Display module and display device

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of display, and discloses a display module and a display device.The display module comprises a display panel, and the display panel comprises a bending area; the backlight side of the display panel is provided with a first shape memory layer, and the first shape memory layer at least partially covers the bending area; or / and, a second shape memory layer is arranged on the light emitting side of the display panel, and the second shape memory layer at least partially covers the bending area; the first shape memory layer and the second shape memory layer are both made of shape memory polymer materials. According to the display module, the bending area of the display panel is induced to be bent synchronously through the elasticity and the shape memory effect of the shape memory polymer material, compared with shape memory alloy, the shape memory polymer has the advantages of being lower in cost, lighter in mass, easier to process and higher in programmable degree, bending of the display panel can be induced more easily, and the display effect of the display module is improved. And the overall performance of the display module is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display module and a display device. Background Art

[0002] At present, the shape memory materials used in display modules are mainly shape memory alloys, which are used to induce the bending of the display module. Shape memory alloys include nickel-titanium alloys, copper-based alloys, iron-based alloys, etc. Shape memory alloys have low driving speed, short fatigue life and small deformation recovery, which will cause driving deformation and affect the bending performance of the display module. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the above-mentioned defects or deficiencies in the prior art, it is desired to provide a display module and a display device.

[0004] In a first aspect, a display module is provided, comprising a display panel, wherein the display panel comprises a bending region; A first shape memory layer is provided on the backlight side of the display panel, and the first shape memory layer at least partially covers the bending area; Or / and, a second shape memory layer is provided on the light-emitting side of the display panel, and the second shape memory layer at least partially covers the bending area; The first shape memory layer and the second shape memory layer are both made of shape memory polymer material.

[0005] In addition, the display module of the present invention may also have the following additional technical features: In some embodiments, the first shape memory layer includes a main layer and a protruding layer, wherein the main layer is disposed on the display panel and conforms to the end surface of the bending region of the display panel close to the backlight side; The protrusion layer is located on a side of the main body layer away from the display panel, and the protrusion layer includes a plurality of protrusions that are arranged continuously or at intervals.

[0006] In some embodiments, when the bending zone is in a flattened state, there are gaps between adjacent protrusions.

[0007] In some embodiments, when the bending zone is in a bent state, the end surface of the protruding layer close to the display panel is conformally matched with the bending zone, and the end surface of the protruding layer away from the display panel includes at least a partial vertical plane, and the vertical plane is arranged perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located.

[0008] In some embodiments, the display panel further includes a display area and a frame area, the bending area is located between the display area and the frame area, and in the bent state, the frame area is bent toward the backlight side of the display panel and is arranged parallel to the display area; The vertical plane extends from the display area to the frame area in a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located; or, the end surface of the protruding layer on one side away from the display panel further includes a curved surface located inside the vertical plane.

[0009] In some embodiments, the protrusions are pyramidal in shape, and in the bent state, each pyramidal protrusion forms a first hemispherical structure, and an end surface of the first hemispherical structure away from the bending region forms the vertical plane; Alternatively, the protrusions are in a prism shape, and in the bent state, each prism-shaped protrusion forms a first hollow hemispherical structure, and the end surface of the first hollow hemispherical structure away from the bending zone forms the vertical plane and the arc surface.

[0010] In some embodiments, the thickness of the main layer along a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located is T, and the height of the pyramid-shaped protrusion along a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located is H. Let the thickness ratio M=T / (H+T), then the thickness ratio M is 10%~50%.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first shape memory layer includes a plurality of supporting layers stacked in sequence along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, and the lengths of the plurality of supporting layers sequentially stacked away from the bending region decrease sequentially; When the bending area is in a bent state, each of the support layers forms a second hemispherical structure or a second hollow hemispherical structure.

[0012] In some embodiments, the thicknesses of the plurality of support layers stacked sequentially are equal, or the thicknesses of the plurality of support layers sequentially arranged in a direction away from the bending zone decrease sequentially.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second shape memory layer conforms to the light-emitting side end surface of the bending region of the display panel.

[0014] In a second aspect, a display device is provided, comprising the display module described in any embodiment of the present application.

