Display device

Abstract

Disclosed is a display device including a foldable display panel. The foldable display panel includes a first panel region having a first display, a second panel region having a second display, a third panel region having a third display, a first folding region, and a second folding region. Each of the first to third panel areas includes an active area and a non-active area. The first to third displays are continuously arranged and integrally formed with each other. Each of the first to third displays includes a plurality of scan lines, a plurality of data lines, and a plurality of pixels. A non-active area of one of the first to third panel areas includes a scan driver and a light emission controller. The scan driver or the light emission controller is disposed on a side of the non-active area, and the scan driver is parallel to the light emission controller in the first direction, and the scan driver or the light emission controller overlaps the first folding area and the second folding area.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a Chinese invention patent application with Chinese application number 202211074666.2, application date September 1, 2022, and invention title "Display Panel and Display Device Comprising the Same". Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a display panel and a display device, and in particular, to a Z-fold display panel in which an inner folding region and an outer folding region coexist, and a display device including the Z-fold display panel. Background Art

[0003] Generally, a Z-fold display device can be in a folded state via a Z-shape when folded and can be implemented as a portable display device.

[0004] In addition, the advantage of a Z-fold display device is that when an inner folding region and an outer folding region coexist, a display screen can be provided even in the folded state, and a wide display screen can be provided in the unfolded state.

[0005] In addition, a Z-fold display device can be implemented as an organic light-emitting display device that displays an image through an organic light-emitting diode (hereinafter referred to as "OLED") in an active region.

[0006] In an organic light-emitting display device, when a data voltage is applied to the gate of a driving thin film transistor (TFT), a current flows between the drain and the source based on the voltage between the gate and the source and is supplied to the organic light-emitting diode (OLED). Such an organic light-emitting display device adjusts the amount of current flowing through the organic light-emitting diode through a driving thin film transistor to display the gray level of an image. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In the above organic light-emitting display device, the TFT provided in each pixel adjusts the amount of current applied to the OLED to adjust the brightness of the self-luminous OLED.

[0008] However, a disadvantage of a display device implemented as an organic light-emitting display device is that the outer edge of the screen can be exposed to the outside, and thus it may be vulnerable to external impacts or scratches when carried.

[0009] In addition, in the case of a Z-fold display device implemented as a smart phone in a multi-fold scheme, since the thickness of the phone increases in the folded state, the display device has a design disadvantage.

[0010] When the thickness of the main body of the display panel is reduced to solve the problem of increased thickness, the battery capacity may be reduced. In addition, when the screen size increases in the unfolded state, it may be difficult to operate the display device with one hand.

[0011] In addition, in the case of an imaging device, it may be difficult to reduce the thickness such that the imaging device can protrude outward from the main body, and it may be easily damaged or look unaesthetic.

[0012] Accordingly, the inventors of the present specification have invented the following display panel including a first panel region, a second panel region, and a third panel region that are coupled to each other in a hinge-coupled manner.

[0013] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display panel can be provided that can prevent an imaging device from protruding to the outside with respect to a terminal having a multi-fold scheme and protect a portion that is very vulnerable to impact.

[0014] In addition, an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a display device that can include a display panel, and an outer body can be added outside the display unit to protect a folding region and the display unit. In such an embodiment of the display device, the surface of the display unit can be protected by a transparent plastic material, and the outer body can serve as a handle.

[0015] The features and aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above. Additional features and aspects will be set forth in part in the following description, and will in part be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the description, or can be learned by practice of the inventive concept provided herein. Other features and aspects of the inventive concept can be realized and obtained by means of the structures particularly pointed out or derivable from in the written description, its claims, and the drawings.

[0016] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, a display panel can include: a first panel region having a first front surface and a first back surface; a second panel region having a second front surface and a second back surface, the second panel region being configured to overlap the first panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at a boundary between the first panel region and the second panel region, wherein the second back surface faces the first back surface; a third panel region having a third front surface and a third back surface, the third panel region being configured to overlap the second panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at a boundary between the second panel region and the third panel region, wherein the third front surface faces the second front surface; a first hinge coupler for hinge-coupling a first end of the first panel region and a first end of the second panel region to each other; and a second hinge coupler for hinge-coupling a second end of the second panel region and a first end of the third panel region to each other, wherein the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region are continuously arranged and integrally formed with each other.

[0017] In some example embodiments, the display device may include: the above-described display panel; an outer body extending from the second end of the third panel region, the outer body having a width equal to the width of the third panel region and having a thickness and a vertical dimension greater than the thickness and the vertical dimension of the third panel region; and a transparent cover connected to the outer body, the transparent cover being configured to cover the first front surface of the first panel region when the display panel is fully folded in a Z shape.

[0018] In some example embodiments, the outer body may be configured to face and surround the first end of the first panel region, the first end of the second panel region, and the first hinge coupling member when the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region are all in a folded state relative to each other in a Z shape.

[0019] In some example embodiments, the outer body may include: a cover receiving hole formed in the outer body, the transparent cover being configured to be inserted into or slid out of the cover receiving hole; and a receiving space inside the outer body for accommodating the transparent cover inserted into the cover receiving hole.

[0020] In some example embodiments, the display device may further include: a moving holder connected to the transparent cover to move the transparent cover into or out of the cover receiving hole; and a moving track for providing a moving path of the moving holder, wherein the moving holder and the moving track are provided at the lower end of the third panel region integrally formed with the outer body.

[0021] In some example embodiments, as the moving holder moves from one side to the other along the moving track, the transparent cover may be configured to be inserted into the cover receiving hole and inserted into the receiving space of the outer body.

[0022] In some example embodiments, as the moving holder moves from the other side to one side along the moving track, the transparent cover may be configured to protrude from the cover receiving hole to cover the third front surface of the third panel region or the first front surface of the first panel region.

[0023] In some example embodiments, the outer body may have an integrated storage hole for accommodating a stylus.

[0024] In some example embodiments, the outer body may further include: a camera device for photographing an external object to obtain an image thereof; a speaker for outputting sound; a flash for outputting light; and an illuminometer for detecting ambient brightness.

[0025] In some example embodiments, the display device may further include: a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed inside the outer body and electrically connected to the camera device, the speaker, the flash, and the illuminometer.

[0026] In some example embodiments, the display device may further include: a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) for electrically connecting a printed circuit board (PCB) to a third panel area or a display of the third panel area.

[0027] In some example embodiments, the display panel may be connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) via a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), the printed circuit board (PCB) having at least one contact hole, and the printed circuit board (PCB) being electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) via the at least one contact hole.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display device may include: a foldable display panel including: a first panel area having a first display as a first front surface of the first panel area; a second panel area having a second display as a second front surface of the second panel area, the second panel area being configured to overlap the first panel area in a folded state; a third panel area having a third display as a third front surface of the third panel area, the third panel area being configured to overlap the second panel area in a folded state; a first hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling the first panel area and the second panel area to each other; and a second hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling the second panel area and the third panel area to each other, wherein each of the first panel area, the second panel area, and the third panel area includes an active area and a non-active area, wherein the first display, the second display, and the third display are continuously arranged and integrally formed with each other, and wherein each of the first display, the second display, and the third display includes a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines arranged to cross each other and a plurality of pixels respectively provided at intersections between the scan lines and the data lines, and each pixel includes an organic light-emitting diode.

[0029] In some example embodiments, the non-active area may include: a scan driver for applying a scan signal to the plurality of scan lines; a data driver for applying a data signal to the plurality of data lines; a power supply for providing a high-potential voltage, a low-potential voltage, and an initialization voltage to each pixel; and a timing controller for controlling the scan driver and the data driver.

[0030] In some example embodiments, a pixel may include a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns, wherein one of the scan lines is provided in a corresponding one of the rows of the plurality of sub-pixels, and two data lines are provided in a corresponding one of the columns of the plurality of sub-pixels. The display panel may further include: a first multiplexer configured to select one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; a second multiplexer configured to select the other one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; a first scan switch and a second scan switch, each of the first scan switch and the second scan switch for switching a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to be connected to one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; and a third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, each of the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch for switching a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to be connected to the other one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column.

[0031] In some example embodiments, the first scan switch and the second scan switch may be respectively provided in two sub-pixels that are continuously arranged in the column direction along one of the two data lines among the plurality of sub-pixels, and the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch may be respectively provided in two sub-pixels that are continuously arranged in the column direction along the other one of the two data lines among the plurality of sub-pixels.

[0032] In some example embodiments, the first multiplexer may include a first multiplexer switch having: a first electrode connected to one of the two data lines; a gate electrode connected to a first multiplexer line for applying a first selection signal; and a second electrode connected to a first power.

[0033] In some example embodiments, the first multiplexer switch may be configured to be turned on based on the first selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line, so as to apply the first power received through the second electrode to one of the two data lines through the first electrode.

[0034] In some example embodiments, the second multiplexer may include a second multiplexer switch having: a first electrode connected to the other one of the two data lines; a gate electrode connected to a second multiplexer line for applying a second selection signal; and a second electrode connected to a first power.

[0035] In some example embodiments, the second multiplexer switch may be configured to turn on based on a second selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line, so as to apply the first power received through the second electrode to the other data line among the two data lines through the first electrode.

[0036] According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the display unit may be protected by an outer body disposed outside the display unit and a transparent cover extending from the outer body, and the display unit may be prevented from being damaged when being subjected to an external impact or during movement.

[0037] In addition, the present disclosure may have the advantage of increasing the usability because it is easier to manipulate the outer body with one hand even when the display screen size increases in the unfolded state.

[0038] In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure may reduce the thickness of the main body of the display panel by placing a camera device, a pen, a battery, etc. on the outer body.

[0039] In addition, in a Z-folded display panel according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, data inputs of two sub-pixels continuously arranged in the column direction may be respectively connected to a data line at one side and a data line at the other side. Therefore, the display panel may operate in an interlace scheme.

