] Reference Figure 21B , the lower surface of the curved portion CSPc and the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2 may be arranged to form a step difference therebetween. According to some embodiments, the lower surface of the curved portion CSPc and the lower surface of the first flat portion PLA1 (reference Figure 9A ) may be arranged to form a step difference therebetween. When the support plate PLT (reference Figure 9A ) is located below the display module DM (reference Figure 9A ), the height of the curved portion CSPc may be greater than the height of the lower surface of the first flat portion PLA1 and the lower surface of the second flat portion PLA2.

[0291] The curved portion CSPc may not include a support bar (reference Figure 21A SB). In this case, the width of the covering layer TPU (reference Figure 9A ) in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the width of the curved portion CSPc in the first direction DR1. The covering layer TPU may be located on the lower surfaces of the first flat portion PLA1 and the second flat portion PLA2. The upper surface of the covering layer TPU may be spaced apart from the lower surface of the curved portion CSPc. The covering layer TPU may not cover the lower side of the opening OP. A space may be defined by the upper surface of the covering layer TPU and the lower surface of the curved portion CSPc. The opening OP may be formed to extend from the space defined by the upper surface of the covering layer TPU and the lower surface of the curved portion CSPc.

[0292] Therefore, external air can be introduced into the opening OP, and the opening OP can be prevented from being in a vacuum state. Accordingly, the cover layer TPU and the upper adhesive layer AL6 can be prevented from being sucked into the opening OP, and thus the pattern of the opening OP can be prevented from being observed from the outside.

[0293] Although aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it should be understood that the present disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments, but rather 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 herein. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, and the scope of the inventive concept should be determined according to the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A display panel, including a first non-folded area, a folded area, and a second non-folded area arranged in a first direction; A support plate, below the display panel and having a plurality of openings overlapping with the folded area; An upper adhesive layer, between the display panel and the support plate and overlapping with the openings; And A cover layer, overlapping with the openings and below the support plate, Wherein, the support plate includes: A plurality of support portions, between the openings adjacent to each other in the first direction; and A plurality of branch portions, between the openings adjacent to each other in a second direction intersecting with the first direction, Wherein, the openings are defined by the branch portions and the support portions, and Wherein, at least one of the lower surface of the branch portion and the lower surface of the support portion is provided with a plurality of air grooves defined therein.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The air grooves extend in the first direction in a plan view, and the air grooves defined in the branch portions arranged in the first direction are arranged in the first direction.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, In the plan view, the air grooves extend from the center of the branch portion to the two ends of the branch portion opposite to each other in the first direction.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, In the plan view, the width of each part of the air groove adjacent to the two ends of the branch portion in the second direction is greater than the width of the corresponding part of the air groove adjacent to the center of the branch portion in the second direction.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, In the plan view, the air grooves have a uniform width in the second direction, and the two ends of the branch portion opposite to each other in the first direction protrude towards the openings adjacent to it in the first direction.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In the plan view, the air grooves are defined in the lower surface of the support portion, the air grooves extend from the center of the support portion to the two ends of the support portion opposite to each other in the first direction, and the air grooves defined in the support portions arranged in the first direction are arranged in the first direction.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The air grooves have a uniform width in the second direction, and the two ends of the support portion opposite to each other in the first direction protrude towards the openings adjacent to it in the first direction.

8. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The air grooves are also defined in the lower surface of the branch portion, the air grooves defined in the support portion are defined as the first air grooves, the air grooves defined in the branch portion are defined as the second air grooves, and the second air grooves extend in the second direction.

9. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The part of the support plate overlapping with the first non-folded area is defined as the first non-folded part, the part of the support plate overlapping with the second non-folded area is defined as the second non-folded part, the part of the support plate overlapping with the folded area is defined as the folded part, and the folded part includes: A curved part, the openings are defined to pass through the curved part; A first reverse curvature part, between the curved part and the first non-folded part; A second reverse curvature part, between the curved part and the second non-folded part; A first flat portion, between the first reverse curvature portion and the curving portion; and A second flat portion, between the second reverse curvature portion and the curving portion.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The cover layer is on the lower surface of the curving portion, and the air groove extends to the first flat portion and the second flat portion.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The air groove extends in the first direction to the first reverse curvature portion and the second reverse curvature portion.

12. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The folding region is folded or unfolded with respect to a folding axis extending in the second direction, wherein the curving portion includes: A first portion, overlapping with the folding axis; and A plurality of second portions, between the first portion and the first flat portion and between the first portion and the second flat portion, and wherein, compared to the first portion, the size ratio of the opening to the branch portion in the second portion is relatively smaller.

13. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, A plurality of reverse curvature grooves are arranged along the first direction on the lower surfaces of the first reverse curvature portion and the second reverse curvature portion, and the reverse curvature grooves extend in the second direction.

14. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, Compared to the portions of the curving portion adjacent to the first flat portion and the second flat portion, the distance between the openings adjacent to each other in the first direction at the center of the curving portion is greater.

15. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The portion of the support plate overlapping with the first non-folding region is defined as the first non-folding portion, the portion of the support plate overlapping with the second non-folding region is defined as the second non-folding portion, the portion of the support plate overlapping with the folding region is defined as the folding portion, and compared to the center of the folding portion, the width of the air groove in the second direction in the portion of the folding portion adjacent to the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion is greater.

16. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The air groove extends in the second direction on the lower surface of the branch portion in a plan view, and the width of the air groove in the first direction is variable.

17. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In a plan view, the air groove extends in the first direction, and the air groove defined in the support portions arranged along the first direction is arranged in a first diagonal direction or a second diagonal direction. The first diagonal direction is a direction forming an acute angle with the first direction in the clockwise direction, and the second diagonal direction is a direction forming an acute angle with the first direction in the counterclockwise direction.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein, In the plan view, the arrangement direction of the air groove defined in the support portions arranged along the first direction changes at least once.

19. A display device, comprising: A display panel; A support plate, below the display panel, and including a first non-folding portion, a folding portion, and a second non-folding portion arranged in a first direction; An upper adhesive layer, between the display panel and the folding portion; And A cover layer, on the lower surface of the folding portion, wherein the folding portion includes: A curving portion, through which a plurality of openings arranged in the first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction are defined; A first flat portion, between the first non-folded portion and the curved portion; and A second flat portion, between the second non-folded portion and the curved portion, wherein the cover layer is on the lower surfaces of the first flat portion and the second flat portion, and the height of the lower surface of the curved portion is greater than the heights of the lower surfaces of the first flat portion and the second flat portion.

20. The display device according to claim 19, wherein, The curved portion includes: A plurality of support portions, between the openings adjacent to each other in the first direction; and A plurality of branch portions, between the openings adjacent to each other in the second direction.

21. The display device according to claim 20, wherein, The curved portion further includes a plurality of support rods extending in the first direction and arranged in the second direction in the lower surface of the branch portion, and the cover layer is on the lower surface of the support rods.

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