[0015] The present disclosure provides a display module and a display device, wherein a shape memory polymer material is provided on at least one side of the bending area of ​​the display panel. Compared with shape memory alloys, shape memory polymers have the advantages of lower cost, lighter weight, easier processing, and higher programmability. In addition, they have a high driving rate, good fatigue resistance, and large deformation recovery, which can more easily induce the bending of the display panel and improve the overall performance of the display module. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in some embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the drawings described below are only drawings of some embodiments of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art can also derive other drawings based on these drawings. Furthermore, the drawings described below are schematic diagrams and are not intended to limit the actual dimensions of the products, actual processes of the methods, actual timing of signals, and the like involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 1 A first exemplary structural diagram of a display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 2 A first exemplary structural diagram of a display module in a bent state provided by an embodiment of the present application; Figure 3 An exemplary structural diagram of a first shape memory layer provided in an embodiment of the present application having different numbers of protrusions; Figure 4 for Figure 3 An exemplary structural diagram of the first shape memory layer; Figure 5 A second exemplary structural diagram of a display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 6 A second exemplary structural diagram of a display module in a bent state provided by an embodiment of the present application; Figure 7 for Figure 5 and Figure 6 An exemplary structural diagram of the first shape memory layer; Figure 8 for Figure 5 Another exemplary structural diagram of the first shape memory layer; Figure 9 A third exemplary structural diagram of the display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 10 A third exemplary structural diagram of the display module in a bent state provided by an embodiment of the present application; Figure 11 for Figure 9 and Figure 10An exemplary structural diagram of the first shape memory layer; Figure 12 This is an exemplary structural diagram of the second shape memory layer provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0018] In the above picture: 10 display panel; 101 display area; 102 bending area; 103 frame area; 20 first shape memory layer; 201 main body layer; 202 protrusion; 2021 first side; 2022 second side; 203 vertical plane; 204 curved surface; 205 support layer; 206 center layer; 30 second shape memory layer; 40 Polarizer; 50 Optical adhesive layer; 60 Cover glass; 70 Flexible printed circuit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in some embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments provided by the present disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0020] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprise" and its alternative forms, such as the third-person singular form "comprises" and the present participle form "comprising," are to be interpreted as open and inclusive, meaning "including, but not limited to." Throughout the specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic associated with the embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present disclosure. The schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be included in any one or more embodiments or examples in any appropriate manner.

[0021] In the following, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the number of the technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0022] “At least one of A, B and C” has the same meaning as “at least one of A, B or C” and both include the following combinations of A, B and C: A only, B only, C only, the combination of A and B, the combination of A and C, the combination of B and C, and the combination of A, B and C.

[0023] “A and / or B” includes the following three combinations: A only, B only, and a combination of A and B.

[0024] It will be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being on another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or intervening layers may be present therebetween.

[0025] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional and / or plan views of the accompanying drawings, which are idealized exemplary embodiments. In the accompanying drawings, the thicknesses of layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity. Therefore, variations in shape relative to the accompanying drawings due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

[0026] With the rapid advancement of consumer electronics technology, COP (Chip on Panel) technology, which aims to increase the screen-to-body ratio of display modules, and potting technology, which improves display module reliability (such as moisture barrier, insulation and heat dissipation), have emerged. The core of COP technology is to place the display driver chip on the OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display panel (PNL) itself and bend the area where the driver chip is attached (the non-display area) toward the back of the display panel (the display area) to reduce the width of the bezel. This bending process requires the use of bending equipment (PAD bending) according to traditional processes, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive, resulting in low display module production efficiency. To disperse the stress generated during the bending process, MCL (Metal Conductive Lacquer) glue is generally applied to the front of the display module. MCL glue forms a protective film on the metal components of the LCD module to prevent oxidation and corrosion, thereby improving the reliability and service life of the LCD module. A layer of potting glue is also applied to the back of the display module to achieve dense filling of the bending area, prevent moisture intrusion, and increase the reliability of the display module. Both MCL glue and potting glue are liquid materials and need to be applied and cured to achieve their purpose, which leads to a complex process route.

[0027] At present, the shape memory materials used in display modules are mainly shape memory alloys. The bending of the display module is induced by shape memory alloys, such as nickel-titanium alloys, copper-based alloys, iron-based alloys, etc. Shape memory alloys have low driving speed, short fatigue life and small deformation recovery, which will cause driving deformation. Since shape memory alloys are not sticky, an adhesive layer needs to be added to bond and fix the shape memory alloy to the display module to achieve the purpose of driving the display module to bend and deform. This additionally increases the complexity of the process, which is contrary to the need for modern consumer electronic products to be lightweight and thin.