[0040] In addition, in a Z-folded display panel according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display panel may operate in an interlace scheme, a plurality of sub-pixels may be grouped into an odd frame group and an even frame group, and for the first half frame, a data signal may be applied to the sub-pixels corresponding to the odd frame group, and for the second half frame, a data signal may be applied to the sub-pixels corresponding to the even frame group.

[0041] In addition, in a Z-folded display panel according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display panel operates in a progressive scheme, the display panel may operate based on 4 scan lines, such that the data signal may be input to the first to fourth scan lines in the order of the first line, the third line, the second line, and the fourth line.

[0042] Therefore, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensing time may be increased due to the two horizontal period (2H) operation, thereby enabling high-speed operation.

[0043] In addition, in a Z-folded display panel according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, during a low-frequency operation for interlace operation, flicker may be removed.

[0044] For example, according to the present disclosure, the thickness of the main body of a display panel folded in a Z shape can be reduced, and the display panel can be manipulated with one hand when unfolded. To this end, for example, an outer body is added outside the display unit to protect the folding area and the display unit. For example, the surface of the display unit can be protected by transparent plastic, and the outer body can be used as a handle. Therefore, the thickness of the main body of the display panel can be reduced, the display panel can be manipulated with one hand when unfolded, and parts vulnerable to impact can be protected.

[0045] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other effects not mentioned based on the following description.

[0046] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the present disclosure are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the inventive concept claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] The drawings included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and incorporated in and constituting a part of this application illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the specification, are used to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an external shape of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 2 is a side view showing an example in which a display surface is protected by a transparent cover when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is folded.

[0050] Figure 3 is a side view of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure when unfolded.

[0051] Figure 4 is a side view showing an example in which the transparent cover slides into the cover receiving hole when the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is folded.

[0052] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view taken from one side of the first panel area to the third panel area when disassembled according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 6 is a schematic view showing a front side of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure when folded.

[0054] Figure 7 is a schematic view showing a back side of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure when folded.

[0055] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the third panel area and the outer body in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram showing the contact state between the third panel area of a display device and the printed circuit board of the outer body according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing an example of a displayed image when a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is in a folded state.

[0058] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing an example of a displayed image when a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is in an unfolded state.

[0059] Figure 12 It is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the third panel area in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 13 It is a block diagram schematically showing an example pixel configuration.

[0061] Figure 14 It is a circuit diagram showing an example circuit configuration of a sub-pixel in the third panel area according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing the operation timing diagram of the interlaced scheme of the third panel area according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figure 16 It is a diagram showing the operation timing diagram of the progressive scheme of the third panel area according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Embodiments

[0064] The advantages and features of the present disclosure and its implementation methods will be clarified through the exemplary embodiments described below with reference to the drawings. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, these exemplary embodiments are provided to make the present disclosure thorough and complete, and to help those skilled in the art fully understand the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the protection scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0065] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, numbers, etc. shown in the drawings to describe various example embodiments of the present disclosure are given only as examples. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrations in the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, like reference numerals generally denote like elements throughout the specification.

[0066] In addition, to simplify the description, the description and details of well-known steps and elements may be omitted. Further, in the following detailed description of the present disclosure, numerous specific details may be set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, or circuits may not be described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present disclosure.

[0067] The terms used herein may be for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Elements described in the singular form, for example, with the singular articles "a" or "an", are intended to include a plurality of elements, and vice versa, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0068] Where the terms "comprise", "have", "include", etc. are used to specify the presence of the described features, integers, operations, elements, and / or components, one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, components, and / or portions thereof may additionally be present, unless terms such as "only" are used.

[0069] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The term "at least one" should be understood to include any combination and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, the meaning of "at least one of the first element, the second element, and the third element" includes the combination of all three listed elements, the combination of any two of the three elements, and each individual element, the first element, the second element, and the third element.

[0070] When interpreting an element, even if no explicit description of such an error or tolerance range is provided, the element will be interpreted as including an error or tolerance range.

[0071] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" or "connected to" another element or layer, it should be understood to mean that the element or layer can be directly on or directly connected to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Further, when one element is referred to as being "above" or "below" another element, it should be understood to mean that these elements can be arranged in direct contact with each other, or can be arranged not to be in direct contact with each other.

[0072] When describing temporal relationships, when the chronological order of two events is described as, for example, "after", "subsequently", "next", or "before", one or more other events may occur therebetween, unless more restrictive terms such as "exactly", "immediately", or "directly" are used.

[0073] Although terms such as "first", "second", A, B, (a), (b), 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 construed as being limited by these terms, because they are not used to define a particular order or precedence. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another. For example, without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0074] The features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be partially or wholly coupled or combined with each other. As can be fully understood by those skilled in the art, they can be linked and operated in various ways technically. The embodiments may be performed independently of each other or in association with each other in various combinations.

[0075] As used herein, terms such as "substantially", "about", and similar terms are used as approximate terms and are intended to account for the inherent deviations of measured or calculated values that would be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art. This term may be used to prevent unauthorized infringers from taking advantage of designs made near the exact or absolute numbers provided to aid in understanding the present disclosure.

[0076] Unless otherwise defined, all terms, including technical and scientific terms, used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the inventive concept pertains. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly so defined herein.

[0077] In the description of signal flow relationships, for example, even when "a signal is transmitted from node A to node B", the signal may be transmitted from node A to node B via another node, unless more restrictive terms such as "immediately" or "directly" are used.

[0078] Hereinafter, examples of a display device according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When assigning reference numerals to the components of the drawings, unless otherwise stated, the same components may have the same reference numerals in different drawings. In addition, for ease of explanation, the scale of each component shown in the drawings may be different from the actual scale. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the scale shown in the drawings.

[0079] Hereinafter, a display panel and a display device including the display panel according to some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0080] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an external shape of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 is a side view showing an example in which a display surface is protected by a transparent cover when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is folded. Figure 3 is a side view of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure when unfolded. Figure 4 is a side view showing an example in which the transparent cover slides into a cover receiving hole when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is folded, and Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view taken from one side of a disassembled first panel region to a third panel region according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] As Figures 1 to 5 shown, a display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display panel 20 having a first panel region 110, a second panel region 120, and a third panel region 130.

[0082] The first panel region 110 may include a first front surface 110a and a first back surface 110b. The first front surface 110a may have the same area as the first back surface 110b, or may have a smaller area than the first back surface 110b.

[0083] The first panel region 110 may include a first display unit 112 on the first front surface 110a. The first display unit 112 may have the same area as the first front surface 110a, or may have a smaller area than the first front surface 110a.

[0084] The second panel region 120 may include a second front surface 120a and a second back surface 120b. The second front surface 120a may have the same area as the second back surface 120b, or may have a smaller area than the second back surface 120b.

[0085] The second panel region 120 may include a second display unit 122 on a second front surface 120a. The second display unit 122 may have the same area as the second front surface 120a, or may have an area smaller than the second front surface 120a.

[0086] The third panel region 130 may include a third front surface 130a and a third back surface 130b. The third front surface 130a may have the same area as the third back surface 130b, or may have an area smaller than the third back surface 130b.

[0087] The third panel region 130 may include a third display unit 132 on a third front surface 130a. The third display unit 132 may have the same area as the third front surface 130a, or may have an area smaller than the third front surface 130a.

[0088] Although not shown in the drawings, each of the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the third panel region 130 may include an active area (AA) configured to display an image and a non-active area (NA) configured to supply one or more signals to the active area.

[0089] The first panel region 110 may include a first display unit 112. The first panel region 110 may have the same area as the first display unit 112, or may have an area larger than the first display unit 112.

[0090] The second panel region 120 may include a second display unit 122. The second panel region 120 may have the same area as the second display unit 122, or may have an area larger than the second display unit 122.

[0091] The third panel region 130 may include a third display unit 132. The third panel region 130 may have the same area as the third display unit 132, or may have an area larger than the third display unit 132.

[0092] Since the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the third panel region 130 have the same size and area as described above, their internal structures may be the same or similar. Accordingly, the third panel region 130 will be used as an example of an exemplary embodiment in which the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the third panel region 130 have the same structure. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0093] The third panel region 130 may include a substrate therein, and a light blocking layer and a buffer layer may be provided on the substrate. That is, the light blocking layer may be provided on the substrate, and the buffer layer may be provided on the light blocking layer.

[0094] The substrate can be formed of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), vinyl chloride, acrylic resin, polycarbonate (PC)-based resin, polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-based resin, polyethylene (PE)-based resin, polystyrene (PS)-based resin, polypropylene (PP)-based resin, polyimide (PI)-based resin, glass, silicon dioxide, etc.

[0095] The light blocking layer can be made of a metal material having a light blocking function to block the inflow of external light. The light blocking layer can be formed in a single-layer or multi-layer structure, which is made of one or an alloy of metals such as molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu).

[0096] The buffer layer can be formed on the substrate and on the light blocking layer. The buffer layer covering the light blocking layer on the substrate can be formed in a structure in which a single insulating layer or multiple insulating layers are stacked to block foreign materials including moisture, oxygen, etc. introduced from the substrate. The buffer layer can be formed in a single-layer or multi-layer structure of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or aluminum oxide (AlOx).

[0097] The third panel region 130 can have a third display unit 132 disposed on the uppermost layer.

[0098] The third display unit 132 includes a plurality of scan lines that can be respectively arranged in rows, a plurality of data lines that can be respectively arranged in columns and intersect the scan lines, and a plurality of pixels respectively at the intersections between the scan lines and the data lines. Each pixel can include at least one sub-pixel. Therefore, the sub-pixels can be disposed at each intersection.

[0099] For example, in the third panel region 130, the plurality of scan lines and the plurality of data lines can intersect each other on a glass substrate or a plastic substrate. Sub-pixels respectively having red, green, and blue can be defined at each point where the scan lines and the data lines intersect. A pixel including at least one sub-pixel can be referred to as a "unit pixel".