[0028] In order to at least partially solve the above problems, a first aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a display module, such as Figures 1 to 12 As shown, it includes a display panel 10, and the display panel 10 includes a bending area 102; A first shape memory layer 20 is provided on the backlight side of the display panel 10 , and the first shape memory layer 20 at least partially covers the bending area 102 ; Or / and, a second shape memory layer 30 is provided on the light-emitting side of the display panel 10 , and the second shape memory layer 30 at least partially covers the bending area 102 ; The first shape memory layer 20 and the second shape memory layer 30 are both made of shape memory polymer material.

[0029] Specifically, the display panel 10 has a display area 101 and a bending area 102 located on one side of the display area 101 (e.g., the lower side of the display area 101). A flexible printed circuit 70 (FPC) is generally provided on the side of the bending area 102 away from the display area 101. The flexible printed circuit 70 is bent toward the side closer to the display area 101 through the bending area 102, allowing the FPC to adhere to the backlight side of the display panel 10 (i.e., the back of the display panel 10). Integrating the FPC into the display area 101 of the display panel 10 facilitates a narrow-frame design for the display module and improves the screen-to-body ratio of the display module. The bending area is used to bend and secure the flexible printed circuit 70 to the back of the display panel, so that the display module of the present application only needs to be bent once to meet the process requirements of the display module. The display module can be an OLED display module, and those skilled in the art can configure it according to actual needs. It can be understood that the display module of the present application can also be a flexible display module, and the bending area can be located in the display area of ​​the display module. The shape memory polymer set in the bending area can realize repeated bending of the display module, thereby improving the bending performance, fatigue performance and service life of the flexible display module.

[0030] In this example, the backlight side of the display panel 10 refers to the side of the display panel 10 that provides light and is the source of light. The light-emitting side of the display panel 10 refers to the side of the display panel 10 where light is ultimately emitted and perceived by the human eye and is the output end of the light. The backlight side of the display panel 10 is provided with a first shape memory layer 20 in the bending region 102, and / or the light-emitting side of the display panel 10 is provided with a second shape memory layer 30 in the bending region 102 (i.e., the front surface of the display panel 10). Both the first shape memory layer 20 and the second shape memory layer 30 are made of shape memory polymer (SMP) materials. Shape memory polymer (SMP) materials have entropy elasticity and shape memory effect properties. Under external influence, the first shape memory layer 20 and the second shape memory layer 30 induce the bending region 102 of the display panel 10 to switch from a flat state to a curved state.

[0031] Shape memory polymers possess two key properties: entropy elasticity and shape memory. Entropy elasticity refers to the ability of shape memory polymers to spontaneously deform within a certain deformation range, and this deformation capacity is far greater than that of shape memory alloys. Shape memory refers to the ability of deformed shape memory polymers to return to their original shape as the external temperature rises. The core of the memory effect of shape memory polymers lies in their reversible phase structure, which can undergo reversible physical or chemical phase changes during the shape memory process. Specifically, these can include glass transition, crystallization-melting transition, and some reversible crosslinks. For example, using temperature excitation as an example, at low temperatures, the hardness and strength of shape memory polymers can be significantly increased, thereby achieving the purpose of fixing the shape; at high temperatures, the hardness and strength of shape memory polymers can be reduced, thereby facilitating shape deformation and shape memory recovery.

[0032] In the embodiment of the present application, the memory properties of the shape memory polymer are utilized to induce the bending zone 102 of the display module to switch from a flat state to a bent state. The basic implementation mechanism is that the shape memory polymer generally has two states, namely a temporary shape) and a fixed shape. Under the condition of external stimulation (such as heat, light, magnetism, etc.), it can spontaneously transform from a temporary shape to a fixed shape. Among them, within the range allowed by the process, the temporary shape and the fixed shape can be designed to be any shape. For example, the temporary shape matches the bending zone 102 of the display panel 10 in the flat state, and the fixed shape matches the bending zone 102 of the display panel 10 in the bent state. Based on this principle, by externally stimulating the first shape memory layer 20 or / and the second shape memory layer 30, the bending zone 102 of the display panel 10 can be induced to deform synchronously with the corresponding first shape memory layer 20 or / and the second shape memory layer 30, and the bending zone 102 can be transformed from a temporary shape to a fixed shape, so that the bending zone 102 no longer relies on the bending equipment (PAD) when bending. bending), reducing process complexity and equipment investment, reducing costs while improving production efficiency.