[0100] In this configuration, each of the sub-pixels can include an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). The plurality of scan lines can be respectively arranged in rows of the plurality of sub-pixels, and the plurality of data lines can be respectively arranged in columns of the plurality of sub-pixels. Therefore, among the plurality of sub-pixels, the light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) can be arranged in rows and columns.

[0101] In this regard, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) may be abbreviated as "light-emitting diode (OLED)", "electroluminescent diode (EL)", "electroluminescent device (EL)", "EL", or "OLED".

[0102] In addition, on the third display unit 132 of the third panel area 130, power lines formed in a direction parallel to the data lines may be formed to be connected to the sub-pixels.

[0103] In addition, although not shown, each sub-pixel may include at least one organic light-emitting diode, a capacitor, a switching thin-film transistor, and a driving thin-film transistor. The driving thin-film transistor may be referred to as a "driving transistor", "driving switch", "driving device", etc.

[0104] In this regard, each organic light-emitting diode (OLED) may emit light in an amount of current adjusted based on the voltage between the gate-source electrodes of the driving thin-film transistor. The anode of the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) may be connected to a high-potential voltage power supply, and the cathode may be connected to a low-potential voltage power supply. An organic compound layer may be provided between the anode and the cathode.

[0105] The organic compound layer may include a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an emission layer (EML), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, at least two organic compound layers that emit light of different colors may be stacked based on a tandem structure. When current flows through the organic light-emitting diode (OLED), holes that have passed through the hole transport layer (HTL) and electrons that have passed through the electron transport layer (ETL) may move to the emission layer (EML) to form excitons. Therefore, the emission layer (EML) may emit visible light.

[0106] In addition, although not shown, the driving thin-film transistor and the switching thin-film transistor may be connected to a gate line (also referred to as a scan line herein), a control signal supply line, and a data line. Therefore, based on the gate voltage input to the gate line (scan line), current may flow through the switching thin-film transistor, and at the same time, the switching thin-film transistor may transfer the data voltage input to the data line to the driving thin-film transistor. A capacitor may be provided between the thin-film transistor and the power line and connected to the thin-film transistor and the power line, may be charged with the data voltage transferred from the thin-film transistor, and may hold the charge for 1 frame.

[0107] The thin film transistor may be implemented as a PMOS type low temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) TFT to ensure desired response characteristics. For example, in the thin film transistor, at least one transistor may be implemented as an NMOS type or PMOS type oxide TFT having good leakage current characteristics when turned off, and the remaining transistors may be implemented as PMOS type LTPS TFTs having good response characteristics.

[0108] The first panel area 110 may include a first display unit 112, the second panel area 120 may include a second display unit 122, and the third panel area 130 may include a third display unit 132. In this regard, the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 may all have the same structure. The detailed structures of the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 will be described later.

[0109] When the second panel area 120 is in a folded state at the boundary between the first panel area 110 and the second panel area 120, the second back surface 120b of the second panel area 120 may face the first back surface 110b of the first panel area 110 and correspond to the first panel area 110.

[0110] The first hinge coupling portion 140 may hinge-couple one end of the first panel area 110 and one end of the second panel area 120 to each other. For example, in Figure 1 , the left end of the first panel area 110 may be hinge-coupled to the right end of the second panel area 120 through the first hinge coupling portion 140.

[0111] When the third panel area 130 is in a folded state at the boundary between the second panel area 120 and the third panel area 130, the third front surface 130a of the third panel area 130 may face the second front surface 120a of the second panel area 120 and correspond to the second panel area 120.

[0112] The second hinge coupling portion 150 may hinge-couple the other end of the second panel area 120 (opposite to one end of the second panel area 120) and one end of the third panel area 130 to each other. For example, as Figure 1 shown, the left end of the second panel area 120 may be hinge-coupled to the right end of the third panel area 130 through the second hinge coupling portion 150.

[0113] The left end of the third panel region 130 may extend with the same width as the width of the third panel region 130 (i.e., the dimension in the extending direction of the boundary between the second panel region 120 and the third panel region 130, hereinafter referred to as the "boundary extending direction") to form the outer body 160, or may be coupled to the outer body 160. For example, the outer body 160 may be formed to extend from the left end of the third panel region 130 with the same width as the width of the third panel region 130. In this regard, each of the thickness of the outer body 160 (i.e., the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the boundary extending direction) and the vertical dimension (i.e., the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the display panel of the third display unit 132) may be greater than the thickness of the third panel region 130 (i.e., the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the display panel of the third display unit 132).

[0114] As Figure 1 shown, the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the third panel region 130 may be continuously arranged and may be integrally formed with each other. That is, the first display unit 112 of the first panel region 110, the second display unit 122 of the second panel region 120, and the third display unit 132 of the third panel region 130 may all be continuously arranged and may be integrally formed with each other. For example, the first display unit 112 serving as the first front surface 110a of the first panel region 110, the second display unit 122 serving as the second front surface 120a of the second panel region 120, and the third display unit 132 serving as the third front surface 130a of the third panel region 130 may all be continuously arranged and may be integrally formed with each other.

[0115] The first hinge coupling part 140 may be provided between the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120. Accordingly, the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120 may be folded or unfolded by a hinge operation.

[0116] Accordingly, the boundary between the first display unit 112 and the second display unit 122 may be bent and folded or unfolded.

[0117] The second hinge coupling part 150 may be provided between the second panel region 120 and the third panel region 130. Accordingly, the second panel region 120 and the third panel region 130 may be folded or unfolded by a hinge operation.

[0118] Accordingly, the boundary between the second display unit 122 and the third display unit 132 may be bent and folded or unfolded.

[0119] When the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120, and the third panel area 130 are unfolded, since the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 are all arranged continuously and integrally formed with each other, the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120, and the third panel area 130 can operate as one display screen.

[0120] In this regard, an image to be displayed on one display screen can be divided into three screen images such that a first screen image can be displayed on the first display unit 112, a second screen image can be displayed on the second display unit 122, and a third screen image can be displayed on the third display unit 132.

[0121] Since the outer body 160 has a greater thickness and vertical dimension than the thickness of the third panel area 130, when the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120, and the third panel area 130 are unfolded, the outer body 160 can be used as a handle.

[0122] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer body 160 is shown to extend from the third panel area 130, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the outer body 160 can be formed to extend from the first panel area 110 located on the opposite side of the third panel area 130.

[0123] When the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120, and the third panel area 130 are in a folded state, the outer body 160 can have a shape formed to surround and face one end of the first panel area 110, one end of the second panel area 120, and the first hinge coupling part 140.

[0124] A cover receiving hole 162 into which the transparent cover 170 is inserted can be formed in the outer body 160, and a receiving space 164 for accommodating the transparent cover 170 inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 can be formed inside the outer body 160.

[0125] When the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120, and the third panel area 130 are in a folded state, the third panel area 130 can be positioned as the bottommost panel area, the second panel area 120 can be located on the third panel area 130, and the first panel area 110 can be located on the second panel area 120.

[0126] When the first panel area 110, the second panel area 120, and the third panel area 130 are in a folded state, the first panel area 110 can be positioned as the topmost panel area, and the transparent cover 170 can be located on the first panel area 110.

[0127] The transparent cover 170 may be positioned to cover the first front surface 110a of the first panel region 110. That is, the transparent cover 170 may protrude from the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 and be positioned to cover the first display unit 112 provided on the first panel region 110.

[0128] At the lower end of the third panel region 130 integrally formed with the outer body 160, a moving holder 134 connected to the transparent cover 170 may be provided to move the transparent cover 170.

[0129] In addition, at the lower end of the third panel region 130, a moving track 136 that provides a moving path for the moving holder 134 may be defined.

[0130] The moving track 136 may be defined in the form of a groove as long as the moving distance of the transparent cover 170, and a part of the moving holder 134 is inserted into the groove. That is, when the moving holder 134 and the transparent cover 170 are connected to each other, the transparent cover 170 may protrude from the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 or be inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 by the same amount as the moving distance of the moving holder 134.

[0131] When the moving holder 134 moves from one side to the other along the moving track 136, the transparent cover 170 may be inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 to be located in the accommodation space 164. For example, when the moving holder 134 moves from the left end to the right end along the moving track 136 as Figure 4 shown, the transparent cover 170 may be inserted into the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 and may be located in the accommodation space 164.

[0132] In one example, when the moving holder 134 moves from the other side to the one side along the moving track 136, the transparent cover 170 may protrude outward from the cover receiving hole 162 to cover the third front surface 130a (in the unfolded state) of the third panel region 130. For example, when the moving holder 134 positioned as Figure 4 shown moves from the right end to the left end along the moving track 136 as Figure 2 shown, the transparent cover 170 connected to the moving holder 134 may protrude outward from the cover receiving hole 162 of the outer body 160 and be positioned to cover the first display unit 112 of the first panel region 110.

[0133] The outer body 160 may include a storage hole 166 for storing a stylus inserted therein. That is, the outer body 160 may include, in its accommodation space 164, a storage hole 166 having a length equal to or greater than the length of the stylus. Accordingly, the user may easily perform a touch input on the screen of the first display unit 112 in the folded state or on the screen formed by the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 in the unfolded state using the stylus disposed in the storage hole 166 of the outer body 160.

[0134] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the front of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure when folded, and Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the back of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure when folded.

[0135] As Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer body 160 may include a camera device 180, a speaker 182, a flash unit 184, and an illuminometer 186.

[0136] The camera device 180 may be used to obtain an image by photographing an external object. The lens may be positioned to view through a through-hole of the outer body 160, and an internal circuit may be provided in the accommodation space 164 of the outer body 160.

[0137] The speaker 182 may be used to output sound. The speaker 182 may include a cap receiving hole for inserting a separate headphone jack therein.

[0138] The flash unit 184 may be used for light output. For example, the flash unit 184 may be driven, for example, during operation of the camera device 180 at night.