[0033] Shape memory polymers are thermoplastic elastomers, crystalline polymers, or elastomers doped with crystalline materials. Shape memory polymers have a phase structure of hard segments and soft segments. The hard segments can provide physical crosslinking points and mechanical strength, giving the material thermoplasticity and a fixed phase structure. For example, the original thermoplastic elastomer can be directly processed into a fixed shape (such as a Figure 3 The soft segment has a glass transition temperature (T g ) or melting temperature (T m ), above this temperature, the shape memory polymer material softens and can be formed by calendaring Figure 3 The fixed shape shown is converted to a temporary shape (such as Figure 3The shape memory polymer material changes from a temporary shape to a fixed shape under the action of the hard segment, thereby inducing the bending area 102 of the display panel 10 to switch from a flat state to a curved state.

[0034] Exemplary shape memory polymers include acrylic block copolymers and / or epoxy resin-based SMPs. Acrylic block copolymers and epoxy resin-based SMPs contain a large number of polar groups, have a moderate modulus, and exhibit good viscosity. The resulting shape memory polymer material can directly utilize its own viscosity to increase the bond strength between the first shape memory layer 20 and / or the second shape memory layer 30 and the display panel 10, eliminating the need for additional adhesives. This further reduces the manufacturing complexity of the display module and improves its production efficiency. Shape memory polymers can be processed using coating, extrusion, and casting, facilitating the construction of fixed-shape first and second shape memory layers 20 and 30.

[0035] Compared with shape memory alloys, shape memory polymers have the advantages of lower cost, lighter weight, easier processing, and higher programmability. They also have a high driving rate, good fatigue resistance, and large deformation recovery. They can more easily induce the display panel 10 to bend, thereby improving the overall performance of the display module. Moreover, there is no need to add additional adhesives, the process is simple, and the production efficiency of the display module is improved.

[0036] A first shape memory layer 20 is provided on the back of the display panel 10. The first shape memory layer 20 can be directly fixed to the display panel 10 by using its own viscosity. During the bending process of the bending area 102 of the display panel 10, the first shape memory layer 20 plays a colloid role similar to that of potting glue, eliminating the need for a potting process, preventing water vapor intrusion, and improving the reliability and sealing of the display module; a second shape memory layer 30 is provided on the front of the display panel 10. The second shape memory layer 30 can be directly fixed to the display panel 10 by using its own viscosity. During the bending process of the bending area 102 of the display panel 10, the second shape memory layer 30 can play the stress dispersing role of MCL glue, dispersing the stress of the bending area 102 and protecting the bending area 102 of the display panel 10.

[0037] In this example, shape memory layers are provided on both the front and back sides of the display panel 10, so that both sides (front and back sides) of the bending area 102 of the display panel 10 induce the display panel 10 to bend at the same time, thereby enhancing the bending stress. The shape of the display module after bending is more stable, which makes up for the disadvantage of insufficient strength of a single shape memory layer.

[0038] In some embodiments, as Figures 1 to 11As shown, the first shape memory layer 20 includes a main layer 201 and a protruding layer. The main layer 201 is provided on the display panel 10 and conforms to the end surface of the bending area 102 of the display panel 10 close to the backlight side. The protrusion layer is located on a side of the main layer 201 away from the display panel 10 , and includes a plurality of protrusions 202 that are arranged continuously or at intervals.

[0039] Specifically, the main layer 201 and the protrusion layer are formed of the same shape memory polymer, wherein the main layer 201 covers the bending area 102 of the display panel 10 and its shape is matched with the bending area 102. The main layer 201 can directly and fixedly connect with the bending area 102 by using its own viscosity or by exerting viscosity under external stimulation. The protrusion layer includes a plurality of protrusions 202 arranged continuously or at intervals on the main layer 201. The end surface of the protrusion layer formed by the plurality of protrusions 202 arranged continuously close to the main layer 201 is a continuous contact surface (such as Figure 3 and Figure 7 As shown), the continuous contact surface can make the protruding layer form a dense packaging surface, ensuring the packaging performance of the display module while improving the overall strength of the display module; the end surface of the protruding layer close to the main layer 201 formed by the multiple protruding portions 202 arranged at intervals is a discontinuous (i.e., intermittent) contact surface (as shown). Figure 8 As shown in FIG, the protruding layer is easier to bend, thereby improving the convenience of display module processing.