[0139] The illuminometer 186 may be used to detect ambient brightness. For example, the illuminometer 186 may detect ambient brightness through an illuminance sensor so that the illuminometer 186 may be used to automatically operate the flash unit 184 when operating the camera device 180 at night.

[0140] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between a third panel area and an outer body in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the contact state between a third panel area of a display device and a printed circuit board of an outer body according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] As Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the outer body 160 of the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 190 in the accommodation space 164.

[0142] The printed circuit board 190 may be disposed inside the outer body 160 and may be electrically connected to the imaging device 180, the speaker 182, the flash unit 184, and the illuminometer 186.

[0143] The printed circuit board 190 may be electrically connected to the third display unit 132 of the third panel region 130 through one or more flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs) 194.

[0144] The printed circuit board (PCB) 190 may have at least one contact hole 192 formed therein. The printed circuit board (PCB) 190 may be electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) 194 via at least one contact hole 192.

[0145] The flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) 194 may connect the printed circuit board (PCB) 190 and the third panel region 130 to each other, or may electrically connect the printed circuit board (PCB) 190 and the third display unit 132 of the third panel region 130 to each other.

[0146] The flexible printed circuit board 194 may have one side in electrical contact with the third display unit 132 of the third panel region 130 and the other side in electrical contact with the printed circuit board (PCB) 190 via at least one contact hole 192.

[0147] The printed circuit board (PCB) 190 may have a through hole defined therein, and the imaging device 180 extends through the through hole. A through hole may also be defined in the outer surface of the outer body 160, and the imaging device 180 may be visually recognized through the through hole. Accordingly, the imaging device 180 may be located in the accommodation space 164 inside the outer body 160, may extend through the printed circuit board (PCB) 190 via the through hole, and may be visually recognized from the outside via the through hole in the outer surface of the outer body 160.

[0148] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of displaying an image when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is in a folded state, and Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of displaying an image when the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is in an unfolded state.

[0149] As Figure 10As shown, in the display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the first panel region 110 are in a folded state, the first panel region 110 may be located at the top.

[0150] In this regard, the display device 100 may have an outer body 160 positioned at its left end and a first panel region 110 positioned at its right end.

[0151] Accordingly, the first panel region 110 may display an image through the first display unit 112.

[0152] In this regard, the image displayed on the first display unit 112 may be an image corresponding to the area of the first display unit 112 based on the horizontal dimension (i.e., the dimension in the boundary extension direction) and the vertical dimension (i.e., the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the boundary extension direction). That is, the one image may be a single screen image that is not divided into three screen images.

[0153] As Figure 11 shown, in the exemplary display device 100, when the first panel region 110, the second panel region 120, and the third panel region 130 are in an unfolded state, the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 may form a continuous and integrally formed single display screen.

[0154] In this regard, the single display screen may be a screen having an area that is the sum of a first area based on the vertical dimension and the horizontal dimension of the first display unit 112, a second area based on the vertical dimension and the horizontal dimension of the second display unit 122, and a third area based on the vertical dimension and the horizontal dimension of the third display unit 132.

[0155] In this regard, the images displayed through the first display unit 112, the second display unit 122, and the third display unit 132 may be divided images that are respectively divided into a first image corresponding to the first area, a second image corresponding to the second area, and a third image corresponding to the third area.

[0156] Accordingly, the display device 100 may display the single image when the first image is output from the first display unit 112, the second image is output from the second display unit 122, and the third image is output from the third display unit 132.

[0157] Figure 12 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the third panel region in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 13 is a block diagram schematically showing an exemplary pixel configuration.

[0158] As Figure 12 shown, a third panel region 130 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an active region AA and a non-active region NA other than the active region.

[0159] In this regard, the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120 may also have the same structure as the third panel region 130, and the components of the third panel region 130 described below may equally apply to the first panel region 110 and the second panel region 120.

[0160] The active region AA may include a third display unit 132, and the third display unit 132 includes a plurality of sub-pixels (PX) arranged in rows and columns. Accordingly, the active region of the first panel region 110 may include a first display unit 112, and the active region of the second panel region 120 may include a second display unit 122.

[0161] In the third display unit 132, a plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n and a plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1 and Dn_2 may cross each other. Each sub-pixel PX may be defined at a corresponding intersection therebetween. In this exemplary configuration, each sub-pixel PX may include an organic light emitting diode (OLED).

[0162] For example, the third display unit 132 may include: a glass substrate or a plastic substrate; a plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n and a plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, Dn_2 disposed on the glass substrate or the plastic substrate and crossing each other; and sub-pixels R, G, and B corresponding to red, green, and blue, respectively, and defined at the intersections between the scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n and the data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, Dn_2, respectively.

[0163] As Figure 13 shown, the plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n may be arranged such that one scan line is provided in each row composed of a plurality of sub-pixels.

[0164] As Figure 13 shown, the plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1 and Dn_2 may be arranged such that two data lines are provided in each column composed of a plurality of sub-pixels.

[0165] Each scan line may be connected to the scan driver 30 and each data line may be connected to the data driver 40. In addition, in the third display unit 132, power supply voltage lines ELVDD, Vini, and ELVSS may be further formed in a direction parallel to the data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, and Dn_2 and connected to each sub-pixel.

[0166] As Figure 13 shown, a given pixel may include at least one of a first sub-pixel (e.g., red sub-pixels R1, R2), a second sub-pixel (e.g., green sub-pixels G1, G2), and a third sub-pixel (e.g., blue sub-pixels B1, B2). One pixel may include two second sub-pixels G1 and G2, as Figure 13 shown.

[0167] In the third display unit 132, one scan line Scan#1 may be set in each row, and two data lines may be set in each column. For example, the data line D1_1 may be set at one side (left side) of the column, and the data line D1_2 may be set at the other side (right side) of the column. That is, in one sub-pixel R1, one scan line Scan#1 and two data lines D1_1 and D1_2 may be set.

[0168] The third display unit 132 may include: a first multiplexer MUX 1 configured to select the data line D1_1 on one side (left side) of the two data lines set in each column; and a second multiplexer MUX 2 configured to select the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) of the two data lines set in each column.

[0169] The third display unit 132 may include: a first scan switch T-Sc1 for switching the scan line Scan#1 set in the first row to be connected to the data line D1_1 on one side (left side) of each column; a second scan switch T-Sc2 for switching the scan line Scan#2 set in the second row to be connected to the data line D1_1 on one side (left side) of each column; a third scan switch T-Sc3 for switching the scan line Scan#3 set in the third row to be connected to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) of each column; and a fourth scan switch T-Sc4 for switching the scan line Scan#4 set in the fourth row to be connected to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) of each column. In this regard, each of the first scan switch T-Sc1 to the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 may be implemented as, for example, a thin film transistor (TFT).

[0170] The first scan switch T-Sc1 and the second scan switch T-Sc2 can be respectively arranged in two sub-pixels where the data line D1_1 along one side (left side) among a plurality of sub-pixels is continuously arranged in the column direction. For example, in the first red sub-pixel R1 and the first blue sub-pixel B1. In this regard, the two sub-pixels where the data line D1_1 along one side (left side) is continuously arranged in the column direction can be sub-pixels R1 and B1 of different colors, or sub-pixels G3 and G4 of the same color.

[0171] The third scan switch T-Sc3 and the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be respectively arranged in two sub-pixels where the data line D1_2 along the other side (right side) among a plurality of sub-pixels is continuously arranged in the column direction. For example, in the second red sub-pixel R2 and the second blue sub-pixel B2. In this regard, the two sub-pixels where the data line D1_2 along the other side (right side) is continuously arranged in the column direction can be sub-pixels R2 and B2 of different colors, or sub-pixels G1 and G2 of the same color.

[0172] The first scan switch T-Sc1, the second scan switch T-Sc2, the third scan switch T-Sc3, and the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be arranged along a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in the column direction such that the first scan switch T-Sc1 and the second scan switch T-Sc2 can be arranged on the left side, and the third scan switch T-Sc3 and the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be arranged on the right side.

[0173] In Figure 13 the first multiplexer MUX 1 can include a first multiplexer switch T-MX1, and the first multiplexer switch T-MX1 has: a first electrode connected to the data line D1_1 on one side (left side), a gate electrode connected to the first multiplexer line MUX1 for applying a first selection signal, and a second electrode connected to the first power source ELVDD.

[0174] When the first selection signal is applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line, Figure 13 the first multiplexer switch T-MX1 in

[0175] In Figure 13The second multiplexer MUX 2 therein may include a second multiplexer switch T-MX2 having a first electrode connected to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side), a gate electrode connected to the second multiplexer line MUX2 for applying a second selection signal, and a second electrode connected to the first power ELVDD.

[0176] When the second selection signal is applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line, the second multiplexer switch T-MX2 in Figure 13 can be turned on. Thus, the first power ELVDD applied through the second electrode can be applied to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right side) through the first electrode.

[0177] In addition, each sub-pixel may include at least one organic light-emitting diode OLED, a capacitor Cst, switching thin-film transistors T1 and T2, and a driving thin-film transistor Tdr. In this regard, the organic light-emitting diode OLED may include a first electrode (hole injection electrode), an organic compound layer, and a second electrode (electron injection electrode).

[0178] The organic compound layer may include a light-emitting layer for emitting light, and may also include various organic layers for efficiently transporting carriers including holes or electrons to the light-emitting layer. These organic layers may include a hole injection layer and a hole transport layer positioned between the first electrode and the light-emitting layer, and an electron injection layer and an electron transport layer positioned between the second electrode and the light-emitting layer.

[0179] The non-active region NA may be located inside the back surface of the third display unit 132, and may include a brightness controller 10, a scan driver 30, a data driver 40, a light-emitting controller 50, a power supply 60, and a timing controller 70.

[0180] The brightness controller 10 may provide one gamma set selected from a plurality of gamma sets to the data driver 40, and may provide dimming data corresponding to the selected gamma set to the light-emitting controller 50, each gamma set including a plurality of gamma data.

[0181] The scan driver 30 may apply scan signals to a plurality of scan lines Scan#1 to Scan#n. For example, the scan driver 30 may sequentially apply a gate voltage to the sub-pixels based on a horizontal line in response to a gate control signal GCS input thereto. The scan driver 30 may be implemented as a shift register having a plurality of stages that sequentially output a high-level gate voltage in each horizontal period H.

[0182] The data driver 40 can apply data signals to a plurality of data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1 and Dn_2. For example, the data driver 40 receives an image signal in a digital waveform applied from the timing controller 70, converts the image signal into a data voltage which is an analog voltage having a gray level value that each sub-pixel can process, and then supplies the data voltage to each sub-pixel via the data lines D1_1, D1_2 to Dn_1, Dn_2 in response to a data control signal DCS input thereto. In this regard, the data driver 40 can convert the image signal into a data voltage based on a plurality of reference voltages supplied from a reference voltage supplier (not shown).

[0183] In addition, the data driver 40 can apply a low potential voltage ELVSS and an initialization voltage Vini in a 30 Hz operation mode and a low potential voltage ELVSS and an initialization voltage Vini in a 60 Hz operation mode to the third display unit 132, such that the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini in the 30 Hz operation mode are different from the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini in the 60 Hz operation mode. For example, in the 30 Hz operation mode, the data driver 40 can provide the third display unit 132 with a low potential voltage ELVSS and an initialization voltage Vini having the same value. However, in the 60 Hz operation mode, the data driver 40 can provide the third display unit 132 with a low potential voltage ELVSS and an initialization voltage Vini different from those in the 30 Hz operation mode. For example, in the 60 Hz operation mode, the data driver 40 can provide the third display unit 132 with a low potential voltage ELVSS and an initialization voltage Vini such that the difference between the low potential voltage ELVSS and the initialization voltage Vini is greater than or equal to a predefined reference.

[0184] In addition, when the data driver 40 receives a selected gamma set from the luminance controller 10, the data driver can provide the third display unit 132 with a low potential voltage ELVSS and an initialization voltage Vini corresponding to the selected gamma set based on a look-up table.

[0185] The light emission controller 50 can apply light emission control signals EM1 to EMn to a plurality of sub-pixels.

[0186] The power supply 60 can supply a high potential voltage ELVDD, a low potential voltage ELVSS and an initialization voltage Vini to each sub-pixel.

[0187] The timing controller 70 may control the scan driver 30 and the data driver 40. For example, the timing controller 70 may receive an image signal, a clock signal, and timing signals, such as a vertical synchronization signal and a horizontal synchronization signal, from an external system, may generate a gate control signal GCS and a data control signal DCS based on the received signals, and may provide the gate control signal GCS and the data control signal DCS to the scan driver 30 and the data driver 40, respectively.

[0188] In this regard, the horizontal synchronization signal indicates the time required to display one line of the display screen, and the vertical synchronization signal may indicate the time required to display one frame of the display screen. In addition, the clock signal may be a signal based on which control signals for each driver (e.g., the scan driver 30 and the data driver 40) are generated.

[0189] In one example, the timing controller 70 may be connected to an external system through a predetermined interface and may receive image-related signals and timing signals output therefrom at high speed without noise. The interface may include an LVDS (low voltage differential signaling) scheme interface or a TTL (transistor-transistor logic) scheme interface.

[0190] Figure 14 It is a circuit diagram showing an example circuit configuration of a sub-pixel in a third panel area according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] As Figure 14 shown, in a third display unit 132 of a third panel area 130 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, one sub-pixel (e.g., each sub-pixel) may include a plurality of thin film transistors T1 to T6, an organic light emitting diode OLED, a driving thin film transistor Tdr, and an internal compensation circuit.

[0192] In this regard, the organic light emitting diode (OLED) may be abbreviated as "light emitting diode (OLED)", "light emitting diode (EL)", "light emitting element (EL)", "EL", or "OLED". In addition, the driving thin film transistor Tdr may be referred to as "driving transistor Tdr" or "driving switch Tdr".

[0193] At least one (e.g., all) of the thin film transistors T1 to T6 and Tdr included in the sub-pixel PX may be implemented as PMOS type LTPS (low temperature polycrystalline silicon) TFTs. Thus, desired response characteristics may be ensured. For example, at least one of the thin film transistors T1 to T6 may be implemented as an NMOS type or PMOS type oxide TFT having good leakage current characteristics in the off state, while each of the remaining transistors may be implemented as a PMOS type LTPS TFT having good response characteristics. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0194] The OLED can emit light according to the amount of current adjusted based on the gate-source voltage Vgs of the driving thin film transistor Tdr. The anode electrode of the OLED can be connected to node P8, and the cathode electrode of the OLED can be connected to the low-potential power voltage ELVSS. An organic compound layer can be formed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode.

[0195] The organic compound layer can include a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), a light emitting layer (EML), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, two or more organic compound layers emitting different colors can be stacked according to a series structure. When current flows through the light emitting diode (OLED), holes passing through the hole transport layer (HTL) and electrons passing through the electron transport layer (ETL) can move to the light emitting layer (EML) and combine with each other therein to form excitons. Therefore, the light emitting layer (EML) can emit visible light.

[0196] The driving thin film transistor Tdr is a driving element that can control the current flowing through the OLED based on its gate-source voltage Vgs. The driving thin film transistor Tdr can have a gate electrode connected to node P5, one of a first electrode and a second electrode connected to node P2, and the other of the first electrode and the second electrode connected to node P6. The gate-source voltage Vgs of the driving transistor Tdr can refer to the voltage across node P5 and node P6.

[0197] In addition, a first thin film transistor T1 operated based on the n-th first scan signal S1(n) can be connected to nodes P5 and P6 and disposed between nodes P5 and P6. That is, the first thin film transistor T1 can be configured such that one of its first electrode and second electrode is connected to node P5, the other is connected to node P6, and its gate electrode is connected to a line for receiving the n-th first scan signal S1(n) through, for example, node P7.

[0198] In addition, a second thin film transistor T2 connected to the data line Vdata can be connected to node P2. That is, the second thin film transistor T2 can be configured such that one of its first electrode and second electrode (at P1) is connected to the data line Vdata, the other is connected to node P2, and its gate electrode is connected to a line for receiving the n-th first scan signal S1(n) (at P7).

[0199] Therefore, the first thin film transistor T1 and the second thin film transistor T2 can be turned on based on the n-th first scan signal S1(n).

[0200] In addition, the gate electrode of the driving transistor Tdr may be connected to the first electrode of the storage capacitor Cst. The second electrode of the storage capacitor Cst may be connected to a first power supply, i.e., a high-potential power supply VDD (e.g., ELVDD).

[0201] In addition, a third thin-film transistor T3 may be connected to the first electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the second electrode of the storage capacitor Cst and is disposed between the first electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the second electrode of the storage capacitor Cst. That is, the third thin-film transistor T3 may be configured such that one of its first and second electrodes is connected to the node P2, the other is connected to the node P3, and its gate electrode is connected to a line for receiving a light emission control signal EM.

[0202] In addition, a fourth thin-film transistor T4 may be connected to the second electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the anode electrode of the OLED and is disposed between the second electrode of the driving transistor Tdr and the anode electrode of the OLED. That is, the fourth thin-film transistor T4 may be configured such that one of its first and second electrodes is connected to the node P6, the other is connected to the node P8, and its gate electrode is connected to a line for receiving a light emission control signal EM.

[0203] Therefore, the third thin-film transistor T3 and the fourth thin-film transistor T4 may be turned on based on the light emission control signal EM.

[0204] In addition, a fifth thin-film transistor T5 may be connected to the first electrode of the storage capacitor Cst. That is, the fifth thin-film transistor T5 may be configured such that one of its first and second electrodes is connected to the node P4, the other is connected to a first initialization voltage line Vinit1, and its gate electrode is connected, for example, through the node P9, to a line to which the (n - 4)-th second scan signal S2(n - 4) is applied.

[0205] In addition, a sixth thin-film transistor T6 may be connected to the anode electrode of the OLED. That is, the sixth thin-film transistor T6 may be configured such that one of its first and second electrodes is connected to the node P8, the other is connected to a second initialization voltage line Vinit2, and its gate electrode is connected to a line to which the (n - 4)-th second scan signal S2(n - 4) is applied.

[0206] The compensation circuit may be configured to sample the gate-source voltage Vgs to compensate for the change in the threshold voltage of the driving transistor Tdr, and may be configured to include the first thin-film transistor T1 to the sixth thin-film transistor T6 and the storage capacitor Cst.

[0207] The driving transistor Tdr can control the current flowing through the light-emitting diode OLED based on the data signal Vdata. In this regard, the brightness of the OLED can be adjusted based on the magnitude of the current. The third thin-film transistor T3 and the fourth thin-film transistor T4, which serve as light-emitting control transistors, can be connected to the driving transistor Tdr and the light-emitting diode OLED to control the light emission of the OLED.

[0208] Specifically, in response to the light-emitting control signal EM supplied from the light-emitting control line, the third thin-film transistor T3 and the fourth thin-film transistor T4, which serve as light-emitting control transistors, can be turned on, so that the current flowing through the driving transistor Tdr can be transmitted to the OLED, enabling the OLED to emit light. When the third thin-film transistor T3 and the fourth thin-film transistor T4 are turned off, the current flowing through the driving transistor Tdr may not be transmitted to the OLED, and thus the OLED does not emit light.

[0209] As described above, the brightness of the display device can be determined based on the magnitude of the current supplied from the driving transistor Tdr and the duration for which the light-emitting control transistors T3 and T4 are turned on.

[0210] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing the interlaced scheme operation timing diagram of the third panel area according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0211] As Figures 12 to 15 shown, the third panel area 130 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can operate in an interlaced scheme. In this exemplary case, one frame can be divided into a first half frame and a second half frame. For the first half frame, the sub-pixels R1 and R2 arranged in the odd rows can be operated. For the second half frame, the sub-pixels B1 and B2 arranged in the even rows are operated.