[0040] Among them, such as Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 As shown, the number n of protrusions 202 is 3 to 10, such as 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or any range thereof. A greater number of protrusions 202 provides a greater lever arm when the shape memory polymer transitions from a temporary shape to a fixed shape, making the entire deformation process easier. However, an excessive number of protrusions 202 can increase the difficulty of processing the protrusion layer, leading to increased costs or structural deformation. Therefore, the number of protrusions 202 is preferably 6 to 10.

[0041] In this example, the protrusions 202 provided continuously or at intervals on the main body layer 201 make the entire deformation process relatively easy when the first shape memory layer 20 and / or the second shape memory layer 30 transform from a temporary shape to a fixed shape.

[0042] In some embodiments, as Figure 1 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8As shown, when the bending zone 102 is in a flattened state, there is a gap between adjacent protrusions 202 .

[0043] Specifically, when the bending zone 102 is in a flattened state, the first shape memory layer 20 and the second shape memory layer 30 are also in a flattened state, and there are gaps between the multiple protrusions 202 arranged continuously or at intervals on the main layer 201, making it easier for the first shape memory layer 20 and the second shape memory layer 30 to bend and deform.

[0044] In some embodiments, as Figures 2 to 4 、 Figures 6 to 8 As shown, when the bending area 102 is in a bent state, the end surface of the protruding layer close to the display panel 10 is conformally matched with the bending area 102, and the end surface of the protruding layer away from the display panel 10 includes at least a partial vertical plane 203, and the vertical plane 203 is arranged perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located.

[0045] Specifically, when the bending zone 102 is converted from a flat state to a curved state, the first shape memory layer 20 and / or the second shape memory layer 30 are also converted from a flat state to a curved state, wherein, in the curved state, the end face of the protruding layer on one side away from the bending zone 102 at least partially forms a vertical plane 203 perpendicular to the plane direction of the display panel. A relatively dense filling structure is formed between the vertical plane 203 and the main layer 201, which can fully play a role similar to that of canned glue. The elastomer formed by the shape memory polymer can absorb external impact or vibration energy to prevent the display panel 10 from breaking the metal circuit or peeling off the thin film layer due to stress concentration when bending; and in the process of dynamic bending, the shape memory polymer disperses the local stress to a larger area through deformation to avoid microcracks caused by repeated bending.

[0046] In some embodiments, the display panel 10 further includes a display area 101 and a frame area 103. The bending area 102 is located between the display area 101 and the frame area 103. In the bent state, the frame area 103 is bent toward the backlight side of the display panel 10 and is arranged parallel to the display area 101. The vertical plane 203 extends from the display area 101 to the frame area 103 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel; alternatively, the end surface of the protruding layer away from the display panel 10 further includes a curved surface 204 located inside the vertical plane 203 .

[0047] Specifically, such as Figure 2As shown, when the bending area 102 is in a bent state, a continuous vertical plane 203 is formed from the display area 101 to the frame area 103. The vertical plane 203 cooperates with the main layer 201 so that each protrusion 202 forms a hemispherical structure, which can improve the overall packaging performance of the display module.

[0048] Or, as Figure 6 As shown, partial vertical planes 203 are formed on both sides between the display area 101 and the frame area 103, and an arc-shaped surface 204 is formed between the two partial vertical planes 203, so that each protrusion 202 forms a hollow hemispherical structure, which fills the gap by sacrificing part while ensuring the bending effect of the protrusion layer.

[0049] In some embodiments, the protrusions 202 are pyramid-shaped. In the bent state, each pyramid-shaped protrusion 202 forms a first hemispherical structure, and the end surface of the first hemispherical structure away from the bending region 102 forms the vertical plane 203. Alternatively, the protrusion 202 is in a prism shape, and in the bent state, each prism-shaped protrusion 202 forms a first hollow hemispherical structure, and the end face of the first hollow hemispherical structure away from the bending area 102 forms the vertical plane 203 and the arc surface 204.

[0050] Specifically, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the main layer 201 is square, and the protrusion 202 is pyramidal (with a triangular cross-section), such as a triangular pyramid or a quadrangular pyramid. The protrusion layer has a first side 2021 and a second side 2022 that are oppositely arranged on both sides of the extension direction of the main layer 201 (that is, the pyramids located on both sides of the protrusion layer are right-angled pyramids). The lengths of the first side 2021 and the second side 2022 are equal, and the first side 2021 and the second side 2022 are both arranged perpendicular to the main layer 201. When the protrusions 202 are continuously arranged on the main layer 201, the length of the vertical plane 203 can be equal to the sum of the lengths of the first side 2021 and the second side 2022. Among them, each triangular pyramid or quadrangular pyramid located between the first side 2021 and the second side 2022 can be a right pyramid, and its cross-section is an isosceles triangle. When the bending area 102 is in a bent state, the side surfaces of each right pyramid can fit together to form a first hemispherical structure. The side of the first hemispherical structure away from the bending area 102 forms a vertical plane 203 extending from the display area 101 to the frame area 103, wherein the length of the first side 2021 and the second side 2022 is the same as the radius of the first hemispherical structure. Since the potting process requires that the glue be fully filled in the gap to ensure reliability, in this example, when each pyramid-shaped protrusion 202 is bent, the gap between adjacent protrusions 202 can be sealed and filled, and the formed first hemispherical structure can achieve the dense filling effect of the potting glue.

[0051] However, the pyramid-shaped protrusion 202 may still be difficult to bend in the actual process, and the top of the pyramid is a sharp corner, which is easy to deform during processing. Considering the actual process, the top part of the pyramid is removed to form a prism-shaped protrusion 202 (such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown in FIG, the side of the pyramid is trapezoidal. When the bending area 102 is in a bent state, the pyramid-shaped protrusion 202 forms a first hollow hemispherical structure. The first hollow hemispherical structure refers to a hemispherical structure in which the central area is a hollow area. The radius r of the hollow area at the center is the height h of the removed part of the top of the pyramid (as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the side of the first hollow hemispherical structure away from the bending region 102 forms a structure in which a vertical plane 203 and an arcuate surface 204 cooperate. In this example, the gap is filled by sacrificing a portion of the protrusion 202 while maintaining the bending effect of the protrusion layer. Moreover, the prism-shaped protrusion 202 is easier to manufacture and bend than the pyramid-shaped protrusion 202.

[0052] The first hemispherical structure or the first hollow hemispherical structure provided in the embodiment of the present application can effectively seal the bending area 102, block the penetration of water vapor and oxygen, and improve the packaging and bending performance of the display module.

[0053] In some embodiments, as Figure 4 As shown, the thickness of the main layer 201 along the direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located is T, and the height of the pyramid-shaped protrusion 202 along the direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located is H. Let the thickness ratio M=T / (H+T), then the thickness ratio M is 10%~50%.

[0054] Specifically, a plurality of pyramid-shaped protrusions 202 are continuously arranged on the main layer 201, wherein the pyramids located on the edges of both sides of the main layer 201 can be right-angled pyramids (with a right-angled triangle cross section), one right-angled side of the right-angled triangle is arranged parallel to the main layer 201, and the other right-angled side (the first side 2021 or the second side) is arranged perpendicular to the main layer 201; the pyramid located between the two right-angled pyramids can be a regular pyramid (with an isosceles triangle cross section). Among them, the height of the pyramid along the direction perpendicular to the main layer 201 is H, and the thickness of the main layer 201 along the direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located is T, then the bending radius R of the first hemispherical structure = T + H; assuming that the length of the central layer 206 of the main layer 201 in the bent state is L, the length of the central layer 206 refers to the central layer 206 dividing the main layer 201 into two parts along the thickness direction of the main layer 201, then L = Π * (RT / 2), when the bending radius R is a preset value, the length L depends on the thickness of the main layer 201, this is because the length of the central layer 206 of the main layer 201 material with a certain thickness remains unchanged during the bending process, and after bending, the length of the outer side of the main layer 201 (the side close to the bending area 102) is stretched, and the inner side of the main layer 201 (the side away from the bending area 102) is compressed, so the greater the thickness of the main layer 201 material, the higher the relative stretching / compression amount.