[0212] That is, the third panel area 130 can activate the odd rows for the first half frame of a single frame and can activate the even rows for the second half frame of a single frame.

[0213] For example, for the first half frame, the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) can be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) can be turned off based on a high signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the (n-1) first scan signal Scan#1 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Accordingly, the first scan switch T-Sc1 can be turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) can be applied to the first red sub-pixel R1 set in the odd first row. Accordingly, the first red sub-pixel R1 set in the odd first row can operate to emit light.

[0214] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) can be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) can be turned on based on a low signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the n third scan signal Scan#3 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Accordingly, the third scan switch T-Sc3 can be turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) can be applied to the second red sub-pixel R2 set in the odd third row. Accordingly, the second red sub-pixel R2 set in the odd third row can operate to emit light.

[0215] In this regard, the (n-1) first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 can have a low level during the first two horizontal periods (2H). When the signal applied to the second multiplexer MUX2 switches from a high signal to a low signal, the n third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 can be in a low level state during two horizontal periods (2H). That is, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, the low levels of the (n-1) first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 and the n third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 overlap with each other during one horizontal period (1H). Accordingly, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, a flicker phenomenon may not occur.

[0216] In one example, for the second half frame (not shown), the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) can be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) can be turned off based on a high signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the (n + 1)-th second scan signal Scan#2, which is a low signal, can be applied to the scan line. Accordingly, the second scan switch T-Sc2 is turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) can be applied to the first blue sub-pixel B1 disposed in the even second row. Accordingly, the first blue sub-pixel B1 disposed in the even second row can operate to emit light.

[0217] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 (e.g., the first multiplexer switch T-MX1) can be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 (e.g., the second multiplexer switch T-MX2) can be turned on based on a low signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the (n + 2)-th fourth scan signal Scan#4, which is a low signal, can be applied to the scan line. Accordingly, the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be turned on, and thus the low signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) can be applied to the second blue sub-pixel B2 disposed in the even fourth row. Accordingly, the second blue sub-pixel B2 disposed in the even fourth row can operate to emit light.

[0218] In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the (n + 1)-th second scan signal applied to the second scan line Scan#2 can be in a low level state. When the signal applied to the second multiplexer MUX2 switches from a high signal to a low signal, during two horizontal periods (2H), the (n + 2)-th fourth scan signal applied to the fourth scan line Scan#4 can be in a low level state. That is, when switching the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, the low level of the (n + 1)-th second scan signal Scan#2 and the low level of the (n + 2)-th fourth scan signal Scan#4 can overlap with each other during one horizontal period (1H). Accordingly, when switching the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, a flicker phenomenon may not occur. Accordingly, in Figure 15 "Data1" indicates the level of the data voltage applied to each sub-pixel (R1, R2, B1, B2).

[0219] As described above, in the third panel region 130 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the third panel region 130 operates in an interlaced scheme, no flicker occurs when the operation of one sub-pixel is switched to the operation of another sub-pixel.

[0220] Figure 16 FIG. is a timing diagram showing an operation of a progressive scheme of a third panel region according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0221] As Figures 12 to 14 and Figure 16 shown, when the third panel region 130 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure operates in a progressive scheme, for one frame or for a half (1 / 2) frame, first, the first red sub-pixel R1 in the red sub-pixel R may operate based on a first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1; second, the second red sub-pixel R2 in the red sub-pixel R may operate based on a third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3; third, the first blue sub-pixel B1 in the blue sub-pixel B may operate based on a second scan signal applied to the second scan line Scan#2; fourth, the second blue sub-pixel B2 in the blue sub-pixel B may operate based on a fourth scan signal applied to the fourth scan line Scan#4.

[0222] That is, when the third panel region 130 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure operates in a progressive scheme, for one frame or for a half (1 / 2) frame, data signals may be applied to a plurality of sub-pixels based on 4 rows (or 4 scan lines). First, a data signal may be applied to the pixels (R1) in the first row. Next, a data signal may be applied to the pixels (R2) in the third row. Then, a data signal may be applied to the pixels (B1) in the second row. Then, a data signal may be applied to the pixels (B2) in the fourth row.

[0223] For example, for the first half (1 / 2) frame, the first multiplexer MUX1 may be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 may be turned off based on a high signal. A low signal may be applied to the data line D1_1 on one side (left), while a high signal may be applied to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the (n - 2) first scan signal Scan#1 as a low signal may be applied to the scan line. Accordingly, the first scan switch T-Sc1 may be turned on, and thus during two horizontal periods (2H), the low signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) may be applied to the first red sub-pixel R1 in the red sub-pixel. Accordingly, the first red sub-pixel R1 connected to the first scan line in the red sub-pixel may operate to emit light.

[0224] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 can be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 can be turned on based on a low signal. The low signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the (n - 1)th third scan signal Scan#3 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Accordingly, the third scan switch T-Sc3 can be turned on, and thus during two horizontal periods (2H), the low signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) can be applied to the second red sub-pixel R2 in the red sub-pixel R. Accordingly, the second red sub-pixel R2 connected to the third scan line in the red sub-pixel R can operate to emit light.

[0225] For the second half (1 / 2) frame, the first multiplexer MUX1 can be turned on based on a low signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 can be turned off based on a high signal. A high signal can be applied to the data line D1_1 on one side (left), while a low signal can be applied to the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, during two horizontal periods (2H), the nth second scan signal Scan#2 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line. Accordingly, the second scan switch T-Sc2 can be turned on, and thus during two horizontal periods (2H), the high signal from the data line D1_1 on one side (left) can be applied to the first blue sub-pixel B1 in the blue sub-pixel B. Accordingly, the first blue sub-pixel B1 connected to the second scan line in the blue sub-pixel B can operate to emit light.

[0226] Thereafter, the first multiplexer MUX1 can be turned off based on a high signal, and the second multiplexer MUX2 can be turned on based on a low signal. The high signal can be applied to both the data line D1_1 on one side (left) and the data line D1_2 on the other side (right). In this regard, the (n + 1)th fourth scan signal Scan#4 as a low signal can be applied to the scan line during two horizontal periods (2H). Accordingly, the fourth scan switch T-Sc4 can be turned on, and thus during two horizontal periods (2H), the high signal from the data line D1_2 on the other side (right) can be applied to the second blue sub-pixel B2 in the blue sub-pixel B. Accordingly, the second blue sub-pixel B2 connected to the fourth scan line in the blue sub-pixel B can operate to emit light. Thus, in Figure 16 "Data1" indicates the level of the data voltage applied to each sub-pixel (R1, R2, B1, B2).

[0227] In this regard, the (n-2) first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 may be at a low level and last for two horizontal periods (2H). When the signal applied to the second multiplexer MUX2 switches from a high signal to a low signal, the (n-1) third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 may be at a low level for two horizontal periods (2H). That is, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, the low level of the (n-2) first scan signal applied to the first scan line Scan#1 and the low level of the (n-1) third scan signal applied to the third scan line Scan#3 may overlap with each other in one horizontal period (1H) out of the two horizontal periods (2H). Therefore, when the operation of the first red sub-pixel R1 is switched to the operation of the second red sub-pixel R2, a flicker phenomenon may not occur.

[0228] In addition, when the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 is switched to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, the low level of the nth second scan signal applied to the second scan line Scan#2 and the low level of the (n+1) fourth scan signal applied to the fourth scan line Scan#4 overlap with each other in one horizontal period (1H) out of the two horizontal periods (2H). Therefore, when the operation of the first blue sub-pixel B1 in the blue sub-pixels B is switched to the operation of the second blue sub-pixel B2, a flicker phenomenon may not occur.

[0229] As described above, in the third panel area 130 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the operation of one sub-pixel is switched to the operation of another sub-pixel in the case where the third panel area 130 operates in a line-by-line scheme, no flicker occurs.

[0230] As described above, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the display panel may include: a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns; a plurality of scan lines arranged such that one scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels; a plurality of data lines arranged such that two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels; a first multiplexer MUX1 configured to select a data line D1_1 at one side of the two data lines provided in each column; and a second multiplexer MUX2 configured to select a data line D1_2 at the other side of the two data lines provided in each column.

[0231] In addition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device 100 may include a display panel, the display panel including: a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns; a plurality of scan lines arranged such that one scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels; a plurality of data lines arranged such that two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels; a first multiplexer MUX1 configured to select a data line D1_1 at one side of the two data lines provided in each column; a second multiplexer MUX2 configured to select a data line D1_2 at the other side of the two data lines provided in each column; a first scan switch and a second scan switch, each of which is configured to switch a scan line provided in a corresponding row (the row corresponding to the first scan switch and / or the second scan switch) to be connected to the data line D1_1 at one side of a corresponding column (the column corresponding to the first scan switch and / or the second scan switch); and a third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, each of which is configured to switch a scan line provided in a corresponding row (the row corresponding to the third scan switch and / or the fourth scan switch) to be connected to the data line D1_2 at the other side of a corresponding column (the column corresponding to the third scan switch and / or the fourth scan switch); a scan driver configured to apply a scan signal to the plurality of scan lines; a data driver configured to apply a data signal to the plurality of data lines; a power supply configured to provide a high-potential voltage, a low-potential voltage, and an initialization voltage to each sub-pixel; and a timing controller configured to control the scan driver and the data driver, wherein pairs of the first scan switch and the second scan switch and pairs of the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch are alternately arranged in a zigzag manner in the column direction of the sub-pixels.