[0055] It should be noted that the thickness ratio M=T / (H+T). The greater the thickness T of the main layer 201, the greater the amount of stretching / compression of the main layer 201 as a whole. At the same time, the larger the top angle of the pyramid-shaped protrusion 202, the more difficult it is to bend the shape memory layer formed by the main layer 201 and the protrusion 202, which is not conducive to the process. Therefore, the thickness ratio M needs to be maintained within a reasonable range of 10%~50%, such as the thickness ratio M is 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, etc. If the thickness ratio M is greater than 50%, it is difficult to bend; if the thickness ratio is less than 10%, it is difficult to manufacture.

[0056] In some embodiments, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the first shape memory layer 20 includes a plurality of supporting layers 205 sequentially stacked in a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located, and the lengths of the plurality of supporting layers 205 sequentially arranged away from the bending region 102 decrease sequentially; When the bending area 102 is in a bent state, each of the support layers 205 forms a second hemispherical structure or a second hollow hemispherical structure.

[0057] Specifically, the support layer 205 can be square, and each support layer 205 is stacked in sequence in the bending zone 102, and the lengths of the multiple support layers 205 arranged in sequence away from the bending zone 102 are reduced successively. When the bending zone 102 is in a flattened state, the two layers of each support layer 205 are stepped; when the bending zone 102 is in a bent state, the length of each support layer 205 is gradually retracted, thereby forming a second hemispherical structure or a second hollow hemispherical structure that is interlocked with each other, thereby achieving the purpose of dense filling.

[0058] In this example, compared with the first hemispherical structure, the second hemispherical structure is simpler to manufacture and easier to operate while ensuring the bending effect. The manufacturing principle of the second hollow hemispherical structure is the same as that of the second hemispherical structure.

[0059] In some embodiments, the thicknesses of the plurality of support layers 205 stacked sequentially are equal, or the thicknesses of the plurality of support layers 205 sequentially stacked in a direction away from the bending zone 102 decrease sequentially.

[0060] Specifically, the thickness of each support layer 205 can be equal. When the bending zone 102 is converted from a flattened state to a bent state, that is, when the first shape memory layer 20 or / and the second shape memory layer 30 is converted from a temporary shape to a fixed shape, the longer the length of the support layer 205, the greater the bending curvature, that is, the corresponding support layer 205 is more difficult to bend. Therefore, each support layer 205 can also adopt a non-uniform thickness design, that is, the thickness of multiple support layers 205 arranged in sequence in the direction away from the bending zone 102 decreases in sequence, and the idea of ​​gradually decreasing thickness is adopted to reduce the difficulty of bending.

[0061] In some embodiments, as Figure 12 As shown, the second shape memory layer 30 conforms to the light-emitting side end surface of the bending region 102 of the display panel 10 .

[0062] For example, the second shape memory layer 30 can be square and attached to the bending zone 102. When the bending zone 102 is flattened, the second shape memory layer 30 is attached to the bending zone 102. Under external stimulation, the second shape memory layer 30 can induce the bending zone 102 to bend synchronously with the second shape memory layer 30. To ensure attachment accuracy, the shape of the second shape memory layer 30 is slightly indented relative to the bending zone 102 of the display panel 10. The indented distance is generally 0.20 mm to 0.40 mm, and the thickness of the second shape memory layer 30 is 0.05 mm to 0.10 mm.

[0063] It is understood that the side of the display panel 10 away from the display panel further includes a polarizer 40 (POL), an optical adhesive layer 205 (COA), and a cover glass 60 (Cover Glass), etc., which are stacked in sequence. The polarizer 40 and the optical adhesive layer 205 are located in the display area 101, and the cover glass 60 covers the display area 101 and the frame area 103. The second shape memory layer 30 and the polarizer 40 can be provided in the same layer.

[0064] In a second aspect, a display device is provided, comprising the display module described in any embodiment of the present application, or comprising a display module obtained by the method for preparing the display module described in any embodiment of the present application.

[0065] The display device includes the display module as described above, and of course may also include other components, for example, it may include a circuit for providing an electrical signal to the display module to drive the display module to emit light. This circuit can be called a control circuit and may include a circuit board and / or IC (Integrate Circuit) electrically connected to the display module.

[0066] In some embodiments, the display device may be a lighting device, in which case the display device serves as a light source to achieve a lighting function. For example, the display device may be a backlight module in a liquid crystal display device, a lamp for internal or external lighting, or various signal lights.

[0067] In other embodiments, the display device may be a display panel configured to display images (i.e., screens). The display device may include a display or a product containing a display. The display may be a flat panel display (FPD), a microdisplay, or the like. Based on whether the user can see the back of the display, the display may be a transparent display or an opaque display. Based on whether the display can be bent or rolled, the display may be a flexible display or a conventional display (also referred to as a rigid display).

[0068] Examples of products containing displays include computer monitors, televisions, billboards, laser printers with display capabilities, telephones, mobile phones, wearable devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptop computers, digital cameras, camcorders, viewfinders, vehicles, large-area walls, theater screens, or stadium signs.

[0069] The technical features and beneficial effects of the above-mentioned display device are the same as the technical features and beneficial effects of the display module provided in the above-mentioned embodiment of the present disclosure, and will not be repeated here.

[0070] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present application and an illustration of the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of the invention herein is not limited to technical solutions formed by a specific combination of the aforementioned technical features. It also encompasses other technical solutions formed by any combination of the aforementioned technical features or their equivalents, without departing from the inventive concept. For example, a technical solution formed by replacing the aforementioned features with (but not limited to) technical features with similar functions disclosed in this application.

Claims

1. A display module, characterized in that: include: A display panel, wherein the display panel includes a bending area; A first shape memory layer is provided on the backlight side of the display panel, and the first shape memory layer at least partially covers the bending area; Or / and, a second shape memory layer is provided on the light-emitting side of the display panel, and the second shape memory layer at least partially covers the bending area; The first shape memory layer and the second shape memory layer are both made of shape memory polymer material.

2. The display module according to claim 1, wherein: The first shape memory layer includes a main layer and a protruding layer, wherein the main layer is disposed on the display panel and conforms to the end surface of the bending region of the display panel close to the backlight side; The protrusion layer is located on a side of the main body layer away from the display panel, and the protrusion layer includes a plurality of protrusions that are arranged continuously or at intervals.

3. The display module according to claim 2, wherein: When the bending zone is in a flattened state, there are gaps between adjacent protrusions.

4. The display module according to claim 2, wherein: When the bending zone is in a bent state, the end surface of the protruding layer close to the display panel conforms to the bending zone, and the end surface of the protruding layer away from the display panel includes at least a partial vertical plane, which is perpendicular to the plane of the display panel.

5. The display module according to claim 4, wherein: The display panel further includes a display area and a frame area, the bending area is located between the display area and the frame area, and in the bent state, the frame area is bent toward the backlight side of the display panel and is arranged parallel to the display area; The vertical plane extends from the display area to the frame area in a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located; or, the end surface of the protruding layer on one side away from the display panel further includes a curved surface located inside the vertical plane.

6. The display module according to claim 5, wherein: The protrusions are pyramid-shaped. In the bent state, each pyramid-shaped protrusion forms a first hemispherical structure, and the end surface of the first hemispherical structure away from the bending area forms the vertical plane. Alternatively, the protrusions are in a prism shape, and in the bent state, each prism-shaped protrusion forms a first hollow hemispherical structure, and the end surface of the first hollow hemispherical structure away from the bending zone forms the vertical plane and the arc surface.

7. The display module according to claim 6, wherein: The thickness of the main layer in a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located is T, and the height of the pyramid-shaped protrusion in a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located is H. Let the thickness ratio M=T / (H+T), then the thickness ratio M is 10%~50%.

8. The display module according to claim 1, wherein: The first shape memory layer includes a plurality of supporting layers stacked in sequence along a direction perpendicular to the plane where the display panel is located, and the lengths of the plurality of supporting layers sequentially arranged away from the bending area decrease sequentially; When the bending area is in a bent state, each of the support layers forms a second hemispherical structure or a second hollow hemispherical structure.

9. The display module according to claim 8, wherein: The thicknesses of the plurality of support layers stacked in sequence are equal, or the thicknesses of the plurality of support layers stacked in sequence in a direction away from the bending zone decrease in sequence.

10. A display device, characterized in that: The display device comprises the display module according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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