[0232] As described above, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display panel operates in a low-speed mode (30 Hz), the device may operate in an interlaced scheme, wherein the plurality of sub-pixels are grouped into an odd-frame group and an even-frame group, and for the first half frame, a data voltage may be applied to the sub-pixels corresponding to the odd-frame group, and for the second half frame, a data voltage may be applied to the sub-pixels corresponding to the even-frame group; and when the device operates in a high-speed mode (60 Hz to 120 Hz), the device may operate in a progressive scheme, wherein the device may operate based on 4 scan lines such that the data voltage may be input to the first to fourth scan lines in the order of the first scan line, the third scan line, the second scan line, and the fourth scan line.

[0233] The following examples belong to additional embodiments:

[0234] Example 1: A display panel, comprising: a first panel region having a first front surface and a first back surface; a second panel region having a second front surface and a second back surface, wherein when the display panel is in a folded state at the boundary between the first panel region and the second panel region, the second panel region faces the first panel region such that the second back surface faces the first back surface; a third panel region having a third front surface and a third back surface, wherein when the display panel is in the folded state at the boundary between the second panel region and the third panel region, the third panel region faces the second panel region such that the third front surface faces the second front surface; a first hinge coupling portion for hinge-coupling one end of the first panel region and the opposite end of the second panel region to each other; and a second hinge coupling portion for hinge-coupling one end of the second panel region and the opposite end of the third panel region to each other, wherein the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region are continuously arranged and integrally formed with each other.

[0235] Example 2: The display panel according to Example 1, further comprising: an outer body extending from one end of the third panel region and having a width equal to the width of the third panel region, and the thickness and vertical dimension of the outer body are both greater than the thickness and vertical dimension of the third panel region; and a transparent cover for covering the first front surface of the first panel region.

[0236] Example 3: The display panel according to Example 2, wherein the outer body has a shape formed to face and surround one end of the first panel region, the opposite end of the second panel region, and the first hinge coupling portion when the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region are all in the folded state relative to each other.

[0237] Example 4: The display panel according to Example 2 or 3, wherein a cover receiving hole is formed in the outer body, wherein the transparent cover is inserted into the cover receiving hole, and a receiving space for accommodating the transparent cover inserted into the cover receiving hole is formed inside the outer body.

[0238] Example 5: The display panel according to Example 4, wherein a movement holder for connecting to the transparent cover to move the transparent cover and a movement track for providing a movement path for the movement holder are formed at the lower end of the third panel region integrally formed with the outer body.

[0239] Example 6: The display panel according to Example 5, wherein when the moving holder moves from one side to the other side along the moving track, the transparent cover is inserted into the cover receiving hole and received in the receiving space.

[0240] Example 7: The display panel according to Example 5 or 6, wherein when the moving holder moves from the other side to one side along the moving track, the transparent cover protrudes outward from the cover receiving hole to cover the third front surface of the third panel area.

[0241] Example 8: The display panel according to any one of Examples 2 to 7, wherein a storage hole is defined in the outer body, and a stylus is inserted into and stored in the storage hole.

[0242] Example 9: The display panel according to any one of Examples 2 to 8, wherein the outer body further includes: a camera device for photographing an external object to obtain an image thereof; a speaker for outputting sound; a flash unit for outputting light; and an illuminometer for detecting ambient brightness.

[0243] Example 10: The display panel according to Example 9, further including: a printed circuit board PCB disposed inside the outer body and electrically connected to the camera device, the speaker, the flash unit, and the illuminometer.

[0244] Example 11: The display panel according to Example 10, further including: a flexible printed circuit board FPCB for electrically connecting the printed circuit board PCB to the third panel area or a third display unit of the third panel area.

[0245] Example 12: The display panel according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein at least one contact hole is formed in the printed circuit board PCB, and the printed circuit board PCB is electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board FPCB via the at least one contact hole.

[0246] Example 13: A display device includes: a display panel including: a first panel region having a first display unit as a first front surface of the first panel region; a second panel region having a second display unit as a second front surface of the second panel region and corresponding to the first panel region; a third panel region having a third display unit as a third front surface of the third panel region and corresponding to the second panel region; a first hinge coupling part for hinge-coupling the first panel region and the second panel region to each other; and a second hinge coupling part for hinge-coupling the second panel region and the third panel region to each other, wherein each of the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region includes an active region and a non-active region, wherein the first display unit, the second display unit, and the third display unit are continuously arranged and integrally formed with each other, wherein each of the first display unit, the second display unit, and the third display unit includes a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines arranged to cross each other and a plurality of pixels respectively provided at intersections between the plurality of scan lines and the plurality of data lines, wherein each pixel includes an organic light-emitting diode, and wherein each of the non-active regions includes: a scan driver for applying a scan signal to the plurality of scan lines; a data driver for applying a data signal to the plurality of data lines; a power supply for providing a high potential voltage, a low potential voltage, and an initialization voltage to each pixel; and a timing controller for controlling the scan driver and the data driver.

[0247] Example 14: The display device according to Example 13, wherein the pixel includes a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns, wherein one scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels, and two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels; wherein the display panel further includes: a first multiplexer configured to select a data line provided at one side of the two data lines provided in each column; a second multiplexer configured to select a data line provided at the other side of the two data lines provided in each column; each of a first scan switch and a second scan switch, each of the first scan switch and the second scan switch being configured to switch a scan line provided in each row to be connected to the data line provided at the one side of each column; and each of a third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, each of the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch being configured to switch a scan line provided in each row to be connected to the data line provided at the other side of each column.

[0248] Example 15: The display device according to Example 14, wherein the first scan switch and the second scan switch are respectively disposed in two sub-pixels in which data lines along one side among the plurality of sub-pixels are continuously arranged in the column direction, and wherein the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch are respectively disposed in two sub-pixels in which data lines along the other side among the plurality of sub-pixels are continuously arranged in the column direction.

[0249] Example 16: The display device according to Example 14 or 15, wherein the first multiplexer includes a first multiplexer switch, and the first multiplexer switch is configured such that its first electrode is connected to the data line at one side, its gate electrode is connected to the first multiplexer line for applying a first selection signal, and its second electrode is connected to the first power supply.

[0250] Example 17: The display device according to Example 16, wherein the first multiplexer switch is turned on based on the first selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line, such that the first power supply applied to the first multiplexer switch through the second electrode is applied to the data line at the one side through the first electrode.

[0251] Example 18: The display device according to any one of Examples 14 to 17, wherein the second multiplexer includes a second multiplexer switch, and the second multiplexer switch has a first electrode connected to the data line at the other side, a gate electrode connected to the second multiplexer line for applying a second selection signal, and a second electrode connected to the first power supply.

[0252] Example 19: The display device according to Example 18, wherein the second multiplexer switch is turned on based on the second selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line, such that the first power supply applied through the second electrode is applied to the data line at the other side through the first electrode.

[0253] Example 20. A display panel, comprising:

[0254] A first panel region having a first front surface and a first back surface;

[0255] A second panel region having a second front surface and a second back surface, the second panel region being configured to overlap with the first panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at a boundary between the first panel region and the second panel region, wherein the second back surface faces the first back surface;

[0256] A third panel region having a third front face and a third back face, wherein the third panel region is configured to overlap with the second panel region when the display panel is in the folded state at the boundary between the second panel region and the third panel region, and wherein the third front face faces the second front face;

[0257] A first hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling a first end of the first panel region and a first end of the second panel region to each other; and

[0258] A second hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling a second end of the second panel region and a first end of the third panel region to each other,

[0259] wherein the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region are arranged continuously and integrally formed with each other.

[0260] Example 21. A display device, comprising:

[0261] The display panel according to Example 20;

[0262] An outer body extending from a second end of the third panel region, and the outer body has a width equal to the width of the third panel region and has a thickness and a vertical dimension greater than the thickness and the vertical dimension of the third panel region; and

[0263] A transparent cover connected to the outer body, the transparent cover being configured to cover the first front face of the first panel region when the display panel is fully folded in a Z shape.

[0264] Example 22. The display device according to Example 21, wherein the outer body is configured to face and surround a first end of the first panel region, a first end of the second panel region, and the first hinge coupling member when the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region are all in the folded state relative to each other in a Z shape.

[0265] Example 23. The display device according to Example 21, wherein the outer body includes:

[0266] A cover receiving hole formed in the outer body, the transparent cover being configured to be inserted into or slid out of the cover receiving hole; and

[0267] A receiving space inside the outer body for receiving the transparent cover inserted into the cover receiving hole.

[0268] Example 24. The display device according to Example 23, further comprising:

[0269] A moving holder that is connected to the transparent cover to move the transparent cover into or out of the cover receiving hole; and

[0270] A moving track for providing a moving path for the moving holder,

[0271] wherein the moving holder and the moving track are provided at the lower end of the third panel area integrally formed with the outer body.

[0272] Example 25. The display device according to Example 24, wherein as the moving holder moves from one side to the other side along the moving track, the transparent cover is configured to be inserted into the cover receiving hole and into the accommodation space of the outer body.

[0273] Example 26. The display device according to Example 25, wherein as the moving holder moves from the other side to one side along the moving track, the transparent cover is configured to protrude from the cover receiving hole to cover the first front surface of the first panel area.

[0274] Example 27. The display device according to Example 21, wherein the outer body has an integrated storage hole for accommodating a stylus.

[0275] Example 28. The display device according to Example 21, wherein the outer body further includes:

[0276] A camera device for photographing an external object to obtain an image thereof;

[0277] A speaker for outputting sound;

[0278] A flash for outputting light; and

[0279] An illuminometer for detecting ambient brightness.

[0280] Example 29. The display device according to Example 28, further including:

[0281] A printed circuit board PCB disposed inside the outer body and electrically connected to the camera device, the speaker, the flash unit, and the illuminometer.

[0282] Example 30. The display device according to Example 29, further including:

[0283] A flexible printed circuit board FPCB for electrically connecting the printed circuit board PCB to the third panel area or a third display unit of the third panel area.

[0284] Example 31. The display panel according to Example 20, wherein the display panel is connected to a printed circuit board PCB via a flexible printed circuit board FPCB, the printed circuit board PCB has at least one contact hole, and the printed circuit board PCB is electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board FPCB via the at least one contact hole.

[0285] Example 32. A display device, comprising:

[0286] A foldable display panel, comprising:

[0287] A first panel area having a first display unit as a first front surface of the first panel area;

[0288] A second panel area having a second display as a second front surface of the second panel area, the second panel area being configured to overlap the first panel area in a folded state;

[0289] A third panel area having a third display as a third front surface of the third panel area, the third panel area being configured to overlap the second panel area in the folded state;

[0290] A first hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling the first panel area and the second panel area to each other; and

[0291] A second hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling the second panel area and the third panel area to each other,

[0292] wherein each of the first panel area, the second panel area, and the third panel area includes an active area and a non-active area,

[0293] wherein the first display, the second display, and the third display are continuously arranged and integrally formed with each other, and

[0294] wherein each of the first display, the second display, and the third display includes a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines arranged to cross each other and a plurality of pixels respectively provided at intersections between the scan lines and the data lines, and each pixel includes an organic light emitting diode.

[0295] Example 33. The display device according to Example 32, wherein the non-active area of each of the first panel area, the second panel area, and the third panel area includes:

[0296] A scan driver for applying a scan signal to the plurality of scan lines;

[0297] A data driver for applying data signals to the plurality of data lines;

[0298] A power supply for supplying a high potential voltage, a low potential voltage, and an initialization voltage to each pixel; and

[0299] A timing controller for controlling the scan driver and the data driver.

[0300] Example 34. The display device according to Example 32, wherein the plurality of pixels include a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns,

[0301] wherein one of the scan lines among the scan lines is provided in a corresponding one of the rows of the plurality of sub-pixels, and two of the data lines among the data lines are provided in a corresponding one of the columns of the plurality of sub-pixels, and

[0302] wherein the display panel further includes:

[0303] A first multiplexer configured to select one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column;

[0304] A second multiplexer configured to select the other of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column;

[0305] A first scan switch and a second scan switch, each of the first scan switch and the second scan switch for switching a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to connect to one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; and

[0306] A third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, each of the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch for switching a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to connect to the other of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column.

[0307] Example 35. The display device according to Example 34, wherein the first scan switch and the second scan switch are respectively provided in two sub-pixels arranged continuously in the column direction along one of the two data lines among the plurality of sub-pixels, and

[0308] wherein the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch are respectively provided in two sub-pixels arranged continuously in the column direction along the other of the two data lines among the plurality of sub-pixels.

[0309] Example 36. The display device according to Example 34, wherein the first multiplexer includes a first multiplexer switch, and the first multiplexer switch has:

[0310] a first electrode connected to one of the two data lines;

[0311] a gate electrode connected to a first multiplexer line for applying a first selection signal; and

[0312] a second electrode connected to a first power.

[0313] Example 37. The display device according to Example 36, wherein the first multiplexer switch is configured to be turned on based on the first selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line, so as to apply the first power received through the second electrode to one of the two data lines through the first electrode.

[0314] Example 38. The display device according to Example 34, wherein the second multiplexer includes a second multiplexer switch, and the second multiplexer switch has:

[0315] a first electrode connected to the other of the two data lines;

[0316] a gate electrode connected to a second multiplexer line for applying a second selection signal; and

[0317] a second electrode connected to a first power.

[0318] Example 39. The display device according to Example 38, wherein the second multiplexer switch is configured to be turned on based on the second selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line, so as to apply the first power received through the second electrode to the other of the two data lines through the first electrode.

[0319] Example 40. A display device, comprising:

[0320] a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns, wherein one scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels, and two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels;

[0321] a first multiplexer configured to select a data line on one side of the two data lines provided in each column;

[0322] a second multiplexer configured to select a data line on the other side of the two data lines provided in each column;

[0323] a first scanning switch and a second scanning switch, each of the first scanning switch and the second scanning switch being configured to switch a scanning line disposed in a corresponding row to connect to a data line disposed at one side in a corresponding column; and

[0324] a third scanning switch and a fourth scanning switch, each of the third scanning switch and the fourth scanning switch being configured to switch a scanning line disposed in a corresponding row to connect to a data line disposed at the other side in a corresponding column.

[0325] Example 41. The display device according to Example 40, wherein,

[0326] in the low-speed mode, the display device operates in an interlaced scheme, and

[0327] in the high-speed mode, the display device operates in a progressive scheme.

[0328] It should be understood that the exemplary embodiments described above are illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of protection of the present disclosure should be interpreted by the claims.

[0329] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the technical concept or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to cover modifications and variations of the present disclosure as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A foldable display panel, comprising: A first panel region having a first display as a first front surface of the first panel region; A second panel region having a second display as a second front surface of the second panel region, the second panel region being configured to overlap the first panel region in a folded state; A third panel region having a third display as a third front surface of the third panel region, the third panel region being configured to overlap the second panel region in the folded state; A first folding region provided between the first panel region and the second panel region; and A second folding region provided between the second panel region and the third panel region; Wherein each of the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region includes an active region and a non-active region, Wherein the first display, the second display, and the third display are continuously arranged and integrally formed with each other, Wherein each of the first display, the second display, and the third display includes a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines arranged to cross each other and a plurality of pixels respectively provided at intersection points between the scan lines and the data lines, each pixel including an organic light emitting diode, and Wherein the non-active region of one of the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region includes: A scan driver for applying a scan signal to the plurality of scan lines; A light emission controller for applying a light emission control signal to a plurality of light emission control lines; The scan driver or the light emission controller is provided on one side of the non-active region, and the scan driver is parallel to the light emission controller in a first direction, and Wherein the scan driver or the light emission controller overlaps the first folding region and the second folding region.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The non-active region of one of the first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region includes: A data driver for applying a data signal to the plurality of data lines; A power supply for providing a high potential voltage, a low potential voltage, and an initialization voltage to each pixel; and A timing controller for controlling the scan driver and the data driver.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The pixel includes a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns, Wherein one of the scan lines is provided in a corresponding row of the plurality of sub-pixels, one of the light emission control lines is provided in a corresponding row of the plurality of sub-pixels, and one of the data lines is provided in a corresponding column of the plurality of sub-pixels.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The sub-pixel includes a plurality of thin film transistors, an organic electroluminescent diode, a driving thin film transistor, and an internal compensation circuit, and At least one of the plurality of thin film transistors and the driving thin film transistor is implemented as an oxide TFT, and the remaining transistors are implemented as low temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) TFTs.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel further includes: The first panel region having the first front face and the first back face; The second panel region having the second front face and the second back face, the second panel region being configured to overlap the first panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at the boundary between the first panel region and the second panel region, wherein the second back face faces the first back face; The third panel region having the third front face and the third back face, the third panel region being configured to overlap the second panel region when the display panel is in a folded state at the boundary between the second panel region and the third panel region, wherein the third front face faces the second front face.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The first panel region, the second panel region, and the third panel region have different sizes.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The first panel region is smaller than the third panel region.

8. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The display panel further includes: Two data lines among the data lines provided in a corresponding column of the plurality of sub-pixels; A first multiplexer configured to select one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; A second multiplexer configured to select the other one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; A first scan switch and a second scan switch, both the first scan switch and the second scan switch being configured to switch a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to be connected to the one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column; and A third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, both the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch being configured to switch a corresponding one of the scan lines provided in each corresponding row to be connected to the other one of the two data lines provided in the corresponding column.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The first scan switch and the second scan switch are respectively provided in two sub-pixels among the plurality of sub-pixels that are continuously arranged in the column direction along the one of the two data lines, and wherein the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch are respectively provided in two sub-pixels among the plurality of sub-pixels that are continuously arranged in the column direction along the other one of the two data lines.

10. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The first multiplexer includes a first multiplexer switch, and the first multiplexer switch has: A first electrode connected to the one of the two data lines; A gate electrode connected to a first multiplexer line for applying a first selection signal; And A second electrode connected to a first power supply.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The first multiplexer switch is configured to be turned on based on the first selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the first multiplexer line, so as to apply the first power received through the second electrode to the one of the two data lines through the first electrode.

12. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The second multiplexer includes a second multiplexer switch, and the second multiplexer switch has: A first electrode connected to the other one of the two data lines; A gate electrode connected to a second multiplexer line for applying a second selection signal; and a second electrode connected to a first power supply.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The second multiplexer switch is configured to conduct based on the second selection signal applied to the gate electrode through the second multiplexer line, so as to apply the first power received through the second electrode to the other data line of the two data lines through the first electrode.

14. A display device, comprising: A display panel, comprising: A first panel area having a first display as a first front surface of the first panel area; A second panel area having a second display as a second front surface of the second panel area, the second panel area being configured to overlap the first panel area in a folded state; A third panel area having a third display as a third front surface of the third panel area, the third panel area being configured to overlap the second panel area in the folded state; A first folding area provided between the first panel area and the second panel area; and A second folding area provided between the second panel area and the third panel area; A plurality of sub-pixels arranged in rows and columns, wherein one scan line is provided in each row of the plurality of sub-pixels, and two data lines are provided in each column of the plurality of sub-pixels; A first multiplexer configured to select a data line on one side of the two data lines provided in each column; A second multiplexer configured to select a data line on the other side of the two data lines provided in each column; A first scan switch and a second scan switch, both the first scan switch and the second scan switch being used to switch the scan line provided in the corresponding row to connect to the data line on the one side provided in the corresponding column; and A third scan switch and a fourth scan switch, both the third scan switch and the fourth scan switch being used to switch the scan line provided in the corresponding row to connect to the data line on the other side provided in the corresponding column.

15. The display device according to claim 14, Among them, In the low-speed mode, the display device operates in an interlaced scheme, and In the high-speed mode, the display device operates in a progressive scheme.

16. The display device according to claim 14, Among them, A first hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling the first panel area and the second panel area to each other; And a second hinge coupling member for hinge-coupling the second panel area and the third panel area to each other.

Images